Synopsis: Mysteries, trolls and lubbers abound in this second part to Katherine Langrish’s ‘Troll’ trilogy. So too, do adventures, escapes and rescues, involving the young hero, Peer Ulffson. An orphan who has endured wickedness in his young life, Peer finds stability in his adoptive family until the millwheel at Troll Mill unexpectedly begins turning.

Review: Despite Troll Mill being the second in a trilogy, I believe it is possible to read and enjoy as an independent novel. Having said that, I did find myself curious about the prequel: Troll Fell and the concluding: Troll Blood. What is most surprising about this is that ordinarily I am not a fan of fantasy fiction. With trolls, seal ladies, lubbers and a Nis, I was filled with misgivings but gripped from the beginning by what proved to be a thoroughly entertaining page-turner that I would highly recommend.

The narrative is compelling with the reader – merely pages in – wondering why Kersten thrusts her daughter into Peer’s arms whilst hysterically claiming to be returning home to the sea. And what do the suspicious night time activities at the mill connote other than ‘trouble at mill…’ In addition, the writing can impress with imagery such as: ‘Shadowy thorn trees craned over the edge like a row of spiteful old women.’

Owing to its use of language, fairytale/mythical characters and moral ideas, this would be a popular whole-class read. I certainly think Year 7/8 boys in particular could enjoy this novel. The character of Nis could be usefully compared with Dobby, the house elf in the Harry Potter series, and there are research possibilities into folklore and myths and legends. An exploration of the descriptive language could also create opportunities for students to write descriptively and/or produce their own folktale or adventure story.

Whilst I would not go so far as to say I am a convert to this genre of writing, I am glad to have given the novel a chance. It has many classic ingredients of fairy tales with its heroes and villains, verities of honesty, bravery and integrity and the certainty of good triumphing over evil. Nonetheless, Troll Mill pleasingly has the potential to surprise its readers beyond its archetypal predictability.

2006-11-23