Glassborn by Peter Bunzl, the standalone sequel to Magicborn, is a treat of a read. A story in the best tradition of children’s literature, a magical, historical fantasy tale of riddles and curses, secrets, spells and excitement set in an icy world ruled by a wicked Fairy Queen and featuring four brave children. Glassborn is a captivating story with literary connections to Narnia and Bronte and containing so much hope in its pages.

In 1826, as the Winter solstice approaches, the four Belle siblings arrive at their new home, Fairykeep Cottage. Their mother has died and their grief stricken father has travelled with his children to live with their Aunt. Here Acton, the youngest member of the family, discovers a hidden key that opens a door into Fairyland. But when he ventures through he’s kidnapped by the Fairy Queen’s servants. His siblings, Cora, Elle and Bram, set out on a quest to rescue their brother. But Fairyland is full of dangers and to overcome the Fairy Queen they will need all their courage and help from others. But who can they trust as they embark on their journey?

Inspired by the imaginary worlds created by the famous Brontë sisters, who loved to weave stories about places called Glass Town, Gondal and Angria, and wrote them down in fairy-sized newspapers and by Peter Bunzl’s childhood love of the Chronicles of Narnia this charming and enjoyable story also contains references to fairy tales and folklore such as The Green Man. Some of these elements will be recognisable to young readers and others may need guidance by an adult for them to appreciate fully. This, I think, is a wonderful way of broadening a child’s reading experience and understanding. As a child I felt a strong connection with the Narnia stories and as a teen greatly enjoyed reading Jane Eyre and I have a feeling that Glassborn will encourage that special reading experience for today’s readers.

The plot is engrossing with some tense cliffhangers and is told from the point of view of both Acton and his older sister Cora, both of whom are likeable protagonists. The story incorporates the deep emotions of loss and grief but also love and hope. There are some poignant moments but Peter Bunzl ensures that his readers end on a note of hopeful optimism. I’m glad I read this and am keen to read Magicborn now, which somehow I had missed.

Thank you to Eve Wersocki Morris and Usborne Books for providing my review copy. Glassborn is published on 9th November.

If you would like to read another book for children inspired by CS Lewis’s classic stories I would recommend The Lost Magician by Piers Torday. Barrington Stoke have published some excellent abridged versions of the classics including those written by the Brontë sisters. Tanya Landman’s retelling of Jane Eyre captures the heart of the story that made such an impact on me as a youngster and her version of Wuthering Heights converted me to a book I had always struggled with.