Jackson Pearce, Maggie Steifvater, Pip Bartlett’s Guide to Magical Creatures, Scholastic Australia, 1 July 2015, 192pp., $14.99 (pbk), ISBN: 9781760156954
“The Unicorns arrived right after the buses”. I was enthralled from this first sentence! A feisty, energetic main character, uppity, self-absorbed unicorns and cute combustible Fuzzles… I am smitten! Pip has a passion for magical creatures but nobody believes she can talk to them. Armed with her favourite book by Jeffrey Higgleston she is determined to meet as many magical creatures as she can, noting new and vital findings against the author’s research. Many of us will relate to Pip as she strives to be honest about her passion and her gift, but is heartsore that those closest to her do not believe her. Pip and her Aunt Emma work tirelessly to find a solution to the inundation of fiery magical creatures to their town as Mrs Dreadbatch from S.M.A.C.K.E.D (Supernatural/Magical Animal Care, Keeping and Education Department) threatens to annihilate the Fuzzles.
You will find endearing pictures of magical creatures (and Tomas) and their attributes, although some of the information did not fit on the page. The collaboration between Jackson Pearce and Maggie Stiefvater is seamless. A book of acceptance and friendship, determination to follow a passion and a desire to discover and learn. Give me more! Recommended for ages 8+
Reviewed by Sharon Smith
