Charlie Bone and the Shadow of Badlock

Charlie’s ancestor, Otus the giant, has been imprisoned by the evil Count Harken and Charlie is sucked into a painting of Badlock to rescue him.

Readers of previous books will meet several familiar characters, but readers new to Nimmo’s series will find no contextual difficulties, as extensive genealogical and background notes are provided.

Decorative page borders, clear, large print and short sentences provide easy access for newly confident readers wishing to tackle a large novel, but there is no discriminatory diminution of style or vocabulary.

As a result this is an exciting and entertaining book to encourage readers into Nimmo’s other, often weightier, novels of magic realism.