In the aftermath of the Second World War, losing her mother and brother in an air raid, Nona has built a new life for herself, with adoptive uncle Antoni. A Polish airman during the war, he is also a skilled craftsman, creating beautiful stained-glass windows. Nona works as his apprentice, but doesn’t handle the glass itself, although she does have one precious piece, taken from her bombed out home, which she always keeps close.
Renowned for his work, the pair travel around the country, replacing windows in war-torn buildings, so Nona is not alarmed when they receive a commission to work on a church on Dartmoor. However, this is no ordinary church, but a place of powerful magic and Antoni is bewitched. His strange behaviour is confusing and worrying for Nona, until she discovers the truth and the part she must play in protecting those she loves and fighting the darkness which threatens everything.
Drawing on folklore and the wild landscape of Dartmoor, this is an imaginative and beguiling fantasy weaving in Nona’s courage, determination and the power of love. Having enjoyed the author’s previous book, Nevertell, I was keen to read this and it didn’t disappoint. The story is ideal for lovers of fantasy and magic.
A simple but punch-packing tale from storytelling master David Almond.
When a brand new boy called George starts at school, Daniel and his best friend Maxie are looking forward to getting a chance to enjoy the company of a new classmate. Daniel agrees to keep an eye on the new boy, although he has to admit there are a few unusual things about George. A series of questions without answers begins to unravel – like why George is ushered unwillingly into a black van at the end of the play date, or why the teachers seem to have a weird response to George in class, or why there’s a sudden announcement that George will leave the school. And what exactly is inside that tall box that is wheeled into assembly the following week?
This is an innovative story that weaves themes of compassion, hope and community as well as what it means to be alive. The dignity and compassion with which Daniel and his friends treat George are beautiful. I also loved the characterisation of Daniel’s mum, who is full of love, acceptance and a happy dose of Geordie warmth. The way people have been treated in the family home often naturally affects how they treat strangers, and Daniel is a prime example of this. The dangerous impact of technology on children is touched upon, but so is its potential to enhance human experience when treated sagely, with respect for human experience kept at its heart.
True to style, David Almond weaves a thought-provoking tale with hints of darkness, plenty of hope and pause for reflection on what it means to be alive.
review
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Curriculum links (if relevant)
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Any other comments