Review by Elaine swan, Langlees Primary School, Falkirk
Suitable for: older 1st level and/or younger 2nd level
Themes – family, siblings, loss of a loved one, adventure, bravery, making each moment count
Small Wonder is an outstanding adventure story that is full of love. The pace and short chapters kept me wanting to read just a bit more and on the edge of my seat right up to end of the book. I also found the ending heart-warming and satisfying.
I loved the variety of characters from Tick, his brother, Leaf, and, of course, the incredible Pebble to the terrible bandits and the evil Hunter to the brave commander and knights and weak-willed King Cass – I could see them all clearly in my mind’s eye as I read the book. Even the presence of their grandfather (who is dead before the story begins) is a significant personality in the story.
The story is told from Tick’s perspective; it is very easy to empathise with this young lad as he grieves for the loss of his grandfather and tries to honour his last words. He questions himself, worrying that he is not good enough, not strong enough and yet, at every turn we see him make kind, thoughtful decisions and constantly strive to do his best.
There is plenty of tension as the story romps along, but there are also tender moments and touches of humour as well. I have never read any of Ross Montgomery’s writing but have just ordered a whole set of his books to introduce to my pupils and add to our school library.
