Raised by moths by Charlie Archbold. Illus. by Michelle Conn

The striking midnight blue, pink and white front cover of Raised by Moths will draw readers to this beautiful picture book. The front and back endpapers are just as gorgeous and showcase a luminescent fluttering of moths across the pages.

The story begins with an evening visit by Willow and her Mum to the amusements at a fairground. Willow joins an unknown boy on the Ferris Wheel and they set off into the sparkling night sky. There is a sudden stop while they are at the top and the young boy reassures Willow all will be ok. He claps and rubs his hands and there is a magical display of silver moths. The boy tells Willow he was raised by moths until he was three and then adopted by a human family whom he loves. He will always love the moths and be at one with them. They return to the ground safely and Willow and her mum head over to the fields near the fairground and greet the horses that always come willingly to Willow. Will Willow remember the time before she was adopted?

This wonderful book is pure fantasy and brings a sense of joy to the reader with the thoughtful and engaging text. The stunning illustrations add to the imaginative quality of the story and will delight readers, both young and old.

Themes: Fantasy, Imagination, Children, Family, Moths, Ferris Wheel, Nature, Adoption.

Kathryn Beilby