Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister

This is a wise and charming story that uses elements of fairytale to impart basic truths. Philippa lives with her eccentric parents who, being party entertainers, revel in conjuring tricks, balloons and fancy dress. They’re warm and loving, but their passion for magic is a source of embarrassment to Philippa. Life takes on a strange twist when newcomer, Daisy, unexpectedly arrives at school. A sullen child, different from the other pupils, it turns out that she’s really a fairy who’s been sent on a mission: to look after Philippa, grant her three wishes and acquire compassion along the way. Although not keen to be lumbered with Daisy, Philippa is delighted to discover that she can use the wishes to change her life. However, as is the way of fairytales, wish fulfilment does not bring about happiness, but self-realisation.

The story alternates between the two voices – Philippa and Daisy’s – so providing the reader with insights into each girl’s point of view. The characters are complex – Daisy is no fairy in the gauzy-winged tradition – and the relationship between Philippa and Daisy is well developed. Most curious is the fairy kingdom to which Daisy belongs. Run like an efficient, almost futuristic bureaucracy, it follows its own rules and codes of behaviour, and sets a time limit to Daisy’s assignment. Her race against time imparts a sense of urgency to events and adds a touching and original dimension to the story. This is a thoroughly enjoyable read with much to offer.