The Great Brain Robbery

A cracking sequel to The Train to Impossible Places. I really didn't think that PG Bell could top his first book but this sequel takes the reader on another fantastic adventure. It leads on beautifully from the first book whilst holding its own plotline. As we return to the Impossible Places with Suzy we are reunited with our favourite characters - Suzy, Wilmot, Stonker etc - and introduced to new characters as the family of characters extends beyond those we already feel we know so well. There are twists and turns with every chapter and we see some of the characters in a new light. Lord Meridian, although left under lock and key with his sister (the Lady Crepuscula) at the end of the first book, causes Suzy to once again battle to save her friends and defend the future of the Impossible Places, in particular Troll Ville. As the home of her friends, the threat to Troll Ville is personal for Suzy, and she is determined to do everything in her power to save it. Thankfully the crew of the Impossible postal express and friends are on hand to help. As with the Train to Impossible Places, this is probably most suited to KS2. As a teacher I tend to use the first book of a series to spark children's imaginations and passion for reading and then make sure I have the sequels readily available on my book trolley for children to continue their adventures independently. I am currently reading The Train to Impossible places with my year 3/4 class and I know the minute we finish and I place the sequel in my class library it will be snapped up with a long waiting list to follow. Both books are based on a fantastic concept that will immediately grab children's imaginations, they certainly have a place reserved on my bookshelf. 368 pages / Ages 8+ / Reviewed by Sarah Lynham, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+