The Book of Stolen Dreams: The Final Battle

By Author / Illustrator

David Farr

Genre

Fantasy

Age range(s)

11+

Publisher

Usborne

ISBN

9781836042372

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

11-09-2025

Synopsis

The stunning conclusion to The Book of Stolen Dreams series from master storyteller David Farr, perfect for fans of Katherine Rundell and Philip Pullman.

After saving the world more times than she can count, things are finally starting to feel normal for Rachel Klein. But life is never normal for a Keeper of the Key...

When a famous movie-star returns alive and well to Krasnia after weeks lost in the desert, everyone is thrilled! Everyone, except Rachel. Something about the actor doesn't feel quite right. Then Rachel realises the horrifying truth. With both their own lives and the fate of Krasnia at stake, Rachel and her brother Robert must return to the Hinterland, expose the truth and put an end to tyrant Charles Malstain's evil plans once and for all.

Praise for The Book of Stolen Dreams: "A new and important voice for young people." Michael Morpurgo
"Dazzling! An instant classic. An eye-wateringly funny and jaw-droppingly fantastical adventure, chock-a-block with rare books, airships, and penguin-shaped hats." Ben Miller. "A wonderful story. Gripping and magical." Anthony Horowitz.

Reviews

Linda

Author David Farr once again delivers a thrilling and unforgettable story in this finale to The Book of Stolen Dreams series. It is the wonderful blend of fantasy, political intrigue, and emotional depth that makes this trilogy standout in middle-grade literature.

In this final instalment, Rachel Klein, now something of a national hero, is hoping for a return to normal life. However, peace is fleeting in the world of Krasnia. When a beloved actor vanishes in the Sahara Desert and then reappears under suspicious circumstances, Rachel's instincts kick in and once again she fears that her country is about to be plunged back into the shadows of tyranny . . .

The Final Battle is an edge-of-your-seat adventure, with twists and turns that are full of drama, danger, and defiance. This story is not just action-packed but very thought-provoking as well. The book is perfectly pitched for 9+ readers , with a gripping pace that never lets up. The characters, in particular Rachel, continue to grow and develop in compelling ways.

The themes explored through the novels include family, friendship, loyalty, and justice and a heart-stopping race against time on the journey back into Hinterland for Rachel. Will she be able to stop Malstain once and for all? Will this 12-year-old heroine have the courage to face this evil dictator and save Krasnia?

The Final Battle is the perfect conclusion to a brilliantly immersive fantasy series. I would highly recommend the series for fans of Katherine Rundell, Philip Pullman, and anyone who just loves stories where ordinary young heroes fight for what is right.

352 pages / Reviewed by Linda Brown, school librarian