Another excellent story from Ross Welford.

Loved it. This story is intended for older children but could be equally enjoyed by adults. I loved the narration and found it quite emotional, especially when Ethan burst into his parents' pub to tell them his twin sister was missing. I had tears rolling down my face at that point as I imagined the situation. I also liked the short chapters, which encouraged me to listen to 'just another chapter', which often turned into another two or three chapters, as I was eager to find out what would happen next. I would definitely recommend this book.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

2 people found this helpful

Absolutely brilliant

One of the best Children's books I've read in a long time. Reading this with my class. Engaging, funny, exciting and touching.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Sci-fi story for pre-teens

Sci-fi alien story for pre-teens, doesn't talk down to the reader.

3.5 stars

I've read every Ross Welford book, in awe at the genius of some of his concepts and execution. Some of my favourite novels for the age group. This might be my least favourite though.

It's the first of his I've read as an audiobook, though the format suited the narration and flow of the story, it was a straightforward enough story with just a couple of changes in storyteller that didn't confuse. Though I did lose concentration a few times, distracted from the plot.

A twin sister goes missing, and her brother finds out what's happened to her. It may be something surprising and totally out of his comfort zone, but he knows he's got to try and get her back.

Not wanting to give too much away here, though the title gives its own clues. Ethan is a slightly unusual 'hero' - very flawed, the kind of person who makes excuses for having underachieved, never putting in everything he's able to. It's the kind of character you want to see stretch and grow over the course of a book. The second narrator, Hellyann, gives some fascinating perspective on another culture, and will set many young minds pondering on human/animal rights, and related themes.

What felt fairly tight to start with did become quite madcap at times, which may have been why I felt distracted in the middle chapters. Definitely some scenes and images stick in the mind, and the family/friendship theme is a strong one.

This does expect a reader to keep up, it doesn't simplify issues or sugarcoat some quite shocking ideas/mental images, like all Welford's books. But it is also entertaining and a great introduction to a wide-ranging genre.

For ages 10-14. With thanks to Newbooks for providing a sample Audible copy.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!