Content levels
Trigger warnings
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
The story … It is the 1960s and the small African country Nmkwami is preparing for independence from Britain. The prime minister is looking forward to becoming the first president. The last colonial governor is looking forward to a quiet retirement. The ordinary people are looking forward to a good party. But into this peaceful scene comes the shadowy figure of Mark Changeover. Is he an international terrorist? An anarchist bomber? Or really, nobody at all? As the hunt for Changeover brings chaos and confusion to Nmkwami, Diana Wynne Jones has fun with colonial attitudes, communist students, military coups and more …
Is Changeover appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
A humorous political satire about an African country's transition to independence, with mild tension around the hunt for a suspected terrorist. Light treatment of complex political themes suitable for middle grade readers.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include political violence and colonization.
Who'll love this
Kids who enjoy mystery and adventure will love following the chaotic hunt for the mysterious Mark Changeover as a country prepares for independence.