Mothballs

Against the backdrop of the Cold War, an autistic boy searches for his missing father

A layered story including LGBTQIA+ themes, written in a nimble style

The father of 10-year-old Simon suddenly leaves. Some of his belongings and clothes are stored in the attic, in boxes full with mothballs. Simon’s mother seems quite upset, but shares nothing. Outside, the tension is just as bad as it is at home. At school, Simon learns how to duck if bombs fall.

Then Simon finds a diary full of codes at home. He believes that his father is on a mission against the Russians and decides to design a good bomb shelter with Lego pieces. Together, they might be able to save many lives. During his search for his father, he is helped by wonderful Jo, who seems to be connected to Simon’s dad in a surprising way…

Marte Jongbloed