This much-anticipated third novel by Sophie Anderson is a triumph, standing up to its predecessors The House with Chicken Legs and The Girl Who Speaks Bear in the richness of its story weaving and scope of imagination.
Castle Mila is Olia’s family home – a majestic castle passed down in her family history from generation to generation. The castle is as mysterious as it is impressive – with secret rooms, impenetrable domes and hidden passageways that long to be explored – and is the perfect abode for a curious and adventurous protagonist like Olia, who wishes to leave no stone unturned when it comes to seeking out magic and who can’t wait to share it all with her baby sister Rosa once she is old enough. The castle has stood for 500 years, so when a storm threatens, Olia is sure that the castle should be able to withstand it even if it may mean cancelling the special feast planned in the great hall. But wise old Babusya – who is always well-tuned in to the world of magic and spirits – isn’t so sure, feeling that there is something different about the nature of this impending storm.
After the storm passes, part of the top of the castle has partially collapsed down into the great hall, revealing a hidden staircase that leads to one of the castle’s domes. The Aurora Dome has always fascinated Olia, believing it be a place of hidden magic. Allured by its potential and confused by Babusya’s mysterious instructions about unlocking the castle’s magic, Olia is soon swept away on an adventure through a magical door in the dome that leads to a whole new land of forbidden magic.
What ensues is a thrilling quest introducing a host of magical characters, as Olia finds true courage within herself and a new conviction in her own agency to pursue what she believes is important. The cast of characters is delightful, and pleasingly there is even an appearance from a particular house that is fondly familiar to fans of Sophie’s previous books. An interesting and topical theme emerges gently through the story, as Olia explores the concept of how to deal with the shameful actions of ancestors from generations before – actions that have caused long-lasting consequences for the individual liberties of a whole group of characters. Should we cut off things of the past and remove all memories of them, wonders Olia, or embrace our history while looking for ways to put things right?
Sophie Anderson masterfully introduces Russian folklore to new readership while exploring themes with true relevance to the modern middle-grade readers – identity, social justice, conviction of belief, what it means to find a home and the role individuals play in make the world a better place for others.
With beautiful illustrations by Saara Sodurlund bringing its magic to life, this is an enchanting and exciting tale is not to be missed.
Nominated for “Favourite Books of 2020” by: Eibhlín Ní Chearbhaill (librarian) and also by Rosanna Kinsella (Assistant Headteacher and SENCO)
Eibhlín says, “Exciting to read. The house with the chicken legs appeared late on in the book…much to my delight. I love talking to the children about Sophie Anderson’s books. There is so much going on in this wonderful book”Rosanna says, “A magical adventure of courage and love, rooted in folklore.”
