The Sidekicks
Penguin Random House Australia 2016
Harlequin Teen 2017
BUY (PAPERBACK ● CD) TEACHERS’ NOTES
Ryan, Harley and Miles are very different people — the swimmer, the rebel and the nerd.
All they’ve ever had in common is Isaac, their shared best friend. When Isaac dies unexpectedly, the three boys must come to terms with their grief and the impact he had on each of their lives. In his absence, Ryan, Harley and Miles discover things about one another they never saw before.
An intricately woven story told in three parts, award-winning author Will Kostakis stuns with this heartwarming, masterfully written novel about grief, self-discovery and the connections that tie us all together.
WINNER: Angus and Robertson Bookworld Best of 2016, Young Adult
WINNER: IBBY Australia, Ena Noel Award 2018
Booktopia Best Books of 2016, Young Adult
The Sydney Morning Herald, Best Books For Younger Readers 2016
Queensland Literary Awards, Griffith University Young Adult Book Award Shortlist 2016
Indie Book Awards, Young Adult Longlist 2017
The Inky Awards, Gold Inky Longlist 2017
CBCA Book of the Year Awards, Older Readers Notable Book 2017
New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards, Ethel Turner Prize for Young People’s Literature Shortlist 2017
Lambda Literary Awards, LGBTQ Children’s/Young Adult Shortlist 2018
“The Sidekicks is presented as three short novellas — one from each boy’s perspective, covering the period immediately after Isaac’s death. This structure allows Kostakis to delve into the psyches of the protagonists to reveal that each is much more than the title that defines him: The Swimmer, The Rebel, The Nerd. While each novella might be read as a complete work, it is the cumulative effect of reading them in sequence that makes the novel such a powerful statement about teen identity and male friendship. Written in a style that is conversational, witty and poignant, The Sidekicks is a sharply authentic and deeply moving novel.” Judges’ Report, New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards
“While this is Kostakis’s American debut, his literary polish and deep understanding of teen storytelling is compelling and nuanced from the first page… A memorable experience with teens who grow to absorb tragedy and build a future on its foundation. VERDICT An excellent exploration of grief from a rising talent that belongs in all libraries serving teens.” Starred review, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
“An engrossing study of relationships, unintended consequences, and the many-nuanced similarities and differences that makes us human. Male and female readers alike will be readily drawn into each character’s unique emotional journey and the tapestry of friendship they ultimately create.” Starred review, VOYA
“A masterfully written story filled with heart, sorrow, and hope.” Laurie Halse Anderson, New York Times bestselling author of Speak
“America, you are about to be introduced to the heartfelt, funny, wrenching and absolutely wonderful work of Will Kostakis. The Sidekicks will make your heart ache.” Sara Farizan, author of Tell Me Again How A Crush Should Feel
“Gutsy, ambitious, funny, sad and beautiful.” Melina Marchetta, Printz Award-winning author of On The Jellicoe Road
“The Sidekicks is a hypnotic story of friendship, loss, grief, self-discovery, and-most of all-love. Read this book. Trust me. I loved every word and you will too.” Jennifer Niven, New York Times bestselling author of All the Bright Places
“Will Kostakis has written a vibrant, engaging book about relationships, coming out, divorce and loss – and still managed to work in lots of laughs.” Frances Atkinson, THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
“The Sidekicks will punch you in the soul at least a dozen times … You will be left with a goofy smile and an emotional high that will last for days. Maybe weeks! Possibly forever!” Sarah McDuling, BOOKTOPIA
“This is a masterful tale of coming of age with three young men at once horrified at their friend’s death but also searching for who they are. Highly recommended.” Fran Knight, READPLUS
“A contemporary book, wise and worthy, it is a welcome inclusion to the Australian young-adult world. Highly recommended.” Trish Buckley, CHILDREN’S BOOK DAILY
“It makes you look at life, relationships and finding yourself in a whole new light.” LAMONT BOOKS