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The Museum of Lost Umbrellas
When Dilly arrives on the island of Ollipest, she is unsure what to expect from her new life...
She certainly doesn't expect to find magic! But as she crosses the threshold of her aunt's house for the first time, she wishes for a dog, and her companion wishes for tea... low and behold, the two things appear.
Until now, the magic of Ollipest Island has been a well-kept secret. Then the Museum of Lost Umbrellas opens after many years of closure...
The museum is about to show Dilly that magic not only runs through the island but through her ancestors, too, and perhaps even through her.
And when the museum attracts some very unsavoury anti-magic outsiders, Dilly must unlock the powers she has to help keep the island safe.
A dazzling, epic adventure where witches fly with umbrellas, magical dogs walk out of the sea and pet parrots suddenly become humans. This will keep readers on their edge of the seats and leave them desperate for the next instalment.
She certainly doesn't expect to find magic! But as she crosses the threshold of her aunt's house for the first time, she wishes for a dog, and her companion wishes for tea... low and behold, the two things appear.
Until now, the magic of Ollipest Island has been a well-kept secret. Then the Museum of Lost Umbrellas opens after many years of closure...
The museum is about to show Dilly that magic not only runs through the island but through her ancestors, too, and perhaps even through her.
And when the museum attracts some very unsavoury anti-magic outsiders, Dilly must unlock the powers she has to help keep the island safe.
A dazzling, epic adventure where witches fly with umbrellas, magical dogs walk out of the sea and pet parrots suddenly become humans. This will keep readers on their edge of the seats and leave them desperate for the next instalment.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2025
About the author
Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick
37 books42 followersI am an illustrator and a writer. I create picturebooks for kids and write novels – middle grade and YA. I love to travel but, so far, my books have travelled more than me - they've been translated into many languages, including Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Persian and Finish.
I'm Irish, a Dubliner, born, bred and buttered. I run on coffee and chocolate. My most recent novel, On Midnight Beach, is a YA reimagining of the legend of Cúchulainn, and it has been shortlisted for several awards, including the 2021 Carnegie Medal.
I'm Irish, a Dubliner, born, bred and buttered. I run on coffee and chocolate. My most recent novel, On Midnight Beach, is a YA reimagining of the legend of Cúchulainn, and it has been shortlisted for several awards, including the 2021 Carnegie Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
July 12, 2025
Really enjoyed this! Magic, friends, secrets and messages about embracing people for who they are and the power of knowledge. I liked these characters and their adventure straight away. Sad it’s over! This would make a gorgeous read aloud!
March 2, 2026
Oaaah I loveddd this book! Such a vibrant, engaging and enjoyable story!
☂️🌂🌬️🤍
☂️🌂🌬️🤍
September 20, 2025
A great middle grade read that showcases magic in a unique way - umbrellas. While the premise (Magic being taboo on the island Dilly is sent to live) is nothing new, it’s the use of umbrellas as the source of the magic that make this such a fun read. Seriously, how can you not love a book that features vicious, dog-handled umbrellas and sweet, pretty ones that help make you fly? A unique take on magic that makes this such a fun read. The kids are great too!
April 15, 2026
This is a really cool take on a modern-day “witch hunt” narrative, but with a softer, more whimsical magical realism tone.
I liked how the magic is introduced in subtle ways throughout the book, rather than being immediately loud or obvious. Small details like the library atmosphere or simple things like lights turning on feel quietly magical, which makes the world feel more lived-in and believable.
The concept of the magical umbrellas was definitely the highlight for me. The idea that umbrellas can help with travel and are part of a larger magical system tied to the island is really creative. The Museum of Lost Umbrellas is also such an interesting setting, especially since it is not just a museum, but a place that holds magical history that some people actively want hidden or suppressed.
There is also a strong mystery element that builds as the story progresses. Someone clearly wants the museum shut down, and strange “bad omens” start appearing, like toads left at the entrance, which adds a slightly eerie tension to the story.
I also liked the way the book explores magic versus non-magic tensions, especially how some characters claim to oppose magic but are still willing to use it when it benefits them. That hypocrisy adds an interesting layer to the conflict.
The characters and friendships were really heartwarming, especially as they slowly warmed up to each other over time. That said, it did take me quite a while to get fully into the story, even though I enjoyed where it eventually went.
I liked how the magic is introduced in subtle ways throughout the book, rather than being immediately loud or obvious. Small details like the library atmosphere or simple things like lights turning on feel quietly magical, which makes the world feel more lived-in and believable.
The concept of the magical umbrellas was definitely the highlight for me. The idea that umbrellas can help with travel and are part of a larger magical system tied to the island is really creative. The Museum of Lost Umbrellas is also such an interesting setting, especially since it is not just a museum, but a place that holds magical history that some people actively want hidden or suppressed.
There is also a strong mystery element that builds as the story progresses. Someone clearly wants the museum shut down, and strange “bad omens” start appearing, like toads left at the entrance, which adds a slightly eerie tension to the story.
I also liked the way the book explores magic versus non-magic tensions, especially how some characters claim to oppose magic but are still willing to use it when it benefits them. That hypocrisy adds an interesting layer to the conflict.
The characters and friendships were really heartwarming, especially as they slowly warmed up to each other over time. That said, it did take me quite a while to get fully into the story, even though I enjoyed where it eventually went.
April 17, 2026
The Museum of Lost Umbrellas stands out as one of my favourite reads of the year. From the very first page, it immerses you in a richly imagined world that feels both enchanting and vivid. The characters are beautifully crafted, each with a depth that makes them linger in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the page. The plot is woven with remarkable skill, delivering twists that are as surprising as they are satisfying. Altogether, the narrative unfolds with such momentum and charm that it becomes almost impossible to set the book aside.
April 5, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this magical middle grade read that contains a print love song to libraries and has hints of other wonderful children’s books too. With some important lessons woven in about bigotry and prejudice and themes of friendship and standing up for yourself and others this story definitely deserves the five star rating I have given it.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews