Raven Child and the Snow-Witch

Raven Child and the Snow Witch is a sparklng, wintery-themed story about love that is aimed at slightly older children aged 5/6+. The wintery wastes and brooding danger of the early pages takes us straight to the land of the Snow Witch. Anya is the Raven Child of the title -Raven has grown up with nature, she wears a dress of feathers and can speak with ravens. When Anya's mother fails to return from a trip to the mountain to collect the glowing gentian flowers, Anya knows something is wrong and she and her father set off to find her. Anya calls on the wild animals to help trace her missing mother who has been snatched by the Snow Witch, along with with many village children. But it is Raven's love for her mother that helps save her family, and the children that the Snow Witch has also kidnapped. This picture book is a visual treat for the winter month; a swirling, glittery cover opens to reveal stunning landscapes in this land of winter while the slightly anime characters help keep it from feeling too threatening. It is an exciting, satisfying story that can be compared with versions of The Snow Queen as well as folk tales about the powerful raven. Children could also be encouraged to create their own hero or heroine with special powers gifted by an animal. A perfect winter's tale that would also read well aloud. 48 pages / Ages 5/6+ / Reviewed by Alice Hall

Suggested Reading Age 5+