The Boy Lost in the Maze

Whilst learning about the six labours of Theseus in school, modern day Theo sets off on a quest of his own to find his biological father. Both boys feel lost without a father and both are forced to question what being a man truly means.

This is an extraordinary read. Told through a series of poems, the work is completely spellbinding as it effortlessly weaves Theo’s story with that of Theseus. Threads of the myth wind their way into Theo’s story with echoes of names and events linking the boys. Both boys are faced with decisions as they pursue their quests, making choices about which path to choose, a parallel to the maze in the story. In places, the reader is also faced with choices- some leading forward, others hitting dead ends and taking them back to their starting point.

Deeply poignant, the story feels incredibly personal as these boys face a labyrinth of emotions, navigating their lives whilst feeling adrift, seeking a connection, seeking themselves. This is so far from my personal experience yet my heart bled for each as they try ‘to be a different kind of man’. Joseph has also given voice to the Minotaur as he ‘flounder(s) in the darkness, lost’, very much a victim of the actions of others.

Joseph’s love of poetry shines through the work. Poetry helps Theo express himself, it helps the reader to empathise, it helps characters in the story connect. Theo’s teacher encourage him to explore new poetic forms, introducing the reader to ‘Sestina’, using this to once again emphasise the idea of connection whilst forging a new path. Joseph’s command of language, his power with words and his ability to speak directly to the heart of his readers combine to create a stunning work of great beauty, pathos and hope. It is unbelievably good!

The Boy Lost in the Maze

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Kate Milner

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1913074333

Published 6th October 2022