I read this as I had seen the stage production with a friend's daughter performing. It's a book for children, primarily boys, about a small boy called Ruskin who is bullied, and who wants to be a hero.

There's a large and vicious alligator who lives in the sewers,, several caricatured adults (including Ruskin's rather sad parents and his teacher) and a bully who breaks windows and sleep walks. Given his environment, Ruskin is quite well-balanced. His only friend is the school caretaker.

The writing is good and there's plenty of action. One rather disturbing event near the end, and some scenes that could be scary for sensitive children. But for newly-fluent readers of about eight and up, who like action-based books, this could be a good choice.

Full review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2019/06/krindlekrax-by-philip-ridley.html ( )

I have read this to my seven year old granddaughter over four sessions, each of about an hour. I have to admit to being quite a spirited reader and this both witty and, at times, moving book gave me plenty of scope (I woke up this morning with a sore throat from too much roaring.) We both enjoyed it enormously! Now it is our yak to find the next read. ( )

Winner of the 1991 Smarties Prize for 9-11 year olds this story features Ruskin who although small and thin dreams of being a hero. He lives in Lizard Street in the East End of London and loves the street's eccentric inhabitants. Events both mysterious and sad begin to overtake Ruskin's life.

Modren fairy tale. ( )

26