Topaz and the Green Fairies

Topaz and the Green Fairies by Pat Frayne (self published)

PB RRP

ISBN 9781518621154

Reviewed by Kel Butler

From the first few pages I was completely drawn into this book. It opens with a bang, suspenseful and gripping, leaving you wanting for more by the end of the first chapter but making you wait to get it.

Topaz and the Green Fairies is one in a series of books, for 9-12 year olds which follows the adventures of Topaz, a magical Conjure Cat who rules peacefully over Knownotten Kingdom, a land filled with mythical beings and talking animals.

In this installment, Topaz meets Bozel, a green fairy on a desperate quest to save his people from a violent storm, which is destroying their island and everyone with it. Topaz recruits his friends, Otis the Owl, Daisy the Deer and Dooley the Raccoon, to undertake a courageous adventure, where they will not only face terrifying monsters but also the very depths of their own fears. Only through conquering both will they be able to save the Green Fairies in time.

I really enjoyed this book and have no problem recommending it for both boys and girls in the 9 to 12 age group. The story has a charming Narnia-esque feel to it, full of fantasy, with strong, mythical characters and plenty of cliffhanger moments. Pat Frayne has done an exquisite job of weaving the themes of universal kindness, acceptance and understanding seamlessly throughout the text, making it a real pleasure to read.