Matilda Bell begins the school year without her best friend by her side and soon finds herself constantly clashing with a new classmate. When they’re forced to work together on the school debating team, their rivalry slowly shifts into something more complicated. Along the way, Matilda must navigate changing friendships, growing confidence and the tentative beginnings of first love.
The Last Word explores a time that many readers will recognise: the moment when friendships start shifting, confidence wobbles and feelings become a little more complicated. At the centre of the story are characters navigating school life, debating competitions, family expectations and the uncertain terrain of young love.
What makes this novel particularly engaging for middle grade readers is its balance. The story is undeniably fun and easy to read, with plenty of humour and relatable school moments, but it also gently touches on some of the core concerns that often emerge during these years. Themes of friendship, identity, bullying, and the pressure to fit in are woven naturally through the narrative. Readers will also recognise the bittersweet experience of friendships changing — especially when friends move away — and the uncertainty that can come with growing up.
One of the highlights of the story is the ongoing debating focus. The debating competitions add a clever structural thread to the narrative while also reinforcing one of the novel’s key ideas: learning to find and use your voice. Through debate preparation, arguments and team dynamics, the characters grapple with confidence, communication and standing up for what they believe in.
The romance element is handled beautifully for the intended age group. Rather than rushing into dramatic declarations, the story offers just enough slow-burn tension to keep readers invested. It captures the tentative excitement of first crushes in a way that feels completely appropriate for readers around the same age as the characters. Sweet, funny and genuine, the relationships feel authentic rather than overly dramatic.
Importantly, The Last Word never loses sight of the joy of storytelling. The tone remains warm and playful throughout, creating a reading experience that feels comforting and engaging. It’s the kind of book that young readers can easily lose themselves in while still seeing reflections of their own lives and worries on the page.
Perfect for readers who are beginning to explore stories about relationships and identity, The Last Word is an enjoyable and reassuring middle grade read. It captures the awkward, exciting and sometimes confusing world of early teen years with kindness and humour.
Title: The Last Word
Author: A.L. Tait
Publisher: Scholastic, $17.99
Publication Date: 1 April, 2026
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761646874
For ages: 10+
Type: Middle Grade
