NDHS Book Group

Ghostlines 
I thought that this was a truly wonderful book. It was engaging and compelling; full of adventure and emotion. I love how the characters are brought together by the beauty of nature (including puffins!!) There was nothing that I didn't like about it. I think that this book is suitable for ages 9-11. Overall, I loved it!

Annie

Ghostlines 
Ghostlines review. This book is by my favourite author and so I was delighted to see it has been nominated and shortlisted. This book is so beautiful with a unique, poetic writing style that makes the story so vivid. The beautiful descriptions and phrases contribute greatly to the gripping storyline that makes it all the more special. The way the author portrays Tilda as so passionate is so pure and heartfelt that I as the reader found myself protective of Ayrie. Again, the beautiful figurative language really enhances the story: the picture that has been painted is so clear and vivid. The phrases made me pause and just marvel at the perfectness of that phrase. I loved reading this book and all the others by this author. Thank you Katya Balen for such a stunning book and I would love to read whatever you write next. I hope you are proud of your nomination.

Isabel

Birdie
This book was an amazing story of friendship and loss. I like how it highlights racial discrimination, bullying and what it is like to feel different to people. I particularly like this book because it reminds me of the book Black Beauty and the power of animal companionship. I found that the pace was slightly too slow for me and I would have liked it to be a bit faster. Overall, I thought that this was a great book and I recommend it to animal lovers and younger readers.

Annie