Max Counts to a Million shared to mark two years since UK lockdown began

“The Prime Minister made another speech, and I learned another new word: lockdown.” Who will discover Jeremy Williams’ new novel today?

“Straightaway, life was very different. The virus had changed everything. The whole world was closed. There was just me and my family left, in our house and our little garden.”

Today marks two years since the start of lockdown in the UK. The Book Fairies are marking the date by sharing this wonderful book for middle grade readers (and adults!!): Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams. We hope that the lucky finders enjoy Max’s take on the last couple of years!

Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams shared by book fairies - London

Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams shared by book fairies - art

About the book:

Do you like epic quests of amazing counting?

Do you dislike global pandemics, being stuck at home, and the number 7?

Then I have a story for you. It’s about how I counted to a million during lockdown – with help from Mum and Dad, friends and neighbours, and Grandad. And some birds. And a bucket of marbles. And an awesome TV reporter.

Sometimes, just keeping on going makes you a hero.

Eight-year-old Max is counting to a million. Normally, school or having anything interesting to do would get in the way, but school is shut and everyone has to stay home because the UK is in its first lockdown. Max’s dad works at the hospital and counting helps Max with missing him, but as the pandemic progresses and Max’s grandad journeys through his own battle with the virus, what starts as a distraction turns into record-breaking effort that brings Max’s community together.

Suitable for readers aged 7 up, this funny, poignant, uplifting story reflects the experiences shared by so many during the Covid pandemic and celebrates how ordinary people accomplish epic things.

Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams shared by book fairies - Derby

Max Counts to a Million by Jeremy Williams shared by book fairies - school

Not lucky enough to find one?

Do not worry! You can find this wonderful book in all good book shops. If you cannot get to the shop, you can still support them by ordering your copy of Max Counts to a Million here from Bookshop.org.