Clownfish

“This is a really poignant story cleverly told with humour taking the sting out of the sadness and with an upbeat ending that still had me reaching for a tissue.”“[…] it is a sign of Durant’s supreme confidence as a storyteller that he can make the saddest stories the vehicles for his wildest ideas.”“Clownfish is an autumnal gem.”“The story rings with humour and longing without ever being maudlin or depressing; it does not dwell on the pain, but shows how to cope with loss. And it demonstrates clearly that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Gentle, funny, genuine and warm, this is a hopeful, memorable book.”“Overall this is a sweet, sometimes funny but mainly heartwarming story that is absolutely worth a read.”

“A gem.” – Telegraph

“Filled with warmth and humour, this short novel would suit children aged nine and over.” – Guardian

“Sweet, funny and heartwarming ... absolutely worth a read.” – Glasgow Herald

Clownfish is a moving and stunningly original story of friendship and life after loss, from the award-winning author Alan Durant. Dak's dad has been dead for seven days when suddenly he reappears. He's the same in almost every way, with one startling exception: Dad has turned into a clownfish, and now lives in a tank at their local aquarium.

Dak is delighted by the news – he has Dad back, even if he isn't quite as he was before. Deciding to keep Dad's transformation a secret, Dak visits him at the aquarium as often as he can, and ends up spending so much time there that they offer him a job. This is how he comes to meet Violet, the owner's prickly but kindhearted niece; when the aquarium is threatened with closure, the pair must work together to save it.

For Dak, the stakes couldn't be higher … after all, if the aquarium shuts down, what will happen to the fish? In parts wry, moving and undoubtedly strange, this beautifully crafted story will stay with you long after the final page.

As featured in the Reading Well Books on Prescription programme, supported by professional health bodies including NHS England and the Royal College of GPs.

Alan Durant is a prolific author of novels and picture books for children of all ages, including Dear Mermaid (9781844280643), Dear Tooth Fairy (9780744588583) and Dear Father Christmas (9780744583403); his football stories were featured in the BBC series English Express, winner of a Children's BAFTA Award. Alan is also a National Reading Campaign Reading Champion and a frequent visitor to schools, libraries and festivals around the UK and abroad. He lives in Brighton, Sussex. Follow him on Twitter under the handle @alan_durant, or visit him at his website: www.alandurant.co.uk.