Amelia Fang and the Barbaric Ball

Name: William Joseph
Price range: $

by Laura Ellen Anderson

Interest age: 7 to 9
Reading age: 7+

Published by Farshore, 2018

Adventure
Chapter books
Fantasy
Funny

About this book

Amelia Fang is a feisty ten-year-old vampire, who loves spending time with her two best friends, Grimaldi the reaper and Florence, a rare breed of yeti. They live in Nocturnia, a land of darkness, ghosts and ghouls, where the sparkly magic of fairies and unicorns fills them with terror.

As organiser of the annual Barbaric Ball, Amelia's mother is delighted when King Vladimir and his son Prince Tangine announce they will be attending the event. The royal pair haven't been seen in public since the sad demise of the Queen, who was rumoured to have been eaten by a fairy. Amelia loathes the Ball, but at least this year she'll have someone of her own age to keep her company. However, she is appalled when she meets Prince Tangine, who is pompous, rude and always gets what he wants. When he takes Squashy, Amelia's beloved pet pumpkin, she embarks on a daring rescue mission. As she sneaks around the palace, Amelia is shocked to discover some glittery secrets about her arch enemy.

The first in a series, this ghoulishly funny chapter book is full of fabulous gothic pen-and-ink illustrations and explores the importance of friendship.

About the author

Laura is a STAR of the children’s book world. She is the creator of Farshore’s magical and bestselling Rainbow Grey and Amelia Fang series, whose characters have captured the hearts of children everywhere. Laura has illustrated covers for many iconic names, from Enid Blyton to Terry Pratchett. Born in Essex and now living in Brighton, Laura enjoys doodling for fun, making 3D models, baking and writing ‘to do’ lists.