Alana Oakley: Mystery & Mayhem by
Poppy Inkwell (Big Sky Publishing) PB RRP $14.99
ISBN 9781925275124
Reviewed
by J Wishart
This
debut novel by Philippine-born Poppy Inkwell is the first in the Alana Oakley
series aimed at 11 to 13 year-olds. Alana has just turned 12 and finished
primary school. Her father passed away three years earlier, but Alana lives an
eventful life with her mum in Marrickville, Sydney – all of which is
well-evoked by the author’s animated narrative.
For
its target age-group, this book is interesting in that it strongly features adult
characters – albeit somewhat comical ones – with alternate chapters following
Alana and her friends, then switching to focus on Alana’s groovy and
young-at-heart mum, Emma – including her teen-dream job as an investigative
journalist.
This
dual narrative makes for a varied and lively read and enables layering of
action-and-consequence that adds to the complexity and reader satisfaction.
There is rarely a dull moment as Alana deals with new friendships, her first
days of high school and a stolen jewellery item. Meanwhile, Emma
has problems scheduling an interview with a famous and reclusive rock star
around the interference of her mischievous friends, who also act as Emma’s
self-appointed – and opinionated – personal stylists.
The
text is filled with familiar popular-culture references and a slapstick humour
that edges towards questionable in a couple of instances, but overall rollicks
along and provides plenty of entertainment. The characters are likeable,
diverse and fun and the narrative offers positive messages about
responsibility, acceptance, friendship, support and loyalty.
Slightly
wacky and sufficiently charming, Mystery & Mayhem would
make a natural progression for those who enjoyed series such as ‘Go Girl’ as
younger readers. As well as this, the series has the potential to appeal to
older readers who still enjoy a bit of tween-age escapism.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Buzz Words Books would love to hear what you think.