I've never ridden a butterfly before!
If that previous sentence excited you, then you should definitely pick up a copy of Jonathan Bowerman's debut novel!
The Secret Realms of the Hidden Elves is a great adventure story, and the perfect fantasy for primary school-aged kids. Think Alice in Wonderland meets the Hobbit, except the primary creatures are elves, and gigantic versions of the smaller things in our world. Oh, and dragons. Gotta have dragons!
The story has all the elements you'd expect in such an adventure: the chosen hero, great wizard, stout warrior, dastardly villain, important quest, and of course, butterfly steeds. Wait, that's not what you'd expect? Well, it works in this story!
Jasper, the twelve-year-old protagonist, has just moved into a mansion with her family. It's massive, and her imagination runs wild—even for one of her age. She sees things others don't. This eventually leads to her meeting the hidden elves.
The elves are having a bit of an issue with an evil elf named Veranon. Fortunately, Jasper is the chosen one, and the only chance they have to defeat him! Cue the entrance of a colourful cast of characters, and an overwhelming quest they all must work together to overcome.
We read about the importance of being strong and independent while also not being afraid of relying on your friends. And dragons. You can always rely on dragons! Despite how hard things get—physically and mentally—Jasper never gives up!
This is a fun book, and I quite enjoyed overcoming the trials and tribulations alongside Jasper. I look forward to seeing what Jonathan has in store for the sequel.