Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell

Right now, we could all use delightful books to read. I read this awhile ago, but, Impossible Creatures tops the scale, for delightful. Mind you, our protagonists are running - and swimming, and rowing, and flying - for their lives, throughout; in and out of harrowing danger at every turn; surviving by their wits, lightning decisions, etc.

The plot is truly marvelous! The world building steals the show, however, and the actual impossible creatures could not be more wonderful. There are lethal and entitled humming bird sized dragons; Sphinx millennia old with sketchy ideas about obligation not to eat humans; unicorns; anti-unicorns called karkaadann who enjoy killing as a team sport; kraken (ship swallowing variety) and angelic, nearly helpless griffins. Other characters are also deftly drawn and fully developed, not least, the villain. His wickedness is implacable.

Our protagonists discover they each have an assigned, magical selfhood and thus, reluctantly - it has to be said - embark upon an impossible quest against this terrifying foe. They become protective of each other and that quality helps them to be heroes. If you – or young patrons – are looking for delightful escapism, this is it.

Its sequel The Poisoned King – which I am currently devouring – published this September.

Middle Grade Fiction pr7633531