The Vanishing Lake

Meara loves staying with Grandad and his pet otter, on the edge of Lake Loughareema. It’s mostly a pretty normal lake but sometimes, for no apparent reason, it completely dries up. Grandad says the sheep have soaked up the water with their wool, or the mermaids have pulled the plug out, but Meara doesn’t believe this. She’s determined to find out why the water disappears. And there is a surprise waiting for her…

This is a lovely book about believing in the impossible, and exploring the amazing nature around you. There is a page at the back explaining that this really does happen to Lake Loughareema in Northern Ireland and scientists have an explanation. (But Meara’s and Grandad’s is better!) Paddy Donnelly’s illustrations are friendly and bright, and portray weather and various textures brilliantly. You can feel the cold rain and the long grass! The story makes you look again at the pictures, where hills might suggest shapes of other things. Therefore, there is lots to discuss in the pictures – it’s also fun to spot Cara the otter – as well as the story. This book is ideal for talking about imagination and storytelling, plus it shows a gorgeous relationship with a grandfather.