Tilly is getting used to her new life as a book wanderer. Her mum, now home after being missing Tilly’s whole life is also adjusting – quiet and thoughtful much of the time. Tilly wonders whether she misses her book life.

There are changes at the Under Library too – they are the umbrella over the book wanderers of Britain, and the revelation that one of their own was in fact a fictional character has caused an uproar. The kindly Chief Librarian has been demoted from her position after it’s discovered she had her reservations about her colleague but never told anyone. Tilly’s grandparents aren’t happy with the three possible successors – especially one who has suddenly returned from a book wander of decades.

This man blinds all the librarians with charm and wonder and is soon made the leader of them all. He makes it clear very quickly that Tilly’s grandparents are no longer welcome at the Under library, nor her or her mum. They are all upset at his treachery.

With all the upset, Tilly’s grandparents are glad Tilly is to spend some time away in Paris with her best friend Oskar and his family. While they are there, Oskar discovers something he never knew and they are encouraged to book wander into fairytales. This is the very thing Tilly has been warned NOT to do. But Tilly likes the faith put in her by new adult friends.

She and Oskar begin their adventure by meeting Little Red Riding Hood. All seems well at first, until things begin to unravel. Using past skills learnt, they make their way home again. Tensions rise however as Tilly baulks at new rules applied for her safety.

Christmas comes, but so does more upheaval. Will Tilly and Oskar ever book wander again?

I loved this second episode in this exciting series as much as the first. There are power plays, old feuds to settle, betrayals made and trusts broken, all as the world of fairytales is crumbling around the edges. Discovering the reason is a huge reveal and a terrifying moment for Tilly and Oskar.

As a booklover from very small, this series enamours me more and more with each episode as I recognise books and characters from my childhood. The fairytale component of this story is fascinating as it blends and breaks apart right under the character’s feet.

As a reader I saw the natural push pull of a pre-teen pushing boundaries with caregivers after meeting others who give her more freedom.

Can’t wait for the next book in the series – Tilly and the Map of Stories.

Author – Anna James

Age – 8+

(2020, Magic, Books, Reading, Favourite characters, Mystery, Secret, Villains, Bookshop, Grandparents, Series, Fairytales, Control, Action, Adventure, Betrayal, Family, Fantasy, Friendship, Growing up, Mystery, Secret, Pages and Co)