June 2026
The Children of Wolf Rock is an absolutely wonderful companion novel to Natasha Farrant’s The Children of Castle Rock. The stunning mountains of western Scotland are key characters in this compelling story centring on the belief that natural beauty has the power to change lives. Wild and rugged, the mountains bring challenge, opportunity for reflection and a chance to dream.
When Minna travels to Stormy Loch Academy, run by the inspiring headmaster Major Fortescue, she isn’t sure it’s going to be right for her. However, it isn’t long before she falls in love with the open spaces, stunning nature and a secret valley. She feels like she’s come home and, like so many other students, has found a safe haven from her chaotic home life. This is a school that focuses on the beauty of the world and teaches students to fight for it. As a result, they learn to fight for their friends and themselves.
Minna, Kass and Tom all end up staying at school over the Easter break. Minna can’t face the demands and noise of home, feeling much more at peace in the mountains. Kass was supposed to go to Delhi to see his TV explorer parents who were going to take a break from filming. Unfortunately, their schedule ran over and they couldn’t stop to see him. Tom’s parents are divorced and neither remembered they needed to collect him for the holidays. Forgotten and an inconvenience, he’s heartbroken and angry.
Together, this unlikely trio sneak out to explore Wolf Rock. When they discover Addie and her gorgeous fox terrier Kit staying in the bothy, they aren’t sure what to do. Should they keep her secret or tell Major Fortescue? Working out the best way to help seems impossible.
When Addie disappears again, her secrets emerge. Minna, Kass and Tom set off on a risky adventure that will take them the length of the UK. This is a high-stakes mystery that challenges them to do what’s right even when it’s scary. Their emotional bond draws them together, protecting their friendship and helping them to deal with past hurts. When they finally return to Scotland, the peace of nature brings an end to this emotional journey. They reflect on what they’ve learned about themselves and the people they want to be.
As I write this review, I’m on holiday in Western Scotland. The power and beauty of this part of the world seeps into my very being. Next to the grandeur of the mountains, my life feels small yet a sense of freedom blows on the wind allowing me to dream and feel fulfilled. This is a place where we can find better versions of ourselves and leave the stress of the rest of life behind. The Children of Wolf Rock captures this sense of wonder, empowerment and freedom.
Natasha Farrant has the unique ability to write classic stories for modern children. Honest and relevant, they inspire readers to search for strength, courage, freedom and peace in their own lives. They are encouraged to allow nature to change them and to believe anything is possible.
Thank you to Faber for a copy of this inspiring book.
Click on the covers below to find out more or purchase online:
Bookshop.org:
Amazon:
Books by Kate Heap:
| Primary English In Action by Kate Heap will be published in August 2026. Preorder it now! |
Disclosure: If you buy books using the links above, I may earn a commission from Bookshop.org whose fees support independent bookshops. As an Amazon Associate, Scope for Imagination earns from qualifying purchases.
Scope for Imagination 