The Cradle of All Worlds: The Jane Doe Chronicles

This book, the first in the Jane Doe Chronicles series, introduces the reader to the magical world of the Manor and the labyrinth that acts as a bridge between the island of Bluehaven and other worlds. We meet Jane Doe and her father and, slowly, over the first few chapters, the reader learns that Jane and her father arrived mysteriously in Bluehaven and are feared and reviled in equal measure by the other inhabitants of Bluehaven. One day, Jane's father disappears, apparently into the Manor, and Jane sets out to find both him and the truth about where she came from. This is an exciting story that rushes along at a breakneck pace, conjuring up a world that is in some ways familiar and in other ways completely magical. There are monsters and newly found friendships, mysteries and hidden history, as Jane finally learns who she really is and understands the task still ahead of her. Written entirely in the present tense and narrated by Jane, confident readers will be drawn into this story and will be keen to read further books in the series. The (mild) violence and occasional more adult reference would probably make this book more suitable for the over 12s who would have the maturity to get the most from this story. 368 pages / Ages 12+ / Reviewed by June Hughes, school librarian.

Suggested Reading Age 11+

On the night Jane and her father arrive on the steps of the Manor in Bluehaven, the earthquakes began. Seen by the town as the cause of their misfortunes, they have lived as outcasts ever since. Preoccupied with caring for her silent, disturbed father, Jane does the best she can to look after them both. When a massive earthquake hits the town, Jane's father disappears through a door in the Manor which is the gateway to many other worlds. Threatened by the townspeople, Jane is aided by Winifred Robin, curator of the Museum of Otherworldly Antiquities, and enters the labyrinth of the Manor to save her father - and all worlds - from the evil within. Full of action and adventure, The Cradle of All Worlds moves at a cracking pace. In spite of Jane's often desperate circumstances, there is much humour in the story, lightening the mood. Far from the stereotypical heroine of such an adventure story, Jane is a 'normal' girl in difficult circumstances. Brave and loyal, her distinctive voice narrates the action as she rises to the challenges thrown at her. However, it is the characters of Violet and Hickory who (for me) really bring the story to life. Violet is resourceful and energetic, taking decisive action, and Hickory is fascinating. The Manor itself is an amazing backdrop to the action, full of booby traps and danger. The Cradle of All Worlds offers an exciting fantasy read, full of twists and turns. Can't wait for the next one! 368 pages / Ages 12+ / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher.

Suggested Reading Age 11+