Sunday, 5 January 2025

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition - ROUND FIVE - 2024/25

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE (5 OF 5) weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats.

ROUND ONE WINNER: Susan Cahill - The World Between the Rain - Published by Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Holly Ovenden. 

ROUND TWO WINNER: Kevin Moran - The Doomsday - Published by O'Brien Press (3 March 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Tomislav Tikulin - Cover design by Emma Byrne

ROUND THREE WINNER:  Kate Thompson - Yetis Don't Exist! - Published by Templar Publishing (7 Nov. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Loretta Schauer 

ROUND FOUR WINNER: Antonia Maxwell - Terra Electrica: The Guardians of the North - Published by Neem Tree Press Limited (4 July 2024) - Book Cover by Jet Purdie 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's great prize is a £10 Book Voucher/Bar of chocolate/Hardback Book. Good luck everybody! 

If you are interested all you need to do is:

  • Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
  • Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X or other socials for more details on @Enchantedbooks
  • This poll will end on the 12th of January 2025 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and please share with the world through X, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

 
BOOK ONE: Judith Eagle - The Great Theatre Rescue - Published by Faber & Faber (13 Feb. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Jui Talukder - VOTE HERE 

BOOK TWO: Jasbinder Bilan - Puloma and the Bear - Published by Barrington Stoke (13 Mar. 2025) -  Book Cover Illustrated by Skylar White - VOTE HERE

BOOK THREE: Alexandra Dawe - The Stitchwort Curse - Book Published by - UCLan Publishing (5 Sept. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Olia Muza - VOTE HERE 


BOOK FOUR: Larry Hayes - The Nightmares of Finnegan Quick - Book Published by Bloomsbury Children's Books (2 Jan. 2025) - Book Cover Illustrated by Berat Pekmezci - VOTE HERE


BOOK FIVE: Victoria Williamson -  Skyfleet: March of the Mutabugs - Published by Tiny Tree Books (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by James Brown - VOTE HERE


BOOK SIX: Sally Doherty - Toby and the Siege of Sky City - Book Published by Soaring Skies Publishing ( 26 Mar. 2025) Cover Illustration by Sarah Jane Docker - VOTE HERE


Happy Voting! 



Sunday, 8 December 2024

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition - ROUND FOUR - 2024/25

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE (4 OF 5) weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats.

ROUND ONE WINNER: Susan Cahill - The World Between the Rain - Published by Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Holly Ovenden. 

ROUND TWO WINNER: Kevin Moran - The Doomsday - Published by O'Brien Press (3 March 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Tomislav Tikulin - Cover design by Emma Byrne

ROUND THREE WINNER:  Kate Thompson - Yetis Don't Exist! - Published by Templar Publishing (7 Nov. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Loretta Schauer 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's great prize is a £10 Book Voucher/and a bar of chocolate. Good luck everybody! 

If you are interested all you need to do is:
  • Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
  • Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X or other socials for more details on @Enchantedbooks
  • This poll will end on the 15th of December 2024 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and please share with the world through X, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

BOOK ONE: Antonia Maxwell - Terra Electrica: The Guardians of the North - Published by Neem Tree Press Limited (4 July 2024) - Book Cover by Jet Purdie  - VOTE HERE 

BOOK TWO: J. P. Rose - BIRDIE - Published by Andersen Press (3 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover by Keith Robinson - VOTE HERE

BOOK THREE: Angela Kecojevic - Sleuth School - Published by OUP Oxford (29 Aug. 2024) - Book Cover by Alisha Monnin - VOTE HERE

BOOK FOUR: Oliver Jeffers - Where to Hide a Star - Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books (10 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover by Oliver Jeffers - VOTE HERE


BOOK FIVE: Jack Jackman - Maisie vs Antarctica - Published by Nosy Crow Ltd (26 Sept. 2024) - Book Cover by Marco Guadalupi - VOTE HERE 


BOOK SIX: Jenny Pearson - 
Bigfoot and the Wild Boys - Published by Barrington Stoke (2 Jan. 2025) - Book Cover by Aleksei Bitskoff - VOTE HERE 

Happy Voting! 




Friday, 6 December 2024

Jamie Hammond - Grumpfort - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 

Grumpfort: Meet the World's Worst Monster Hunter by Jamie Hammond. Published by Usborne Publishing (13 Mar. 2025). 

Jamie Hammond introduces readers to an enchanting and thrilling world filled with humour, adventure, and a cast of quirky and likeable monsters. The story follows Mo, an unlikely hero who never wanted to be a Warden, but finds himself thrust into the chaotic role of monster hunter. The premise is both original, engaging and refreshing as Mo's journey leads him to Grumpfort, a secret fortress plagued by a formidable foe—the Grumpsnatcher.

Hammond's writing pulsates with its witty dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring the fantastical world to life. The plot is fast-paced and filled with unexpected twists, making it a delightful read for children all of ages. The illustrations really complement the narrative perfectly, adding an extra layer of charm and dimension to the heartfelt story.

What sets "Grumpfort" apart is its relatable themes of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery. Mo’s grows into a courageous character who confronts his fears is inspiring. Young readers will find themselves rooting for Mo as he embarks on his monster hunt, navigating challenges and forming bonds along the way in a roller-coaster adventure. 

"Grumpfort" for me is a must-read for young adventurers and monster enthusiasts alike. It’s a fun, heartwarming tale that promises to leave readers eagerly anticipating Mo's next escapade. Grab your net watch out for traps and join the hunt—this book is sure to become a favourite! 



Friday, 22 November 2024

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition - ROUND THREE - 2024/25

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE (3 OF 5) weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats.

ROUND ONE WINNER: Susan Cahill - The World Between the Rain - Published by Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Holly Ovenden. 

ROUND TWO WINNER: Kevin Moran - The Doomsday - Published by O'Brien Press (3 March 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Tomislav Tikulin - Cover design by Emma Byrne 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's great prize is a £10 Book Voucher/Reece Carter - The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright and a bar of chocolate. Good luck everybody! 

If you are interested all you need to do is:
  • Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
  • Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X or other socials for more details on @Enchantedbooks
  • This poll will end on the 29th of November 2024 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and please share with the world through X, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

BOOK ONE: Jennifer Bell - Magicalia: Thief of Shadows - Published by Walker Books (6 Feb. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by David Wyatt - VOTE HERE

BOOK TWO: Eoin Colfer - Beanie the Bansheenie - Published by Walker Books (31 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Steve McCarthy - VOTE HERE

BOOK THREE: Cornelia Funke - The Colour of Revenge - Published by Chicken House (10 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Karl James Mountford - VOTE HERE

BOOK FOUR: Rhian Tracey - Wink, Murder: a Bletchley Park Mystery - Published by Piccadilly Press (13 Feb. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by David Dean - VOTE HERE



BOOK FIVE: Kate Thompson - Yetis Don't Exist! - Published by Templar Publishing (7 Nov. 2024) - Book Cover Illustrated by Loretta Schauer - VOTE HERE

BOOK SIX: Mel Taylor-BessentRace to Echoes Edge - Published by Farshore (27 Mar. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Alessandro D'Urso - VOTE HERE

Happy Voting! 

Sunday, 10 November 2024

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition - ROUND TWO - 2024/25

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE (2 OF 5) weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats. 

CONGRATULATIONS! ROUND ONE WINNER: Susan Cahill - The World Between the Rain - Published by Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Holly Ovenden. ( 243 VOTES) See you in the FINAL! 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's great prize is a £10 Book Voucher and A. M. Howell - The Royal Jewel Plot and a bar of chocolate. Good luck everybody! 

If you are interested all you need to do is:
  • Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
  • Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X or other socials for more details on @Enchantedbooks
  • This poll will end on the 18th of November 2024 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and please share with the world through X, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

BOOK ONE: Cathy FitzGerald - Pinch Perkins and the Nightmare Tree - Published by Farshore (30 Jan. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Chloe Dominique - VOTE HERE 

BOOK TWO: Jamie Hammond - Grumpfort -  Published by Usborne Publishing (13 Mar. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Jamie Hammond - VOTE HERE 

BOOK THREE: Lucy Strange - Lockett & Wilde's Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor - Published by Walker Books (19 Sept. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Pam Smy -  VOTE HERE 

BOOK FOUR: Piers Torday - Midnight Treasure - Published by Quercus Children's Books (5 Sept. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Alla Khatkevich - VOTE HERE 

BOOK FIVE: Kevin Moran - The Doomsday - Published by O'Brien Press (3 March 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Tomislav Tikulin - Cover design by Emma Byrne - VOTE HERE

BOOK SIX:  David Barker - PAX and the Forgotten Pincher - Published by Tiny Tree Books (10 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Bruna Oliveira Marini - VOTE HERE 

HAPPY VOTING! 








Abi Elphinstone - Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix (Book Two) - Book Review - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

 


In "Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix," Abi Elphinstone captivates readers once again with a spellbinding adventure-packed tale that takes us deep into a fantastical world brimming with danger. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Arctic Circle, this second book in the magical series is a testament to Elphinstone’s ability to weave intricate plots with rich, vibrant, and imaginative characters.

Ember Spark’s journey as an apprentice to see Rusty Fizzbang, the vet for magical creatures, is a thrilling ride from the very first page. Guided by a baby frost phoenix, Ember's quest to save the migrating neverwhales evolves into a gripping race against time. As she navigates the icy landscapes and faces the evil Jasper Hornswoggle (such a great name!) readers find themselves on an exhilarating rollercoaster of emotions. The author's storytelling prowess really shines balancing high-stakes action with beautiful moments of warmth and camaraderie.

Brilliantly illustrated by Kristina Kister, the book comes alive with its stunning cover and illustrations that complement the enchanting narrative. Each illustration serves as a portal into Elphinstone's world as they invite readers to immerse themselves fully in the magic and wonder of Ember's journey. 

What makes "Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix" truly remarkable is its underlying themes of bravery, compassion, and the importance of standing up for those who cannot protect themselves. Ember is a relatable heroine whose determination and kindness will inspire readers of all ages to embrace their own adventures and confront challenges head-on.

This book is not just a story, it’s a celebration of the spirit of adventure and the bonds we forge in the face of adversity. Elphinstone has crafted a story that is both thrilling and heartwarming, ensuring that it will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page. 

Published by Simon & Schuster Children's UK (24 Oct. 2024).

**Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐**

**Links:**
- [Simon & Schuster Children's UK](https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk)
- [Abi Elphinstone's Official Website](https://www.abielphinstone.com)
- [Kristina Kister's Portfolio](https://www.kristinakister.com)


Friday, 1 November 2024

MR RIPLEY'S ENCHANTED BOOKS: Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition - ROUND ONE - 2024/25

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers.  Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word as we embark on another year of discovering extraordinary artistry that brings enchanting stories to life through the power of illustrations. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and be a part of this remarkable celebration of children's illustration and design! Previous winners HERE!

Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Book Cover Competition Rules 

There will be FIVE weekly heats; each with SIX books to vote for. Although there will be 7 book covers in the final to vote for. All heat winners will make the grand final plus two book covers WITH the highest number of votes from all the previous heats. 

Each week you vote you will be in with a chance to win an exciting prize. 

This week's great prize is a £10 Book Voucher/Hardback book by Cressida Cowell - Which Way Round the Galaxy and a bar of chocolate. Good luck everybody! 

If you are interested all you need to do is:
  • Vote for your favourite book cover using the poll HERE  (or at the bottom of the post)
  • Leave a comment through this post/poll or see pinned Tweet/X or other socials for more details on @Enchantedbooks
  • This poll will end on the 8th of November 2024 at Midnight (UK). 

Have fun and please share with the world through X, Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Watch the voting develop, and wait to hear whether you've won (once the poll has closed).

Here are the six brilliant book covers to vote for this week: 

BOOK ONE: Philippa Leathley - Inkbound - Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books (30 Jan. 2025) -  Book Cover Illustration by Brie Schmida - VOTE HERE

BOOK TWO: Tom Palmer - Angel of Grasmere - Published by Barrington Stoke (9 May 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Tom Clohosy Cole - VOTE HERE 

BOOK THREE: M. G. Leonard - Hunt for the Golden Scarab - Published by Macmillan Children's Books (30 Jan. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Manuel Å umberac - VOTE HERE

BOOK FOUR: Susan Cahill - The World Between the Rain - Published by Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Holly Ovenden - VOTE HERE

BOOK FIVE: Liz Hyder - The Twelve - Published by Pushkin Children's Books (10 Oct. 2024) - Book Cover Illustration by Tom DE Freston - VOTE HERE

BOOK SIX: Sarah Harrison - School of Doom - Published by Chicken House (13 Mar. 2025) - Book Cover Illustration by Isabelle Follath - VOTE HERE

HAPPY VOTING! 


Wednesday, 16 October 2024

The Best Children's Book Picks OCTOBER 2024 - Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Welcome to Mr. Ripley’s Enchanted Books, where we believe that every child deserves a great story! As we dive into October 2024, we’ve curated a delightful selection of children’s book picks that cater to every taste and age group. Join us as we explore these enchanting reads that are sure to captivate young and old hearts and minds!

Garth Nix - We Do Not Welcome Our Ten-Year-Old Overlord - Published by Hot Key Books (15 Oct. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1471417351 - Paperback - Age: 9+

From master storyteller Garth Nix, the chilling story of a strange object that falls into the wrong hands and has the potential to destroy the world. Perfect for fans of STRANGER THINGS and Neil Gaiman.

It's not fair. Kim's always lived in the shadow of his younger sister, Eila - which is not how it's supposed to be. Eila is a prodigy, and everyone talks about how smart she is but, in Kim's eyes, she has no common sense.

One day Kim and Eila are walking in the woods, and Eila finds an enigmatic, otherworldly object. Kim thinks it's bad news . . . but Eila begins to commune with it. Kim has every reason to be worried, because soon Eila is able to control the minds of everyone around her - in ways she says is the best for everyone.


Ruta Sepetys & Steve Sheinkin - The Bletchley Riddle - Published by 
Rock the Boat (10 Oct. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0861549023 - Paperback - Age: 8+

A thrilling middle-grade historical adventure from bestselling authors Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Remember, you are bound by the Official Secrets Act... 

It is the summer of 1940. The world is at war. These days, you don’t know who you can trust or who might be a secret spy…


Maths whizz Jakob Novis has been recruited to the secret codebreaking center at Bletchley Park. As Jakob works to crack the Nazi’s Enigma cipher, his younger sister Lizzie is busy on an undercover mission of her own: to find their mother.


Filled with codes to decipher and mysteries to unravel, this is the unputdownable historical adventure that will have you on the edge of your seats.


Guy Bass (Author), Alessia Trunfio (Illustrator)  - SCRAP: The Good, the Bad and the Rusty - Published by Little Tiger (3 Oct. 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1788956932 - Paperback - Age: 7+ 

I’m not going to pretend life had been easy up until then. But when we got to the Elsewhere? That was somewhere else. It was in the Elsewhere that things got weird… 

After surviving a brutal attack by Mayor Highshine, Scrap, Paige and Gnat head into the wild Elsewhere in search of the Pink-Footed Goose, the rocket ship they hope can get them off-world. The place is fraught with danger, but they discover Mooch, a nomadic wandering town inhabited by robots who have rejected Highshine’s views. 

Welcomed aboard Mooch by the Marshall Wired Bill, Gnat and Scrap instantly feel at home. However, Paige is haunted by visions of ghostly humans, including her mother, whom she’s convinced is guiding them to the landing site of the Pink-Footed Goose. But nothing in the Elsewhere is quite as it seems, and as the trio pushes on with their mission, they make a discovery that will rock them to the core… 


Susan Cahill - The World between the Rain - Published by 
 Everything with Words (24 Oct. 2024) ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1911427315 - Paperback - Age: 9 
It's the week before Halloween and Marina is about to turn thirteen. Her father died a year ago. Her mother has strangely fallen asleep and no one can wake her. She is sent to live with her mysterious grandmother who tells her that you can enter a strange world between the ever-falling rain in the west of Ireland. Marina enters a haunting watery world full of strange creatures, demons, gods and dreammakers. Meanwhile, in our world, a strange sleeping sickness has taken over. Will Marina be back in time? Can she survive?

Friday, 11 October 2024

Hilary McKay (Author), Keith Robinson (Illustrator) - Rosa by Starlight - Book Review - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books


In "Rosa by Starlight," Hilary McKay weaves a captivating tale that is at once whimsical and poignant, inviting readers into a world where magic exists just beneath the surface of everyday life. This enchanting story follows Rosa, a young girl whose search for wonder leads her to an unexpected friendship with Balthazar, a large black cat who embodies the spirit of adventure and companionship. 

Rosa's journey begins against the backdrop of a dreary existence with her dreadful aunt and uncle, who threaten to dull her vibrant spirit. Yet, with Balthazar by her side, she is reminded that magic can be found in the most unexpected places, even when life feels particularly heavy.

Moving further forward the plot is set against the breathtaking canvas of Venice, McKay’s storytelling shines and shimmers as she captures the city’s enchanting beauty and rich history. The ancient canals and vibrant streets become a character in their own right, providing a stunning backdrop for Rosa’s adventures. As she navigates the complexities of her new environment, the presence of magic becomes palpable, intertwining with the themes of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of friendship. You also discover this feeling with the beautiful black-and-white illustrations from Keith Robinson. 

While the story is undeniably whimsical, it does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Rosa's life. Feelings of abandonment and loneliness are juxtaposed with moments of joy and discovery, creating a rich emotional tapestry that resonates deeply with readers of all ages. McKay's ability to balance light and shadow is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

As Rosa confronts her fears in the face of adversity, readers are invited to reflect on their own journeys. The message that magic can be found even in the most difficult times is both uplifting and empowering. The bond between Rosa and Balthazar serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and the unexpected ways in which support can manifest.

"Rosa by Starlight" is not just a tale of adventure; it is a celebration of imagination and the indomitable spirit of a young girl who refuses to let her circumstances define her. Hilary McKay has crafted a story that sparkles with wonder while also gently addressing the complexities of life.  It is a book that will leave readers with a full rainbow of emotions, encouraging them to look beyond the ordinary and embrace the magic that surrounds us all. Published by Macmillan Children's Books. 



Featured post

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books - Favourite Children's Book Picks - FEB 2026 UK

  Philip Reeve -  Bridge of Storms (A New Mortal Engines Novel) - Published by  Scholastic Press ( 3 Feb. 2026) -  ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎  978-154613...