Clarity Jones and the Magical Detective Agency by Chris Smith

Chris Smith is a master of the quirky! In this slightly eccentric and magical tale there is an ex-princess (aka Clarity Jones) who desperately desires a life beyond castle walls (and also desires pockets) and has sought out mysterious magical items and an opportunity to create her own magical detective agency. Working alongside her are a large monster (a snow gnoblin - and yes, that is how you spell it!) and a semi-retired assassin named Nissassa, and eventually a new apprentice - the poor orphaned boy, nick-named Mutt.  Together they solve a plot that leads them back inside castle walls, using magical skills and the power of the impossible, and their impressive logic skills to unravel some strange mysteries and reveal their worth.

Written with a liberal dose of humour and eccentricity this is just fun from beginning to end. Telling the narrative in nibbles and bites, and with sideways excursions to describe background history or details about magical creatures, this is a rambling and entertaining narrative to appeal to younger readers who love humour with a bit of mystery.  In some places the author takes opportunity to speak directly to the reader to explain little oddities and farcical moments. Chris Smith is the author of the Kid Normal series, so those who have been entertained by his previous funny stories will be delighted with a new offering.  I loved the light-hearted mayhem and frivolous antics of all the characters and would happily recommend this to readers aged 8-12.

Themes: Detectives, Fantasy, Monsters, Magic, Orphans, Royalty.

Carolyn Hull