I loved Skellig and you will too! (Skellig - David Almond)

Member Name: peaceofcake

Product:	Skellig - David Almond
Date:	17/07/09 (66 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Short, captivating, suitable for all ages

Disadvantages: You might just HAVE to read it one sitting.

Such a wonderful read. Everyone must read this! - go on, it won't take you long...

At only 176 pages, this children's novel is a short yet completely compelling book which will captivate old and young readers. I'm 24 and, in all honesty, don't get round to reading that many books. A friend recommended this Skellig to me saying 'You'll like it, it's only short'. Convinced that this would definitely be one book I'd end up finish reading I started to read and joined Michael and Mina in their extraordinary adventure.

I won't reveal the plot (no spoilers here then!) because that's half the pleasure in reading the book. I'm sure a lot of people will have seen the TV adaptation, which I have yet to see, but I don't know if I will see it because the book was so perfect and I don't want anything to spoil the Skellig experience for me. Don't miss out on the book though if you've already seen it on screen.

Almond writes beautifully and simply, allowing children to understand and enjoy the story while still engaging older readers (though I consider myself a child at heart!). I was gripped throughout and lost a considerable chunk of a Saturday when I just could not put it down and had to finish it right there and then. In fact this book inspired me to start to read more because it was such a great feeling - the story, the characters, the ending - I cried. But I'm quite the softy at times.

The story deals with some very emotional issues but in a way which may offer comfort and education to young readers going through similar situations. I wouldn't say that the book was scary at all but for more sensitive readers maybe a parent should check out the story first.

Buy it cheap from amazon or pick it up from a highstreet book shop but you might find difficulty in getting Skellig from a library because I hear this is quite a popular book and is a studied text in schools too.

Summary: Everyone go and read Skellig, you'll love it!