Swan Boy - Softcover

Nikki Sheehan is the youngest daughter of a rocket scientist. Sheehan achieved a first class degree in linguistics and worked as a subtitler on Coronation Street and The Simpsons. She later studied developmental psychology and journalism and continues to work as a freelance journalist and copywriter, specializing in parenting features. Sheehan has three children and is also a story mentor with Little Green Pig (Ministry of Stories) helping children to access their creativity. In addition, Sheehan is also one of three organizers of Brighton Rocks Books, the first mini festival of children's writing in the area. Sheehan is also the author of Who Framed Klaris Cliff? published by O.U.P in 2014. She lives in Brighton, U.K.

"Via the unusual magical realism elements, Nikki Sheehan believably presents Johnny’s growth as he comes to terms with his loss, matures, and makes new friends. Though the third-person narrative largely focuses on Johnny’s thoughts and worries, Sheehan highlights moments involving other key characters, adding further depth in this insightful story about bereavement and bullying. Ages 9 13.”
Publishers Weekly

"Swan Boy is uniquely written, full of personality, and politically charged. It has the power to heal individuals who have faced similar circumstances and to hopefully evoke change, especially in those who stand by passively without intervening. Swan Boy is the wakeup call many need, delivered in the nicest way possible."
YA Books Central

"A beautiful, magical book about families and friends, loss and change, growing up, fitting in - and learning who you really are."
Liz Kessler, New York Times Bestselling author of the Emily Windsnap series

"A tender tale of friendship, loss and fitting in - or not the main character, Johnny, and his younger brother Mojo, will tug at all heartstrings."
The Guardian

"A moving story about grief, resilience and courage."
Financial Times

"A beautiful and poignant story about friendship, acceptance and loss. Exquisite characterisation and lots of LEAPING."
Abi Elphinstone, author of The Dreamsnatcher

"Just finished SWAN BOY with a tear in my eye and fireworks in my heart. Tender, funny, wise and just a little bit magical."
Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild trilogy

"An incredibly uplifting novel about learning to be yourself. I loved it."
Sarah Crossan, author of Apple and Rain
"This is a quirky, relevant, and realistic look into the life of a teen boy in the midst of an internal struggle, with a touch of the fantastical. This novel will resonate with many readers as they navigate the murky waters of adolescence and self-discovery.”
School Library Journal

"Sheehan has written an affecting story of one boy’s struggles with grieving, trying to be brave, finding himself, and being honest. The struggle is nicely integrated into and symbolized by the dance. Readers will hope for an encore."
Booklist