Two Weeks with the Queen

Plot Summary: "Two Weeks with the Queen" by Morris Gleitzman (not Mary Morris) is a novel that focuses on the story of Colin Mudford, a 12-year-old Australian boy. Colin is sent to live with his uncle Bob, aunt Iris, and cousin Alistair in London while his younger brother, Luke, is being treated for terminal cancer in Sydney. In England, Colin attempts to break into Buckingham Palace to ask the Queen for good doctors, but he and his cousin are caught by the police.

After an unsuccessful attempt to sneak into the best cancer hospital in London, Colin meets a Welshman named Ted, who introduces him to one of England's leading cancer experts. The expert confirms that Luke's cancer is terminal, leading Colin to seek revenge on the doctors by slashing the tires of several high-end cars. However, he is caught by Ted, who has been badly injured in a street attack due to his being gay.

Ted reveals that his friend Griff is dying of AIDS, which further complicates Colin's emotional state. Alistair suggests that a possible cure for Luke's cancer might be found in South America, prompting Colin to plan a trip there. However, when Colin admits to slashing the tires and getting caught, Alistair warns him that Ted could be blamed for this, causing Colin to delay their trip and visit Ted again.

Key Themes:

1. Childhood and Grief: The novel explores the emotional turmoil of a young boy dealing with the impending loss of his brother.
2. Rebellion and Hope: Colin's actions, though misguided, reflect his desperate hope for a cure and his frustration with the adult world's inability to provide one.
3. Acceptance and Understanding: The story highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding in the face of death and illness, particularly through Colin's encounter with Ted and Griff.
4. Social Issues: The novel touches on social issues like homophobia and the stigma surrounding AIDS.

Critical Reception: The book has received positive reviews for its poignant and realistic portrayal of childhood grief and its exploration of complex social issues. Critics have praised the novel for its ability to tackle difficult themes in a way that is accessible and impactful for young readers.

A review by John Cook notes that the book is "a most unpromising topic based on a terminal case of child cancer balanced against an AIDS death," but ultimately concludes that it is a successful text that helps children understand and accept the adult world's flaws while emphasizing the importance of loving, caring, and support.

Overall, "Two Weeks with the Queen" is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complexities of childhood grief and the importance of acceptance and understanding in the face of adversity.