Guardians of Magic

ISBN13

9781447277972

Review published

13/10/2019

By Reviewer

Carol

Star Rating

(4)

By Author / Illustrator

Chris Riddell

Age range(s)

Review

In the world of Thrynne, all is not well. Where once sacred magic from the Forever Tree flowed freely throughout the land, it is now under threat for a triptych of villains, the King Rate, the Clockmaker and the Professional Princess, each intent on harnessing the magic for their own nefarious end. After some quick world-building, Riddell quickly immerses the reader in the lives of his three young protagonists, each far from home and struggling to fit in until their lives are up-ended by a mysterious magical wooden gift. First, we meet Zam, apprentice baker, who finds a runcible spoon which brings every baked creation he stirs to life (Ginger, the gentle gingerbread giant, is my favourite character). Then, Phoebe, with her magical talking cello. And finally, Bathsheba, with her giant-slaying worpal sword, despite the fact that her greatest desire is to study and befriend the giants, not kill them. To begin with each character's arc is shown in isolation, but gradually the plot entwines their lives and the story really comes alive once the three children meet in the underground caverns of the Tumbledowns and begin to understand their magical destiny. Guardians of Magic will appeal to strong readers of 7+, or older readers of 9+ who still appreciate shorter chapters and regular illustrations. It will be particularly popular with those who have already enjoyed other riffs and spins on familiar fairy tales and characters, such as Riddell's own Once Upon A Wild Wood or Pages and Co by Anna James. As the first book in the Cloud Horse Chronicles series, some patience is needed by the reader as Riddell immerses us in his detailed fantasy world but, with the scene and characters now set, the next books in the series have an intriguing base on which to build. 320 pages / Ages 8+ / Reviewed by Carol Carter, school librarian