"Magical adventures bursting with comedy and excitement "
April 2021 Debut of the Month
Alfie Blackstock isn’t surprised to find himself an orphan. After all, his parents had always been careless. Comic, intriguing, full of possibilities, this opening sets the tone for the book that follows. Adopted by his aunts Gertrude and Zita, who we quickly realise are witches, Alfie settles into a new life in the remote village of Little Snoddington. He’s in need of friends his own age, if only to share all the extraordinary things that go on around him, and the arrival of the Famous Fagan Family Circus provides just that, in the form of daring young trapeze artists Calypso. When Calypso’s sister disappears, Alfie is there to help even though that means taking on the evil Head Witch – it’s what friends are for, after all. Full of humour and excitement, and with a proper emphasis on the importance of bravery, loyalty and friendships, Jess Kidd’s adventure story will delight young readers.
One to recommend to fans of Nevermoor and Abi Elphinstone’s Unmapped Chronicles series.
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True friendship story, really inspiring you not be scared and overcome your fears
This is a really good book that inspires you to always overcome your fears.
Alfie Blackstack is a nine - year old boy having a normal life before his parents meet an unfortunate end and he gets sent to Switherbroom Hall to live with his aunts. There, he meets his first friend, Calypso Fagan, when the circus arrives. One day, Calypso's sister is nowhere to be seen and as Alfie and Calypso search for her missing sister, they uncover chilling secrets.
This book really encouraged me to overcome my fears. This is a strong tale of being friends with people you never expected. Full of twists and turns that make things that you least expect happen. I would recommend this book for children 7-9 years old. Again, really good book.... Read Full Review
I couldn’t put this book as I approached the end, reading for nearly two hours because I wanted to find out the ending!
This book is about a nine-year-old boy called Alfie Blackstalk, who has to go to his Aunt’s house called Switherbroom Hall, because his daring mum and dad passed away by doing daft things. When the circus visits town, Alfie meets his new friend Calypso, but her little sister Nova had gone missing.
I absolutely enjoyed this book because it is very exciting and a great adventure that anyone can enjoy. I found the story to be funny and engaging. I liked the style of writing and the message that friendship can save the day. I couldn’t put this book as I approached the end, reading for nearly two hours because I wanted to find out the ending!
I really recommend this book for children aged 8 to 10, who enjoy magical stories and funny situations.... Read Full Review
If you are looking for an adventure story that will whisk you off your sofa then this is the book for you.
If you are looking for an adventure story that will whisk you off your sofa then this is the book for you. In this book we travel all the way to Little Snoddington where Alfie Blackstack moves after his parent's unfortunate end. Alfie now lives in Switherbroom Hall with mad haired aunt Gertrude and terrifying aunt Zita. This terrifying page turner could receive nothing but praise from even the meanest critic. As there is adventure, circus and magic what's not to like. If you have Arachnophobia (fear of spiders) then maybe don’t read it. If you need persuasion of the hilarity with no spoilers go to pg. 67 this is my favourite page.... Read Full Review
