Synopsis – Going on his mum’s honeymoon isn’t Jamie’s idea of the perfect holiday. He would prefer to spend the summer training for the school swimming team. But when he arrives at the mysterious Castlecliff – an ancient house perched high above the sea – he is quickly drawn into its secrets. All is not what it seems at the house and Jamie attempts to uncover the truth before he leaves.

Review – A most satisfying magical mystery packed with suspense, drama and emotion. The action is fast-paced, the setting beautifully described and the characters well-developed and interesting. The story ends leaving the reader wanting more, with some questions unanswered. It explores many themes and personal issues relevant to everyday life – friendships and family relationships; illness and even death; loneliness and lack of self-confidence.

This book is suitable for confident independent readers of 9 and above. It could be read aloud in class and discussed as part of PSHE in view of the issues it bravely and competently explores. After reading, it might also be discussed to help children write their own stories, focusing on structure, plot, characterisation and setting.

A real gem of a book and one which I shall definitely read with my own class.

2008-08-31