The three further books in this series follow the familiar themes and patterns portrayed in the previous books. This makes them a comfortable read for those who have enjoyed the first ‘Rainbow School’ books and, in particular, those with Asperger’s Syndrome who may like the element of prediction in each plot line and those who find familiarity helpful. Julie day’s writing is clear and easy to read. She makes effective use of different length sentences, and the pace of the stories is good.
Each of the characters attend the ‘Rainbow School’ and have Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. The children all have challenges to overcome and strengths to find. A visit to ‘another world’ by the means of magic items of clothing is how this is achieved.
A number of pressing issues for the children are addressed including bullying, self-doubt, bravery, collaborating successfully with others and displaying hitherto hidden talents. In these later books, the joy of teaching skills to other children is particularly strong and becomes a major theme. Discovering a personal talent or strength shown to them in the ‘other world’ continues to be a central element of each
story.
At the end of each book is a personal message from the author to her readers. In the last book about Erin, detail about Julie Day’s medical condition is discussed with grateful thanks to those who cared for her and also those who have helped her with the books. Maybe not everyone would be drawn to this level of personal information, but others will find it interesting and helpful. The book cover illustrations are striking and strong with three children portrayed in a colourful way and with the enticing detail of the item of clothing set to be transformative in the story.
In the last book about Erin, all the characters from the previous books are drawn together in an effective way as the series reaches an uplifting conclusion.
Mutual support and caring from friends and family are the dominant theme of each of the books.
I award 4 stars.
