The Girl of Ink & Stars
Kiran Millwood Hargrave
Subjects
- Fantasy Worlds - awesome adventures of magic and mystery
- Action Adventures - chills, thrills and plenty of spills
The magical bestseller: a classic story to read again and again. Winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2017 Winner of the British Book Awards Children's Book of the Year 2017 Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award Shortlisted for the Jhalak Prize Beautiful, thrilling and magical, Sunday Times bestselling-author Kiran Millwood Hargrave's critically-acclaimed first novel is a modern classic. 'Absolutely loved it from start to finish' TOM FLETCHER 'I read it, I loved it' MALORIE BLACKMAN 'Kiran Millwood Hargrave creates a spellbinding world of magic, myth and adventure' EMMA CARROLL Forbidden to leave her island, Isabella dreams of the faraway lands her cartographer father once mapped. When her friend disappears, she volunteers to guide the search. The world beyond the walls is a monster-filled wasteland – and beneath the dry rivers and smoking mountains, a fire demon is stirring from its sleep. Soon, following her map, her heart and an ancient myth, Isabella discovers the true end of her journey: to save the island itself. A beautifully written, multi award-winning story of friendship, discovery, myths and magic for any age – perfect for fans of Philip Pullman, Frances Hardinge or Katherine Rundell From the author of Julia and the Shark and The Mercies, chosen for the Richard & Judy Book Club Set in an extensive and stunningly-imagined parallel world imbued with magical realism A gorgeous gift with intricate star-chart illustrations throughout - a present for young and old, which will stay with you long after reading 'One of those timeless stories that feels like a real myth' SAMANTHA SHANNON 'FANTASTIC!' CARRIE HOPE FLETCHER 'Absolutely stunning' CATHERINE DOYLE 'So beautiful and magical' PIERS TORDAY
Reviews
This was an exciting story mixed with myths and legends. It created great images of the places in my head.
JacquiBoyce
A fantastic read- I couldn’t put it down once I started… very well written and the characters come alive. I would say for 11+ - some dark and sad scenes within it.
VCook1978
I didn't like this book all too much, dare I say it, I was a little disappointed which all the good reviews. I found it very difficult to get into the world Hargrave had created. The world didn't feel too real to me, I think, in part, because there seemed to be more telling than showing. I also found the writing style a bit too formulaic and stilted. On the positive side, it was very easy to read and I think it would introduce younger readers to key themes like friendship and autonomy. But I wouldn't read it again.
bganonreader19
Exciting and adventurous, I liked the epilogue, quite scary and dark in places. Would appeal to fans of dystopia (e.gm hunger games, divergent)
ler229
Probably wouldn't recommend for younger readers as pretty dark in places. Also, I would have preferred to get to know the characters more first before all of the action and adventure because if I have bought into the character then I get more invested in the book. It was a good book but for me not a great one.
Algibson3
I thought the story was gripping from beginning to end. I liked the references to map making and how the writer takes on an exciting and mystery filled journey through the story. I enjoyed getting to know Isabella and Lupe and their contrasting characters.
Mrcotterill
This was a very gripping book and I found it a quick read. The main character is really well-written and the fantasy world created was easy to settle into. I found the resolution to be a bit unsatisfying so I gave it 4 rather than 5 stars. It is definitely worth reading though.
LauraBritchford
Phew,quite a tough read.Definately a book for older teens or more confident readers.The book looks like it would be only for girls but I feel it is suitable for both boys and girls.Takes you on a mystical trip with Isabella on a fictional island she calls home with her Pa who is a cartographer.
amyjo
A great book. I read it myself as an adult and then again with my year 6 class - we all enjoyed it. A book of adventure, kindness, sadness and imagination all rolled into one lovely story. Isabella’s determination to find her friend and follow in her father’s footsteps, takes you on a story where you need to know what happens next; any book that makes my class gasp or sigh is a good one! Beautifully designed maps and pages draw you into every moment. A definite recommendation for anyone who enjoys a book which you can’t put down.
Lotts_22
Exciting and action packed. Would be good to use to explore ideas of oppression and ownership of a place. Good female characters.
twest
A really exciting and gripping book, I read this to Year 4 children who thoroughly enjoyed it. It is fast paced and has some very gory parts which the children loved. I would absolutely recommend this book to support teaching Greek mythology or as an unusual class story share.
SarahPerry
Ok had no idea this book would get scary and grip me half way through! It was s good surprise and I recommend this fictional read!
Sreads
A beautifully written tale of loss and growing up.
E.lawson
This book surprised me! It is a real adventure and not just for girls or younger readers but as an adult I loved the twists and turns. It is a real rollercoaster of emotions and the character of Isabella will resonate with so many. Her journey is fraught with danger and action and the book's pace will keep anybody hooked. A great read for older KS2 children!!
Rjohnson51
Enjoyed reading this book. It was different and I liked how it was set in olden times.
olivia_white
I really enjoyed this book, it took me a little while to follow all the place names and the world in which it is based but was well worth it. I read the second half of the book in almost one sitting, it was gripping and fast moving. I felt totally invested is Isabella - a driven, caring heroine who you just know from the start is destined for adventure and discovery. Would wholeheartedly recommend.
Klshorter80
First of her books that I read. Pulls you deep in and really gets the reader to invest. Her character development skills are fabulous.
cchapma4
This book combines myth, adventure, quest and the supernatural. It is extremely cinematic in scope and I predict a feature film if not already in the pipeline. The narrative moves at a clip and the language choices are lyrical and unique. The characterisation is crisp and the protagonist Isabella is relatable. The story arc comes full circle and there is a completeness to the narrative. This would be a good class reader for year 5 upwards, and it would suit sophisticated self guided readers. A good read overall.
leomuchoyandomucho
Beautiful imaginative story of courageous and inspiring young girls.
MrsWright90