What do you think?
Rate this book
My Name is Sunshine Simpson
Meet Sunshine Simpson - a brand-new best friend for 9+ readers! Perfect for fans of Jacqueline Wilson.
Sunshine Simpson's larger-than-life Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures, but unfortunately BAD LUCK has a habit of coming her way.
Her new friend Evie is fast becoming a FRENEMY, her home haircut is a DISASTER, and the school showcase is so STRESSFUL! Everything seems to be going wrong! Especially with Grandad getting older every week.
Sunshine needs to find her voice, but can she break through the clouds to stand tall, stand proud, and show the world she can shine?
Sunshine Simpson's larger-than-life Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures, but unfortunately BAD LUCK has a habit of coming her way.
Her new friend Evie is fast becoming a FRENEMY, her home haircut is a DISASTER, and the school showcase is so STRESSFUL! Everything seems to be going wrong! Especially with Grandad getting older every week.
Sunshine needs to find her voice, but can she break through the clouds to stand tall, stand proud, and show the world she can shine?
- GenresMiddle GradeChildrens
300 pages, Paperback
Published May 11, 2023
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 27, 2023
I read this in one day (yes, on holiday, yes in the sunshine and yes, an occasional wine was consumed!)
This is aimed at 8yrs+ but in fact I would say it really tackles some big subjects: growing up and managing friendships and also a childs perspective of a family bereavement.
Worlds collide for Sunshine Simpson and how she navigates the fallout, the everyday mundane and the chaos of family life is expertly written and carefully choreographed.
The mix of typeface and use of bold might put off 'traditional' readers but imagine being Sunshine's age and delving into the world of a novel...this really helps guide the story and brings focus to the attitude and sass!!
This is aimed at 8yrs+ but in fact I would say it really tackles some big subjects: growing up and managing friendships and also a childs perspective of a family bereavement.
Worlds collide for Sunshine Simpson and how she navigates the fallout, the everyday mundane and the chaos of family life is expertly written and carefully choreographed.
The mix of typeface and use of bold might put off 'traditional' readers but imagine being Sunshine's age and delving into the world of a novel...this really helps guide the story and brings focus to the attitude and sass!!
August 7, 2023
This is very heart warming. As soon as I read the synopsis, I knew I would have the best time reading this. The best thing about middle grade novels is that they always have something to tell to adults as well.
I adore our little character Karis Sunshine Simpson aka Sunny. She is the protagonist of the novel and steals the show. I like how the writer depicted her centre of attention related phobias that she might do something stupid in front of the whole class and like that.
Thus, I like the character development of Sunny. It seemed to be a true reflection of reality, not exaggerated.
Apart from Sunny, her grandfather is also an inspiring character. His words of wisdom are great and really heart touching. I alongside Sunny also enjoyed his tales about his own youth🤭
The other thing I like about the novel is learning about Jamaica. Every country has a beautiful beautiful culture / traditions and Jamaica also has something beautiful to offer.
This novel is a work of fiction but, it also showcases an important historical aspect about the presence of Black lives in London and the US and the difficulties they faced there. I love this side of the novel. Also, I like the mentioning of several great Black people especially Muhammad Ali.
The writing was great and everything flowed together so perfectly. A really smart story with some important messages and one I definitely recommend you give a read.
I adore our little character Karis Sunshine Simpson aka Sunny. She is the protagonist of the novel and steals the show. I like how the writer depicted her centre of attention related phobias that she might do something stupid in front of the whole class and like that.
Thus, I like the character development of Sunny. It seemed to be a true reflection of reality, not exaggerated.
Apart from Sunny, her grandfather is also an inspiring character. His words of wisdom are great and really heart touching. I alongside Sunny also enjoyed his tales about his own youth🤭
The other thing I like about the novel is learning about Jamaica. Every country has a beautiful beautiful culture / traditions and Jamaica also has something beautiful to offer.
This novel is a work of fiction but, it also showcases an important historical aspect about the presence of Black lives in London and the US and the difficulties they faced there. I love this side of the novel. Also, I like the mentioning of several great Black people especially Muhammad Ali.
The writing was great and everything flowed together so perfectly. A really smart story with some important messages and one I definitely recommend you give a read.
March 25, 2023
My name is Sunshine Simpson
G.M Linton
Publishing with Usborne: 11 May 2023.
Age 9+
About the book:
Sunshine Simpson's larger-than-life Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures, but unfortunately BAD LUCK has a habit of coming her way.
Her new friend Evie is fast becoming a FRENEMY, her home haircut is a DISASTER, and the school showcase is so STRESSFUL! Everything seems to be going wrong! Especially with Grandad getting older and weaker every week.
Sunshine needs to find her voice, but can she break through the clouds to stand tall, stand proud, and show the world she can shine?
Thoughts:
What a joy it's been to meet Sunshine Simpson through this wonderful debut novel!
With echoes of Jacqueline Wilson's well-crafted storytelling, we the readers are treated to an story that's bursting with fun, friendship and family, kindness, wisdom and bravery. Having recently read 'The Octopus, Dadu and Me' by Lucy Ann Unwin, it was a treat to have again a focus on the special relationship between a girl and her Grandad. Grandad Bob is Sunshine's biggest supporter, and shares his experience to guide her through the ups and downs of friendships and school life. The bond between them, and indeed between all members of Sunshine's family, adds another layer of heart to a story already full of warmth.
I don't want to give anything away plot-wise, except to say it reads true to life with a balance of joy, sadness and 'everyday-ness'. The first-person characterisation is superb and Sunshine is a girl I know many young readers will identify with, being at a point where she is starting to explore who she is, and where she fits in the world. She is finding her voice, and starting to consider how she will use it, in what her Grandad calls "this adventure called Life". It was pleasing to read a 'growth mindset' undercurrent within the story. Grandad's advice, that Sunshine takes on board as the story progresses, shows children and young people that it is okay to make mistakes and get things wrong. This WILL happen in life. The key is in how we respond and what we learn in the process.
I think it's worth just being aware as a librarian or teacher, that death from cancer is a storyline within the book. It is dealt with sensitively, however, for some children this may be a triggering issue.
In this first Sunshine Simpson story, we have a heart-warming, inclusive, delight of a book that will be a great addition to any primary school library. I truly hope there are more to come! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to #netgalley for an advance reader copy of #SunshineSimpson
G.M Linton
Publishing with Usborne: 11 May 2023.
Age 9+
About the book:
Sunshine Simpson's larger-than-life Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures, but unfortunately BAD LUCK has a habit of coming her way.
Her new friend Evie is fast becoming a FRENEMY, her home haircut is a DISASTER, and the school showcase is so STRESSFUL! Everything seems to be going wrong! Especially with Grandad getting older and weaker every week.
Sunshine needs to find her voice, but can she break through the clouds to stand tall, stand proud, and show the world she can shine?
Thoughts:
What a joy it's been to meet Sunshine Simpson through this wonderful debut novel!
With echoes of Jacqueline Wilson's well-crafted storytelling, we the readers are treated to an story that's bursting with fun, friendship and family, kindness, wisdom and bravery. Having recently read 'The Octopus, Dadu and Me' by Lucy Ann Unwin, it was a treat to have again a focus on the special relationship between a girl and her Grandad. Grandad Bob is Sunshine's biggest supporter, and shares his experience to guide her through the ups and downs of friendships and school life. The bond between them, and indeed between all members of Sunshine's family, adds another layer of heart to a story already full of warmth.
I don't want to give anything away plot-wise, except to say it reads true to life with a balance of joy, sadness and 'everyday-ness'. The first-person characterisation is superb and Sunshine is a girl I know many young readers will identify with, being at a point where she is starting to explore who she is, and where she fits in the world. She is finding her voice, and starting to consider how she will use it, in what her Grandad calls "this adventure called Life". It was pleasing to read a 'growth mindset' undercurrent within the story. Grandad's advice, that Sunshine takes on board as the story progresses, shows children and young people that it is okay to make mistakes and get things wrong. This WILL happen in life. The key is in how we respond and what we learn in the process.
I think it's worth just being aware as a librarian or teacher, that death from cancer is a storyline within the book. It is dealt with sensitively, however, for some children this may be a triggering issue.
In this first Sunshine Simpson story, we have a heart-warming, inclusive, delight of a book that will be a great addition to any primary school library. I truly hope there are more to come! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to #netgalley for an advance reader copy of #SunshineSimpson
March 27, 2023
Sunshine Simpson is a girl trying to grow into her best self, even as she is held back by the "bad luck" that all too often seems to find her. Growing up can be confusing at times, but Sunshine is glad to have the support of her teacher Miss Peach (whom she likes, despite that unfortunate name!) and her friends Arun and Charley.
Grandpa Bobby is also a great source of everyday wisdom, and he always makes Sunshine feel better about things, no matter what's bothering her. But sometimes Sunshine struggles to find within herself the special things that Grandpa Bobby assures her are part of her birthright.
Having to contend with the arrival of the depressingly perfect Evie doesn't help. Because now Sunshine has even lost her cherished status as the best skipper in her school! And some of the things that Evie says makes Sunshine wonder about her motives - even if Evie often *sounds* as though she's trying to be funny rather than mean. Many of the problems that Sunshine faces are likely to strike a chord with readers who belong to the target group for this book.
The close relationship between Sunshine and her grandfather is one of the real strengths of this story. Her interactions with Grandpa Bobby allow in not only the positive messages that her grandfather gives this young girl, but also serve to enrich the multicultural aspects of the story telling in the book.
The story of Sunshine's birth and the adventures of Grandma Rose Pepper were particularly effective in adding some colour to the story
Unfortunately, things take a decided turn for the worse in Sunshine's life when Grandpa Bobby's health begins to deteriorate. How the very likable character of Sunshine deals with the pressure of everyday challenges is taken up several notches as a result of this.
Overall, the story is likely to be interesting and enjoyable for most middle grade readers, not least because Sunshine's preoccupations, worries and occasional awkwardness may feel quite relatable to some young readers. The writer has done a great job of weaving in a variety of issues that the children of today are likely to encounter into the easy-to-read narrative, which flows well.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review
Grandpa Bobby is also a great source of everyday wisdom, and he always makes Sunshine feel better about things, no matter what's bothering her. But sometimes Sunshine struggles to find within herself the special things that Grandpa Bobby assures her are part of her birthright.
Having to contend with the arrival of the depressingly perfect Evie doesn't help. Because now Sunshine has even lost her cherished status as the best skipper in her school! And some of the things that Evie says makes Sunshine wonder about her motives - even if Evie often *sounds* as though she's trying to be funny rather than mean. Many of the problems that Sunshine faces are likely to strike a chord with readers who belong to the target group for this book.
The close relationship between Sunshine and her grandfather is one of the real strengths of this story. Her interactions with Grandpa Bobby allow in not only the positive messages that her grandfather gives this young girl, but also serve to enrich the multicultural aspects of the story telling in the book.
The story of Sunshine's birth and the adventures of Grandma Rose Pepper were particularly effective in adding some colour to the story
Unfortunately, things take a decided turn for the worse in Sunshine's life when Grandpa Bobby's health begins to deteriorate. How the very likable character of Sunshine deals with the pressure of everyday challenges is taken up several notches as a result of this.
Overall, the story is likely to be interesting and enjoyable for most middle grade readers, not least because Sunshine's preoccupations, worries and occasional awkwardness may feel quite relatable to some young readers. The writer has done a great job of weaving in a variety of issues that the children of today are likely to encounter into the easy-to-read narrative, which flows well.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review
March 8, 2023
My name is Sunshine Simpson
By G.M.Linton
Published by Usborne Publishing Ltd
This middle grade story of Sunshine Simpson and her larger than life Granddad made my heart sing. It combines, love, laughter and heart-wrenching teenage moments that EVERYONE will connect with.
But ‘bad luck’ always seems to find Sunshine and her friendships are stretched to the limit, testing her patience, choices and emotions.
My favourite quote from Grandad says it all when it comes to knowing what you need in your life when choices cross your path.
Grandad Bobby said, “You’re a Nubian queen, my Sunshine. But be wary of beauty. You may have eyes that shine like diamonds and lips as red as
rubies, but no amount of beauty on the
outside can make up for a rusting heart. The heart and the brain are the most precious things of all.”
Beautifully written and full of rich, thoughtful vocabulary, Sunshine’s story takes you on a journey that fills the mind with great imagery along the way. Every classroom deserves a copy to enable readers to see themselves alongside their teenage trials and tribulations.
Such a powerful and delightfully written story. You captured my heart Sunshine.
“See your life as an adventure. It’s yours to live, so live it the best way you can. Do your thing and don’t hesitate. Go for it! And if you fall down, get up and go again.”
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
By G.M.Linton
Published by Usborne Publishing Ltd
This middle grade story of Sunshine Simpson and her larger than life Granddad made my heart sing. It combines, love, laughter and heart-wrenching teenage moments that EVERYONE will connect with.
But ‘bad luck’ always seems to find Sunshine and her friendships are stretched to the limit, testing her patience, choices and emotions.
My favourite quote from Grandad says it all when it comes to knowing what you need in your life when choices cross your path.
Grandad Bobby said, “You’re a Nubian queen, my Sunshine. But be wary of beauty. You may have eyes that shine like diamonds and lips as red as
rubies, but no amount of beauty on the
outside can make up for a rusting heart. The heart and the brain are the most precious things of all.”
Beautifully written and full of rich, thoughtful vocabulary, Sunshine’s story takes you on a journey that fills the mind with great imagery along the way. Every classroom deserves a copy to enable readers to see themselves alongside their teenage trials and tribulations.
Such a powerful and delightfully written story. You captured my heart Sunshine.
“See your life as an adventure. It’s yours to live, so live it the best way you can. Do your thing and don’t hesitate. Go for it! And if you fall down, get up and go again.”
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
April 18, 2023
This book shines with a perfect young voice. It's so accessible and relatable, and a very sweet story. The character of the title, Sunshine, stresses about outdoing a perfect new girl and not embarrassing herself at a school assembly; all while gradually realising her beloved, larger-than-life Grandad is very ill. Her naive assumption that her bull-like Grandad Bobby is unbreakable is really moving, and very believable. Wonderfully woven into this story are facts about the Windrush generation, black history and Jamaican culture. A lot of these facts are received with an eye-roll from Sunshine as they come in the form of her parents’ constant lectures (I can very much relate to the lecturing parents!!) but she absorbs and processes the information regardless, as will the reader. And all that knowledge comes around beautifully in the plot for a perfect finish. A lovely book that hits the sweet spot between chapter books and longer MG reads.
October 1, 2023
A heartwarming, but poignant older middle grade that tackles growing up, friendships and grief.
Sunshine isn't great in front of an audience, she gets all clumsy and makes mistakes, so when her supposed friend Evie makes comments about it calling her Silly Sunshine, it really Knocks her confidence.
This book really surprised me, from the synopsis I expected a cheery book about friendship and school, but what i got was so much more. I won't say too much for fear of spoilers, but just know that I would advise reading this one with your child to help with questions and the big topic it covers.
I really enjoyed this one, Sunshine felt very grown up, but also really young at the same time as she transitioned into an older child. Her family unit was solid and I loved to hear more about Windrush as well as read about the celebration of the Jamaican community.
Adults and children alike can learn a lot from this one.
Sunshine isn't great in front of an audience, she gets all clumsy and makes mistakes, so when her supposed friend Evie makes comments about it calling her Silly Sunshine, it really Knocks her confidence.
This book really surprised me, from the synopsis I expected a cheery book about friendship and school, but what i got was so much more. I won't say too much for fear of spoilers, but just know that I would advise reading this one with your child to help with questions and the big topic it covers.
I really enjoyed this one, Sunshine felt very grown up, but also really young at the same time as she transitioned into an older child. Her family unit was solid and I loved to hear more about Windrush as well as read about the celebration of the Jamaican community.
Adults and children alike can learn a lot from this one.
May 28, 2023
My Name is Sunshine Simpson is a great book for younger readers, it's filled with positive, uplifting messages whilst also dealing with some very real and hard hitting topics in an age appropriate way.
Friendships, families, finding your voice and being kind to others and yourself are the main topics in this book, but it also deals with racism, illness and grief. Sunshine is a great main character, she has her ups and downs, and isn't always in the right, she's a character with flaws and self doubt, who is surrounded by people who help and inspire her to be her self.
Friendships, families, finding your voice and being kind to others and yourself are the main topics in this book, but it also deals with racism, illness and grief. Sunshine is a great main character, she has her ups and downs, and isn't always in the right, she's a character with flaws and self doubt, who is surrounded by people who help and inspire her to be her self.
December 31, 2023
G. M. Linton’s debut novel for readers aged 9+ (illustrated by Fuuji Takashi and Emily Bornoff and the first in a series) is a sensitively written book about learning who you are and what’s important to you while also dealing with the difficult topic of illness, death and grief. I particularly enjoyed the emphasis on Sunshine’s Jamaican heritage and her and her family’s pride in their identity and I look forward to reading more of her adventures.
August 11, 2023
We’ve loved this brilliant middle grade debut about Sunshine Simpson and her Grandad. It’s a totally uplifting story about finding your voice and not being afraid to show the world your true self. Hilarious and heart-breaking too, it will make readers laugh and cry. It should be in every school library.
January 11, 2025
A lovely book, and one that needed to be written. Quite like Jacqueline Wilson in style and theme, but G. M. Linton has very much her own voice too. She has a lot to say and says it very well for children, and for adults too. I was both entertained by the story and characters and informed as well by her about Jamaican history and culture. Thank you!
April 28, 2023
What a gorgeous story. A great exploration of many subjects. Friendships, the relationship between a child and their grandparent, love, loss and all the emotions in between.
Prepare to meet Sunshine and have your day brightened.
Prepare to meet Sunshine and have your day brightened.
June 16, 2024
Sunshine is such a sweetheart! A lovely, warm book packed with love between Sunshine and her fabulous Granddad Bobby.
I loved reading about her life with her strong Jamaican heritage, her troubled friendship with new girl Evie and her vibrant family life.
Really good way to introduce children to the Windrush history too.
Fabulous!
I loved reading about her life with her strong Jamaican heritage, her troubled friendship with new girl Evie and her vibrant family life.
Really good way to introduce children to the Windrush history too.
Fabulous!
April 9, 2023
A very sweet story about finding your voice, coping with loss, friendship dynamics, and embracing your heritage.
Deals with death, and I always love strong family support in a book.
Deals with death, and I always love strong family support in a book.
April 10, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It was fresh, funny and moving and had some terrific characters. Recommended for age 9/10+
April 18, 2023
A fresh, funny and touching tale of understanding the importance of who, what and where makes you you. Other themes include tricky friendships and family relationships. A delightful story.
May 17, 2023
A really good book. Some great messages throughout.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews