Fly On the Wall
Age 8+
Children's & Young Adult Fiction & True Stories
In this moving and hilarious illustrated novel from the critically-acclaimed author of Pie in the Sky, a twelve-year-old boy goes on a (forbidden) solo journey halfway around the world to prove his independence to his overprotective family.
Henry Khoo's family treats him like a baby. He’s not allowed to go anywhere without his sister/chaperone/bodyguard. His (former) best friend knows to expect his family’s mafia-style interrogation when Henry’s actually allowed to hang out at her house. And he definitely CAN’T take a journey halfway around the world all by himself!
But that’s exactly his plan. After his family’s annual trip to visit his father in Singapore is cancelled, Henry decides he doesn’t want to be cooped up at home with his overprotective family and BFF turned NRFF (Not Really Friend Forever). Plus, he’s hiding a your-life-is-over-if-you’re-caught secret: he’s the creator of an anonymous gossip cartoon, and he's on the verge of getting caught. Determined to prove his independence and avoid punishment for his crimes, Henry embarks on the greatest adventure everrr. . . hoping it won’t turn into the greatest disaster ever.
Remy Lai takes readers on an adventure filled with humour, heart, and hijinks that’s a sure bet for fans of Jerry Craft, Terri Libenson, and Shannon Hale!
Winner of the Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Children's Literature 2021
Resources
Creators
Remy Lai studied fine arts, with a major in painting and drawing. She was born in Indonesia, grew up in Singapore, and currently lives in Brisbane, Australia, where she writes and draws stories for kids with her two dogs by her side. She is the author of the critically-acclaimed Pie in the Sky and Fly on the Wall. Follow Remy on Instagram @rrremylai
Reviews
Fly on the Wall is a book that models self-examination, apology and graceful endings to friendships that have run their course. It’s perfect for readers aged 8–12 who enjoyed all of the obvious comparisons. It is also, in many ways, easy to recommend over them
Books+Publishing
Diverse voices like Remy’s contribute powerful and important stories to the literary world … It is a powerful and funny story about being a kid, and the challenges that come with it. A wonderful #OwnVoices story that all will enjoy.
The Book Muse
An attractive book for a difficult age group, funny, lightly told with no heavy moralising. Recommended for a wide range of readers from eight years, especially those from a non-English speaking background
ReadPlus
author and illustrator Remy Lai has tapped into Henry’s insecurities and showcases them in his drawings that feature throughout the story. Henry’s battles and the angst he suffers due to his coming of age and cultural background will engage and resonate with the reader.
Kids' Book Review
