Evenfall: The Golden Linnet by Alexander Armstrong

I’ve been looking forward to Evenfall: The Golden Linnet since I first heard Alexander Arnstrong was writing a book for children. Intelligent and packed full of peril with one twist after another, it is everything I hoped for and more. This is a book to be savoured – giving yourself time to take in every detail, reflect on their significance and make meaningful connections. In a similar vein to Harry Potter, Northern Lights or The Davinci Code, there is an incredible world of symbols, mysterious characters and powerful magic waiting to be discovered.

Sitting at the very top end of middle grade, Evenfall: The Golden Linnet would make a wonderful read aloud (at home or school) for age 9+ (be prepared for lots of discussion). It’s an ambitious independent choice for strong Upper Key Stage Two readers and would be placed perfectly in Key Stage Three. Short chapters keep things moving while the depth of the story will intrique even the most discerning reader. I know my 14 year-old son who was a huge fan of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson will love it.

Set in Durham, The Golden Linnet follows 13-year-old Sam as he comes to the realisation there is something different about himself – something magical, something intensely powerful. Ever since his mum died, his dad hasn’t been coping. Sam tries to help but nothing makes a difference. Sam feels very much alone. A unmistakable buzzing in his chest, the gift of a unique signet pendant in the shape of their family crest, suspicious individuals and the recurrence of a strange legend told through song lead him to clue after clue that reveal his true identity.

Despite the sense that he’s not an ordinary teen, Sam really has no idea what’s coming. He embarks on an emotional quest where he must learn who he can trust and rely on the power of loyalty and love to see him through. Layers of character and plot take readers along on the journey with Sam questioning who is safe and puzzling over how the words of the folksong and the story-tellers he encounters will come together in a community of truth and goodness.

There is so much more that could be said about this brilliant story but I won’t risk spoilers. It is such a pleasure to have something so complex unfold as you read. I would really recommend Year 5 – 9 teachers read this book and recommend it to those children who love coming-of-age stories of legend, magic and truth.

A huge thank you to Hannah Penny & Madelaine Adeane at Farshore for an early copy of this book.

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