Liccle Bit

by Alex Wheatle
Liccle Bit cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Contemporary Fiction
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  • ID: 856
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780349002002
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2015-03-05
  • Reviews: 4

Liccle Bit, known for being the second shortest guy in his year, faces constant teasing from his friends and struggles with a less-than-ideal home life. His mother is perpetually stressed, his sister is a single mom, and his father has long since left. When Venetia King, the most popular girl at school, starts paying him attention, Liccle Bit dreams of a first date. However, his life takes a dark turn when a notorious gang leader takes an interest in him, pulling him into a dangerous world of errands and violence. As a killing on the estate shakes him to his core, Liccle Bit must confront his choices and find a way to set things right. Set against the backdrop of South Crongton, this gripping tale explores themes of identity, family, and the consequences of one's actions. With a blend of humor and tension, the story delves into the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment and the struggle to find one's place in the world.

Reviews
Everything Alyce · Alyce · 2017-04-29
realistic 3.50

The book offers a realistic portrayal of working-class life but sometimes leans into stereotypes. The dialogue is sharp and engaging.

Alyce acknowledges the book's realistic portrayal of working-class life but notes that it occasionally veers into stereotypical representations. Despite this, the dialogue is sharp and engaging, making the characters come to life. The reviewer appreciates the effort to capture the nuances of Black British life, even if it's not always perfectly executed.

Quick quotes

    This is a realistic representation of the working class, but it does verge on stereotypical at times.

    There's a vast spectrum of difference that the author attempts to capture.

    The dialogue is sharp and engaging, making the characters come to life.

Heather Reviews · Heather · 2015-07-28
thought-provoking 4.00

The book highlights how a child's life can be drastically altered by a single encounter with a gang leader. It's a poignant exploration of the consequences of such interactions.

Heather found the book to be a compelling read that sheds light on the vulnerabilities of young individuals in challenging environments. She appreciated how the story delves into the complexities of family and community dynamics, making it both relatable and thought-provoking. The narrative's ability to balance serious themes with engaging storytelling is particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    Liccle Bit offers an insight into how easily a child's life can take a turn for the worst through a simple interaction with a gang leader.

    The story is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, showcasing the resilience of its young protagonist.

    Alex Wheatle's writing is raw and honest, capturing the essence of urban life with authenticity.

The Independent · 2015-03-02
joyful 4.50

The novel is praised for its wit and wisdom, offering a joyful reading experience despite its gritty subject matter.

The reviewer from The Independent highlights the novel's ability to blend humor and serious themes seamlessly. They found the characters to be well-developed and the narrative to be both engaging and insightful. The book's portrayal of family dynamics and the challenges faced by its young protagonist are particularly commendable. Overall, it's a story that manages to be both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Wise as well as witty, understanding rather than blinkered, this novel is a joy to read.

    The book offers a gritty yet humorous take on family and community life.

    Alex Wheatle's storytelling is both compelling and authentic, making Liccle Bit a standout read.

Rosemary Canning's Blog · Rosemary Canning · 2014-12-01
engaging 4.75

The book is engaging from the very first sentence, drawing readers in with its compelling narrative and relatable characters.

Rosemary Canning was immediately hooked by the story and found herself deeply invested in the protagonist's journey. She appreciated the book's ability to tackle serious issues with sensitivity and humor. The characters are well-crafted and the narrative is both engaging and emotionally resonant. It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

Quick quotes

    Almost from the very first sentence, I found myself hooked.

    The more I read, the more I cared about what happened to Lemar called Liccle Bit.

    The book's blend of humor and heart makes it a truly memorable read.

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