The Map of Leaves

LoveReading4Kids Says

Shortlisted for The Branford Boase Award 2023

From a very appropriately named author, we have a wonderfully well realised fantasy world that has its roots quite literally in our own natural environment. But here plants have a major part to play - even communicating with our brave and resilient heroine Orla, an orphan who has lived on her own in the village of Thorn Creek since the death of her Ma, with only her beloved garden for company.

A mysterious illness threatens the village and when nature itself is blamed, Orla rises to its defence and knows that she must find a cure. With her mother’s secret book of plants and remedies in her bag she hides away on a river boat with two other local children, Idris and Ariana, with the intention of discovering the truth about the illness. They get swept up into a dangerous adventure as they race upriver and against time to solve the mystery. Orla is a prickly and fiercely independent character, scornful of Ariana and distrustful of Idris and the gradual growth of trust and friendship is a very satisfying aspect of the story.

The solution to their village’s predicament lies in nature itself and the importance of respecting nature rather than exploiting it for selfish gain, is key to the final resolution. The exploration of how those in power spread lies to serve their own purpose, fearmongering to deflect blame, often onto a wise woman like Orla’s Ma, is another strong theme.

A rather lovely feature is the way each chapter heading incorporates the name of a plant and its uses which complements the way in which the plants themselves feature in the story, supporting Orla throughout. A thrilling and absorbing eco-adventure that will gain many fans who will be keen to see what Yarrow Townsend will write next. Highly recommended.

Joy Court

Find This Book In