Reviewed by Kylie Buckley
Set in 1991, Being Jimmy Baxter is a middle-grade novel written in the
first person by the protagonist, Jimmy Branthwaite. Jimmy had to change his
name after fleeing domestic violence and moving to a new town with his mum. The
story follows the tumultuous time in young Jimmy’s life when he is forced to
take care of himself and his mum while navigating the ups and downs of starting
at a new school.
Being Jimmy Baxter is a tale that is heartbreaking and
heartwarming in equal measure. The story is engaging, humorous at times, and
includes plenty of figurative language. It includes uplifting themes of new
friendships, resilience, hope, and belonging, as well as heavier themes of
domestic violence, deteriorating mental health, bullying, and child neglect. Being Jimmy Baxter is recommended for an audience aged 10
years and older.
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