"This rousing quest to save floundering fairy power exudes the magic of nature"
September 2022 Book of the Month
Beautifully-written with a nourishing dose of derring-do, Anna Kemp’s Into Goblyn Wood heralds the start of a fantasy series that’s sure to enchant 8+ year-olds who love the great outdoors, with David Wyatt’s illustrations enhancing the otherworldly atmosphere.
Hazel’s quest begins in Ditchmoor School for the Wretched, where she was left at the age of two, wearing a “black stone pendant on which a curious symbol was engraved”. She’s always felt different, closer to nature and animals than to other children, with the exception of her best friend Pete. As a result, when Pete is snatched into Goblyn Wood, a realm of fairies, Hazel goes after him and discovers she might possess the power to save fairy magic from extinction.
The novel is alive with compelling characters and courage, courtesy of heroic Hazel who’ll have readers rooting for her every step of the wooded way. Talking of which, the descriptions of Goblyn Wood’s twisted roots, writhing spidery branches, and aromatic herbs are an added delight.
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Magical fantasy filled fairies which will leave you desperate to know what happens next.
Into Goblyn Wood is the first book in a new fantasy series. It follows a girl called Hazel, who got abandoned by her mother at Ditchmoor, school for the wretched - as you can imagine, that isn't a nice place! She gets in to lots of trouble and is sent away from there but she escapes and finds her way in to Goblyn Wood, a forest filled with fairies!
Hazel doesn't have any friends except for Pete, but when they go into the Wood, Pete chases a strange light. With no choice but to follow him, they are lead deeper into Goblyn Wood before they are attacked and Pete goes missing. Alone, a professor rescues her and she realises a secret.... Read Full Review
The story is a fast paced tale that will make you want to by the next one straight away and read the entire series of books to come, I will definitely get the next one when it is out.
Into Goblyn Wood is a very good book with a great plot and story line that is magical and exciting but with lots of peaceful, lovely moments. The story’s characters were very well thought-out and believable, and the book had an interesting plot line that leaves you on a cliff hanger wanting more.
Into Goblyn Wood will appeal to fans of The Wizards of Once series as although the characters are different in their personalities, there is a similar feel to the book. This book has superb illustrations with a level of detail that make you feel that you’re really there.
The descriptions of the characters and scenes make you think that they are real places and people. The plot is very easy to follow and imaginative.... Read Full Review
A wonderful fairytale set in the depths of a diminishing magical woodland. A tale full of self-discovery, displays of courage, magical potions and a twist around every corner. We found the book to be very immersive and engaging with an exciting storyline. We can't wait to read the next one.
Me and my daughter really enjoyed reading this story together. We liked that the book was full of wonder. Hazel the main character has a very sweet, thoughtful personality which makes you quickly feel very attached to and protective of her. The end of each chapter left us eagerly waiting to find out what would happen next. The author's descriptions of Goblyn Wood were magical and immersive. We enjoyed sharing Hazel's journey of self-discovery with her. The strength that young Hazel could exude from deep inside herself was incredible. Hazel makes a great role-model, proving that anyone can be full of courage, magic and bravery even if the odds are stacked against them.... Read Full Review
