Nicola Davies (Author), Jackie Morris (Illustrator) - Skrimsli - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

"Skirmsli" by Nicola Davies is a captivating and thought-provoking children's book that takes readers on an immersive journey into the natural world and beyond. It is due to be published, this September 14th, as a gloriously illustrated hardback format by Welsh indie children's publisher, Firefly Press. The book cover and pictures are illustrated by the talented Jackie Morris - they are absolutely breathtaking. The book cover is definitely a personal favourite of mine this year, so far! 

Set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, this vivid story explores themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of protecting the environment which, as we know, is very topical at the moment. The narrative starts slowly as we follow the adventures of Skirmsli (a tiger cub) as he embarks on a quest to save his family and their precious habitat from impending danger. Through Skirmsli's eyes, readers are introduced to a wonderful diverse cast of characters, both animal and human, in a world where animals and humans can sometimes share their thoughts. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that seamlessly combines drama, humour, and really heartfelt realistic moments, making it a powerful must-read for children and adults of all ages.

"One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to educate while entertaining" 

Skirmsli by Nicola Davies is a moving and good follow-up to The Song that Sings Us. It's a cleverly written educational children's book that effortlessly combines adventure, environmental themes, and engaging characters. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world as it encourages young readers to embrace curiosity and empathy. With its vivid illustrations and inspiring narrative, Skirmsli is a valuable addition to any reading list. It will certainly spark a love for nature exploration and the wonders the world holds. The story is a journey for the bold and the brave so purchase a copy and enjoy the adventure. BUY TODAY!

Michelle Paver - Skin Taker (Wolf Brother) - Quick Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

This Easter we are Running wild with Wolf Brother in a Stone Age world we all want to be a part of again.  The Eight Book will paw its way into the world published by Zephyr on the 1st April 2021. This is another great book in one of the best long-running series. Torak, Renn and Wolf are back in a dangerous and magical world. A mouth-watering adventure in their beloved forest.  

It has been very well researched and is packed full of fantasy and adventure. All of which, is told in rich detail that makes your heart sing and your wolf soul dance in such a way that time disappears in no time at all. A dark shadow rises to a meteorite crescendo that will have readers hooked until the very last page. I'm looking forward to possibly the last book in the series in 2022. Another brilliant read! 

In the Dark Time of midwinter, disaster strikes the Forest. Chaos rules. Bears woken from their dens prowl the shadowy valleys. Desperate clans battle for survival. Only demons thrive.

With their world in turmoil, Torak, Renn and Wolf are tested as never before. And as a new evil haunts the devastated land, Torak must risk his sanity, his life and even his souls to save everything he loves...

Skin Taker carries you back to the Stone Age, to nature, drawing you deeper into an astonishing environment and adventure which began with Wolf Brother. 

Sophie Kirtley - The Wild Way Home - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Sophie Kirtley is a prize-winning published poet. The Wild Way Home is her debut middle-grade children's book which is due to be published in July 2020 by Bloomsbury Children's Books. I think the book cover is superb - it really made me want to read it instantly when it arrived through the door.  In fact, this is the reason why the book review is slightly early.

The book is an unforgettable adventure that starts from the very first page. Charlie's baby brother is born with a problem in his heart - it is a very sad and poignant story that sets the branches swaying and the brains ticking. As Charlie RUNS away from the hospital to the forest to face his emotions, in a fit of rage, he climbs up a tree and the world changes before he reaches the ground. At this point, we are plunged back into an atmospheric time THE STONE AGE. Something wild is just about to happen which finds the readers hurtling into a rich and detailed adventure that will capture the hearts and minds of the readers.

The story tension builds into a thrilling action-adventure set in the forest. Charlie stumbles upon a strange boy dressed in deerskins lying in the RIVER. The characters have a lot in common as they try to solve their own predicaments. Both have lost their family and have obstacles to battle as their path is intertwined with each other's destiny. The book has a lot of raw emotions going on that will make you think about the situation the characters are facing and feeling. This will help younger readers with empathy and deal with the topics of jealously, loneliness, love, and family. 

The landscape is very well written and the historical detail has the right feel for that time period. The book delivers timely action in the wilderness. The communication between both characters, Charlie in English and Harby speaking Stone Age, is very imaginative and helped to keep the authenticity of the plot.  The story has a spiritual element giving it a little spooky edge that adds to the mood. This is a brilliant and engaging read about finding the way home. It will flip the reader's inside out - your wild spirit will soar with hope and adventure. Recommended highly so get it by pre-ordering today.