Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Fran is not looking forward to spending a week with her aunt and uncle, largely because of her rude and unfriendly cousin, Imogen. However, when she arrives, Fran finds that Imogen is missing…and no one seems to remember that she ever existed. Puzzled and frightened, Fran is determined to find out what happened to her cousin which leads her to a hidden garden which contains twelve mysterious statues.
Offering an excellent mystery, ‘The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good’ is a pacy, compelling read which will have readers on the edge of their seats.
Short chapters told from differing viewpoints are interspersed with those telling the story of ‘The Twelve Statues of Stillness Hall’ which gradually reveals the secret of the hidden garden. As events unfold, the story reaches a very satisfying conclusion which is perfectly paced, bringing the plot to a point which still allows readers some scope for imagination. It’s hard to explain what I mean here fully without ruining the story for those who have not read it yet!
Fran is a very engaging character. Although initially scared and confused by the situation she finds herself in, she quickly shows herself to be determined and resourceful. She is also a very honest character, recognising her faults and seeking to be kind to others. Bex, a girl who lives in the same row of cottages as Imogen and her family, is a wonderfully quirky individual who sadly finds herself on the receiving end of the local bullies. Imogen is a really interesting and complex character who is not easy to take to initially yet grows on the reader as the story progresses.
Sure to keep a class on tenterhooks, there is much to recommend this as a class reader. The peer pressure and bullying experienced would make for interesting discussions and the fantasy element is sure to spark listeners’ imaginations and lead to some excellent story writing!
I was absolutely captivated and could not put this one down until I had finished!
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Kirsty Applebaum
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131472
You can read my review of ‘The Middler’ here and ‘Troofriend’ here
