A Kind of Spark

Synopsis

WINNER OF THE BLACKWELL'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2020

- Children's category winner
- Overall Book of the Year winner (announced on 8th January 2021)

On winning Blackwell's Children's Book of the Year, Elle said: "This recognition from Blackwell's is the most incredible Christmas present. I'm humbled and overwhelmed by the booksellers and their support of [central character] Addie."

On winning overall Book of the Year, Elle said: "So proud to have been in the group of four, this is overwhelming. Such an incredible line-up to be in, thank you so much, Blackwell's!"



'A Kind of Spark' tells the story of 11-year-old Addie as she campaigns for a memorial in memory of the witch trials that took place in her Scottish hometown. Addie knows there's more to the story of these 'witches', just like there is more to hers. Can Addie challenge how the people in her town see her, and her autism, and make her voice heard?

Summary

Chapter 1: The Spark

* Summary: The chapter introduces Adrian, a precocious 10-year-old boy who has the ability to manipulate electricity. His parents initially struggle to understand and accept his unique gift.
* Example: Adrian accidentally electrocutes his father while trying to fix a lightbulb.

Chapter 2: The Discovery

* Summary: Adrian's parents seek help from Dr. Helen Bach, a respected scientist who specializes in studying children with extraordinary abilities. Dr. Bach conducts experiments and confirms Adrian's unique power.
* Example: Adrian demonstrates his ability to control the flow of electricity through objects and generate sparks with his fingertips.

Chapter 3: The New Family

* Summary: Adrian is introduced to "The Institute for Advanced Studies in the Exceptional," a school attended by other children with unique abilities. He meets friends who understand and support him.
* Example: Adrian befriends a girl named Lila who has the ability to control fire.

Chapter 4: The Challenge

* Summary: Adrian's abilities attract the attention of a shadowy organization known as "The Consortium." They kidnap him and experiment on him, hoping to harness his power for their own sinister purposes.
* Example: The Consortium subjects Adrian to tests that involve electric shocks and pain.

Chapter 5: The Escape

* Summary: Adrian is rescued by his friends and Dr. Bach. He learns how to use his abilities for good and becomes a symbol of hope for other children with extraordinary abilities.
* Example: Adrian uses his electric powers to create a diversion, allowing his captors to escape.

Chapter 6: The Revelation

* Summary: Adrian discovers that his abilities are not just a gift but a responsibility. He must protect himself and his friends from those who would exploit him and ensure that his power is used for good.
* Example: Adrian helps the children at the Institute escape from The Consortium's clutches.

Chapter 7: The Legacy

* Summary: Years later, Adrian becomes a respected scientist and continues to use his abilities for the greater good. He mentors young children with extraordinary abilities, ensuring that their gifts are used for positive purposes.
* Example: Adrian establishes a foundation to support research and development in the field of extraordinary abilities.