• Reading age: 9 to 12

When a bullied boy is unexpectedly turned into a python, his opportunity for revenge comes with complications.

Twelve-year-old Max is a scientist, a pioneer eager to discover the secrets of the universe, a young mind alight with hypotheses and theories waiting to be proven. Too bad nobody—not the bullies at school, the new girl Darya, or worst of all, his own dad—can see it. They only see him as a shy, nerdy kid. If they see him at all.

But everything changes when Max transforms into a giant python after an accident in his dad’s laboratory. He has cool new senses, powerful muscles, and an entirely different perspective to explore. This could be his chance to be strong and courageous!

But when rumours of a boy-eating snake go viral and Max’s animal instincts grow harder to control, Max realizes that being a wild snake in a suburban world is dangerous.

If he doesn't find his way back to his true form, he risks losing his humanity forever. But first, he must convince others of his identity and learn to see himself in a new way.

Hiss is a story of transformation, overcoming fears, and building relationships.

Kirsten Marion completed undergraduate studies in English and Classics and a postgraduate degree in psychology. She spent decades travelling the world and has lived on three continents. This gives her a unique mix of experiences to colour her imaginary worlds. She currently lives in Victoria, Canada.Visit Kirsten at kirstenmarion.com, on Instagram @kirstenlmarion, or on Twitter @kirsten_marion.

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