Book Review: Away With the Fairies by @JennyTwist1

Away With the Fairies By Jenny Twist – 3.5 stars

Lucy likes to stare at the wall. Her mother thinks she is suffering from petit mal but Granny McCurdle says, “ Och, she’s away wi’ the fairies again.”

Nobody takes this literally until Lucy disappears. Her sister knows where she’s gone, but who would believe her? Can she really be away with the fairies?

This short story is cute and sweet, about a little girl living in a house with an unusual secret. It’s hard to say much about it without spoiling the story, as it’s very short – too short by far, if you ask me. The writing is pleasant and easy and I wished it kept going. I want to know more about the Fairyland, about the cat, and about what happens next.

The characters are simple and relatable, which makes sense for the length of the tale. Each seems believable in their own way, as a portrait of an average, normal person of their type. I hesitate to use the word ‘stereotype’, as it has generally negative connotations, and these characters feel like the author knew them in her head, or based them on real people.

The ending is abrupt and leaves many unanswered questions. Children probably would find the ending entirely satisfactory. I thought it needed a little more fleshing out, a little more something. It’s an event-based tale, more about what happens than who it happens to or why.

I recommend this story primarily for children, but anyone who appreciates simplicity in their fantasy would enjoy it.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.