The glow by Sofie Laguna

Sofie Laguna has been writing for children and adults for over 20 years.

I well remember the publication of My Yellow Blanky and, of course, Too Loud Lily.  I have been astounded and moved by The Eye of the Sheep, The Choke and Infinite Splendours, written for adults.  She is an outstanding creator and obviously writes constantly!  I thoroughly enjoyed the magic of The Song of Lewis Carmichael in recent years, written for middle primary years, and she has now followed up with The Glow, both of which are illustrated so beautifully by Marc McBride.

Written as fantasy for middle grade readers, The Glow tells of two great friends who relish each other’s company, particularly as Megan is obsessed with drawing fantastical creatures and Li writes the stories to go wth the pictures.  The Glow visits the town where they live and everyone is immobilised, except the two girls.  They set out to help, and become entwined in a very exciting series of events involving a terrible monster.  The story is beautifully written and holds much tension for the young reader.  Laguna cleverly brings reality and fantasy together and also acknowledges the power of creativity.  The two friends work their ‘magic’ to the best end.

Themes: Monsters, Creativity, Friendship.

Julie Wells