Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons, by Abi Elphinstone
Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons
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Abi Elphinstone
Illustrated by Kristina Kister
09.05.2024
Simon & Schuster Children's UK
Children’s Chapter Books, Fantasy, Adventure
Disclaimer: these thoughts are entirely my own, based on my reading experience, and is no reflection of whether or not this title should be read. Thus, I try to keep my writing fair and constructive, and reveal my personal rating at the end. I always enjoy reading the varying thoughts of other readers because we all experience books differently - which is just so wonderful! So please feel free to leave a comment at the end.
Please be aware that this review may contain spoilers.
✨ BOOK SYNOPSIS 📖
”The thing about magic is that it’s terribly clever and the thing about grown-ups is that they very often aren’t. Or at least not in the way that matters. Discovering magic, you see, is about noticing it’s there in the first place. And most grown-ups are way too busy to spend time watching and wondering and sniffing out secrets. Children, on the other hand, never miss a thing. But even the most curious child can take a while to sniff out magic. Because magic knows where to hide. And it’s not in faraway lands or long-lost kingdoms. It’s right here.”
From the author of Saving Neverland and The Frost Goblin, this title is aimed at 7+ and can certainly be enjoyed by all. There is excitement, magic, and a gentle but fast paced adventure that will keep you gripped until the very end.
Our leading protagonist is Ember Spark, a girl of age ten who is quite like her name and full of spark. Situated in the sleepy and unmemorable village of Yawn, Ember yearns for one thing: a grand adventure. One that she is quite prepared for with a pair of wellies ready to whip on at a moment's notice, tucked under her pillow for such an occasion.
One normal and uninteresting day… adventure arrives.
And Ember accepts the call to action with great anticipation. Swooping into the Swirling Soup, the temperamental sea beyond Yawn, in aid of saving a hamster clinging helplessly to a rock. Though, it doesn’t seem like any ordinary hamster.
Ember Spark has many questions and she is soon to receive an answer of sorts when her teacher: Mrs Rickety-Knees, sends her on a ‘student project’ (quest) to investigate the castle ruins by the coast. A task that leads her to the discovery of a cave host to Rusty Fizzbang. A vet to magical beasts who is in need of a couple of apprentice’s to take his place upon his retirement.
Much to Ember’s dismay, she is required to work alongside Arno. A recently new student who lacks confidence and enjoys the comfort of being safely away from anything dangerous. Something that Ember considers herself to be the complete opposite of.
Reluctantly, on both parts, Ember and Arno accept their new responsibility of ‘Vet to Magical Creatures’. However, the task isn’t as simple as sweet treats, silver diapers, or medication, because there is an arch-villain: Jasper Hornswoggle and his gang, afoot. And it is up to Ember and Arno to save the magical beasts under their care, all the while keeping their existence a secret.
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✨ MY REVIEW 🤔
Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons is a tale perfect for readers looking for a cosy but thrilling read, and/or for youngsters looking to build their confidence in reading. There are an array of magnificent magical creatures, some illustrated for reference (a must for any vet of magical creatures!), brimming with charm and personality.
The author, Abi Elphinstone, doesn’t shy away from very real topics. Exploring them in a safe and thoughtful way. Addressing a family dynamic that is emotionally challenging for our main protagonist, experiencing character building conflict and empathy, as well as the importance of building trust and friendship despite one’s reluctance or fears.
There is hope, friendship, and magic everywhere. All you need to do is trust in yourself and look, because much like Ember and Arno discover: it is in plain sight for you to discover.
The magic continues October 2024 with Ember Spark and the Frost Phoenix!
✨ RATING 📣
5/5
✨ COMPLETION DATE 🗓️
29.05.2025
