The Feathers of Farwood and the Gripps Curse (Jayne McIntyre, Riveted Press)

Jayne McIntyre’s debut novel, The Feathers of Farwood and the Gripps Curse, is the first in a new trilogy. Set in the small Australian town of Farwood, the story blends mystery and European folklore with the distinctive rhythms of country life. Eva Feathers and her family arrive in town carrying secrets: the Gripps curse has turned Eva’s father into an owl, and both Eva and her sister are beginning to show signs of the same transformation. Racing against time, the sisters must find a way to save their father, themselves and possibly the entire town. When Eva befriends Harvey, who has his own secrets, the pair break into the town’s underground archives in search of answers, pursuing a legendary magic book that may or may not exist. Told through the dual perspectives of human and animal, the novel’s strength lies in the courage and determination Eva and her family draw upon as they fight the Gripps curse and attempt to reclaim Eva’s father. Themes of friendship and identity are explored alongside a clear battle between good and evil, while social divisions within Farwood, including wealth and status, are nicely juxtaposed against the experiences of newcomers and outsiders. Animal facts are woven into the narrative, providing informative reference points that enhance the plot. The brisk pace and blend of old-fashioned details and modern technology keep the story engaging and accessible for readers aged 11 to 14.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Tony Doyle is an educator, teacher and writer. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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