Swanfall - Sophie Kirtley

Pip struggles at school, especially when it comes to concentrating; he's also worried that his best friend is finding new friends.  The one thing Pip loves is nature, particularly birds. As with every winter, Pip is excited about the annual swanfall, a time when the arctic swans make their way back to the wetlands where he lives with his mum.  It's his mum's job, with him, to record the arrival of the birds and catalogue exactly which birds arrive, using their distinctive markings to help.  But this year, Pip's mum is called away and Pip is inadvertently left home alone when the swanfall begins.  And along with it comes a feeling that Pip is being watched.  Something is different and feels wrong and it's going to be up to Pip to discover exactly what is going on.

I love Sophie's books, a quick flick back through my blogs will show you that (in fact, I remember reading The Haunting of Fortune Farm whilst on holiday this time last year, so I was thrilled when I stumbled across Swanfall on NetGalley whilst on holiday last week.  

Sophie has a way of writing books that link so nicely with folklore which gives her stories a timeless fell to them and Swanfall is no exception.  The links with the poems in the book Pip finds, the songs and the legends that are woven into the plot all contribute to creating a novel that will definitely stand the test of time.  

I love Pip as a character, especially his love of nature and the way he embraces what he loves; however, I also like the exploration of friends expanding their friendship circle whilst others feel left behind - it's natural for Pip to worry about Tommo; this is something that happens in school and in life) and it was lovely to see it explored here; it will open up discussions and will help readers to understand that it's ok. 

Swanfall is a beautifully woven story that embraces legend and nature in a plot that will captivate readers.  It's a story about being brave, being yourself and trusting your instincts. 

Publishing, 6th November, Swanfall is the perfect book to curl up with when it's cold and wintery outside. It's another guaranteed hit for Sophie that will warm your heart.