What do you think?
Who Framed Klaris Cliff?
People used to call them 'friends' and said how they were good for your brain. And then a day came when all that changed . . . when they became our enemy.
Now, anyone found harbouring a rogue imaginary person is in for the Cosh, an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever's in there, out of existence.
That's why I wish Klaris Cliff had never shown up. And why I know that proving her innocence is the last hope I have of saving myself.
Funny, quirky, and intriguing. This is a gripping read.
Now, anyone found harbouring a rogue imaginary person is in for the Cosh, an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever's in there, out of existence.
That's why I wish Klaris Cliff had never shown up. And why I know that proving her innocence is the last hope I have of saving myself.
Funny, quirky, and intriguing. This is a gripping read.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2014
About the author
Nikki Sheehan
8 books52 followersNikki Sheehan is the youngest daughter of a rocket scientist. She went to a convent school in Cambridge where she was taught by real nuns in long black habits. She studied linguistics and then psychology and worked as a subtitler for the Simpsons, followed by many years as a journalist. She lives in Hove near the beach with her husband, three children, two dogs, one cat and definitely no more hamsters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 20, 2014
What if children's imaginary friends were actually real - and what if the adults all thought they were dangerous? Nikki Sheehan's wonderful, touching and very clever story explores just that. The kid characters in this are just brilliant - so funny and real (and quite gross sometimes) - the mystery element is a lot of fun and there's an amazing twist in the tale that I'm still reeling from. I loved it!
January 25, 2014
A very original story premise complete with family dynamics to rival Hilary McKay's Cassons. I read this in 3 sittings- the short chapters worked brilliantly. What I also loved was how the tone changed from something quite dark and sinister to a become a very moving tale of loss. A brilliant debut.
January 28, 2014
I was lucky enough to both receive an ARC of this exciting debut novel from Oxford University Press and to attend a bloggers evening where I got to hear the author read from her novel and speak about her writing experience. More on that later including a guilty admission of my own…
Among a host of intriguing characters (real and imaginary) is our main character Joseph whose father is raising him on his own after his mother disappeared two years previously then sent a postcard from Spain telling him in the vaguest of ways that she would be back “in the summer.” Joseph still has faith that his mother will return, after all she didn’t specify WHICH summer she would be back but his father has begun to date again, which Joseph squirms away from with the usual teenage distaste! This is no ordinary single-parent, teenage angst story however. It is a story where the imaginary friends of our childhood really do exist and they can go rogue i.e. jump into another person’s mind, feed dogs alcohol, damage cars, break essential medical devices – you know, the usual madness and mayhem. This is why anybody harbouring one is immediately taken for a procedure known as the “Cosh,” in which they eliminate the imaginative part of the brain for good. Yup, that’s right. No more imagination, no more make-believe, surely a nightmare for any child? (apart from the obvious danger of brain zapping of course).
The problem is that our hero Joseph’s brain is now riddled with an imaginary friend who has hopped over from his neighbours child Flea, and her name is Klaris Cliff. She is being accused of carrying out a variety of mischief, and Joseph is in real danger of losing the part of his brain that can still imagine his mum returning home to him. Teaming up with Flea, he knows that Klaris is innocent, and makes it his mission to find out who is framing Klaris and why before it is too late.
Although this novel is probably aimed at an age range a wee bit lower than myself, I’m really glad I got the opportunity to read this quirky and highly original piece of writing. It has a range of characters to fall in love with – this even takes into consideration the slightly creepy twins Egg and Willis, and has a fast-paced, dramatic and slightly bitter-sweet ending that I think children will really enjoy. The idea of the “Cosh” procedure to remove an imaginary friend was absolutely terrifying and ingenious, and made me question whether the author was from a scientific background, as in my field we have COSHH which stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health! Then I found out that she is the youngest daughter of a rocket scientist, so I’m wondering now if this is where she got her inspiration from?
I really enjoyed listening to Nikki speak at the Oxford University Press bloggers night, especially as she told us of her own experiences with a recurring imaginary friend who bore an uncanny similarity to one experienced by her older brother, and decades later, her own daughter.
Then we were asked if any of us had any imaginary friends when we were younger. Yep, that was me in the second row, admitting to having a lion who lived behind the sofa that we had to feed on a regular basis. The shame! This is why I should never be allowed out in public. Anyway, read Nikki’s amazing debut novel Who Framed Klaris Cliff? For yourself, for your kids, for your inner kid, just read it.
With many thanks to Oxford University Press for their hospitality and a great evening. I’ll leave the final words to Nikki.
“In this book I also wanted to give a shout out to imagination, that weird substance as malleable as clay that seems to dry out as we grow up, and which we forget can be so powerful. You can make anything with it, castles in the sky, ponies, Christmas day and yes, even friends, which, if you’re anything like me, you will carry with you throughout your life. Keep dreaming, Nikki Sheehan.
Please see my full review at http://www.bibliobeth.com
Among a host of intriguing characters (real and imaginary) is our main character Joseph whose father is raising him on his own after his mother disappeared two years previously then sent a postcard from Spain telling him in the vaguest of ways that she would be back “in the summer.” Joseph still has faith that his mother will return, after all she didn’t specify WHICH summer she would be back but his father has begun to date again, which Joseph squirms away from with the usual teenage distaste! This is no ordinary single-parent, teenage angst story however. It is a story where the imaginary friends of our childhood really do exist and they can go rogue i.e. jump into another person’s mind, feed dogs alcohol, damage cars, break essential medical devices – you know, the usual madness and mayhem. This is why anybody harbouring one is immediately taken for a procedure known as the “Cosh,” in which they eliminate the imaginative part of the brain for good. Yup, that’s right. No more imagination, no more make-believe, surely a nightmare for any child? (apart from the obvious danger of brain zapping of course).
The problem is that our hero Joseph’s brain is now riddled with an imaginary friend who has hopped over from his neighbours child Flea, and her name is Klaris Cliff. She is being accused of carrying out a variety of mischief, and Joseph is in real danger of losing the part of his brain that can still imagine his mum returning home to him. Teaming up with Flea, he knows that Klaris is innocent, and makes it his mission to find out who is framing Klaris and why before it is too late.
Although this novel is probably aimed at an age range a wee bit lower than myself, I’m really glad I got the opportunity to read this quirky and highly original piece of writing. It has a range of characters to fall in love with – this even takes into consideration the slightly creepy twins Egg and Willis, and has a fast-paced, dramatic and slightly bitter-sweet ending that I think children will really enjoy. The idea of the “Cosh” procedure to remove an imaginary friend was absolutely terrifying and ingenious, and made me question whether the author was from a scientific background, as in my field we have COSHH which stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health! Then I found out that she is the youngest daughter of a rocket scientist, so I’m wondering now if this is where she got her inspiration from?
I really enjoyed listening to Nikki speak at the Oxford University Press bloggers night, especially as she told us of her own experiences with a recurring imaginary friend who bore an uncanny similarity to one experienced by her older brother, and decades later, her own daughter.
Then we were asked if any of us had any imaginary friends when we were younger. Yep, that was me in the second row, admitting to having a lion who lived behind the sofa that we had to feed on a regular basis. The shame! This is why I should never be allowed out in public. Anyway, read Nikki’s amazing debut novel Who Framed Klaris Cliff? For yourself, for your kids, for your inner kid, just read it.
With many thanks to Oxford University Press for their hospitality and a great evening. I’ll leave the final words to Nikki.
“In this book I also wanted to give a shout out to imagination, that weird substance as malleable as clay that seems to dry out as we grow up, and which we forget can be so powerful. You can make anything with it, castles in the sky, ponies, Christmas day and yes, even friends, which, if you’re anything like me, you will carry with you throughout your life. Keep dreaming, Nikki Sheehan.
Please see my full review at http://www.bibliobeth.com
December 5, 2014
Moontrug had been noticing the glowing reviews and gushing comments surrounding Nikki Sheehan’s Who Framed Klaris Cliff? and so on a recent book-buying spree, she grabbed a copy. And from the first few pages she could see what all the hype was about…
People used to call them ‘friends’ and said how they were good for your brain. And then a day came when all that changed… When they became the enemy. Now, anyone found harbouring a rogue imaginary person is in for the COSH – an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever’s in there, out of existence. That’s why I wish Klaris Cliff had never shown up and why I know that proving her innocence is that last hope I have of saving myself.
The story is told by Joseph, an ordinary, popular boy who loves playing video games and hanging around with his best friend, Rocky. He’s the last person you’d expect to have an imaginary friend, so when Klaris shows up, Joseph’s world is turned upside down. Sheehan draws on the imaginary friend concept in a totally original, subtle and almost unnerving way, and Joseph’s exasperation at having to listen to Klaris is brilliantly done: ‘I breathed deeply then spoke to the air in a thin whisper. “Happy now? Is that what you wanted? Why don’t you just go back to Flea and stop ruining my life!”‘
But a world without imagination, as Joseph comes to realise, holds terrifying consequences: ‘I’d never be able to imagine myself wing-walking on a biplane. Or playing basketball on the moon. Or diving with sharks.’ And so Joseph embarks on a journey to defend the one person he was adamant didn’t exist… The book is filled with engaging characters – take the gorgeous (and well-named) Flea who harbours his imaginary friend so willingly and is adorable in his vulnerability when faced with bully Charlie, who asks Flea to empty his pockets: ‘These shorts don’t have pockets, which is quite unusual. Most of my trousers do. Some have them at the sides and the back.’ Or Flea’s sister, Pooh: ‘A hairpin? Perhaps you’d like a piece of whale bone from my corset as well? What century do you think this is?’ But set against their childlike innocence you have characters like Mr Jones, the RIPS co-ordinator, a Gradgrindian meanie out to COSH all imaginary friends. There was a glimpse of Philip Pullman’s Gobblers in Mr Jones, and Joseph and Flea, like Lyra and Roger, must stand up to the adult world to fight for what they believe in.
Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is a brilliantly original read for 10+ years. It boasts a truly powerful ending and throughout the story, Sheehan champions one of the most important things in life: the imagination. As Einstein once said: ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.’ Moontrug can’t wait to see what Nikki Sheehan writes next and in the meantime, you can find her book up on Moontrug’s Altocumulus Tower…
People used to call them ‘friends’ and said how they were good for your brain. And then a day came when all that changed… When they became the enemy. Now, anyone found harbouring a rogue imaginary person is in for the COSH – an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever’s in there, out of existence. That’s why I wish Klaris Cliff had never shown up and why I know that proving her innocence is that last hope I have of saving myself.
The story is told by Joseph, an ordinary, popular boy who loves playing video games and hanging around with his best friend, Rocky. He’s the last person you’d expect to have an imaginary friend, so when Klaris shows up, Joseph’s world is turned upside down. Sheehan draws on the imaginary friend concept in a totally original, subtle and almost unnerving way, and Joseph’s exasperation at having to listen to Klaris is brilliantly done: ‘I breathed deeply then spoke to the air in a thin whisper. “Happy now? Is that what you wanted? Why don’t you just go back to Flea and stop ruining my life!”‘
But a world without imagination, as Joseph comes to realise, holds terrifying consequences: ‘I’d never be able to imagine myself wing-walking on a biplane. Or playing basketball on the moon. Or diving with sharks.’ And so Joseph embarks on a journey to defend the one person he was adamant didn’t exist… The book is filled with engaging characters – take the gorgeous (and well-named) Flea who harbours his imaginary friend so willingly and is adorable in his vulnerability when faced with bully Charlie, who asks Flea to empty his pockets: ‘These shorts don’t have pockets, which is quite unusual. Most of my trousers do. Some have them at the sides and the back.’ Or Flea’s sister, Pooh: ‘A hairpin? Perhaps you’d like a piece of whale bone from my corset as well? What century do you think this is?’ But set against their childlike innocence you have characters like Mr Jones, the RIPS co-ordinator, a Gradgrindian meanie out to COSH all imaginary friends. There was a glimpse of Philip Pullman’s Gobblers in Mr Jones, and Joseph and Flea, like Lyra and Roger, must stand up to the adult world to fight for what they believe in.
Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is a brilliantly original read for 10+ years. It boasts a truly powerful ending and throughout the story, Sheehan champions one of the most important things in life: the imagination. As Einstein once said: ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.’ Moontrug can’t wait to see what Nikki Sheehan writes next and in the meantime, you can find her book up on Moontrug’s Altocumulus Tower…
March 25, 2014
All books are wonderful, but some books are more wonderful than others. For me, Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is one such book.
The concept of a society where imaginary friends pose such a threat they must be systematically ‘Cosh’-ed, leaving their child hosts without the imagination to conjure up future companions, instantly shot this to the top of my ‘must read in 2014’ list.
And I wasn’t disappointed.
I loved everything about this book. The mystery element is well-plotted and gripping. 13 year-old Joseph and his best friend’s eccentric younger brother, Flea, have less than a week to prove their imaginary friend, Klaris, hasn’t gone ‘rogue’. If they fail to convince the authorities Klaris is innocent of all charges then they are both headed for the Cosh. The plot developments are creative and original and the final twist, when it comes, provides that perfect blend of surprise and satisfaction.
This is more than just a well-paced detective story though. Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is also a beautifully written exploration of imagination and individuality, love and loss. Joseph’s relationship with his father as the two of them try to deal with the unexplained disappearance of Joseph’s mother is particularly touching.
One minute you’ll be laughing along with Nikki Sheehan’s complex young characters; the next minute you want to grab them and give them a great big squeeze. Because you really care what happens to these people.
From the moment I picked up Who Framed Klaris Cliff? I’ve been recommending it to everyone I meet. I don’t see how anyone could fail to love this story. Described as ‘for age 12+’, this is a children’s book adults will love. I certainly did. And it is written with such clarity and skill that it also has a lot to give younger readers too.
All in all, a wonderful, magical tale that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
The concept of a society where imaginary friends pose such a threat they must be systematically ‘Cosh’-ed, leaving their child hosts without the imagination to conjure up future companions, instantly shot this to the top of my ‘must read in 2014’ list.
And I wasn’t disappointed.
I loved everything about this book. The mystery element is well-plotted and gripping. 13 year-old Joseph and his best friend’s eccentric younger brother, Flea, have less than a week to prove their imaginary friend, Klaris, hasn’t gone ‘rogue’. If they fail to convince the authorities Klaris is innocent of all charges then they are both headed for the Cosh. The plot developments are creative and original and the final twist, when it comes, provides that perfect blend of surprise and satisfaction.
This is more than just a well-paced detective story though. Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is also a beautifully written exploration of imagination and individuality, love and loss. Joseph’s relationship with his father as the two of them try to deal with the unexplained disappearance of Joseph’s mother is particularly touching.
One minute you’ll be laughing along with Nikki Sheehan’s complex young characters; the next minute you want to grab them and give them a great big squeeze. Because you really care what happens to these people.
From the moment I picked up Who Framed Klaris Cliff? I’ve been recommending it to everyone I meet. I don’t see how anyone could fail to love this story. Described as ‘for age 12+’, this is a children’s book adults will love. I certainly did. And it is written with such clarity and skill that it also has a lot to give younger readers too.
All in all, a wonderful, magical tale that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
November 14, 2013
This is a deliciously unusual and original MG novel. I was very intrigued by the blurb about imaginary friends being dangerous and illegal before I picked it up, and the story completely lived up to my expectations.
It's sad, funny, pacy, heart-warming, very perceptive about both children and adults, and astoundingly clever. The characters are all wonderfully three-dimensional and the story as a whole, despite the imaginary friends thing, reads so genuinely, more like a realistic contemporary, as the main character Joseph and his friends race against time to find out who framed Klaris Cliff. But I guess that's one of the signs of a good writer - they make the fantastical seem utterly real.
I found it absolutely gripping, and thought the author did an amazing job of both sprinkling little clues throughout the text and then tying all those hints and threads up at the end into an intensely satisfying yet unpredictable ending.
Can't wait to see what comes next from Nikki Sheehan!
It's sad, funny, pacy, heart-warming, very perceptive about both children and adults, and astoundingly clever. The characters are all wonderfully three-dimensional and the story as a whole, despite the imaginary friends thing, reads so genuinely, more like a realistic contemporary, as the main character Joseph and his friends race against time to find out who framed Klaris Cliff. But I guess that's one of the signs of a good writer - they make the fantastical seem utterly real.
I found it absolutely gripping, and thought the author did an amazing job of both sprinkling little clues throughout the text and then tying all those hints and threads up at the end into an intensely satisfying yet unpredictable ending.
Can't wait to see what comes next from Nikki Sheehan!
January 13, 2014
The blurb for Who Framed Klaris Cliff? caught my attention immediately, imaginary friends are dangerous? Yes I’m reading this.
Overall I enjoyed the book but it wasn’t an instant like. There are a lot of characters; Joseph, his father, the Cliff family (parents, 5 kids & 2 dogs) bullies and officials that all link together at one point. With so many characters competing it took me a while to became attached to one but in the end Flea won my heart. I wanted to hug him.
I would have preferred a little more detail on Shoreditch but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of reading Who Framed Klaris Cliff?
Nikki Sheehan idea is so intriguing. With imaginary persons being easy to blame Joseph and Flea’s have to work hard to clear Klaris’s name. One of my favourite moments in the book was the presentation of evidence.
I can’t tell you more without spoiling it but when I start talking to the characters on the page I know it’s good.
Overall I enjoyed the book but it wasn’t an instant like. There are a lot of characters; Joseph, his father, the Cliff family (parents, 5 kids & 2 dogs) bullies and officials that all link together at one point. With so many characters competing it took me a while to became attached to one but in the end Flea won my heart. I wanted to hug him.
I would have preferred a little more detail on Shoreditch but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of reading Who Framed Klaris Cliff?
Nikki Sheehan idea is so intriguing. With imaginary persons being easy to blame Joseph and Flea’s have to work hard to clear Klaris’s name. One of my favourite moments in the book was the presentation of evidence.
I can’t tell you more without spoiling it but when I start talking to the characters on the page I know it’s good.
February 23, 2014
Very much enjoyed Who Framed Klaris Cliff?. Incredibly original, very clever story, and brilliantly written. Joseph's voice was spot on, and I can really imagine Middle Grade-aged readers (and older!) connecting with him. Wonderful balance between humour (sometimes almost farcical, and including a fair few poo jokes) and very sweet moments, especially between Joseph and his dad.
As for the big twist... I did have my suspicions, but the way Nikki revealed it still walloped me. The whole story came together beautifully, and the ending was satisfying. Definitely worth a read.
As for the big twist... I did have my suspicions, but the way Nikki revealed it still walloped me. The whole story came together beautifully, and the ending was satisfying. Definitely worth a read.
April 19, 2014
Have reviewed on my blog- will be updated.
http://spreadingukya2013.blogspot.com...
http://spreadingukya2013.blogspot.com...
December 15, 2014
Great author! I actually know Nikki!
March 4, 2017
An amazing book! Really made me think about what imaginary friends really are! Very interesting and even made me cry!
July 29, 2017
I give this book 4.5 stars. I really really enjoyed this book. It was a simple story about something so relatable (imaginary friends) but with a nice twist to it.
My rating system was:
1 star for entertainment. As I said, enjoyed it till the end. I didn't find myself bored at any scene.
1 star for the writing style. The vocabs were simple and the chapters were short and easy to fly through.
PS: you might notice that it took me long to finish, that's on me not the book.
1 star for the characters. This book has a diverse set of characters and I enjoyed each one of them. The Cliffs are really weird 😅 but I gotta say Wills and Egg were my favourite.
1 star for the ending. Coz we all know that the ending of a story can ruin the entire book. Luckily, this one did not.
And finally,
0.5 star for the plot. Don't get me wrong, I liked how things unfolded. However, I would've liked to see more scenes between Joseph (main character) and Klaris. He said that she was mostly annoying but also kind. So I wish if we were given more of that relationship.
All in all, this was a fun summer read I'm glad I picked it up. I recommend it for those who are bored out of their minds.Nikki SheehanNikki Sheehan
My rating system was:
1 star for entertainment. As I said, enjoyed it till the end. I didn't find myself bored at any scene.
1 star for the writing style. The vocabs were simple and the chapters were short and easy to fly through.
PS: you might notice that it took me long to finish, that's on me not the book.
1 star for the characters. This book has a diverse set of characters and I enjoyed each one of them. The Cliffs are really weird 😅 but I gotta say Wills and Egg were my favourite.
1 star for the ending. Coz we all know that the ending of a story can ruin the entire book. Luckily, this one did not.
And finally,
0.5 star for the plot. Don't get me wrong, I liked how things unfolded. However, I would've liked to see more scenes between Joseph (main character) and Klaris. He said that she was mostly annoying but also kind. So I wish if we were given more of that relationship.
All in all, this was a fun summer read I'm glad I picked it up. I recommend it for those who are bored out of their minds.Nikki SheehanNikki Sheehan
May 30, 2018
i would give this no starts if i could, i think. this book is such a MESS. i knew it wouldn't be anything amazing because, hey, it's a kid's book but it sounded weird and interesting and i wanted to give it a go because it was a quick read. but this book literally had no idea what it's point was or what it was trying to achieve. also it's waaaay too short for the few things it is aiming to achieve. there's little to no world building or context for anything.
just everything about this book is wrong.
just everything about this book is wrong.
June 16, 2026
This book ended up not being what I expected. About midway through I thought that that was going to be to the book's detriment, but the ending took me so off guard I had to add an extra star to what I had been feeling. I was hoping for something darker and grittier when I picked it but considering I found it in a middle grade section I should have known better, really. I got what I wanted, in the end, when I reached the conclusion. I hadn't expected that. So, yeah, interesting wee story. Nothing life changing but I still ended up enjoying it!
April 12, 2018
Nothing special. (ok - good) Nice idea, good written, not too deep (both - kids, parents, relationships,...) Readable and enjoyable.
May 15, 2021
first read this few years ago, still love it a lot
February 2, 2014
Review: I was sent a proof of this book to review and read it after having met the author at a fabulous event organised by the publishers. I am lucky enough to have a signed copy of this fabulous cover as well. This book wasn't entirely my taste but I think it was a well written story and such an original idea for a novel. Hearing the author talk about imaginary friends and the research she had done into this area, I could see how much work she had put into this novel. The concept that imaginary friends are banned and they're going to zap children's imaginations in order to remove these friends because they are causing havoc in society it hilarious but also terrifying. When asked about how this reflects society today, the author said that the research into imaginary friends hasn't seen any deflation in the number of children having imaginary friends, but I think that there really is a metaphor for children losing their imagination and creativity because of the technology that they use today compared to the amount of technology they had access to say, twenty years ago, and I think that this is a really good media to explore that issue through.
In terms of the structure of this book, it was definitely a slow burner. It took me a while to get into it. The chapters are really short though which meant that this was a super quick read. At first I felt a little like everyone knew what was going on and who people were except me. When I got to know the characters, however I got much more into the storyline. The story follows main character Joseph trying to prove that Kalris (the imaginary friend of Flea) isn't doing the things she has been accused of, that other people were to blame. The ending of the novel is a belter skeeter ride of him sharing this evidence chapter by chapter and then discovering something even more exciting. The twists and the turns at the end of the novel had me desperate to discover the real truth behind the whole thing!
I wasn't sure about the character of Joseph. He has his best friend who lives next to him, and his dad, but he does seem like a bit of a loner and not very endearing. Having read the book, I see that these character traits were necessary to allow the imaginary friend storyline to take place, but I don't know how many readers will warm to him. Flea was a lovely character, I loved the innocence and belief there and the other members of the Cliff family were just random, I couldn't work out if they were meant to be strange or just perceived as being strange.
Overall I think this was a really original novel and I'm glad I read it because its something really different for me, but I wouldn't say I enjoyed every second of it. I think it will definitely appeal to young adult readers and those who enjoy a smattering of fantasy or dystopia in their reads. I think the pace of the book was good (once it got going) and it won't take many readers more than a couple of days to get through. A really interesting, well-researched storyline.
In terms of the structure of this book, it was definitely a slow burner. It took me a while to get into it. The chapters are really short though which meant that this was a super quick read. At first I felt a little like everyone knew what was going on and who people were except me. When I got to know the characters, however I got much more into the storyline. The story follows main character Joseph trying to prove that Kalris (the imaginary friend of Flea) isn't doing the things she has been accused of, that other people were to blame. The ending of the novel is a belter skeeter ride of him sharing this evidence chapter by chapter and then discovering something even more exciting. The twists and the turns at the end of the novel had me desperate to discover the real truth behind the whole thing!
I wasn't sure about the character of Joseph. He has his best friend who lives next to him, and his dad, but he does seem like a bit of a loner and not very endearing. Having read the book, I see that these character traits were necessary to allow the imaginary friend storyline to take place, but I don't know how many readers will warm to him. Flea was a lovely character, I loved the innocence and belief there and the other members of the Cliff family were just random, I couldn't work out if they were meant to be strange or just perceived as being strange.
Overall I think this was a really original novel and I'm glad I read it because its something really different for me, but I wouldn't say I enjoyed every second of it. I think it will definitely appeal to young adult readers and those who enjoy a smattering of fantasy or dystopia in their reads. I think the pace of the book was good (once it got going) and it won't take many readers more than a couple of days to get through. A really interesting, well-researched storyline.
January 2, 2014
Reviewed by author, Jill Atkins for Serendipity Reviews
Thirteen-year-old Joseph Reece has a secret, something too awful to admit to his best friend, Rocky, or his dad. He is plagued by a rogue imaginary friend called Klaris Cliff who comes into his brain and tells him what to do. Although she is benign and her advice is always passive, Klaris is a ‘rogue’ imaginary person because she has been a ‘friend’ to Flea, the seven year old boy next door, for a long time.
The trouble is, as soon as word gets out that Joseph has been infiltrated by Klaris, the authorities are alerted. There has been a very nasty incident elsewhere that nobody wants repeated. So Joseph and Flea are in for the COSH which is, according to the book blurb “an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever is in there, out of existence”!
Flea is one of five children, all with very individual names (Pooh, Rocky, Flea and identical twins Will and Egg) who live in the adjoining house to Joseph and his dad. Flea’s dad, Dr Cliff, has compiled a list of misdemeanours he claims have been perpetrated by Klaris against his unusual and somewhat dysfunctional family.
Joseph and Flea set out to disprove these claims and the tension builds as the day of the COSH approaches.
Meanwhile, Joseph’s mum has gone to Spain to live, temporarily she assured Joseph at the time, although she has been gone for several years. She promised to return for his eleventh birthday two years ago, but she didn’t arrive. Joseph is disappointed, but cherishes her postcards and misses her terribly.
Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is a heart-warning story, told in the first person through Joseph’s eyes and takes place over only six days. The book is full of fantastic relationships (Joseph with Dad, Joseph with Rocky, and latterly Joseph with Flea, for instance); believable and funny characters; eccentric children; just enough baddies to make life very unpleasant at times; some great humour mixed with the fear of the forthcoming COSH and the pathos of Joseph’s missing mum.
This is clever writing, with excellent plotting and an unexpected twist at the end. It is not too long, has lovely short chapters, and is easy to read – I read it in one go! I would wholeheartedly recommend this, Nikki Sheehan’s first children’s novel, to any readers aged nine and upwards.
Thirteen-year-old Joseph Reece has a secret, something too awful to admit to his best friend, Rocky, or his dad. He is plagued by a rogue imaginary friend called Klaris Cliff who comes into his brain and tells him what to do. Although she is benign and her advice is always passive, Klaris is a ‘rogue’ imaginary person because she has been a ‘friend’ to Flea, the seven year old boy next door, for a long time.
The trouble is, as soon as word gets out that Joseph has been infiltrated by Klaris, the authorities are alerted. There has been a very nasty incident elsewhere that nobody wants repeated. So Joseph and Flea are in for the COSH which is, according to the book blurb “an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever is in there, out of existence”!
Flea is one of five children, all with very individual names (Pooh, Rocky, Flea and identical twins Will and Egg) who live in the adjoining house to Joseph and his dad. Flea’s dad, Dr Cliff, has compiled a list of misdemeanours he claims have been perpetrated by Klaris against his unusual and somewhat dysfunctional family.
Joseph and Flea set out to disprove these claims and the tension builds as the day of the COSH approaches.
Meanwhile, Joseph’s mum has gone to Spain to live, temporarily she assured Joseph at the time, although she has been gone for several years. She promised to return for his eleventh birthday two years ago, but she didn’t arrive. Joseph is disappointed, but cherishes her postcards and misses her terribly.
Who Framed Klaris Cliff? is a heart-warning story, told in the first person through Joseph’s eyes and takes place over only six days. The book is full of fantastic relationships (Joseph with Dad, Joseph with Rocky, and latterly Joseph with Flea, for instance); believable and funny characters; eccentric children; just enough baddies to make life very unpleasant at times; some great humour mixed with the fear of the forthcoming COSH and the pathos of Joseph’s missing mum.
This is clever writing, with excellent plotting and an unexpected twist at the end. It is not too long, has lovely short chapters, and is easy to read – I read it in one go! I would wholeheartedly recommend this, Nikki Sheehan’s first children’s novel, to any readers aged nine and upwards.
November 21, 2013
Review by Gwydion - Year 7
The book is based on the idea that imaginary friends are part of your brain and can become dangerous in ways including a “rogue” which is when an imaginary friend can change from person to person. However there is a treatment for this which is called the “cosh”; removal of your imagination but when a rogue calls Klaris arrives in the Cliff household all actions possible must be taken to prove her innocence.
The main character of this story is a boy named Joseph. He is one of the people in the household who has known Klaris for many years without telling a sole. As soon as this secret is out then it all kicks off for him.
My favourite part of the book was when Joseph was giving evidence and reasons why Klaris Cliff was innocent for all the supposed crimes she had committed. This was because this part of the book was executed with great detail and description.
My favourite character was a boy named Rocky. He is Joseph’s best friend in the story. He is my favourite character as he has a good sense of humour and he is a bit of a couch potato which makes him quite accessible as a character.
The only item that I did not like about the book was the imprecision over the location and timing of the book. I didn’t feel that the book made this clear which left me feeling a bit frustrated.
I think that I would like to have seen the part where Joseph finds out A HUGE REVELATION handled differently. This is because it puts a rather negative point on the book especially near the ending.
Despite this I think I would as this author was very good at setting the scene and describing the characters. This is not a book that I would have naturally chosen so it a refreshing change from my usual choice.
I would recommend this book to others because it is an enjoyable book to read. The most appropriate age group would be years 6 / 7. Anyone above this age group would potentially find it dull whereas below the age group may find it confusing.
The book is based on the idea that imaginary friends are part of your brain and can become dangerous in ways including a “rogue” which is when an imaginary friend can change from person to person. However there is a treatment for this which is called the “cosh”; removal of your imagination but when a rogue calls Klaris arrives in the Cliff household all actions possible must be taken to prove her innocence.
The main character of this story is a boy named Joseph. He is one of the people in the household who has known Klaris for many years without telling a sole. As soon as this secret is out then it all kicks off for him.
My favourite part of the book was when Joseph was giving evidence and reasons why Klaris Cliff was innocent for all the supposed crimes she had committed. This was because this part of the book was executed with great detail and description.
My favourite character was a boy named Rocky. He is Joseph’s best friend in the story. He is my favourite character as he has a good sense of humour and he is a bit of a couch potato which makes him quite accessible as a character.
The only item that I did not like about the book was the imprecision over the location and timing of the book. I didn’t feel that the book made this clear which left me feeling a bit frustrated.
I think that I would like to have seen the part where Joseph finds out A HUGE REVELATION handled differently. This is because it puts a rather negative point on the book especially near the ending.
Despite this I think I would as this author was very good at setting the scene and describing the characters. This is not a book that I would have naturally chosen so it a refreshing change from my usual choice.
I would recommend this book to others because it is an enjoyable book to read. The most appropriate age group would be years 6 / 7. Anyone above this age group would potentially find it dull whereas below the age group may find it confusing.
March 2, 2014
Review: In this world, invisible friends are dangerous. Anyone found to have one is sent for the COSH, a procedure that shrinks the area of the imagination that an invisible friend will reside in. Klaris Cliff is one such invisible friend. An imaginary person who contacts Flea, and later, Joseph. As bad things go on at the Cliff household, Doctor Cliff wants Klaris gone, and it's up to Joseph to prove her innocence.
I hadn't heard of this until the OUP night for this and Storm and Stone, but upon hearing about this, I definitely wanted to read it. The first thing I heard about it was “What if someone can kill your imaginary friend”, which caught my attention, as it must have caught Sheehan's.
You very quickly get a feel for this world, which is slightly dystopian for the way that the COSH and its threat rules over the children. You also quickly get to know the characters, the friendship between them, and the sibling relationships seem real.
The characters all have their individual quirks that make them likable, unique and funny at times. The twins are especially cute (and a little gross in parts). Despite the fact most of them are younger than I normally read about, they're really nice to get to know.
The mystery uncovering works nicely, and I liked the way it all panned out at the end. Sheehan also wrote in less mystery, more family parts, which I found a nice touch, rounding out Joseph and giving him a bit more of a life.
I like the fact that one little detail that you think isn't going to be major, just a bit of back-story to explain where Joseph is today, is quite important, and leads to a satisfying, kind of heart-warming but also sad, conclusion.
The idea of the COSH is very very scary.
Overall: Strength 4 tea to a slightly younger mystery that people of all ages should read.
I hadn't heard of this until the OUP night for this and Storm and Stone, but upon hearing about this, I definitely wanted to read it. The first thing I heard about it was “What if someone can kill your imaginary friend”, which caught my attention, as it must have caught Sheehan's.
You very quickly get a feel for this world, which is slightly dystopian for the way that the COSH and its threat rules over the children. You also quickly get to know the characters, the friendship between them, and the sibling relationships seem real.
The characters all have their individual quirks that make them likable, unique and funny at times. The twins are especially cute (and a little gross in parts). Despite the fact most of them are younger than I normally read about, they're really nice to get to know.
The mystery uncovering works nicely, and I liked the way it all panned out at the end. Sheehan also wrote in less mystery, more family parts, which I found a nice touch, rounding out Joseph and giving him a bit more of a life.
I like the fact that one little detail that you think isn't going to be major, just a bit of back-story to explain where Joseph is today, is quite important, and leads to a satisfying, kind of heart-warming but also sad, conclusion.
The idea of the COSH is very very scary.
Overall: Strength 4 tea to a slightly younger mystery that people of all ages should read.
December 22, 2013
Read this review and many others at To Another World
I received a free proof of this book from OUP Children's in exchange for a honest review. This does not affect my review/opinions in any way. Thank you!
Who Framed Klaris Cliff is about a boy named Joseph who has an imaginary friend, Klaris. But now, imaginary friends are bad; and to get rid of them, they put you through the Cosh, frying every bit of imagination you have.
I found this concept of imaginary friends being bad and evil intriguing and different; I've never read one with a concept like it! Full of clear-cut characters and detailed description, this book had stunning imagery, mystery and a fresh new voice.
There was always description as to what Joseph was doing and feeling, which was incredibly insightful. I found that when we found out he was worried about losing all his memories of his deceased mum, I was actually really emotional for him.
"But, when we got home and stepped inside of the
house, my certainty trickled away like down a drain..."
"...It flooded warmth through my body, radiating out
through my chest. Klaris was hugging me..."
The only thing I did find was Joseph seemed younger than 13; I'm 13 myself, and though I'm mature, he seemed a lot younger than the level of my peers. However, the book was quick and refreshing, so I didn't mind too much.
Overall, Who Framed Klaris Cliff was a light read with a unique concept; a stunning, beautiful debut.
I received a free proof of this book from OUP Children's in exchange for a honest review. This does not affect my review/opinions in any way. Thank you!
Who Framed Klaris Cliff is about a boy named Joseph who has an imaginary friend, Klaris. But now, imaginary friends are bad; and to get rid of them, they put you through the Cosh, frying every bit of imagination you have.
I found this concept of imaginary friends being bad and evil intriguing and different; I've never read one with a concept like it! Full of clear-cut characters and detailed description, this book had stunning imagery, mystery and a fresh new voice.
There was always description as to what Joseph was doing and feeling, which was incredibly insightful. I found that when we found out he was worried about losing all his memories of his deceased mum, I was actually really emotional for him.
"But, when we got home and stepped inside of the
house, my certainty trickled away like down a drain..."
"...It flooded warmth through my body, radiating out
through my chest. Klaris was hugging me..."
The only thing I did find was Joseph seemed younger than 13; I'm 13 myself, and though I'm mature, he seemed a lot younger than the level of my peers. However, the book was quick and refreshing, so I didn't mind too much.
Overall, Who Framed Klaris Cliff was a light read with a unique concept; a stunning, beautiful debut.
February 11, 2014
An intriguing book perfect for 8-12 year olds. Joseph lives in a world where there has been a terrible incident and imaginary friends are considered a potential lethal threat rather than a harmless childhood phase. He lives with his dad, his mum disappeared two years earlier after sending a postcard from Spain saying she would be back in the summer.
Joseph's neighbours are the sprawling Cliff family, best friend Rocky, older sister Pooh, the odd and vaguely wicked twins Egg and Willis and Flea. Flea has an imaginary friend Klaris but she has begun speaking to Joseph and Flea's parents call the authorities convinced that Klaris is potentially dangerous. Flea's dad has drawn up a list of the things he believes Klaris has done, including getting the family labradors drunk, killing the pet rabbit, writing on door and turning lights on. The way that imaginary friends are dispatched is by isolating and destroying the imagination centres of the brain, and Joseph is quick to realise that this will mean he will lose all his memories of his mother. It is now a race against time to prove that Klaris is not guilty of Flea's father's list of misdemeanors.
This was a good sweet story and I loved the ending.
Joseph's neighbours are the sprawling Cliff family, best friend Rocky, older sister Pooh, the odd and vaguely wicked twins Egg and Willis and Flea. Flea has an imaginary friend Klaris but she has begun speaking to Joseph and Flea's parents call the authorities convinced that Klaris is potentially dangerous. Flea's dad has drawn up a list of the things he believes Klaris has done, including getting the family labradors drunk, killing the pet rabbit, writing on door and turning lights on. The way that imaginary friends are dispatched is by isolating and destroying the imagination centres of the brain, and Joseph is quick to realise that this will mean he will lose all his memories of his mother. It is now a race against time to prove that Klaris is not guilty of Flea's father's list of misdemeanors.
This was a good sweet story and I loved the ending.
November 27, 2013
In the world of 'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' rouge imaginary friends are highly dangerous. Any child found harbouring such a thing will be subjected to a cosh - an operation that fries your imagination and zaps whatever is in there out of you. Joseph Reeves has a 'dangerous' next door neighbour - a young boy called Flea with a friend called Klaris that no one else can hear. Well, that's what Joseph thinks until Klaris starts to talk to him.
'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' by Nikki Sheeham is an arresting, original YA novel. The main protagonist, Joseph, is believable and his voice is pitched perfectly; as are the other characters around him who all appear strong and fully formed. At no point did the voices of the younger characters feel forced or fake and the plot unwound at an even, steady pace that had me reading onwards. I loved the short chapter form and I found the plot so engrossing that I read it in just a few settings.
What stood out most for me in 'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' was the originality of its idea. I've never read anything like it and I think this sets it apart from other YA novels. I would recommend it to everyone and it's a firm five stars from me!
'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' by Nikki Sheeham is an arresting, original YA novel. The main protagonist, Joseph, is believable and his voice is pitched perfectly; as are the other characters around him who all appear strong and fully formed. At no point did the voices of the younger characters feel forced or fake and the plot unwound at an even, steady pace that had me reading onwards. I loved the short chapter form and I found the plot so engrossing that I read it in just a few settings.
What stood out most for me in 'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' was the originality of its idea. I've never read anything like it and I think this sets it apart from other YA novels. I would recommend it to everyone and it's a firm five stars from me!
July 14, 2014
Klaris Cliff is Flea’s imaginary friend but recently she has been talking to Joseph. Is this evidence she is becoming a dangerous “rogue” imaginary friend? Are rogues really dangerous, or are they being used as scapegoats?
The concept of this book is really original and I like that she added her own aspects such as the “cosh” which is the process of how dangerous imaginary friends are removed. It shows how the author has clearly made the concept her own.
The writing style, short chapters and character ages make it very much for younger readers. The short chapters make it a very quick read but also mean there is less room for development (perhaps the book should have been a bit longer). I loved the chapter titles which were often bizarre and humorous. The book has a great sense of humour and I really loved how Joseph and his dad joked around.
As a book for younger readers, it deals with serious topics such as grief well and about how we would often prefer to blame someone else than deal with our own problems. As an older reader, I found it a bit too straightforward and predictable, but the twist at the end made it really worth the read. As such, I'd recommend to everyone.
The concept of this book is really original and I like that she added her own aspects such as the “cosh” which is the process of how dangerous imaginary friends are removed. It shows how the author has clearly made the concept her own.
The writing style, short chapters and character ages make it very much for younger readers. The short chapters make it a very quick read but also mean there is less room for development (perhaps the book should have been a bit longer). I loved the chapter titles which were often bizarre and humorous. The book has a great sense of humour and I really loved how Joseph and his dad joked around.
As a book for younger readers, it deals with serious topics such as grief well and about how we would often prefer to blame someone else than deal with our own problems. As an older reader, I found it a bit too straightforward and predictable, but the twist at the end made it really worth the read. As such, I'd recommend to everyone.
December 24, 2014
I got this book for Christmas, and even though I had it on my wishlist, I didn't know what to expect.
At first the book is quite confusing. It starts talking about imaginary people going rogue, and jumping from one person to another. I wasn't able to get it, so I left the book. When I took it again and continued reading, I was kind of addicted to it. The chapters are really short, and it is easy to read.
The characters are quite well developed -you can see the most outstanding features of every single one of them- even if they are only around ten.
The ending was really incredible. Unpredictable. I couldn't have guessed even if I tried. It's the best part of a short but slow book. I'd really recommend it to anyone, it's fresh and original.
At first the book is quite confusing. It starts talking about imaginary people going rogue, and jumping from one person to another. I wasn't able to get it, so I left the book. When I took it again and continued reading, I was kind of addicted to it. The chapters are really short, and it is easy to read.
The characters are quite well developed -you can see the most outstanding features of every single one of them- even if they are only around ten.
The ending was really incredible. Unpredictable. I couldn't have guessed even if I tried. It's the best part of a short but slow book. I'd really recommend it to anyone, it's fresh and original.
Read
January 10, 2014A rogue imaginary friend, a series of unexplained events, and a duo determined to get to the bottom of it. Joseph and Flea are facing the Cosh--a service provided to children with uncontrollable imaginary friends. Once the procedure is complete, the child is left without imagination, resulting in the friend being erased for good. The two of them set out to unravel a mystery, following a variety of clues, to find out who framed Klaris Cliff. I had a blast reading this book. It was so much fun. Touching at times, hilarious at others. It was gripping and unpredictable, with a twist I did not see coming. I thought it was great.
November 3, 2014
'Who Framed Klaris Cliff' is a brilliant book. The concept alone is stunning - that rogue, imaginary friends must be eliminated at all costs, even if it means obliterating a child's imagination. From the first page I was gripped - the writing is so assured that it's hard to believe it's a debut. Sometimes, an author can create characters that are so real and wonderful that they really must exist - and Sheehan does just that. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
July 7, 2014
What a cute and clever little book! The little Flea is an adorable little kid and I love the family kids and I found Joseph to also be an adorable little kid and making friend with little 7yo Flea.
Adorable, adorable, adorable, really.
Adorable, adorable, adorable, really.
January 13, 2015
A lovely little book told well from the point of view of a child, I only wish that it had been slightly longer. I think there was potential for a longer story, but aside from this, it is a well written story that packs an emotional punch at the end
November 27, 2013
I'm thoroughly confused with this one so moving on for now
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