Midwinter Burning

LoveReading4Kids Says

Landman is a prize-winning author who writes about a wide range of topics in an accessible, engaging way for many different age groups. This book looks at the story of Alfie Wright – evacuated at the beginning of the war from an unhappy home life things can’t be any worse for Alfie - wherever he ends up being placed. Happily, gentle Auntie Bell, who runs a farm in rural Devon, is welcoming and caring. Her son is a giant of a man, a little intimidating, he is a taciturn though accepting presence. As Alfie settles amongst the cows and geese on the farm – and becomes accustomed to the work and the ways of his charges – he is the happiest he has ever been in his short life. The war seems a long way away.

Life gets even better when he makes friends with Snidge. But is Snidge exactly as he appears – or is he mysteriously connected to the Midwinter Burnings that usually take place in the standing stones? Auntie Bell says the burnings are a bit of superstition – but Snidge seems to be threatened by them. Can Alfie help him, or is his fate sealed?

This is a fascinating, engaging timeslip novel with a dual narrative that shows us life as an evacuee and through ancient history. The landscape is vividly described adding layers of interest to the tale. Excitement, fear, and horror make this a page turner that will keep readers engrossed to the very end.

Tricia Adams

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