The Girl of Ink and Stars: just like stars it shines and astounds. 

I had seen lots on Twitter about this beautiful gem of a book. Just from the cover I saw that it was going to be a stand out book. (I know, I know, don’t judge a book by its cover, but c’mon look at it… it’s stunning!). I was super excited for it to come out, and I spent a lot of time talking to Kiran on twitter (@Kiran_MH) about it. The more I found out about it, the more excited I got. Then I was casually shopping in Waterstones and found it, pre-release date. I bought it instantly.

The book is about a young girl, Isabella, who is destined to stay on the island she lives. She dreams of visiting far off lands that her father had mapped as a cartographer. Then one day her friend disappears, so naturally she volunteers to be part of the search party. What she finds on her adventure is a world filled with seemingly true mythical monsters, with lands she never thought she would brave and she becomes more than just a rescuer, but a hero: she has to save the island she so wishes she could leave. 

So, I loved it. I know that younger me would have loved it too. Had it existed when I was a child, I would have thought it was the best thing in the world. I have recommended it to everyone. It is magical, mythical and majestic. Twists and turns, turmoil and tests. A beautifully written book, Kiran has an amazing way with words and writes such descriptive settings that you feel like you could be there. This book is one of those perfect examples of a time when people should consider that children’s books/YA books are better written than some adult books. The journey, the adventure, the narrative are so well done that you’re hooked from the first page. Not only the words but the way in which this book is illustrated. Much like other books I’ve read, this book provides me with another female protagonist who is likeable, badass and gutsy. She’s an excellent role model for girls.

This is one of those books I am absolutely going to use in the classroom. My teaching ideas will come in another blog post!

What do you guys think? Have you read this? Would you use it in the classroom? What would you do with it?

Tell me what you think! Comment or tweet me (@eenalol)!

S x

Photo credit: http://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.com/2016/04/mr-ripleys-enchanted-books-kiran.html