Arthur and the Wild Griffin

Have you ever heard of the Fantasy Zoo? No? Neither had Arthur – but Arthur is a bit of a dreamer so it should not surprise the reader when Arthur finds himself mistaken for an elf and in charge of tending a menagerie of fantastical creatures ranging from hungry trolls and angry flying horses to a wild griffin. Surprisingly Arthur turns out to be brilliant – but there is a problem, Arthur is a human boy and no humans are allowed in the zoo! Any discovered will be punished. However, the zoo also has a problem and human Arthur may be the solution. How will it all turn out?

This is a lively, engaging and humorous adventure designed to capture the attention of KS2 readers who are looking for a mix of the funny and the fantastic. Arthur is an engaging protagonist. While real life may see him as a daydreamer, frequently attracting the critical attention of teachers – and bullies – here in the Fantasy Zoo skills picked up at school serve him well. While the choice of a Zoo may cause some thought, the author is careful to ensure survival and real care are paramount, a subtle undercurrent. The text moves along briskly, dialogue helping move the action along while interspersed there are interesting – if idiosyncratic  – panels introducing the creatures. The characters are recognisable, their actions consistent and believable with the context of the narrative – Morgana a particularly effective villain. The vignettes from the pen of Mark Beech add to the drama and enjoyment of the whole. Young readers will look forward to further adventures with Arthur and the elf Cordelia. A very enjoyable and accessible read to be promoted.