Frances Hardinge - Paper Lanterns

The Forest of a Thousand Eyes is a richly woven tapestry of adventure, mystery, and moral complexity. Set in a world where the boundary between reality and the supernatural is beautifully blurred, the novel invites readers into the depths of a haunting forest.

The story centers around a young protagonist who embarks on a journey filled with peril and wonder. Hardinge’s ability to blend whimsical elements with darker themes captivates the reader, drawing them into the narrative. The characters are multi-dimensional, each facing their own inner struggles and growth throughout the tale.

The author’s lyrical prose and intricate world-building create an immersive reading experience. Hardinge’s attention to detail and knack for vivid imagery, along with Emily Gravett’s beautiful illustrations, bring the forest to life, making it feel both enchanting and threatening. Readers will find themselves captivated by the lush descriptions and the rich symbolism that permeates the narrative.

The Forest of a Thousand Eyes showcases Frances Hardinge’s exceptional storytelling skills. The dialogue flows naturally, enhancing character development and adding to the overall richness of the narrative. It is a tale that resonates with readers of all ages, encouraging reflection on themes such as truth, choice, and the intricate bonds that tie us all together.

This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys immersive fantasy and character-driven stories, and it is perfect for fans of Chris Colfer’s Land of Stories.

Review by Isobel Thorne, 17

The Forest of a Thousand Eyes
Frances Hardinge
Illustrated by Emily Gravett
Two Hoots, 2024
Hardback, £14.99
ISBN: 9781529090802

Unraveller
Frances Hardinge
Macmillan, September 2022
Paperback £12.99
ISBN 9781529080407

The story of a world where anyone can cast a life-destroying curse, but only one person can undo them. Kellen and his friend Nettle adventure and help out those who have been cursed, but Kellen himself has been cursed. Unless he and Nettle remove his curse, he is in danger of unravelling everyone and everything close to him.

Unraveller is an extremely unique story about 2 teens in an interesting world. The plot is something I’ve never read about before. The characters, even when faced with hardship or difficulty, are always written so well. Both of the main characters have interesting and special traits, even reading about most of the side characters made me want to know more about them.

One thing I especially enjoyed in the book was the relationship, friendship and communication between Nettle and her brother. I loved how what they went through affected how they talked to each other, and how they always understood and found each other no matter what. This book is funny, emotional and always had me hooked. The writing in it is beautiful and it made me feel so much, whether it was joy, sadness or shock for the characters. You can imagine both the scenery and the characters with so much ease, as the writing makes it so easy.

I loved this book, and I think anyone who enjoys fantasy and even just books about friendship would too.

Hanna Geszczak, 13