Captainesque weighs in on Clay

Recently asked by Mrs. Finn to read the book Clay (David Almond, 2006), I was tasked on the age appropriate question and readability. This blog offering captures my thoughts accordingly. A recommended age level is provided in closing.

As a whole, it is a provoking book that made me assess my scenario at home with teenagers. Initially, it took some getting used to as it is written with British style- both comedic and manner. Once I adjusted after some occasional re-reading of sections to better understand the content and flow, I settled in. Again, my parenting role surfaced. I believe this book is suited for 13 – 15 year old readers depending on individual circumstances and maturity. Another way to look at it, a possible read for selected 8th graders (e.g. Reader’s Club), post graduation summer reading lists before 9th grade or 9th graders. As a genre, having overcome the initial matters of style, I was reminded of a “lower end” Catcher in the Rye (J. D. Salinger, c. 1951) and, albeit to a lesser extent, Ordinary People (John Vogel, c. 1980). What can I say, just call me an experienced reader!

A humble suggestion: Parents may take stock of the exposure their children have had to potential or actual dramas, peer conflicts (including bullying) and misbehavior through deception before sharing the book (with kids). To be more direct, there’s distinct adolescent behavior that crosses boundaries. Teenage characters in Clay are in a structured environment generally, as seen through school, family and church settings, however, the featured characters fight, steal, lie, etc. The term “troubled youth” may be a stretch with one exception, but the casual nature discerned through the read could infer such questionable activities of youth as acceptable without consequence. Moreover, on a much broader note, the debate of good versus evil and the depth of Clay’s origin may initiate questions.

As a whole, reading the book may generate questions and potential debate of a worthwhile nature. Is Davie “wrong” for some of his activities (e.g. lying to a priest)? Is Davie’s involvement at Crazy Mary’s house without any merit? How do you assess the Priest’s role in the book in terms of strengths and weaknesses? Is the central character, Davie, a “bad kid?” Captainesque’s bottom line: Keep the audience targeted to mature readers in the 13 – 15 year old range to answer those questions!