Published in 2010, Andy Mulligan’s dystopian young adult novel Trash examines themes of poverty, homelessness, corruption, and friendship. Set in the near future in an unnamed country, it follows the adventures of three boys who take turns narrating the story: Raphael, Gardo, and Jun-Jun (known as Rat throughout most of the book). The boys discover a bag in the trash that leads them on a dangerous journey involving police corruption and a hidden fortune.

Andy Mulligan's novel Trash is lauded for its gripping, fast-paced narrative and evocative depiction of poverty and social injustice. Readers appreciate its compelling characters and suspenseful plot. However, some critique the story's predictability and simplistic portrayal of complex issues. Overall, Trash is praised for its emotional impact and powerful storytelling.

Fans of dystopian adventures with a strong social justice theme, similar to The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, will appreciate Trash by Andy Mulligan. Ideal for readers who enjoy fast-paced, gripping narratives about marginalized youth overcoming corruption and adversity.

- Trash was shortlisted for the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal in 2012, highlighting its impact and resonance with readers and critics alike.
- The novel was inspired by Andy Mulligan's experiences in various countries, including the Philippines, where he witnessed the lives of children living and working alongside garbage heaps.
- Trash was adapted into a film in 2014, directed by Stephen Daldry, bringing the compelling story and its themes to a wider audience.

**Raphael**  
A 14-year-old boy living near the dumpsite in Behala who works with his friend Gardo searching through trash. He finds a mysterious bag that sets off a chain of events in the story.

**Gardo**  
Raphael's serious and vigilant friend, often seen as a leader among the boys. He is involved in many critical and adventurous moments alongside Raphael and Jun-Jun.

**Jun-Jun (Rat)**  
A street-smart boy younger than Raphael and Gardo, known for his resourcefulness and survival skills. He lives among the trash and is instrumental in recognizing the key's origin.

**Father Juilliard**  
The kind and generous priest who runs the Mission School near the dumpsite. He provides adult perspective and insight into the children's lives.

**Olivia Weston**  
A 22-year-old social worker who becomes involved with the children in Behala during her trip. She is compassionate and finds her experience there deeply educational.

Andy Mulligan

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

Explore Trash reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Trash | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Trash and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Trash Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1 Trash Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Trash Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Trash Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4 Trash Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5 Trash Part 5 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Trash Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Trash Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Trash Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Trash Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Trash Essay Topics

Trash Teaching Unit

Introduction

Trash Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Trash Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Trash Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Trash Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Trash Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Trash Activities

Essay Questions

Trash Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Trash Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Trash Exam Answer Key

Trash

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Trash?

Reading Age

Book Details