Thornspell by Helen Lowe

This is an interesting idea from New Zealand writer, Helen Lowe – she weaves a story around an already well-known fairy tale, but approaches it from a different direction.

Sigismund is a prince who is spending his childhood in a lonely castle. His mother died when he was very young and his father seems to be perpetually at war in the south, barely seeing his son. A mysterious forest, which no one has been allowed to visit for almost 100 years, sits to the west of the castle. There are many tales about an enchanted castle and a sleeping princess within the forest, but although some believe these fireside stories, many dismiss them as just fantasies.

After an incident with a magical unknown woman at the castle gate, his father sends an experienced and masterly tutor, Balisan, to oversee Sigismund’s education – an education that encompasses meditation and magic as well as book-learning.

How is it possible for Sigismund to fulfil his destiny and overcome the powerful magic which has been placed upon the enchanted wood?

This is an exciting page-turner, especially for lovers of fantasy, and even for folk such as me who are not usually ardent fantasy fans. Despite guessing the possible outcome, given that we are all familiar with the fairy story, it is a charming, romantic and pleasing tale. And don’t let “romantic” put the boys off. They will love it too.

The publisher’s age recommendation is from 8 years old, but I think this is a little young – possibly from about 10 years and up.

Reviewed by Beth

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

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