I Am Reading: Firebloom by Justin Davies, illustrated by Fracesca Ficorilli
| Publisher: | Floris Books |
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| Publish date: | 21st August 2025 |
Every year, the remote island of Stormcliff puts on a spectacular show, the Firebloom Festival, when thousands of jellyfish light up the night with their luminous glow. But what happens when the jellyfish don't show?
Twelve-year-old Tally Smuck, descendent of famous Sting Winkler Agnes Smuck, knows everyone is depending on her powers to solve the mystery. But she doesn't know where to start. And she's not even sure she has any powers…
This is a lovely and well-written mystery from Justin Davies, with gorgeous illustrations from Francesca Ficorilli (I love Francesca's work, as you can see!). The worldbuilding of this tiny island, and the industries supported by all the many kinds of jellyfish, is really well done, as are the characters. I particularly enjoyed the scenes with Colette – I'm sorry, Zasu – and her shell-based fortune-telling! And it's a clever mystery, too, with good pace and a satisfying ending. Jellytastic!
(Many thanks to Floris Books for sending me a copy of this book)