Magical Mountain Rescue: The Wildsmith #4

Wildsmith Rowan and her family return to Holderby, when they learn that Prince David has been kidnapped. His mother, Queen Silvana, believes that the Estrian leaders are responsible. Rowan and her friend Leo, whose mother now leads the Estrian people, know that this is untrue. Queen Silvana gives Rowan and her grandfather three days in which to rescue the prince, otherwise she will wage war on Estria.

Rowan, her father, grandfather and Milo set off into the mountains, determined to prevent a tragedy.  Using their skills as wildsmiths, Rowan and her grandfather converse with animals on the way and get their help in tracking down the kidnappers.

Magical Mountain Rescue is the conclusion to Liz Flanagan's series of Wildsmith novels, and it is just as beautifully written and charming as the previous books.  With its themes of friendship, loyalty and bravery, this is a fast-paced adventure. The short chapters and the lovely illustrations by Joe Todd-Stanton combine to give a highly readable and enjoyable novel for younger readers. Rowan is the star of the show; kind, compassionate and brave, she is upset because her friend Bella and Bella's brother Milo think that she is a traitor for believing that the Estrians are innocent, but puts her feelings aside to search for her childhood playmate, David.  We are reintroduced to Rowan’s old friends - dragons, witches and pegasi - and are introduced to a new companion in Gryff, the doomsdog, who gives Rowan glimpses of the future and becomes very important to her.

The author packs so much into a deceptively small book, even managing to touch upon the dangers of deforestation to the environment. The conclusion to the story is satisfying, and Rowan finds her happy ending, surrounded by family and friends.  We are left with just a hint that we may hear more from her in the future - I hope that this is the case!

I can highly recommend this fabulous book, and cannot wait to see what this talented author gives us next.

176 pages / Reviewed by Beverley Somerset, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 7+

Magical Mountain Rescue is the fourth book in the Wildsmith series for younger readers, in which the young Wildsmith, Rowan, is coming to terms with her gifts (speaking to animals). After her adventures in the previous books, Rowan has been looking forward to a quiet life; but then the young prince is kidnapped and the neighbouring country Estria, is accused of the attack.

Together with her friends and her white wolf called Arto, Rowan sets off to find out the truth and prevent the two nations from going to war. Of course, there are the obligatory villains who are out to take over ruling the country of Estria, but they have not counted on Rowan and Co.

What a wonderfully exciting and magical series; with this story bringing it all to a fantastically thrilling and breathtaking conclusion. Rowan is a delightful heroine who has been thrust into a series of adventures that she could not have dreamt of, but which she copes with, of course with aid from friends. The illustrator is well known for his 'Brownstone's Mythical Collection' and he brings his very recognisable style to this series.

Although the cover is in full colour, the illustrations in the book are black and white line drawings, all of which enhance the text. The book is aimed at lower KS2, and will be a great book to read to a class as the chapters are short but exciting reads.

Suggested Reading Age 7+