Five Hundred Miles

In Five Hundred Miles, two brothers embark on a thrilling journey after stealing a car, accompanied by a mysterious girl and a monkey.

In Five Hundred Miles, the story unfolds in the gritty backdrop of East London, where brothers Cole and Ruben find themselves entangled in a web of unexpected chaos. On a seemingly ordinary rainy morning, they engage in their usual hustle, selling questionable paperwork for even more questionable vehicles. However, their routine takes a dramatic turn when they encounter a trio of gangsters, a captivating young girl, and a monkey in a cage at a local pub. This chance meeting sets off a chain of events that leads them to steal a car, embarking on a wild journey that promises both danger and excitement.

As they speed away from the chaos, the brothers, along with their new companions—a mysterious girl and a chattering monkey—are pursued by the police. Their destination is Oban, a small town five hundred miles north, where they hope to find refuge from their troubles. The road trip is filled with moments of playful hopefulness, contrasting the tension of their circumstances. Throughout their adventure, the bond between the brothers is tested, and they learn valuable lessons about loyalty, courage, and the importance of family.

Five Hundred Miles is particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant, and dyslexic readers aged 12 and older. Kevin Brooks masterfully weaves a narrative that combines thrill with heart, making it an engaging read for young adults seeking both excitement and depth in their literature.