ISBN13
9781913101107
Review published
01/03/2021
By Reviewer
Rhiannon
Star Rating
By Author / Illustrator
Jaclyn Moriarty
Age range(s)
9+
Review
Set in the same world as The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone, The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is a prequel, or companion novel, to Jaclyn Moriarty's previous book, once more illustrated beautifully by the talented Karl James Mountford. Told alternatively from the perspectives of Honey Bee and Finlay, children of the town of Spindrift, the story focusses on a rivalry between the rough-and-tumble children of the orphanage and the snooty pupils of Brathelthwaite Boarding School. However, with the outbreak of real war with the Whispering Kingdom, the children must unite to protect the town and rescue the children mysteriously going missing in Spindrift and the world! A magical realism adventure aimed at children aged 8-12, The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars has elements of social commentary and language that are more appropriate for older readers within a plot that seems more suited to younger readers which can be quite jarring. It is also tricky to connect with characters that are not terribly likeable, the only exception being the shy, insecure Glim whose mastery of herself and wild dragons are the real highlight of the story. Fans of The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone will be delighted by the return of Bronte and Alejandro along with references to the original novel. A hefty read, not recommended for reluctant readers or those who find shifting narratives confusing. 464 pages / Ages 8-12 years / Reviewed by Rhiannon Cook, school librarian.
