King of Nothing Book Review -A Hilarious, Heartfelt book about Identity

What is King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore about?

What happens when the toughest boy in school is forced to question everything he believes? King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is a hilarious, heartfelt and thought-provoking novel about friendship, identity and the courage to become the person you truly want to be.

Discover our Review and Summary of King of Nothing by Nathaneal Lessore

Anton rules the school, with the Mandem. He’s feared by everyone, but when geeky student Mathew unexpectedly saves Anton’s life, an unlikely bond is formed. Anton must choose which path to take, stick with the Mandem or stick with Mathew.

Anton, more commonly known as, the King of Year Nine, is feared throughout the school, known because of his dad, who is sentenced to prison. Anton isn’t alone though. He has a gang – the Mandem: Kehinde, the fighter; Caleb, the follower; and Marcus, the dumb one. However, you wouldn’t want to challenge Marcus to a fight.

Anton lives with his mum and nanna, who both mean a lot to him. At school, his grades are low, and he is infamously known for answering back to teachers. His life is only going downhill, but that doesn’t matter to Anton as long as he keeps his reputation. He listens to podcasts that encourage sexism toward women and promote toxic masculinity, influencing him in the wrong direction.

But when Anton’s mum has finally had enough, she decides to send Anton to Happy Campers, a babyish programme. If anyone at school finds out, his reputation will officially be ruined. To make matters even worse, Mathew is there too – a geeky nobody from school. What could be worse?

As the Happy Campers trip approaches, the Mandem become increasingly suspicious, and Anton begins to question how he should let a woman boss him around. After all he is the King of school. But on the trip, when Mathew unexpectedly saves his life, Anton feels he must repay Mathew.

But soon, he realises the generosity might be turning into friendship, and if so, What about the Mandem? They have always been loyal friends and everything he’s ever known is right…isn’t it?

My favourite character in this book is Nanna because she is so influential and she is always there for the family during difficult times. She is not afraid to be herself and she is very cheeky.

My favourite part in this book is when Mathew and Anton are together, because that’s when they truly bond, and the jokes they crack are hilarious.

Is King of Nothing Worth Reading?

Overall, this book shows what people can go through, overcome and come out stronger from. It explores stereotypes and gender inequalities. Showing that if you are led in the right direction and surround yourself with good people, you can achieve whatever you want to.

This book conveys an important message: the people you surround yourself with shape the person you become.

This book is brilliant. I rate it a 5/5 and recommend it to everyone. It is a must -read.

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