
Betty Steady and the Toad Witch
by Nicky Smith-Dale, illustrated by Sarah Horne
Interest age: 6 to 8
Reading age: 7+
Published by Farshore, 2024
About this book
Betty Steady is the 12-year-old guardian of the faraway kingdom of Wobbly Rock, which she valiantly protects, all on her own, with absolutely no help from anyone else, ever.
After vanquishing a giant three-headed viper, Betty fearlessly leaps into action to obliterate a nasty ogre who has been spotted in the forest. Unfortunately, she’s captured by Wobbly Rock’s most fearsome enemy, the Toad Witch, who shrinks Betty to the height of two Jammie Dodgers and locks her in a cage.
Summoning an army of slimy beasties, the Toad Witch sets off to conquer Wobbly Rock. Betty escapes, but her tiny legs cannot carry her anywhere fast. Forced to turn to others for help, she is surprised to discover that teamwork can actually be great fun.
Fast-paced and funny, this utterly bonkers magical adventure features an eccentric cast of characters, including Figg the cautious imp, who is a stickler for risk assessments; Elle Emen-O’Pea, a little mouse with big dreams of becoming First Royal Trumpeter; and the crossword-loving Great Thunder Owl, otherwise known as Rupert Sometimes, who is too nervous to fly beyond the Forest of Dust.
The entertaining, characterful black-and-white illustrations add even more hilarity to the tale.
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Lists of recommended reads
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Books We Love in May 2024
A selection of books we adored this month!