The Books

King of Nothing

by Nathanael Lessore

ISBN: 9781471413247

Anton, a Year 9 student rules the school with his friends, but finds his world upended when his mum forces him to join a community group called the Happy Campers. There, he unexpectedly befriends Matthew, a boy he previously bullied, and begins to question the values he's always held. The story explores themes of toxic masculinity, redemption, and finding a better path, particularly as Anton's father is released from prison.

Reviews

Safoora - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

This book was really funny! Anton was a great character, funny and spoke exactly like an average teenager would to his friends and family. Mathew and Anton had a very unexpected friendship! Personally I would recommend this book to all ages! Great book.

Elsie - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really enjoyed this book because of the wonderful characters, the comedy and the use of language that people like Anton and his friends would use. Also, I loved the connections between some of the characters.

Florence - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really liked this book as it made me want to keep reading and I was sad that it ended. I also like how inclusive this book is and that it is up to date on modern times. I would definitely recommend this to my family and friends. I enjoyed the plot and how real and in some cases relatable this book is especially to people who have been involved in something similar. I also enjoyed the style of writing and the author. I will definitely be reading more books like this.

Anveesha - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really liked the plot of this book. It was one of the best books I have read in ages!

Sonam - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

This book was amazing. It was one of the best friendship books I have ever read. It was a funny read. I think my favourite part was when the main character realised who he really was and who he wanted to be like. This book was thrilling.

Clara - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

A wonderful book, I loved how it really captured the meaning of 'if your mean, it's not good and everyone is unique and that's OK!' it wasn't my favourite genre, but a truly touching book told in a very clear way.

Dina - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I love reading family dramas, so this book was very good. I loved the indirect hint of what his dad did!

Lillie-Mae - National Church of England Academy - 2026

Enjoyed this book! I loved it ! The slang in this book can be confusing to older readers yet as an 13 year old I understand the slang. There is a few plot twists that I enjoyed. When I wasn't reading for what ever reason I was craving reading it.

Ella - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

This book is good I really liked it, a reflection of modern life and the effects of social pressure

Caleb - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

This book was really good I enjoyed reading it i liked how the main character matured throughout the story

Charis - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

I really liked it

Immie - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

This book is quite good, though the plot was quite boring it kept me engaged at most times and i liked the ending, i also enjoyed how the main character changed throughout the book to become a better person! :)

Erin - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

The action in it was relatable to real life. I learnt a lot whilst reading it.

Rose - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

It was a good read it was a bit hard to get into but when I did it was relatable and really interesting

Alena - Arnold Hill Academy - 2026

It showed a great friendship and it was easy to get into.

Amelie - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

This book isn’t something that I would usually even look for in the library, however I really enjoyed this book and the way that it was written - I liked how I could actually imagine something like that could happen.

Allegra - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I have thoroughly enjoyed this book. Once I picked up this book there was no way I could put it down. I have started your other book 'What Happens Online' because I love your work. I will have to see on the day but I think you've got my vote.

Mai - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

This is probably the best one because it fits my age group and it's also very funny! I couldn't put it down. It's definitely my favourite!