The Way to Impossible Island
Mothgirl and Dara have each set out on their own journey; Mothgirl to find her brother and Dara to get to Lathrin Island by himself, fed up with waiting for his Big Operation to help his serious heart condition. This is a timeslip novel – Dara and Mothgirl are from the same place, but eons apart. Despite Mothgirl coming from the Stone Age, the premise feels very believable, which is a testament to Kirtley’s strong characters.
The inclusion of a map at the beginning of the book marks the start of this excellent adventure story. Told from Dara and Mothgirl’s points of view, the story’s alternating perspectives complement each other. I found this technique particularly gripping in the build-up to the two characters meeting. The challenges the duo face at sea and out in the natural world are especially memorable. Mothgirl’s pet wolf is a personal favourite.
Dara’s frustration with his illness is evident throughout the book and this aspect of the story is extremely grounded. This is a sequel to Kirtley’s first novel The Wild Way Home but reads as a standalone. Accepting yourself as you are, not as you or others want you to be, is the key message from this brave and exciting adventure.
