Nell and the Cave Bear: The Journey Home

This is the second book about Nell and her best friend Cave Bear, from illustrator/author Martin Brown, best known for his hilarious illustrations in Terry Deary’s Horrible Histories series.

After her previous adventures, Nell has decided to stay with the animal loving Sea Clan, rather than go back home with her Cave Clan. When she sets off on a quick visit to see Saira, one of the older members of the Sea Clan, she finds herself caught up in a rescue mission to save her beloved Cave Bear from the clutches of the trouble making Woodland Clan, who are fed up with just eating porridge and are determined to fatten him up for a feast. Will they be able to escape in time and reunite with their friends and the rest of the clan?

Having not read the first book, it did take me a while to catch up with the details and characters in the story, as it does somewhat assume that the reader already knows the history, but as I read on, I was soon caught up in the fast-paced tale and laughing along at the hapless would-be huntsmen.

This is a perfect book for younger readers enjoying their first forays into chapter books, with a heart-warming message of friendship and finding your family. The quirky and humorous illustrations, in a lovely shade of green (to match the Woodland Clan theme, perhaps?) add to the overall fun of the story, which will be enjoyed by adventure seekers and animal lovers alike.