Des O’Leary, one of our regular relieving teachers released his second book, ‘Under the Radar’, at Papamoa College on Wednesday 28 July.

The novel is set in South Auckland and is based on a group of teens from a diverse range of backgrounds. The majority of them carry significant expectations of doing well at school to make a better life for themselves. 

The main character Sione is put in many difficult situations that require him to step up and make the right choice. This is not always easy. The characters are realistic and believable as the dialogue between them reflect student conversations and interactions that happen across NZ secondary schools every day. 

Students will connect with ‘Under the Radar’ as it explores themes of school, friends, gangs, community and family values and expectations.

The creation of this series came from Des’s students when he was teaching in South Auckland and he felt there were no books written for them. Des then embarked on the process of writing a novel.

‘Under the Radar’ is the sequel to the 2019 Children’s Book Awards finalist ‘Slice of Heaven'. The first novel has been well received by our students.

The school library has copies available to borrow. Reserve your copy here. 

If you would like your own copy, both titles are available to purchase from Papamoa Paper Plus.