36. Lloyd Jones - Mister Pip

This book packs a lot into 200-odd pages. It is the story of Matilda, a black girl who grows up on a Pacific island. It is also the story of Mr Watts, the only white man on the island. And it is the story of Great Expectations, the only book in the school where Mr Watts teaches. It's also a story of violence, storytelling and acceptance. Confusing in parts it is a haunting read.