Starfell: Willow Moss and the Lost Day

Willow Moss has a magical power, she is a finder of lost things. Within her family, as magical powers go, hers is less than spectacular. However, when the most powerful witch in the kingdom of Starfell knocks at her door seeking her help, Willow discovers her powers are quite special after all.  There follows a rather unusual quest; to discover how the previous Tuesday has gone missing from everyone’s memory, find out who is responsible and to try to restore people’s memories of the missing day. Success requires Willow not only to show bravery when facing danger but also, in the process, cope with the discovery of a deeply sad lost memory of her own, concerning someone she loves.

With an intriguing opening and a lively narrative style this is a fast paced and enjoyable fantasy adventure story. The world of Starfell is peopled with an array of quirky and appealing characters including Nolin Sometimes who reads forgotten memories and is prone to sudden fainting and a shy and grumpy cat-like creature who is happiest under a bed or zipped up safely in a bag. Team work saves the day as Willow uses her undervalued skills to powerful effect and with a cast of engaging misfits works to rescue the kingdom from an evil being seeking ultimate power. Along the way Willow acquires some rather wonderful magical gadgets which come in handy at specific points in her adventure.

There are many themes touched on in this story for example making the most of your gifts, jealousy and how it can fester and coping with loss. The story also explores a thought-provoking idea, ‘the incredible value and significance of one ordinary day’ and how what happens one day inevitably affects what happens on the next. The storyworld is detailed with colour an important feature, young readers can visualise the iridescent glow of the dragon’s indigo feathers and the paint box colours of the magical forest of Wisperia, indicated in the cover illustration. Internal art work was not included in the proof reviewed. This is the first in a new series likely to be devoured by young fantasy fans who enjoy delving deep into engaging narratives and meeting appealing and unusual characters along the way.