Any child who has loved Phil Earle’s war stories or Sheila Burnford’s ‘The Incredible Journey’ will love ‘I am Rebel’. Ross Montgomery tells the story of Tom, a restless and idealistic farm boy, who makes the dangerous decision to join a civil rebellion against an oppressive and heartless king, and Rebel, his brave and faithful dog. Rebel, determined to track Tom down, sets out on a journey to find him, and makes his own friends along the way. What begins as one dog’s search for his boy turns into an epic animal odyssey.

The story is set in an unspecified time period, but it feels like Tom's surroundings and the oppression and castle of the King sit well in the Middle Ages.

Montgomery draws in all kinds of issues to his narrative; the desire of a young boy to rebel and follow the promise of a dream in defiance of his parents, his misguided trust in an unknown adult, and, more positively, the power of love and faithfulness in friendships and family.

It is often said of new releases that they read like classics – but this one truly does. Ross Montgomery’s vivid and emotive storytelling paired with simple language make it a must for school libraries. It’s timeless, touching, and thrilling throughout.