Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

By Author / Illustrator

Rachel Chivers Khoo, illus Laura Catalan

Genre

Magical Realism

Age range(s)

Publisher

Walker Books

ISBN

9781529523805

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

01-05-2025

Synopsis

A modern classic in the making, Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures is the first book in a new series perfect for fans of animal adventures and secret worlds hidden within our own. Ideal for children who love Enid Blyton, The Borrowers, Wildsmith and The Boy Who Grew Dragons.

"We Finders have what we call the Golden Rule: Finders Keepers."

While hunting for an old time capsule that his grandma once buried in the woods, Max never expects to discover the home of a small magical creature. Nor does he expect that magical creature to have an extensive collection of lost items, all catalogued and labelled. Yet this is how he meets Tuftorious Snook, collector of lost objects, and just one of the many Finders living in Silverthorn Forest.

Thrilled by his discovery, Max can't wait to find out more about these extraordinary creatures. But when he accidentally breaks the most important rule - never steal - he's banished from their home. With Silverthorn Forest in danger, however, Max must somehow find a way to save Tuft and the other Finders before it's too late.

Find out about world-building, maps and time capsules in this month's Q&A with Rachel Chivers Khoo

Praise for Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures: "A treasure trove of magic." Abi Elphinstone. "A gorgeous, cosy story filled with nature, friendship and adventure." Katya Balen. "Full of wonderment and whimsy." Cerrie Burnell. "A charming story with a heartfelt environmental message, all about trusting new friends, treasuring family and memories, and protecting our ancient trees and all who dwell in them." Liz Flanagan.

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Reviews

Sue

Max is determined to find the old time capsule, buried years ago by his grandmother, before she moves out of Pickwick Cottage and goes to live with Max and his mother. However, he never expected his search would lead him to meet Tuftorious Snook, collector of lost objects, and one of the Finders of Silverthorn Wood. When Max unwittingly goes against their code, the Finders, naturally wary of humans, banish him from the woods. However, learning the Finder s- and the woods - are under threat, Max is determined to save them.

Children are always asking me what my favourite book is - a question I find impossible to answer. They then move on to try and make me identify my favourite book of the year… the month…the week…and I can never decide. However, I can confidently claim that Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures is one of the best books I have read this year - and one which I will thoroughly enjoy sharing!

There is something so magical about this story. It is beautifully written, full of rich languages choices and vivid descriptions, something which can be missing from books for younger readers. The text is a joy to read aloud, perfect for using as a class text to inspire creativity and excellent work, or for a class story. It is a delightful story, a warm, feel-good read which children - and adults - will love.

Tuftorious Snook - what a name! - is a lovely character. Tuft is very proud of being a Finder and sticks to the rules he has been brought up to believe in. Yet, he is prepared to adapt his thinking to help his new friend, showing himself to be kind and caring. His collection of found items is sure to start discussions about what constitutes treasure, the idea of 'finders keepers' and recycling. Max is just as lovely. His relationship with his grandmother is beautifully captured; his determined to find her special time capsule and make her happy is really heart-warming. This kind nature also shows itself in his desire to save the Finders, no matter what they think of him.

The illustrations are as delightful as the story, full of details to enjoy. I absolutely loved this one and can't wait to read the next book about Max and Tuft.

224 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher