Jacqueline Wilson produces a story, slightly different to her older novels. The story focuses on a girl who is partially sighted, yet she wants to be treated the same as other children and be able to make her own decisions, without her disability stopping her. She travels to the corner shop alone, going against her families' wishes and becomes involved in a robbery and is kidnapped. I did not like this book at all. I was quite shocked and surprised by the storyline. I found it quite scary and unrealistic. It seemed more like a cautionary tale to stop children from ever venturing outside without their parents. The graphic description of the knife and how Mary is physically treated , emphasised the old phrase of 'stranger danger'. I also found Jacqueline Wilson's remarks derogatory and unnecessary, such as when Mary was being teased by the other children and robbers, for being partially sighted. I feel that by the author using this kind of language in the book, it is made to seem that teasing is acceptable and should be expected for anyone with a disability. I do not believe this book will provide its readers' with encouragement or confidence, just fear. I would have preferred if Jacqueline Wilson chose a more hopeful and positive ending, as although Mary escapes from the robbers. She does not want to go to the corner shop on her own anymore and is clearly traumatised. The only positive comment I have about this book is that, I did not want to put it down. I was desperate to find out if and how Mary escaped from the robbers. Due to the content of this book, I believe it would be appropriate for a year four class. It could be used for independent reading or topics such as safety and the role of the police, or when learning about children who have disabilities.
