Kumiko and the Shadow Catchers

Kumiko and the Shadow Catchers by Briony Stewart (UQP)

PB RRP $14.95

ISBN: 9780702238741

Reviewed by Jo Burnell

This third Book in the Kumiko and the Dragon Trilogy holds the ultimate climax to a scary story without being too terrifying.

In Book Two, the Shadow Catchers kidnapped Kumiko’s little sister. They planned to pin her shadow down and take her special powers away. Kumiko nearly lost her own shadow when she came to the rescue. Prone to nightmares even as an adult, I was a little bit freaked by the themes of this second book.

In stark contrast, Book 3 is full of light, hope and possibilities. Despite the dilemmas and seeming challenges, Kumiko’s will to do something shines through. The problem of the shadow catchers weighs heavily on her heart. She knows that no one will be free from fear until the Shadow Catchers are defeated.

Kumiko decides she must rid the Shadow Catchers of their ability. Can one little girl find the courage and strength to outwit powerful Shadow Catchers? The Council of Ancient Dragons don’t think so.

This doesn’t deter Kumiko for a moment. She decides to try whether she gets help or not. Will Kumiko ever see her family again? As with so many good tales, help comes from unexpected places.

Get ready for a riveting read with a satisfying end: the perfect combination for a middle reader.