The Quest for Queenie

Rumbustious quest tale for sevens to nines in which spirited Harry and Jill pursue pet dog with the help of a magic sword. I like the writer's witty use of mythic origins - I told my eight and nine-year-old listeners part of 'The Ring' legend - and there's a well-sustained sense of fun throughout. Like all good writers for the age group, Mr Ball keeps a sense of human foibles going: the two protagonists have the odd squabble; bubble gum is important; Mum wants them home for tea. Good pictures, too.