Sparks

Coffin-stealing, boat-burning, telling lies – Carla’s crazy plan includes them all. To make Grandpa’s secret dream come true, she’s ready to break the law, and every rule she’s ever known. But it’s worth it to give him his very last dying wish – a real Viking funeral. Sometimes you have to do what’s wrong to do what’s right… Dark, funny and striking, this tale of loyalty and farewells from prize-winning author Ally Kennen is a true original.

“Has a beautiful emotional intelligence and humour that make its suspense all the more enjoyable. It is one of the best new books for 9+ out this year.” The Times

“Enterprising writing of a high calibre.” Independent on Sunday

“Inventive, funny and moving… one of the season’s stand-outs.” Children’s Bookseller

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Recent reviews

  • I think it is really interesting but a bit childish.

    8 March 2014

  • An outstanding adventure book. It would not usually be my type of book but this book just pulled me in. The book would make a fantastic film as it has all of the emotions included. For example at the start your sad then you are happy. I don’t have a favourite character because I could not choose between Carla, Woody and Penny. I rate this book * 5 stars! Children aged 9+ really should read this book!

    Georgia, age 10

    24 February 2011

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Authors

  • Photo of Ally Kennen

    Ally Kennen

    Ally Kennen grew up in an isolated farm on Exmoor, with no flushing toilet, dead tadpoles in the taps, and annual rat infestations. Throughout her childhood the farm was a foster home to many children and teenagers. Ally has worked as a classroom assistant, nursery nurse, museum guard and archaeologist.

    Awards

    Ally Kennen won the Manchester Book Award for her first novel Beast, and both the Leicester Book of the Year and North East Book Award for Beserk.

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