Six Weeks by Matt Goodfellow – Book Review

Packed full of darkness and light, this beautiful story is one of family, grief and, most importantly, hope — even in the hardest of times.

The story follows a young boy, Alfie, who has recently and very suddenly, lost his mum, his Sunshine Girl. In the aftermath, he finds himself living back with his dad, baby sister and step‑mum, rather than staying with him – his stepfather – with whom Alfie has a rather tumultuous relationship. Six weeks of the summer holidays feels like an eternity when Alfie is so lost.

But a break’s what’s coming.

Six weeks of summer

stretching out ahead of me.

Back to the window,

back to the hills.

Built on seven hills, this place, Alfie.

Just like Rome.

That’s what Mum always said.

Time to find some light.

Alfie finds solace in spending his days outdoors, riding his bike with his snap‑box fully packed and ready for adventure.

And that’s where I’m going:

Out into the wind,

Chasing the sun,

up, up and away.

Because I’ve not figured much out

since we last spoke,

other than this:

I can move faster than thoughts and feeling

and pain.

And if I keep moving,

they can’t catch me.

But Alfie’s solo riding eventually leads him back to the one person he never wants to see again – him. Over the weeks, Alfie and him begin to talk and perhaps people really can change…

Six Weeks would make a fabulous class or focused read for UKS2. The use of verse makes this book highly accessible for all pupils; its simplicity of style only strengthens the emotional weight of the story. Joe Todd‑Stanton’s poignant and clever illustrations add further depth, capturing the book’s powerful themes.

The book sensitively explores the loss of a family member and the complexities of family and friendship dynamics. It provides a meaningful platform for discussions around grief, hope and relationships. This is a must‑read not only for pupils but also for adults supporting children through difficult circumstances

Six Weeks is available to purchase from our partner Peters Books here.

ISBN  9781444982886