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Saving Sophia
All Lottie wants to do is have adventures, but no such luck. Until she meets Sophia, a girl with an excitingly mysterious history. When the two run away from a staged kayak accident to find Sophia’s mum, Lottie learns a lot about having adventures (they’re mostly brilliant but not the bits where you nearly die) and friendship and the truth.
- GenresMiddle Grade
272 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2014
3 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Fleur Hitchcock
24 books81 followersBorn in Chobham, by an airfield, and raised in Winchester on the banks of the River Itchen, Fleur Hitchcock grew up as the youngest child of three. When she was eight, she wrote a story about an alien and a jelly. It was called THE ALIEN AND THE JELLY and filled four exercise books. She grew up a little, went away to school near Farnham, studied English in Wales, and, for the next twenty years, sold Applied Art in the city of Bath. When her younger child was seven, she embarked on the Writing for Young People MA at Bath Spa and graduated with a distinction. Now living outside Bath, between parenting and writing, Fleur Hitchcock works with her husband (a toy maker), looks after other people's gardens and grows vegetables.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 1, 2015
Lottie isn’t into clothes or makeup and is a bit pudgy, so when she meets the slim, dark, mysterious Sophia in her kitchen one day, Lottie wants to be friends with her.
Her teacher has brought Sophia and her stepfather to her house to introduce them as Sophia is new at her school. Lottie and her brother Ned are about to go on a school holiday camp, and their teacher thought Lottie might like to look out for Sophia.
But while at camp Sophia and Lottie are in a kayak together – and suddenly Sophia is paddling in the wrong direction when the teachers are distracted with other students.
Lottie is surprised but when Sophia tells her that her step father is keeping her from her mum, she believes her. Sophia says she only has a short window of time to see her mum while she is in the country, and she wants Lottie to help her do that. Suddenly they are on an adventure to see Sophia's mum - but all is not as Sophia has said...
Lots of action and a story about being happy with the family you have.
Her teacher has brought Sophia and her stepfather to her house to introduce them as Sophia is new at her school. Lottie and her brother Ned are about to go on a school holiday camp, and their teacher thought Lottie might like to look out for Sophia.
But while at camp Sophia and Lottie are in a kayak together – and suddenly Sophia is paddling in the wrong direction when the teachers are distracted with other students.
Lottie is surprised but when Sophia tells her that her step father is keeping her from her mum, she believes her. Sophia says she only has a short window of time to see her mum while she is in the country, and she wants Lottie to help her do that. Suddenly they are on an adventure to see Sophia's mum - but all is not as Sophia has said...
Lots of action and a story about being happy with the family you have.
September 25, 2021
I'm a weird kind of Scorpio. A part of me likes danger and mystery. I don't shy away from dark books. However, I'm also quite easily afraid or grossed out. So, these middle grade mysteries are actually a perfect way to satisfy my hunger for a little danger and some mystery, while not having to fear that the book will totally freak me out. And since I didn't have too much reading time today, it was the perfect moment to pick up this one.
I especially loved the heroine in this book. Firstly because she has some amazing character growth and learns some important lessons along the way. Secondly because she is the kind of hero even I could be, because she's afraid and yet she tries to do what is right anyway. And thirdly because she's one of those heroines proving that reading books can eventually save lives, although she also discovers that books are not always realistic.
On top of that I think that this book is a middle grade adventure as they should be. Our characters are doing something dangerous and something they are not allowed to do. Along the way they end up in some really dangerous situations, however, the situations are never too scary or too dark. And although our heroine is clearly playing a big role in figuring out what's going on, she does trust the adults to eventually get the dangerous work done.
Lastly, I love how this book plays with fact and fiction, with untrustworthy narrators and with never quite knowing what's going on exactly. As an older reader it's not too hard to figure things out, but especially younger readers will really learn some very valuable lessons while having fun with this book. One should not always trust what someone else tells them and wanting to be a hero is much more fun together.
I especially loved the heroine in this book. Firstly because she has some amazing character growth and learns some important lessons along the way. Secondly because she is the kind of hero even I could be, because she's afraid and yet she tries to do what is right anyway. And thirdly because she's one of those heroines proving that reading books can eventually save lives, although she also discovers that books are not always realistic.
On top of that I think that this book is a middle grade adventure as they should be. Our characters are doing something dangerous and something they are not allowed to do. Along the way they end up in some really dangerous situations, however, the situations are never too scary or too dark. And although our heroine is clearly playing a big role in figuring out what's going on, she does trust the adults to eventually get the dangerous work done.
Lastly, I love how this book plays with fact and fiction, with untrustworthy narrators and with never quite knowing what's going on exactly. As an older reader it's not too hard to figure things out, but especially younger readers will really learn some very valuable lessons while having fun with this book. One should not always trust what someone else tells them and wanting to be a hero is much more fun together.
June 13, 2021
This book has an interesting cover with the shadow of a rope and a girl which encouraged me to pick it up. This book by Fleur Hitchcock is divided into short chapters that are snappy and easy to read. Lottie is embarrassed about her family and their exploits and wants nothing more than to disappear.
When Lottie meets Sophia her life is viewed through someone else’s eyes and she ends up going with Sophia on a dangerous adventure to find her mam! Can Lottie be brave like the heroines in her adventure books? Can she reunite Sophia and her mam and discover what Mr Pinehead is really up to? Read it to find out!
When Lottie meets Sophia her life is viewed through someone else’s eyes and she ends up going with Sophia on a dangerous adventure to find her mam! Can Lottie be brave like the heroines in her adventure books? Can she reunite Sophia and her mam and discover what Mr Pinehead is really up to? Read it to find out!
December 21, 2016
Du rythme, des cascades, du cran, de l'amitié, des rêves, de l'espérance, c'est tout un programme que nous vend ce petit roman, dont j'ai beaucoup aimé la dynamique du récit, son humour et son héroïne qui vit sa vie à travers ses lectures. L'histoire n'est peut-être pas follement surprenante, mais elle questionne aussi sur les faux-semblants et l'imagination débordante, en plus de dégager une énergie positive et spontanée.
November 15, 2023
Another gripping adventure, I really love Fleur Hitchcock's books. In this one we have Lottie and Sophie running away on an adventure that Lottie hopes will be just like one of her favourite books, but then it all starts to get a bit too real. Can't wait to take it into school, I think it will be really popular 😍📖😍
February 23, 2021
Good book! It wasn’t as adventurous as the first description I read had said. It really is just the two them not going to far on there own little adventure but it makes it more realistic so was interesting and quite good just a little bit dull for me. There is a nice twist but it was a bit of a confusing one.
May 15, 2025
Fleur Hitchcock's *Saving Sophia* is a gripping tale that captures the imagination from the very first page. A story woven with elements of suspense, bravery, and the emotional complexities of human relationships, it invites readers into a world filled with tension and hope.
The narrative centers around the protagonist, a young girl named Sophia, who finds herself in a precarious situation that requires both courage and quick thinking. Hitchcock masterfully crafts her character, allowing readers to empathize deeply with Sophia’s struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each adding depth to the storyline and enhancing the emotional stakes.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Hitchcock’s ability to maintain a fast pace while still delving into the character's inner thoughts and emotions. This balance keeps the reader engaged and invested in Sophia’s journey, as we see her evolution from vulnerability to empowerment. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and the fight against adversity resonate strongly throughout the story, making it relatable for readers of all ages.
The writing itself is clear and evocative, with vivid descriptions that bring each scene to life. Hitchcock’s attention to detail creates a vivid backdrop that enhances the overall atmosphere of uncertainty and suspense. It is a testament to her skill as a storyteller that she can evoke such strong feelings and maintain a sense of urgency throughout the narrative.
Furthermore, the book addresses important social issues, prompting young readers to think critically about the world around them. This adds an educational layer to the story, encouraging discussions about empathy, understanding differences, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
In conclusion, *Saving Sophia* is a compelling read that combines thrilling adventure with heartfelt moments. Fleur Hitchcock has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult fiction that sparks conversation. Highly recommended for readers seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human spirit.
The narrative centers around the protagonist, a young girl named Sophia, who finds herself in a precarious situation that requires both courage and quick thinking. Hitchcock masterfully crafts her character, allowing readers to empathize deeply with Sophia’s struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each adding depth to the storyline and enhancing the emotional stakes.
One of the standout aspects of the book is Hitchcock’s ability to maintain a fast pace while still delving into the character's inner thoughts and emotions. This balance keeps the reader engaged and invested in Sophia’s journey, as we see her evolution from vulnerability to empowerment. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and the fight against adversity resonate strongly throughout the story, making it relatable for readers of all ages.
The writing itself is clear and evocative, with vivid descriptions that bring each scene to life. Hitchcock’s attention to detail creates a vivid backdrop that enhances the overall atmosphere of uncertainty and suspense. It is a testament to her skill as a storyteller that she can evoke such strong feelings and maintain a sense of urgency throughout the narrative.
Furthermore, the book addresses important social issues, prompting young readers to think critically about the world around them. This adds an educational layer to the story, encouraging discussions about empathy, understanding differences, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
In conclusion, *Saving Sophia* is a compelling read that combines thrilling adventure with heartfelt moments. Fleur Hitchcock has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult fiction that sparks conversation. Highly recommended for readers seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human spirit.
April 25, 2020
I liked it
The book was a good book but can’t really be called a thriller 😘 😃 🎉 🥰 👩🏽🦱 🤩 🍨
The book was a good book but can’t really be called a thriller 😘 😃 🎉 🥰 👩🏽🦱 🤩 🍨
October 7, 2020
Great book, I really liked it but I don't think it was right for me. 4 stars
August 31, 2016
Avis sur Suis-moi, Sophia de Fleur Hitchcock
Ce roman est, je le pense, destiné aux très jeunes adolescents, voire des enfants en primaire qui ont déjà lu les aventures d’Harry Potter. Oui, ils existent, j’en ai eu l’exemple à la maison. Je lis, moi-même, des livres pour les plus jeunes mais avec celui-ci, j’ai quelques réticences en tant que lectrice adulte. L’histoire est, pour moi, très vite, sujette à réflexions. En effet, Sophia raconte-t-elle vraiment toute la vérité ? Comment les deux filles se retrouvent-elles aussi vite dans le bureau du beau-père de Sophia ?J’ai cru qu’elles étaient déjà arrivées à Londres. C’est ce que j’avais compris au début de leurs aventures.
Outre leur fugue, ce roman est un très beau roman d’amitié, d’héroïnes mais aussi il montre que la maison où les enfants vivent n’est pas si mal que ça, malgré des parents qui sont différents des autres parents. On peut être original dans sa façon de vivre, d’appréhender le monde, ce qui est important c’est l’amour donné aux enfants. Ils s’en rendent bien vite compte. De plus, les parents ne sont pas obtus. Il suffit de dialogue pour qu’ils comprennent, eux aussi, que la vie, qu’ils montrent peut aller à l’encontre de ce qui régit les codes chez les jeunes, ne pas être différent des autres sous peine de subir ironie et quolibets. Il y a également les relations frère et soeur. Ils se chamaillent, c’est vrai. Ils semblent n’avoir rien en commun. Mais quand il s’agit de s’aider, s’entraider, tout le monde y trouve son compte. Et si, un enfant n’avoue pas réellement à son frère ou à sa soeur qu’il l’aime, il se rend très vite compte, lorsqu’il est loin de chez lui, que c’est le cas. Bien sûr, il existe un sentiment de culpabilité par rapport aux disputes…
Il est possible de comprendre un tant soit peu Sophia dont la mère, artiste mondialement reconnue, lui manque. De plus, même si elle raconte des histoires, certaines pourraient s’avérer véridiques. L’histoire nous le démontrera. Comme Lottie, elle est seule, elle n’a pas d’amie. Cette jeune adolescente, pleine de rêves, de lectures, semble lui être la personne adéquate pour cette aventure. Est-ce que Lottie arrivera à comprendre, à pardonner ?
Je remercie les Editions Flammarion Jeunesse pour cette découverte.
Résumé Suis-moi, Sophia de Fleur Hitchcock
Charlotte, dite Lottie, vit avec ses parents et son frère Ned dans une maison qu’elle juge bizarre. Ils doivent partir tous les deux, avec leur enseignante, pendant une semaine, dans un endroit où ils feront du sport et où il n’y a aucun confort.
Mais voilà, ils seront accompagnés par Sophia, dont le beau-père, trop occupé, cherche un endroit pour qu’elle soit accueillie.
Ce roman est, je le pense, destiné aux très jeunes adolescents, voire des enfants en primaire qui ont déjà lu les aventures d’Harry Potter. Oui, ils existent, j’en ai eu l’exemple à la maison. Je lis, moi-même, des livres pour les plus jeunes mais avec celui-ci, j’ai quelques réticences en tant que lectrice adulte. L’histoire est, pour moi, très vite, sujette à réflexions. En effet, Sophia raconte-t-elle vraiment toute la vérité ? Comment les deux filles se retrouvent-elles aussi vite dans le bureau du beau-père de Sophia ?J’ai cru qu’elles étaient déjà arrivées à Londres. C’est ce que j’avais compris au début de leurs aventures.
Outre leur fugue, ce roman est un très beau roman d’amitié, d’héroïnes mais aussi il montre que la maison où les enfants vivent n’est pas si mal que ça, malgré des parents qui sont différents des autres parents. On peut être original dans sa façon de vivre, d’appréhender le monde, ce qui est important c’est l’amour donné aux enfants. Ils s’en rendent bien vite compte. De plus, les parents ne sont pas obtus. Il suffit de dialogue pour qu’ils comprennent, eux aussi, que la vie, qu’ils montrent peut aller à l’encontre de ce qui régit les codes chez les jeunes, ne pas être différent des autres sous peine de subir ironie et quolibets. Il y a également les relations frère et soeur. Ils se chamaillent, c’est vrai. Ils semblent n’avoir rien en commun. Mais quand il s’agit de s’aider, s’entraider, tout le monde y trouve son compte. Et si, un enfant n’avoue pas réellement à son frère ou à sa soeur qu’il l’aime, il se rend très vite compte, lorsqu’il est loin de chez lui, que c’est le cas. Bien sûr, il existe un sentiment de culpabilité par rapport aux disputes…
Il est possible de comprendre un tant soit peu Sophia dont la mère, artiste mondialement reconnue, lui manque. De plus, même si elle raconte des histoires, certaines pourraient s’avérer véridiques. L’histoire nous le démontrera. Comme Lottie, elle est seule, elle n’a pas d’amie. Cette jeune adolescente, pleine de rêves, de lectures, semble lui être la personne adéquate pour cette aventure. Est-ce que Lottie arrivera à comprendre, à pardonner ?
Je remercie les Editions Flammarion Jeunesse pour cette découverte.
Résumé Suis-moi, Sophia de Fleur Hitchcock
Charlotte, dite Lottie, vit avec ses parents et son frère Ned dans une maison qu’elle juge bizarre. Ils doivent partir tous les deux, avec leur enseignante, pendant une semaine, dans un endroit où ils feront du sport et où il n’y a aucun confort.
Mais voilà, ils seront accompagnés par Sophia, dont le beau-père, trop occupé, cherche un endroit pour qu’elle soit accueillie.
April 22, 2024
"Saving Sophia" is a thrilling adventure that follows the story of Sophia as she embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her family's mysterious past. The author does a great job of creating suspense and keeping the reader engaged throughout the book. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, which keeps you guessing until the very end.
The character development in "Saving Sophia" is also well done. Sophia is a relatable and likeable protagonist, and you can't help but root for her as she faces various challenges. The supporting characters add depth to the story and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the book.
However, I must say that there were a few aspects of the book that didn't quite hit the mark for me. The pacing felt a bit uneven at times, with certain parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Additionally, I would have liked to see more world-building and descriptive details to fully immerse myself in the story.
Overall, I would give "Saving Sophia" a 3 out of 5 stars. It's an entertaining read with a captivating plot and engaging characters, but it could have benefited from some improvements in pacing and world-building. If you enjoy mystery and adventure, it's definitely worth giving it a shot!
The character development in "Saving Sophia" is also well done. Sophia is a relatable and likeable protagonist, and you can't help but root for her as she faces various challenges. The supporting characters add depth to the story and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the book.
However, I must say that there were a few aspects of the book that didn't quite hit the mark for me. The pacing felt a bit uneven at times, with certain parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Additionally, I would have liked to see more world-building and descriptive details to fully immerse myself in the story.
Overall, I would give "Saving Sophia" a 3 out of 5 stars. It's an entertaining read with a captivating plot and engaging characters, but it could have benefited from some improvements in pacing and world-building. If you enjoy mystery and adventure, it's definitely worth giving it a shot!
August 6, 2014
3.5 Stars
Saving Sophia reminded me a bit of the adventure books I read growing up. It has that kind of timeless charm and Lottie is a likeable and engaging narrator.
Lottie has a rather unique family, one that she loves but that doesn’t stop her wishing they were a bit more normal. When mysterious Sophia joins the school trip Lottie is thrilled to be her new friend. Sophie tells her about her mum and how Sophie can’t see her, she begs Lottie for help and the two girls set off.
I did enjoy Saving Sophia but will admit that the parts of the story require you to just go with it. In the end though it doesn’t matter as long as you’re having fun.
Saving Sophia reminded me a bit of the adventure books I read growing up. It has that kind of timeless charm and Lottie is a likeable and engaging narrator.
Lottie has a rather unique family, one that she loves but that doesn’t stop her wishing they were a bit more normal. When mysterious Sophia joins the school trip Lottie is thrilled to be her new friend. Sophie tells her about her mum and how Sophie can’t see her, she begs Lottie for help and the two girls set off.
I did enjoy Saving Sophia but will admit that the parts of the story require you to just go with it. In the end though it doesn’t matter as long as you’re having fun.
June 12, 2014
I really enjoyed "Saving Sophia". It felt up-to-date, yet old-fashioned too. I think everyone will identify with being in awe of someone when meeting them for the first time. A great coming-of-age story.
October 19, 2014
Another wee gem from Fleur Hitchcock.
December 3, 2014
A sweet little adventure that reminds us of the value of real friendship and to be thankful for what we have, especially our families.
May 19, 2015
Strange to begin with. Very adventurous throughout, kids will love it.
August 28, 2016
Publié depuis le 24 août en francais chez Flammarion jeunesse et traduit par Catherine Guillet. Par l'auteur de "Scarlett mène l'enquête".
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews