The Unexpected Find
Publisher: Scholastic
This intriguing novel weaves together the stories of three seemingly disparate characters to create a rich tapestry of mystery, myth and adventure.
Judy harbours a great secret. After receiving a mysterious letter, her father rushes to Sweden to help an old friend, leaving her alone on their canal boat. Although he promises to return swiftly, weeks turn into months, and Judy fears that something terrible has happened to him.
William is neglected by his mother and frequently targeted by bullies, so turns to Judy for friendship. Following a momentous storm, he finds a great treasure in the roots of a fallen tree.
Eccentric Mr Balderson, who likes to wear women’s clothing and sleeps in a coffin, is a quiet observer of those around him.
Following a series of serendipitous events, these unlikely companions find themselves travelling to Sweden in a battered old campervan. When their vehicle skids off the icy road into a ditch, they are taken in by Farmor and her resourceful grandson Stefan.
Extremely unusual and beautifully written, this is a compelling read. Sweden’s stunning frozen landscape is vividly described and the deep relationships which develop between the characters are incredibly moving.
What you thought...
Average rating:
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Naughty Autie, 07 November 2024
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It is so adventurous I just couldn’t, get enough of the book I wouldn’t stop reading it and the character mr balderson really does make me laugh 😂
Toby, 14 February 2024
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The character 'Mr Balderson' is absolutely comical.
Anonymous, 20 October 2023
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I think this book is really intruiging to read because it makes you feel you are in the book.😘
Zainab, 21 January 2022
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good
Ziying, 05 May 2021
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Amazing story!!
Amie, 26 October 2020
Loved finding a neurosibling in William Parkinson (who is clearly autistic), and I also enjoyed the character of Andrew/Anthea Balderson, who seems to be gender fluid. ‘The Unexpected Find’ is a wonderful book for representation as well as inclusion, and one that came not before time.