A second adventure story featuring the three children of the Bannerman family, a spooky old house in the neighbourhood, and more supernatural characters. The following summer holidays see the trio working to improve and update the spooky house (owned by Varney the Vampyr). Life couldn’t be better for the friends, but an unforeseen arrival means things are about to change.
The second book in the ‘Varney the Vampyr’ series by David Lowrie is aimed at the wide ranging audience of 7-18 years. Sketch-style illustrations within enhance the storytelling in a brilliant supporting role. Humour, excitement and many twists in the plot create another great read. Encouraging readers to learn about supernatural, magical beings – and another world entirely, this follow on story will spark young imaginations. Friendships and family relations, the importance of keeping an open mind when faced with other species, and using your own natural talents are the learning points in this story, as they were in the first book.
I’d recommend this book for children in the suggested age range safely, either to read alone to help develop skills, or as a group or bedtime read. Parents can use the action in this sibling adventure as separate discussion and learning points. Plus create fun supplementary learning activities, including the additional interactive gamebook once again at the end of the book. Overall I award 5 stars.
1. Storytelling and Narrative Quality 4.5 Stars
Reader interest is held throughout, with an engaging plot, several twists we don’t see coming, and multiple interesting elements. Easy going, free flowing narrative means we race through the book to find out what happens. The world created in this series appears real to the reader, as if we are actually there.
2. Character Development 4.5 Stars
Characters in a supporting role to Varney develop and interact well with each other. Representations are not ‘the norm’ and therefore of more interest, in my opinion.
3. Educational and Developmental Value 5 Stars
This book does support holistic child development and encourages critical thinking. More so than the first book in this series.
4. Illustration Quality 5 Stars
Illustrations both complement key areas in the story and help make the tale more vivid in the readers’ imagination.
5. Emotional Resonance and Impact 4.5 Stars
The impact of this book overall encourages readers to experience a variety of emotional reactions, and leaves a positive lasting impression. Although darker in places than the original, I enjoyed this book more overall.
