Alex Horne - The Last Pebble Book Review - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

A stone spinning and a natural wonder. A debut children's novel from comedian and Taskmaster creator Alex Horne, The Last Pebble (Walker Books, July 3, 2025) tells a heartwarming and beautiful, and poignant story about family, friendship, and the joy of discovery and a bucket and spade full of invention. 

Trader and his grandpa share a beloved tradition of collecting pebbles on the beach at Bognor Regis.  One day, Trader finds a particularly special pebble, uncovering a secret that was meant to stay hidden. With the help of his new friend Charlotte, Trader must unravel the mystery surrounding the treasure and return it to its rightful place.

Horne's writing is as warm and witty as his on-screen persona. The first-person narration captures the wonder and innocence of childhood, while the atmospheric descriptions of the British seaside evoke a sense of Ice cream, deck chairs and summer time nostalgia. Educational as much as emotional and deeply absorbing and felt 100% realistic and relatable. 

The Last Pebble is a celebration of childhood summers, special interests, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. A story that had me hooked from the very first page. Sad and uplifting like the waves crashing against the shore. You will bond with the plot and the characters in equal measure a delightful and memorable read for children and adults alike. Top children's middle-grade book pick for 2025. 

Lenny Henry (Author), Keenon Ferrell (Illustrator) - The Boy With Wings - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Actor and comedian Sir Lenny Henry has written a children's book. The Boy With Wings was published by MacMillan Children's Books on the 14th October 2021. The book has a personal meaning as he wanted to create characters that young children could identify with as this was something he found difficult as a child. As an avid young reader, he often wanted to go on a fantasy journey with a character that looked and felt like him. It’s sad to think that the young Lenny Henry, and of course many other children, have not found this in the characters they’ve been reading. This must have impacted on their engagement with and opportunities to fully immerse in stories because of this. Therefore, we need to make sure that current literature for children doesn't continue to exclude and preclude children but to ensure that there they have a rich diversity to ensure stories are a brilliant place for every reader.  

In this rocket-fuelled adventure, I believe he has nailed every aspect he has set out to do. It starts out with an ordinary kid, Tunde, who is surrounded by characters that most readers will be able to relate to. The book covers subjects of loneliness, friendship and bullying whilst wrapping the plot up with intelligent and fitting humour. This is something that only a great comedian can pull off and he does so with style. The story is imaginative and involves everyday family and school life but it also ventures into a warp-speed fantasy mission about saving the world from a devastating alien war. 

The book is spectacular in that it has a great message, a quirky plotline and lots of stuff that both kids and adults will relate to as the story works on so many levels. There are different interpretations of the narrative through the marvellous black and white illustrations by Keenon Ferrell. There is also an added bonus of a small illustrative comic book included at the back of the book which enhances the creative experience. This has been produced by the wonderful comic creator, Mark Buckingham. 

The book is emotional and thought-provoking. It’s a booster breeze with a winged superhero who runs faster than Usain Bolt, jumps higher than Michael Jordan and scores better goals than Marcus Rashford. It’s a fast-paced adventure with video game-like qualities that will have you immersed with all the baked treats of a Masterchef getting the ingredients wrong. Watch out for the magpies as they have very sharp beaks and the flying feline cats. What more can you want from a read?

This book is a feast for the senses and one of the best books of the year. Innit? A modern marvel for all the family. Grab a copy and read it today! 

 

Ewa Jozefkowicz - Girl 38: Finding a Friend - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

One of the books I have read recently is the second book by Ewa Jozefkowicz entitled Girl 38: Finding a friend. It was actually published in March 2019 by Zephyr so I am a little bit behind with this one. Ewa's debut novel The Mystery of the Colour Thief was shortlisted for the Waterstone's Children's Prize 2019. This second book builds on the same characteristics of her debut story, but with a little added extra superpower layered into the storyline. 

The first part of the story follows Kat, a 12-year-old girl, who loves working on her super-heroine in her Comic: Girl 38. Kat is lonely as her parents are busy working long hours and, at school, Gem is no longer her 'best friend'. This part of the plot draws out the narrative with a considerate and heartfelt approach.   

The second part of the story is told through the creation of Kat's inventive super-hero, a comic that she starts to write. It's a place that Kat loses herself in, an imaginary world that pulls into the contemporary thread fantastically. This helps to water down the tension, seriousness, and the dark situations that the characters face in the book. 

The final part of the storyline is also the most compelling. It is the real-life story told by Ania, Kat's lonely next-door neighbour. The story is set at the time of WWII in Poland retelling the encounters by Ania such as her daring leap to freedom, and her search for her lost friend, Mila. Unfortunately, she was taken away by soldiers to a 'walled village' at the outbreak of the war. This part explains the terrifying, darkest times and the emotions that Ania faced through her ordeal. It is told in snippets that all pull the story threads through a rollercoaster of events creating a magical performance. It really softens the heartstrings and makes it a joy to read. 

All the stories relate to unlikely friendships both new and old as well as overcoming fear in the darkest and bleakest of times. However, it also teaches us about courage, bravery, and superhero powers as Kat unravels the mystery of the girl in the painting. This is all done with an imaginative flair by a writer who understands how to keep a reader engrossed. It encompasses the darkness as well as showering the reader with light, love, and warmth told through great storytelling.

This is a fantastic thought-provoking read that will be loved by everybody regardless of age. It shows both human frailties and strengths in a blink of an eye. It is a fantastic adventure from start to finish - a book to savour and reflect upon. 

Richard Lambert - The Wolf Word (Everything with Words) - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Review

The Wolf Road has been written by poet, Richard Lambert, and is soon to be published by Everything With Words this October (2020). I've thought long and hard about this book as it is so different from my usual reading material. In my opinion, you will either love or hate it depending on your own outlook and connection with the unique style and writing of this book. Some readers may just not connect with it or the issues that the book tackles such as coping and denial. However, if you do connect with it (like I did) then it will be one of the best books that you will read this year.

When you start on the road of this narrative the path is very tragic and hard-hitting. There really appears to be no light at the end of the tunnel. Lucas is the main character of the book and the story is told from his viewpoint. Unfortunately, he is involved in a car accident that kills both of his parents. Some books would play down this situation, but not this book. It faces the loss and grief head-on placing it at the epicentre of the plot. However, there is a little sense of mystery and a little glimmer of fantasy magic as Lucas has only one memory from the car accident. He remembers that it was a wolf that caused the crash but how? and what actually happened?

The book really resonates with me when he has to leave his family home to go and live with his nan in the Lake District. This is an area I can relate to very well. The story for me really comes alive as the setting of the book takes a vital hold on the plot. It's told in a poetic way that grips the reader. The detail and description of the wild and beautiful landscape cut through the hard and relentless element of grief, loss, loneliness, and bullying which have a huge stronghold on the story. This really is one of the many strengths of this story. At certain points, the climactic story leaves you clinging on for dear life.

There are so many great things to mention about this book such as the situations the characters face. They feel very real to me as they have been particularly well narrated. Another strong point is that it's not predictable in any way, you have absolutely no idea where the author is going to take you. However, this makes it particularly engaging and keeps you guessing throughout.

I loved this book so much - it really made me reflect on life, especially at a time like this. It's a powerful book about coping and dealing with grief, having the courage, determination, and understanding to find out who we are as a person. The book helps us in showing us the way. A wolf that comes in the dark and leaves in the light showering the reader and the characters with a beam of sunshine. We are not in charge of our own destiny just like Lucas, however, we can poke it in the right direction with the choice of stories and memoirs we keep in our heart. This is a story that will stay with me for a very long time. It's an incredible debut book from a fantastic new literary voice.  Many thanks Mikka for the opportunity to read and breathe this book.

A.F. Harrold (Author) Levi Pinfold (Illustrator) - The Song from Somewhere Else - Book Review

Frank doesn't know how to feel when Nick Underbridge rescues her from bullies one afternoon. No one likes Nick. He's big, he's weird and he smells - or so everyone in Frank's class thinks.

And yet, there's something nice about Nick's house. There's strange music playing there, and it feels light and good and makes Frank feel happy for the first time in forever.

But there's more to Nick, and to his house, than meets the eye, and soon Frank realises she isn't the only one keeping secrets. Or the only one who needs help. 

One of the good things social media does is highlight important issues. This week it's #AntiBullyingWeek where we're celebrating what makes us All Different All Equal. The Song from Somewhere Else by A. F. Harrold is the exact book that covers this topic in a clever and unique style. The book was published on the 2nd November 2017 by Bloomsbury.

When you turn the book cover, you will be greeted with Levi Pinfold's amazing illustrations. He has done a sublime job of interpreting the story and creating the mood that the plot encapsulates. Levi delivers a FANTASTIC balance of brooding charm that manifests through the illustrations; a CREEPING darkness with a blend of solitude in a black and white world. This is a clever feature that makes the book stand out from the crowd. It is a book that should be bought and read.  

When the first page is turned, you are already on the backfoot as the narrative draws to the loss of the main character's pet cat, Quintilius Minimus. This leads the reader down a wildly imaginative plot that is equally heartbreaking and uplifting. The story engages the reader with the theme of bullying - it is the driving force of the narrative.

The developing friendship between Frank and Nick is deeply moving. Their worlds crash together in an atmospheric tale of difference and isolation. The book explores deep inside the workings of a child covering loss, friendship, betrayal and family life. This is intertwined with another plot that is so far removed from reality. It is a fantastic blend of fantasy involving a Troll and shadow type stick men.

I loved Frank, the main character, she had an internal dialogue with her stomach depicting her feelings and emotions. I found this refreshing as it delivered a naivety and really highlighted the character's perspective and thinking. This is a brilliant read that covers a really serious issue that many kids will be facing today. The story gives readers hope. In the face of adversity, courage and brave actions that lie within the story, give us inspiration and make the book a very special and poignant read. This is a brilliant book that will make you think on your magical fantasy feet - so flex those toes and give it a read. 

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books: Interview with Eve Ainsworth - Seven Days

I'd like to take the opportunity to welcome Eve to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books website and to thank her for taking the time out to answer questions about her latest book called Seven Days. This is available now to purchase from all good bookshops and websites. 

Tell us a little bit about Seven Days?

Seven Days is book about bullying, but from two sides of the story. You see the week in the life of a bully and victim, leading to a climatic ending. 

Sometimes there can more than one victim.

Give us an insight into your main character?

I have two main characters as it is a dual narrative novel. Jess is a sweet girl, who lacks confidence in herself. She sees the good in people and has a lovely soul, but is awkward in her skin. Kez is fiesty and popular. You think that she is nasty and cruel - but she has lots of insecurities  that creep deeply within her.                                               

How much of the book is realistic?

I hope a lot. I witnessed so much bullying when working in schools and saw the impact it had on students. I also spoke to bullies, I heard their stories. I wanted a story that teens could relate to. I need it to be real. 

Do you have a specific writing style?

Not really. I write fast and straight on computer. I edit as I go. I do carry a notepad around but most of my ideas are locked firmly in my head until I write. I think my style is pacy and fairly gritty.

Do you think that the cover plays an important part in the buying process?

Yes! I know I'm attracted to covers. A good cover draws you in, it makes you want to open the book and explore. When I received the design for 7 Days from Scholastic I screamed in the street. I was so happy. I love the way the words, the abusive words, are printed all over the book. It shows how exposed a victim feels - like your life is view for everyone to see. 

What are your current projects? 

I am just finishing my second book with Scholastic, Crush - which will be published early 2016. This focuses on abusive and controlling relationships.             

What do you think makes a good story? 

Characters you believe in and care about.   

                                                                    

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?  

From life experience. From the issues I witnessed in schools and my memories of being a teen. I also read lots and lots of magazines (true stories can spark some great ideas) and eavesdrop on lots of conversations.                                                                         

What books have most influenced your life most?                                      
The L Shaped Room was the first book to make me really, really want to be a writer. The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole was the first book to be re-read again and again The Stand was the first book to make me go WOW

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?   

Can I have 3? Please?

John Lennon - no reasons needed Julie Walters - my hero and Rik Mayall - ;)

What do you like to do when you're not writing? 

Read! Lots. Listen to music. Play with my kids. Get lost in the woods.

Is there anything that you would like to share with us?                             

I can't ride a bike, but I'm planning to learn (I may need stabilisers) 

Authors web site:http://eveainsworth.com/