Into the Faerie Hill
Whilst his father is working with a construction company on a tunnelling project through a local hill, Alfred is to stay with his grandmother under a forest topped cliff. Everything is strange and unfamiliar- particularly the odd little faerie creatures that only he can see. When he meets local girl, Saga, he starts to really appreciate the beauty of the area and the threat it is under from the construction project his father is involved in. As he joins Saga in the protests, he is drawn deeper into the world of the faerie, trying to discover the secrets of his past as well as saving the beauty of the natural world.
‘Into the Faerie Hill’ is a wonderfully atmospheric, magical story, full of mystery, but one which carries a powerful environmental message. Once started, it is impossible to put down.
The story is richly descriptive, quickly immersing the reader. Alfred is conscious of his differences, both physical and in his ability to see things which others can’t, but the wonderful Saga’s natural openness and free-spirit allow him to relax and enjoy a genuine friendship. Her passion for the natural world and the local area are as inspiring as her loyalty and support of Alfred. Together, they make a formidable team.
Folklore is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story as Alfred seeks answers to questions about his mother, who -he believes- died twelve years ago. His father and grandmother are reluctant to talk about her and Alfred has to piece together the truth whilst facing the perils of the faerie.
There are so many elements to enjoy here, appealing to different people as they enjoy the story as a whole. The map at the beginning - who doesn’t love a map?!- also has a floor plan of Granny’s cottage, showing the location of the carved figures which are placed around the house, an attention to detail to support the reader which some of us really appreciate!
Perfect for those looking for something a little different, this is one not to be missed!
Into the Faerie Hill H S Norup
Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782693864
Published 2nd March 2023
You can read my review of The Hungry Ghost here.
