Shadow Forest tells the story of two siblings, Samuel and Martha Blink, who lose their parents in an unfortunate accident. This terrible event takes place in the beginning of the book and the children must learn to live without their parents.
The children are sent away to live with their Aunt Eda and little does he know it but Samuel will become the hero of the story. It all goes horribly wrong when one day Martha disappears into the forest, ignoring the rule; never, under any circumstances go into the forest.
The children embark on a journey, in which they will meet all sorts of evil creatures. Will they be able to change the forest from an evil and menacing place to a calm and peaceful place?
Will they be able to destroy all of the evil creatures to make a safe and friendly forest? Also, will Samuel and Martha be ready for the surprise waiting for them at the end of the book?
Shadow Forest is well written, as at different points in the book Matt Haig, the author, fills you in as to what is going on. I think that this is effective as it keeps you connected with the author at all times.
I enjoyed reading Shadow Forest because, although it is a classic story line, the author manages to include unique ideas. The added extras to the plot were good, even though I felt I had heard the basic plot so many times before.
Both boys and girls would find this book a thrill to read, however maybe children with a wild imagination would find it more satisfactory!
Quality of writing: nine out of ten. The narrative technique is very effective.
For the page-turning qualities: seven out of ten because, although it was interesting, in parts it dragged on rather and was a little boring.
Lucy's overall rating for Matt Haig's Shadow Forest: seven out of ten.
Published by Corgi Children's Paperbacks, Shadow Forest: is available from Amazon, To order a copy click the link below:
