Sofie Launa and Mark McBride, The Glow, Allen & Unwin, March 2023, 192 pp., RRP $16.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781761066825
The Glow by Sofie Laguna is a thrilling middle-grade horror novel that captivates readers with its spooky adventure and themes of friendship and creativity. The story centres around Megan and Li, two creative and imaginative friends who share a passion for fantastical creatures. Megan’s drawings come to life with Li’s vivid storytelling, and the two play off each other to bring their mysterious creatures to life.
On the last day of school before the holidays, a strange blue glow emanates from various devices, and everyone in town, except Megan and Li, is immobilised. The girls set out to seek help and soon discover that they are somehow immune to the strange glow. As they explore their town, they come across a terrible alien monster that has ensnared everyone else around them. Together, they must use their creative energies to battle the monster and save their loved ones from its grip.
One of the best things about The Glow is the relatable characters of Megan and Li. The author has crafted two likeable and well-rounded characters for whom readers will support. Their friendship is the heart of the story, and their creative energy and imagination are a refreshing change from the rising reliance on technology in today’s world.
The author’s writing is excellent, and the pacing is perfect, building tension and suspense until the thrilling conclusion. The book’s themes of friendship, creativity, and imagination are beautifully woven into the story, creating a heart-warming and inspiring read that will leave readers feeling uplifted and empowered.
The inclusion of Marc McBride’s illustrations is another highlight of this book. His vivid and intricate artwork brings the story to life with rich colours and detailed backgrounds that enhance the overall reading experience. His illustrations range from whimsical to dark and eerie, perfectly capturing the mood of the story.
Overall, The Glow is an excellent middle-grade horror novel that offers a thrilling and spooky adventure while promoting the power of friendship, creativity, and imagination.
But let’s shine a light on the alien in the room. Yes, The Glow clearly taps into the Stranger Things market; you can’t miss it – it’s right there on the cover. But considering the target age of the readers – middle graders – these readers might not yet be ready for the horror series, but still want to be a part of the journey. The Glow provides a brilliant stepping stone into more frightening media and a taste of the Stranger Things world.
The characters are well-developed, the plot is intriguing and compelling, and the illustrations are beautiful. The book is an excellent choice for parents looking for a spooky and thrilling read that promotes creativity and imagination in their young readers. It’s a great addition to any children’s bookshelf and is sure to be a favourite for years to come.
Highly recommended!
Reviewed by Geni Kuckhahn
