'Sophie Beer packs a lot into this warm-hearted novel, with an empathetic execution comparable to Jacqueline Wilson. Inspired by her own experience with a brain tumour that resulted in hearing loss, Beer was motivated to write the novel to contribute to better representation of disability, D/deafness and tumours in Australian children's literature. Each chapter includes an awesome playlist of songs from a range of genres and generations. Thunderhead will suit readers aged 10+ who enjoyed Penny Tangey's As Fast as I Can and are looking for a step up into high school - or for a story that deeply understands music and disability.' Books+Publishing

'I gobbled up this amazing book in two sittings. Thunderhead is my new hero: so smart, funny and true. What a good soul. This beautiful and important story deals with so much and is so heartfelt. It's a tender and real exploration of illness and disability. An absolute cracker of a story.' Karen Foxlee, multi-award-winning author of Dragon Skin and Lenny's Book of Everything

'Thunderhead introduces a new generation of readers to Sophie Beer's storytelling genius. This book is straight-up magic. A poignant and personal story that sings with originality, humour and heart. I adored it.' Pip Harry, award-winning author of August & Jones

'Sophie Beer's middle-grade debut is a tuneful and tender story, Australia's answer to Wonder by RJ Palacio - and likely to be as big a hit! At once hilarious and heartfelt, it's about a young person battling illness, then adjusting to acquired-Disability and learning to love what their body can do, and what it has overcome. Narrated by a wonderfully funny and resilient kid, and featuring delightful accompanying illustrations, this is one to press into every young person's hands. An entertaining and affirming read. I LOVED IT!' Danielle Binks, bestselling author of The Year the Maps Changed

'Thunderhead will drag you onto a roller-coaster of emotions, run you through a gauntlet of transitions and ultimately bathe you in joy. Young readers will adore Beer's mixed media of music and imagery as well as striking narrative, and the ending is absolutely divine!' Bren MacDibble, bestselling author of The Raven's Song

'What a spectacular book! Such an essential addition to children's bookshelves everywhere, but also quite simply a fantastic and addictive read. An irresistible voice, packed with originality and glorious quirks. Thunderhead is the representation we need right now.' Kate Foster, award-winning author of The Bravest Word

'I'm such a big fan of Sophie Beer! In her debut novel Thunderhead, she has skilfully crafted a character who has a medical condition. At no point is Thunderhead ever flattened or reduced to a sick child, or PWSK (Poor Widdle Sick Kid); they are brought to life by Sophie's flamboyant, energetic prose. Sophie makes apparent the fact that children - even sick ones - lead full and complicated lives, replete with passions, anxieties and important relationships.' Anna Zobel, creator of This Camp Is Doomed