Wacky Bee ISBN 9781999903343 £6.99
An enjoyable book from Norway with an engaging central character who loves inventing. Ollis was named after five women who played important roles in Norwegian history. Her life is in turmoil. Mum’s new boyfriend, Einar, has moved in, and she has a new baby brother. Gro, her best friend, is a source of comfort to her. One day, in the forest the girls find a strange yellow mailbox and meet Borgny. When Ollis finds a postcard from her father she starts on a quest to find him. En route she lies to her friend and feels rejected by Einar and her mother.
The story moves at a quick pace and is exciting and funny. Thonn shows sensitivity in her handling of the rollercoaster of Ollis’ emotions, misunderstandings and expectations. Eventually all is resolved and lessons are learnt as Ollis learns the true meaning of family, and the value of friendship. Shortlisted for the Italian literary prize ‘Premio Strega 2018’, the equivalent of the UK’s Carnegie medal, the book is highly recommended for children aged 9 -11.
Brenda Marshall
