Recommended children's booklists sorted by age or topic

Home > Books > The Runaway Tortoise

The Runaway Tortoise

Please login to bookmark

Book Synopsis

When Albert makes a daring escape, Ava realises that tortoises might not be quite as boring as they seem in this gentle animal story from worldwide bestseller Holly Webb.

Ava thinks that Albert, her 45-year-old tortoise, is the most boring pet ever. She can’t take him for walks or even cuddle him!

But when Auntie Grace’s dog frightens Albert with all his barking, Ava comes home from school to find a great big hole under the fence — and no Albert!

Now that he’s gone, Ava realises just how much she loves her tortoise. Will she be able to track Albert down and bring him home?

Our Review Panel says...

The Runaway Tortoise is a very enjoyable story that would work well as a class read or as a book for a newly confident free reader. It is a colour-illustrated short chapter book in a super-readable font, making it easy to follow, and perfect for Year 1 or Year 2 children.

This is another fabulous story by the brilliant Holly Webb. The colourful illustrations help bring the story to life and support the reader as they follow what is happening. The reader will also learn some interesting facts about a sulcata tortoise, which makes the story especially appealing for keen animal enthusiasts. It shows children that looking after a pet takes responsibility, even if that pet is not a usual one, as demonstrated by the main character Ava. The story also explores friendship and teamwork, as the characters work together to help find Albert, the tortoise.

Tis is a lovely book with engaging pictures, interesting language, and meaningful themes. It would be a great addition to a young child’s bookshelf or a KS1 classroom.