Racing. Winning. That's all that matters in this exciting teen story about driving competitively.
Fifteen-year-old Archie Barrington is a top kart driver, aiming to win the Challenge series and its ultimate prize of racing in Europe.
He loves the speed, the roar of the engine, the tactics and the thrill of racing to the limits.
Craig is his main rival, and there's also Silver, who drives likes she's got a demon inside. Archie knows he'll need all his skill and focus to win. But sometimes, too, you need plain old luck. Can Archie overcome the odds and win?
Awards
Awarded a Storylines Notable Young Adult Fiction Award 2014
Behind The Book…
I saw a short clip on the sports news showing kart racing. Yes! I thought – I’d like to write a story about a boy who’s a top kart racer. I thought it would be easy because karts don’t look complicated. Of course, I was wrong – the engines need to be finely tuned and it takes great skill to race karts.
- Fleur Beale
Reviews For Speed Freak
Speed Freak is a Young Adult Finalist in the New Zealand Post Book Awards for 2014, and it is exactly the sort of book you might expect from award-winning author Fleur Beale; captivating, honest, and completely unique. This book will be one that I will constantly reread, and Beale certainly has my vote for the Book Awards this year.
- Tierny Reardon, Booksellers NZ
A grandfather, father and son work together with great focus and skill in order to make the 15 year old's go-karting season the most successful it possibly can be. But not at all costs. They remain kind and considerate which makes the story all the more satisfying. A fun and refreshing read.
- Kathryn, Goodreads
Speed Freak offers an accurate portrayal of life as an up-and-coming racing star, and an immersive experience in the world and psychology of racing that is sure to satisfy readers interested in that world.
- Caoilinn Hughes, New Zealand Books
Click here to listen to an audio review by Hutt Valley High School students
Teachers Notes
Download the PDF with the Teachers Notes for Speed Freak here.