This is a traditional quest story. The toads' home is in danger from the humans who pound up and down the nearby road and so Limpy (physically imperfect, but with the makings of a heroic leader) goes on a journey to find a new home in a country park. He is joined by two unlikely companions, Charm, his little sister and Goliath who has an unfortunate habit of eating anything that crosses his path.

The story is episodic. The three friends encounter danger after danger on their journey. Unusually the quest fails and Limpy and his friends return to their community to find a different way of solving the problem.

Toad Heaven is a light-hearted story but with some solemn undertones about the relationship between humans and animals trying to share a planet and the misuse of power. Characterisation is excellent, especially of the three protagonists - Limpy, misguided and gullible but brave; Charm torn between her brother and the charismatic but callous Malcolm - a true struggle between good and evil and Goliath, large, bungling, hungry, often doing the wrong thing but with a strong and steadfast heart.

A story for 7-11 year olds about fear, self denial and courage and the power of friendship and family loyalty which can overcome even the most difficult situations.

2007-12-29