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  • Published: 6 September 2013
  • ISBN: 9781775534709
  • Imprint: Random House NZ
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 240
  • RRP: $22.00

Speed Freak




Racing. Winning. That's all that matters in this exciting teen story about driving competitively.

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?

  • Published: 6 September 2013
  • ISBN: 9781775534709
  • Imprint: Random House NZ
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 240
  • RRP: $22.00

About the author

Fleur Beale



Fleur Beale is the author of many award-winning books for children and young adults — she has published more than 40 books in New Zealand, as well as in the United States and England. A former high school teacher, Fleur was inspired to write her acclaimed novel I Am Not Esther when one of her students was beaten and expelled from his family for going against their religious beliefs. Fleur is a leading advocate for New Zealand authors, and home-grown literature for children and young adults.

Also by Fleur Beale

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Praise for Speed Freak

Fleur Beale has a talent for making me absorbed in a story about something I have no interest in – go-kart racing this time. I couldn’t put it down, reading it in one sitting. The plot has lots of action, a tiny bit of teenage romance, and likeable characters you want to succeed. There’s a range of issues that teens deal with in the story; blended families, friendships, girl/boyfriend, how to deal with pressure. This book will appeal to both boys and girls, as well as anyone who appreciates talented writers.

Jan Butterworth, akiwisbookreviews.wordpress.com

An exciting story about kart racing and extended families in New Zealand. I love the writing of Fleur Beale, but even so, I really didn't expect to enjoy this story as much as I did which centres around fifteen-year old Archie and involves his racing rivalries, father-son relationship, girlfriend, and being a role model for a new little brother.

Corrine Hinton, Good Reads

If you liked Slide the Corner (and have used it to hook in some of those boys who are convinced that reading really is boring and not something they would really want to do) then you'll be pleased that Fleur Beale has produced another classic NZ winner. . . A highly recommended read for Intermediate students - boys and girls. Plenty of action, well constructed believable characters and a really Kiwi story.

raroalibrary.weebly.com

Fleur Beale has presented a snappily written tale here of a young man going places ... fast. It's a good read, has good characterisation and there's more than just racing involved.

Otago Daily Times

Awards & recognition

Storylines Notable Young Adult Fiction Award

Awarded  •  2014  •  Storylines Notable Young Adult Fiction

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Teachers' notes