Mia and the Lightccasters

Beware of the shadows, the Reaper King is coming…

Being an umbra trainer was Mia’s dream until an encounter with a wild creature on the Nightmare Plains leaves her preferring to stay within the safety of the walls of Nubis where she lives, her confidence in tatters. When a surprise attack on the city leads to the capture of her parents and the other umbra tamers, Mia, her little brother, Lucas and friend, TJ must make their way to the City of Light to find help.

I loved this story. There is an energy and directness to the story telling which is instantly engaging and the plot merges various genres in a perfect mixture. I know so many children who are going to absolutely love this!

Mia is a fascinating character. The bond between her family is beautifully portrayed and her relationship with little brother, Lucas, is full of love and tenderness- a real joy to see. Convinced she is not good enough or strong enough to achieve what is expected of her, Mia still faces every challenge thrown at her and comes back stronger and more determined than before. Readers will empathise with her feelings whilst admiring her kind and loyal nature as she refuses to give up on others.

There is much to love about Janelle McCurdy’s world building. Lunis, its cities, the Nightmare Plains, the umbra…the story is rich in description, allowing the reader to escape to each location as the action builds. The plot is well paced and builds to a satisfying conclusion which hints at more to come.

Full page illustrations are scattered throughout the story, adding to its appeal. Sure to be a huge hit with children in UKS2, ‘Mia and the Lightcasters’ is one to move to the top of the reading pile!

Mia and the Lightcasters

Janelle McCurdy, illustrated by Ana Latese

Faber ISBN: 978-0571368433