Great Cake Bake, The - Tapa blanda

Aled is dyslexic. He lives with his single mother, who has a new boyfriend who is beginning to intrude on family life. There are bullies at school making life difficult, and money is in short supply. Then the school teacher tells everyone they must make a cake for the school eisteddfod. So far, so Jacqueline Wilson. But where this novel wins out over teenage misery fiction is that it is written with a light touch. Aled is a positive character throughout, determined at all times to do his best. He stands his ground against the bullies and protects others. He doesnt give up even though he finds reading immensely difficult; and despite his resentment of Geraint, the boyfriend, he is honest enough to admit that he makes his mother happy. Its a quick and easy read, suiting readers in Years 5 and 6. They will be able to identify with the scenes set in school; incidental characters are drawn with humour and clarity. It might even make for a fun class reader. Sally Owen It is possible to use this review for promotional purposes, but the following acknowledgment should be included: A review from www.gwales.com, with the permission of the Welsh Books Council. Gellir defnyddior adolygiad hwn at bwrpas hybu, ond gofynnir i chi gynnwys y gydnabyddiaeth ganlynol: Adolygiad oddi ar www.gwales.com, trwy ganiatd Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru. -- Welsh Books Council

Aled is an inventive, determined character who overcomes difficulties with humour. When his school's St David's Day cake competition is announced, he wants to compete, and win! A light, enjoyable novel, confidently told by an experienced writer.