Harklights - A Review
Harklights Written and illustrated by Tim Tilley Published by Usborne, 2021 The October book in my series of recommended environmental reads for children is Harklights . Winner of the Joan Aiken Future Classics Prize, this debut middle grade novel will appeal to fans of Piers Torday’s Wild books as well as Melissa Harrison’s BB-inspired By Ash, Oak and Thorn and it’s follow up By Rowan and Yew . A teacher of children’s book illustration at City Lit in London, Tilley’s accompanying pictures beautifully compliment this magical story celebrating family, friendship and the natural world; a story that reminds us of the power of nature and our role in maintaining and preserving the environment around us. Protagonist Wick is a resident of the ghastly Harklights Match Factory and Orphanage, where he works tirelessly for menacing Old Ma Bogey. He spends his time dreaming of escape until one day a bird drops something incredible at his...