What This Book Is About
Ten-year-old Audrey is a secret young carer. Her mam is seriously ill, and Audrey hides at school and from the neighbours how much of the caring she does herself, because she is terrified that if anyone finds out, the family will be split up.
To pay for the treatment her mam needs, Audrey builds a scheme out of the two things she knows best: her stamp collection and the postal system. The plan eventually takes her from their home in Wales all the way to London. By Onjali Q. Raúf, author of The Boy at the Back of the Class.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
UWC's service-learning programme encourages students to look beyond their own privileges and understand the lives of others. This book opens a window into the world of young carers—children who shoulder adult responsibilities that most of their classmates cannot imagine. In Singapore, where domestic helpers are common and conversations about caregiving rarely include children, this story is a powerful prompt for empathy and awareness.
The accessible, warm prose is perfect for building reading confidence at the A2-B1 level, while the emotionally complex themes give students plenty to discuss and write about. Teachers can connect Audrey's story to UWC's values of compassion, service, and community responsibility, making it an ideal text for both English class and personal development sessions.
Reading Level Guide
Too challenging at A1. The emotional vocabulary and length require at least A2 reading skills.
The sweet spot. Warm, conversational language that A2 readers can follow, with enough depth to stretch into B1.
A quick, heartfelt read at B2. Great for emotional vocabulary building and discussion practice.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free 30-minute English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.