Millions (novel)
| File:Millions cover.jpg | |
| Author | Frank Cottrell Boyce |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's novel |
| Publisher | Macmillan |
Publication date | 6 February 2004 |
| Publication place | United Kingdom |
| Media type | Print (Hardback; Paperback) |
| Pages | 208 pp |
| ISBN | ISBN 1 405047364 Parameter error in {{ISBNT}}: invalid character |
Millions is a children's novel by Frank Cottrell Boyce, published in 2004. It was originally written solely as a screenplay for the film Millions, but scriptwriter Cottrell Boyce decided to adapt it into a novel while the film was in the process of being made. It was his first novel. The book was awarded the Carnegie Medal for 2004,[1] and formed an integral part of the annual Liverpool Reads campaign in Cottrell Boyce's home city.[2]
Plot introduction
The novel is set in the England in the near future, just as the euro is about to replace the pound sterling. When they unwittingly come into possession of the proceeds of a train robbery, brothers Damian and Anthony find themselves with "millions" of pounds to spend in the next seven days. Damian believes the money comes from God, and should be spent to do good, while Anthony has different ideas. Meanwhile the robbers are looking for their money.
Literary significance and reception
The award of the prestigious Carnegie Medal to Millions aroused interest in the press as it was seen as a novelization of the film as well as being the author's first novel. In announcing the award, the Chair of the Judges, Sharon Sperling, said: "The quality of children's writing currently available, as demonstrated by this year's shortlist, made choosing a winner a seemingly impossible task. However, the panel was unanimous in their choice of Millions as the 2004 CILIP Carnegie Medal winner. Millions is a powerful fable for today's young people, which offers an enduring message. Cottrell Boyce's accomplished writing ensures an exhilarating read and his ability to tell the story through the voice of the young hero, Damian, immediately engages the reader's sympathy. Full of humour, it has a pacy plot and excellent characterisation. Cottrell Boyce writes with exceptional assurance and lightness of touch." [3]
References
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