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The Star-spun Web
With her passion for scientific experimentation and her pet tarantula Violet, Tess de Sousa is no ordinary orphan. When a stranger shows up at Ackerbee’s Home for Lost and Foundlings, claiming to be a distant relative come to adopt her, Tess hopes to find some answers to her mysterious origins. But as she adjusts to her new life at Roedeer Lodge, it becomes clear that Norton F. Cleat knows more about Tess – and the strange star-shaped device left with her when she was abandoned as a baby – than he’s letting on. And when Tess discovers that the Starspinner is the gateway between her world and a parallel world in which war rages, she realizes she may be the key to a terrible plan. A plan she must stop at all costs...
384 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2019
31 people are currently reading
971 people want to read
About the author
Sinéad O'Hart
13 books71 followersSinéad O'Hart was born on a long-ago Monday in one of the many corners of Ireland. She grew up - not very far up, to be honest - with one brother and two parents, in a small house full of books. She always wanted to be an author, but somehow managed to wander through a variety of careers (including butcher, bookseller, and university lecturer, among others) before finally getting around to what she should have been doing all along, which was writing.
Her first book, THE EYE OF THE NORTH, was published by Knopf BFYR (US/Canada) in 2017, and by Stripes Publishing (UK/Ireland) in 2018. Her second book, THE STAR-SPUN WEB, came out in 2019 (Stripes, UK/Ireland; Knopf BFYR, US/Canada). In 2021 she published THE RAVENS' CALL with Harper Collins Children's Books and a third novel with Stripes/Little Tiger Press, SKYBORN, a prequel to her first book, The Eye of the North. Her fourth and fifth novels, THE TIME TIDER and THE SILVER ROAD, came out in 2023, the former with Stripes/Little Tiger Press and the latter with Piccadilly Press. In 2024 she began publishing her series of younger readers with Nosy Crow, beginning with LOLA AND LARCH FIX A FAIRY FOREST. Three titles in this series published in 2024, along with her sixth novel, SWORD OF THE SUN (Piccadilly Press).
She lives with one husband and one energetic youngster in the midlands of Ireland, in a small house full of books.
Her first book, THE EYE OF THE NORTH, was published by Knopf BFYR (US/Canada) in 2017, and by Stripes Publishing (UK/Ireland) in 2018. Her second book, THE STAR-SPUN WEB, came out in 2019 (Stripes, UK/Ireland; Knopf BFYR, US/Canada). In 2021 she published THE RAVENS' CALL with Harper Collins Children's Books and a third novel with Stripes/Little Tiger Press, SKYBORN, a prequel to her first book, The Eye of the North. Her fourth and fifth novels, THE TIME TIDER and THE SILVER ROAD, came out in 2023, the former with Stripes/Little Tiger Press and the latter with Piccadilly Press. In 2024 she began publishing her series of younger readers with Nosy Crow, beginning with LOLA AND LARCH FIX A FAIRY FOREST. Three titles in this series published in 2024, along with her sixth novel, SWORD OF THE SUN (Piccadilly Press).
She lives with one husband and one energetic youngster in the midlands of Ireland, in a small house full of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 28, 2019
One thought was so urgent that it drowned out all the others: she’ll only be two worlds away - will it be enough?Tess is my kind of heroine. She’s smart, stubborn, determined and a good friend. She conducts scientific experiments in a raincoat that’s seen better days and her lab is otherwise known as the detention room. She has a pet tarantula named Violet and will quite happily ruin brand new clothes by climbing up a chimney. Oh, and she can travel between different realities!
“Could it be true, then, to say that everything which could exist, does exist somewhere? That every choice made creates a ‘branch’ effect, where both outcomes can come to independent fruition, each entirely unknown to the other? It would mean an almost unimaginable abundance of universes, but who is to say such things cannot be true?”I’m pretty sure I’ve never been emotionally attached to a tarantula before, but Violet somehow spun some web magic over me and I became fiercely protective of her. I also became very fond of Moose the mouse and grinned whenever Hortense the hockey stick was mentioned. I quickly moved from “huh, a pet spider” to “I’m going to boycott this book if Violet and Moose don’t make it to the end alive”.
Then there were the humans. While Tess was a great main character, Wilf and Millie were the ones I wanted to simultaneously adopt and be best friends with. Millie was an absolute sweetheart, while Wilf managed to snag the best lines in the book (most of my smiles, smirks and chuckles came courtesy of her). Of all of the characters they’re the two I desperately need updates about. I’m not greedy; just a book each where their individual stories are the focus would satisfy me. 😜
The settings came to life for me, particularly the chapel and Ackerbee’s. I love Ackerbee’s even more now that I’ve seen photos of the building it was based on, the Lafayette Building in Dublin. I need to live in that attic!
I can’t tell you how much I love that ‘home’ in this book doesn’t consist of buildings and ‘family’ doesn’t require you to share DNA with people. Tess’ home is with those who love her, including Miss Ackerbee, Rebecca, Wilf and all of the other girls at Ackerbee’s Home for Lost and Foundlings, and Violet, of course.
If I’d read this book as a kid I would have loved that it didn’t talk down to me. While there were some wonderful analogies that made complex ideas easier to understand (my favourite image was sheets of paper illustrating parallel universes), it never felt like anything was overly simplistic. I definitely would have gotten my science geek on after reading this.
Sara Mulvanny’s cover artwork and Sophie Bransby’s design drew me to this book in the first place and now that I’ve finished reading I can appreciate all of the elements that were included. I also liked the web at the beginning of each chapter; it was simple but effective.
Eensy weensy nitpick: I wasn’t overly sure why .
While The Star-spun Web works as a standalone there are enough loose ends to warrant a sequel. I can imagine what’s next for some of my favourite characters but I’d much prefer to hear Sinéad O’Hart telling me all about them. I need to .
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Stripes Publishing, an imprint of Little Tiger Group, for the opportunity to read this book and for introducing me to a new (to me) author. I am rounding up from 4.5 stars. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to add Sinéad’s debut, The Eye of the North, to my wish list.
February 21, 2019
I loved Sinead’s debut, THE EYE OF THE NORTH, so I literally squealed when THE STAR-SPUN WEB turned up on my doorstep. It did not disappoint.
This was if Diana Wynn Jones and Phillip Pullman had a literary baby. BIG COMPARISONS, but boy does it earn them. It tells the story of Tess, an orphan who was left on the door of a foundling home as a baby with a mysterious object. When a strange man who claims to be her long-lost relative turns up to take her away from Ackerbees, and the guardians and fellow orphan girls that she loves, Tess is thrust into a mystery with mean governesses, multiple worlds, and a new guardian she can’t trust.
Firstly, our heroine. I LOVE me a STEM-interested girl heroine and I adored Tess’s obvious passion for science, and figuring out puzzles–I thought it was integrated so well into the story and made for a great pay off in the climax. Tess’s pet spider, Violet was integral to the story and I loved her role–it’s so difficult to fall in love with a character that can’t physically speak, but Violet communicated through vibrations in such a beautiful way, and really her and Tess’s relationship was the heart of the story.
THE STAR-SPUN WEB played with tropes in a delightful way. I though Tess’s clear affection for the foundling home, her friends there, and her guardians was great, and such a nice change from the usual ‘awful orphanages’ trope. I also really enjoyed the close interactions between Tess and Mr Cleat — the mysterious guardian who Tess ends up living with. Tess’s mistrust of him was keenly felt, and I thought it was great (and unusual) for a heroine to see so much of the maybe-potential-antagonist.
I am a big fan of multiple world stories. In this story, the world-building (or is it worldsbuilding?) was deft and multifaceted, and I adored the twist on the method of world-travel–it made this multi-verse feel unique and original!
The ending was satisfying and wrapped up major threads whilst leaving a few mysteries hanging. I thought it was perfect, and I also thought that THE STAR-SPUN WEB has serious potential for a sequel. I for one, would love to see more of Tess’s world(s).
This was if Diana Wynn Jones and Phillip Pullman had a literary baby. BIG COMPARISONS, but boy does it earn them. It tells the story of Tess, an orphan who was left on the door of a foundling home as a baby with a mysterious object. When a strange man who claims to be her long-lost relative turns up to take her away from Ackerbees, and the guardians and fellow orphan girls that she loves, Tess is thrust into a mystery with mean governesses, multiple worlds, and a new guardian she can’t trust.
Firstly, our heroine. I LOVE me a STEM-interested girl heroine and I adored Tess’s obvious passion for science, and figuring out puzzles–I thought it was integrated so well into the story and made for a great pay off in the climax. Tess’s pet spider, Violet was integral to the story and I loved her role–it’s so difficult to fall in love with a character that can’t physically speak, but Violet communicated through vibrations in such a beautiful way, and really her and Tess’s relationship was the heart of the story.
THE STAR-SPUN WEB played with tropes in a delightful way. I though Tess’s clear affection for the foundling home, her friends there, and her guardians was great, and such a nice change from the usual ‘awful orphanages’ trope. I also really enjoyed the close interactions between Tess and Mr Cleat — the mysterious guardian who Tess ends up living with. Tess’s mistrust of him was keenly felt, and I thought it was great (and unusual) for a heroine to see so much of the maybe-potential-antagonist.
I am a big fan of multiple world stories. In this story, the world-building (or is it worldsbuilding?) was deft and multifaceted, and I adored the twist on the method of world-travel–it made this multi-verse feel unique and original!
The ending was satisfying and wrapped up major threads whilst leaving a few mysteries hanging. I thought it was perfect, and I also thought that THE STAR-SPUN WEB has serious potential for a sequel. I for one, would love to see more of Tess’s world(s).
February 3, 2019
Meet Tess de Sousa. She lives in Ackerbee’s Home for Lost and Foundlings, has a pet tarantula called Violet, and is a budding scientist. Not only that, but Tess wears glasses.
As an odd start to a review as that may seem, when I started reading The Star-spun Web, I was ecstatic to see a young, female protagonist wearing glasses and she has to clean them from time to time. As someone who wears glasses and knows the pain of constantly searching for something to clean them with (where DO those smudges come from?!) and I felt an affinity with Tess immediately.
Anyway, now I’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s get onto the rest of the book. I can sit here and talk about how great the plot is (which it is) and how well written it is (which it is) and the fact the characters are so well developed (which they are) but I want to talk about something far, far more important.
O’Hart’s book is like a breath of fresh air. I can’t think of an adult book I’ve read that explores the multiverse theory, nevermind a children’s book! The storyline explains how Tess possesses a Starspinner, a device which allows her to move from one universe to another. Although this element of the book is clearly fantastical, it does also introduce the reader to the multiverse theory and accurately reflects the idea that the universes occur simultaneously.
Tess loves science and conducting experiments. In itself, seeing a young female exploring science is wonderful, but there is something far more meaningful at play in this book. Tess is supported. She is given a lab (however crude) and her teachers give her space and time she needs to develop her skills. Her friends support her. She is not mocked or bullied for her passion.
I cannot stress enough how valuable this is for encouraging young women into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subjects. Books like this help to normalise women in science, which is desperately needed.
If you have a child (any child, not just a girl!) who is between 8 and 12 years old, encourage them to read this book. Not only is it a wonderful adventure, full of mystery, intrigue, and peril, but delivers some important messages.
I, for one, cannot wait to find out what adventures Tess goes on next.
As an odd start to a review as that may seem, when I started reading The Star-spun Web, I was ecstatic to see a young, female protagonist wearing glasses and she has to clean them from time to time. As someone who wears glasses and knows the pain of constantly searching for something to clean them with (where DO those smudges come from?!) and I felt an affinity with Tess immediately.
Anyway, now I’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s get onto the rest of the book. I can sit here and talk about how great the plot is (which it is) and how well written it is (which it is) and the fact the characters are so well developed (which they are) but I want to talk about something far, far more important.
O’Hart’s book is like a breath of fresh air. I can’t think of an adult book I’ve read that explores the multiverse theory, nevermind a children’s book! The storyline explains how Tess possesses a Starspinner, a device which allows her to move from one universe to another. Although this element of the book is clearly fantastical, it does also introduce the reader to the multiverse theory and accurately reflects the idea that the universes occur simultaneously.
Tess loves science and conducting experiments. In itself, seeing a young female exploring science is wonderful, but there is something far more meaningful at play in this book. Tess is supported. She is given a lab (however crude) and her teachers give her space and time she needs to develop her skills. Her friends support her. She is not mocked or bullied for her passion.
I cannot stress enough how valuable this is for encouraging young women into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subjects. Books like this help to normalise women in science, which is desperately needed.
If you have a child (any child, not just a girl!) who is between 8 and 12 years old, encourage them to read this book. Not only is it a wonderful adventure, full of mystery, intrigue, and peril, but delivers some important messages.
I, for one, cannot wait to find out what adventures Tess goes on next.
April 10, 2022
I’m absolutely loving this authors books! I loved the The Eye of the North sooooo much, & this 1 is different to that 1 in many ways, but just as incredible. I love authors that can write books that don’t all feel the same. I love just the whole IDEA of this story, the mystery of Tess’s backstory, the Starspinner, all of it. So intriguing & just fascinating. Tess is such a strong female MC, with a strong love of science, & I loved how it all mixed into the story. Then Violet & Moose? Seriously! Brilliant! How the author manages to have “characters” like them, who don’t even speak, become so important & integral to the story is just incredible. They have my heart, as does Thomas. Millie too! Ahhh so good. Because not only do you fall in love with our MC, but all the side characters are all PHENOMENAL as well, & grab your heart. I loved this “orphanage” too, & everyone living there. From the other children to the matrons that run it. It was so nice to see an orphanage situation that wasn’t horrible in a book for a change lol. It was the coziest, most heartwarming found family vibes ever. I loved the mystery to this story, along with the adventure, danger & suspense. Absolutely phenomenal characters, world(s) building, & writing overall. I loved the twists at the end & was shocked! Amazing ending. It looked like it left it with potential for more so….would LOVE to see that! Lol Can’t wait to read her next book I have, Skyborn. Highly recommend this! STUNNING cover by Sara Mulvanny too!💜
January 27, 2019
The cover art, boy/girl MC and subtle steampunk setting makes this the perfect companion to O' Hart's first title. But this is quite different too. Tess is a plucky heroine, with a cute sidekick in the form of a pet spider. The plot is action-packed and full of mystery, danger and adventure. I loved the parallel worlds idea and the star-spinner was a unique device to time-slip between them. This is a story about the collision of science and history, but ultimately it's about friendship. Seasoned with nasty villains and beautiful writing, this book is sure to be a winner. Bravo!
February 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this story, it was unique and had some lovely ideas in it. I especially enjoyed that the adults were knowledgeable and didn't treat the kids like they were stupid - generally. Despite having a fear of spiders myself I thought it was really cool that the main character had a pet one as it's an unusual side kick creature. The twists and turns in this were fun and I liked the perspectives we got.
Overall a solid enjoyable middle grade book.
I was sent this by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall a solid enjoyable middle grade book.
I was sent this by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2019
This was a great read filled with strong characters, adventure, science, and bravery. Tess was honestly the best kind of character; I loved her curiosity, loyalty to her family, and strength as she learned about her past and stood up against Mr. Cleat and Mrs. Thistleton. The world was imaginative and filled with so many possibilities, and I hope there's a second book in the works so I can explore more of this world!
March 1, 2019
The Star-Spun Web had me in its' grip from page one. Lyrical writing, a well-crafted plot and exceptional story-telling make this book ring with adventure and believability. The concept of multi-layered reality is utterly fascinating and brings a compelling, inquisitive quality to the tale that harkens back to some of the sci-fi classics. Tess is a wonderful character; spunky, well-rounded and not easily defeated. She stands out as a hero the reader can really get behind. The 'bad-guys' in the story (Mr Cleat and Mrs Thistleton) are wicked portraits of manipulation and obsession; but these are the very qualities that cause their downfall (for the moment...) And that all important element of quirky humour set in the darkest moments of the story lift the reader out of fright and propel them forward into resilience. An array of circumstances flow together to cement strong, yet tender-hearted bonds of companionship and family and create a gripping, heart-stopping conclusion. There is so much to recommend this book. Fast-paced, curious, intelligent and dripping with real courage and imagination.
April 29, 2022
Tess, a foundling with a sense of adventure and a scientific ability, is on the brink of adoption when she learns about a secret about gerself that could put her in danger. She must stay one step ahead of her new guardian to discover the rest of her story and survive.
This book had a lot of parallels with The Lock-Eater by Zack Loran Clark, though that one is more magical and witchy and this is more in the speculative fiction/sci-fi category. I enjoyed both in their own way, it just depends where your preferences are. This one has some steampunky qualities, alternate dimensions, and (in a way) time travel.
Probably a good fit for fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society, Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events or the Nevermoor books. In a nutshell: clever, plucky children outwitting plotting, power-hungry adults...with portals.
This book had a lot of parallels with The Lock-Eater by Zack Loran Clark, though that one is more magical and witchy and this is more in the speculative fiction/sci-fi category. I enjoyed both in their own way, it just depends where your preferences are. This one has some steampunky qualities, alternate dimensions, and (in a way) time travel.
Probably a good fit for fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society, Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events or the Nevermoor books. In a nutshell: clever, plucky children outwitting plotting, power-hungry adults...with portals.
December 27, 2019
A really imaginative novel for middle graders, filled with unusual and interesting objects, characters and theories. My son and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this together. Our only wish was that the last chapter or epilogue was a little longer. This would have tied up the ending, yet intrigued us to hunt down book 2 of the series right after. Still, a very enjoyable read!
January 18, 2019
I received this book from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the concept of the Star-Spun web. And it has really lovely friendships in it, which is always lovely. And I love that she has a pet spider.
I also adore Miss Ackerbee for being so matter of fact about it all! That made me laugh. It was so refreshing to have an adult figure it out and tell the main character rather than not believing them.
I feel there were a few unanswered questions, about things like why Violet and Moose are so special. Though I think a good few will be answered in a next book (it set up so beautifully I have to assume there is one!) about things like who the other people interested in the device are, and what happened with Tess’s parents. I really hope that this is picked up in a second book!
It’s also great to see Tess so concentrating on science, and I would have enjoyed a couple more scenes on that, showing all the things she was looking into and why or precious successes. Maybe this is because I’m a science nerd though 😂 I really liked her determination and focus, and her friendships that she makes along the way.
A very enjoyable read!
I really enjoyed the concept of the Star-Spun web. And it has really lovely friendships in it, which is always lovely. And I love that she has a pet spider.
I also adore Miss Ackerbee for being so matter of fact about it all! That made me laugh. It was so refreshing to have an adult figure it out and tell the main character rather than not believing them.
I feel there were a few unanswered questions, about things like why Violet and Moose are so special. Though I think a good few will be answered in a next book (it set up so beautifully I have to assume there is one!) about things like who the other people interested in the device are, and what happened with Tess’s parents. I really hope that this is picked up in a second book!
It’s also great to see Tess so concentrating on science, and I would have enjoyed a couple more scenes on that, showing all the things she was looking into and why or precious successes. Maybe this is because I’m a science nerd though 😂 I really liked her determination and focus, and her friendships that she makes along the way.
A very enjoyable read!
December 30, 2019
This was such an amazing story, I absolutely loved it!
January 22, 2019
My 10yo read this in two sittings and the overall feedback was: BRILLIANT!
She loved the story, the strong friendship with Viola the Tarantula and Thomas. Also, Miss Ackerbee is a fantastic and supportive character to help Tess through the years. My daughter loved the writing and I'm sure this is not the only book she will read by the very talented Sinéad O’Hart.
She loved the story, the strong friendship with Viola the Tarantula and Thomas. Also, Miss Ackerbee is a fantastic and supportive character to help Tess through the years. My daughter loved the writing and I'm sure this is not the only book she will read by the very talented Sinéad O’Hart.
June 9, 2019
Very enjoyable fantasy with a fiesty heroine, host of other well written characters and good storyline. Left open for follow up which I will be looking for.
February 19, 2019
This is the story of Tess de Sousa, a wonderfully realistic heroine whose courage is mixed with moments of uncertainty, guilt and fear. She is an orphan with an interest in science, who has the ability to travel to a parallel world, in the grips of WWII, following her discovery of how to use a Star-spinner. Mr Cleat and Mrs Thistleton are the perfect dark villains. The story builds wonderfully to a tense climax, which literally had me holding my breath.
For me, this story is a real testament to the power of friendship and trust, whether that be from the childhood friends Tess grew up with, her pet tarantula or the boy she meets in the parallel world, Thomas. I was totally engrossed from start to finish - fantasy adventure at its best!
The Star-spun Web
For me, this story is a real testament to the power of friendship and trust, whether that be from the childhood friends Tess grew up with, her pet tarantula or the boy she meets in the parallel world, Thomas. I was totally engrossed from start to finish - fantasy adventure at its best!
The Star-spun Web
January 13, 2019
Another fantastic novel by Sinéad O’Hart. A novel full of friendship, belonging, science and history.
February 18, 2019
An excellent book! Reminded me of the Northern Lights trilogy.
December 29, 2018
The story of Tess and her figuring out who she is after being left at Ackerbee’s Home for Lost and Foundlings, The Star-Spun Web is the excellent second book from Sinead O’Hart who follows up from the brilliant ‘Eye Of The North’.
The characters are brilliantly written in this book, though we launch into the plot quite quickly, Tess as a character develops well and the people around her are definitely just as strong, with characters such as those in the new home she lives in really emerging well within the book and those like Mrs Ackerbee who you would want to be your adopted mum too.
The story is fast paced and really gets you on the edge of your seat pretty quickly, even if you’re an adult like me, O’Hart has a natural ability at letting a gret plot unfold at a perfect but quick pace and this book is no different in that respect to previous book, ‘Eye Of The North’. I love the author also has entwined real life historical moments into her story too, creating a great end to the story.
A fantastic book for middle grade age, and adults (this is a book I’d read to a kid, for them and for me), The Star-Spun Web is a treat.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley for honest review).
The characters are brilliantly written in this book, though we launch into the plot quite quickly, Tess as a character develops well and the people around her are definitely just as strong, with characters such as those in the new home she lives in really emerging well within the book and those like Mrs Ackerbee who you would want to be your adopted mum too.
The story is fast paced and really gets you on the edge of your seat pretty quickly, even if you’re an adult like me, O’Hart has a natural ability at letting a gret plot unfold at a perfect but quick pace and this book is no different in that respect to previous book, ‘Eye Of The North’. I love the author also has entwined real life historical moments into her story too, creating a great end to the story.
A fantastic book for middle grade age, and adults (this is a book I’d read to a kid, for them and for me), The Star-Spun Web is a treat.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley for honest review).
February 13, 2019
This was a complete HOOT from start to finish! A joy to read. POW, went the plot! POW! POW! A truly fantastic story by a truly magnificent writer.
February 9, 2019
I read and devoured ‘The Eye of the North’ when it was a featured monthly read on the Twitter page-Primary School Book Club; although this is a very different book, it’s touched by the same magic.
Sinaed O’Hart writes strong female protagonists so very well, but not in such a way as to alienate young male readers. She weaves a tale of adventure that twists and turns through alternate realities whilst coming to a conclusion that leaves you wanting more.
In short, I loved this book!
Sinaed O’Hart writes strong female protagonists so very well, but not in such a way as to alienate young male readers. She weaves a tale of adventure that twists and turns through alternate realities whilst coming to a conclusion that leaves you wanting more.
In short, I loved this book!
January 27, 2019
Sinéad O'Hart stormed into the Middle Grade scene last year with her fantastic debut The Eye of the North, so there were high expectations riding on her second book, The Star-Spun Web. Aside from the fact that Sara Mulvanny and Sophie Bransby have done a stellar job on the cover again (it's BEAUTIFUL!), this book was just as engaging and enjoyable to read as book one!
The Star-Spun Web is a mysterious story full of magic, science and wonder...and, despite my intense dislike of spiders, I actually began to warm to Violet, Tess' pet spider! It's a book that I was always excited to get back to reading; I genuinely cared about the characters and was rooting for Tess! As a character, she is one of my favourites I've come across in middle grade books; she's just the right amount of feisty, vulnerable and intelligent. It's refreshing to have a female character who is so independent and inquisitive. That said, she also relies on other people at the right times, showing how we can think we can do something alone but actually we need other people sometimes to help, whether that's from our family or friends.
I'm not sure whether this book is going to be a stand-alone; there is a lot of potential for a sequel in this world! I'd love to revisit Tess and all her friends, and discover what happens to the villains of the story too!
The Star-Spun Web is a mysterious story full of magic, science and wonder...and, despite my intense dislike of spiders, I actually began to warm to Violet, Tess' pet spider! It's a book that I was always excited to get back to reading; I genuinely cared about the characters and was rooting for Tess! As a character, she is one of my favourites I've come across in middle grade books; she's just the right amount of feisty, vulnerable and intelligent. It's refreshing to have a female character who is so independent and inquisitive. That said, she also relies on other people at the right times, showing how we can think we can do something alone but actually we need other people sometimes to help, whether that's from our family or friends.
I'm not sure whether this book is going to be a stand-alone; there is a lot of potential for a sequel in this world! I'd love to revisit Tess and all her friends, and discover what happens to the villains of the story too!
February 7, 2019
Sinéad hits it out of the park with her second novel, a tale of world slipping, spiders – *a* spider, at least – and children who might be each other. Trust me, it all makes sense when you read it. And you definitely should read this one. Children will love it, and it introduces its central conceits very gently. They'll be learning as they read!
I'm very much looking forward to having this one in my hands, so that I can shove it into other peoples' hands.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
"They'd never leave me without saying anything, they'd never just go and not try to let me know they were all right. They'd never just forget me."
After a few minutes he lifted his face and sniffed, the ache in his chest so painful it felt like the air he was breathing had claws. "But Tess has proved one thing. Mum and Dad were right all this time. They knew this was possible, what Tess and me are doing." Moose turned, scampering up his sleeve until he came to rest on Thomas's shoulder. "I'll make sure their names aren't a laughing stock anymore. Whatever Tess needs, I'm going to help her - and then together we can figure out how to prove my parents were the best scientists the world has ever known."
He reached into his shirt pocket and took out a few crumbs of cheese. Moose crawled on to his outstretched palm to nibble them and Thomas felt his heart slow and the pain in his chest gradually lessen. "You were the best present they ever gave me," he whispered, running a gentle finger down Moose's back. The mouse responded by putting one tiny paw on Thomas's thumb and the boy smiled.
Finally Thomas blew out the candle and they lay down to sleep. High above the heads of the boy and his mouse, dashed across the face of the clear night sky, a web of stars was sparkling; in another world, in which the stars had been scattered in a different configuration across the heavens, a girl and her spider were dreaming of them.
I'm very much looking forward to having this one in my hands, so that I can shove it into other peoples' hands.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
"They'd never leave me without saying anything, they'd never just go and not try to let me know they were all right. They'd never just forget me."
After a few minutes he lifted his face and sniffed, the ache in his chest so painful it felt like the air he was breathing had claws. "But Tess has proved one thing. Mum and Dad were right all this time. They knew this was possible, what Tess and me are doing." Moose turned, scampering up his sleeve until he came to rest on Thomas's shoulder. "I'll make sure their names aren't a laughing stock anymore. Whatever Tess needs, I'm going to help her - and then together we can figure out how to prove my parents were the best scientists the world has ever known."
He reached into his shirt pocket and took out a few crumbs of cheese. Moose crawled on to his outstretched palm to nibble them and Thomas felt his heart slow and the pain in his chest gradually lessen. "You were the best present they ever gave me," he whispered, running a gentle finger down Moose's back. The mouse responded by putting one tiny paw on Thomas's thumb and the boy smiled.
Finally Thomas blew out the candle and they lay down to sleep. High above the heads of the boy and his mouse, dashed across the face of the clear night sky, a web of stars was sparkling; in another world, in which the stars had been scattered in a different configuration across the heavens, a girl and her spider were dreaming of them.
March 16, 2019
I was lucky enough to read a proof of Sinead`s wonderful debut The Eye of the North, and as such I have had a very long time to get excited about her second book. If anything, it was even better than my astronomical expectations of it. It is the story of orphan Tess de Sousa and what happens when a sinister man claims to be her guardian and removes her from the orphanage, where she had one of the most wonderful found families I think I`ve ever read. Things get even stranger from there, and soon Tess is swept up in trying to prevent him carrying out his dangerous plans, which link to her mysterious (and possibly otherworldly past). Tess is such a fantastic, capable heroine and I admired her so much, despite having absolutely no personal interest in science, so I can`t imagine how much she`ll mean to girls who enjoy STEM subjects. I also loved Thomas and Millie, the aforementioned inhabitants of the orphanage and the absolutely brilliant/rather chilling baddies, but my very favourites were Violet and Moose, because they were SUCH awesome animal companions. The fantasy/sci-fi elements were incredibly interesting and made sense even to my very non-science wired brain, which isn`t always the case with science stories for me. This was so gripping as well, particularly towards the end, and though the ending was super satisfying I would love a sequel an infinite amount. This just feels like a future classic in so many ways. 5/5
August 22, 2020
A Character Driven Sci-Fi Actioner
This book works very well on a number of levels, but it does take a while to get up to speed, and it requires some patience on the part of the reader. In the opening pages we see infant Tess being deposited, through a tear in the fabric of reality, at an orphanage. We don't know if she's a princess, or a chosen one, or a crazed scientist's safely hidden child, but it's clear that's where the book will be headed.
But then we pop ahead and join Tess as a young girl at the orphanage. We meet her pals and her caregivers. We get a sense of Tess as a sciencey/STEM-ish thinker and tinkerer. When Tess is whisked away from the orphanage by a creepy man and taken to a creepy house populated by creepy characters lots of Gothic touches and angst and separation anxiety ensue. Most of this is exceptionally well done. Tess is feisty, spunky, vulnerable, and ready to reach down and seize the heroine within. Her friends at the orphanage are funny and charming and lively. Her caregivers are reliable and wise. I sort of liked that this was the best orphanage ever. The creepy house is just as appropriately creepy. And the villain is actually more complex and hard to figure than is usually the case.
The thing is, though, that there has been so much monologuing about Tess's origins, and the portal, and the doohickey that was tucked into her blanket, and there has been so much foreshadowing, hinting, and rising scary background music, that the reader starts to become impatient for something to happen to actually advance the action. We all know where this is going, and we all know what the deal is with all of the characters, so let's put the plot into drive and get moving.
Luckily, just as the reader's patience begins to wear out, (I despaired when Tess sat down in the secret garden to read "The Secret Garden"), the book does catch fire and take off. All it takes is some creepy man monologuing.
The rest of the book is exciting and fast paced. Admirably, the author never abandons character and wit in service of the action and adventure. Tess remains consistently engaging and appealing as our heroine, and ends up being even better at action than at creepy mansion moping. So we all end with a big and satisfying bang. (All of this is similar to the flow of the author's first book, "The Eye of the North", so if you know and like that book you'll slip right in to this one.)
The more I thought about this the more I came to admire both the Tess character and Tess's girl and woman friends. I also appreciated the understated naturalness of Tess's interest in science and her physical courage. If you want a STEM heroine, this is a fine place to start.
(Please note that I received a free ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
This book works very well on a number of levels, but it does take a while to get up to speed, and it requires some patience on the part of the reader. In the opening pages we see infant Tess being deposited, through a tear in the fabric of reality, at an orphanage. We don't know if she's a princess, or a chosen one, or a crazed scientist's safely hidden child, but it's clear that's where the book will be headed.
But then we pop ahead and join Tess as a young girl at the orphanage. We meet her pals and her caregivers. We get a sense of Tess as a sciencey/STEM-ish thinker and tinkerer. When Tess is whisked away from the orphanage by a creepy man and taken to a creepy house populated by creepy characters lots of Gothic touches and angst and separation anxiety ensue. Most of this is exceptionally well done. Tess is feisty, spunky, vulnerable, and ready to reach down and seize the heroine within. Her friends at the orphanage are funny and charming and lively. Her caregivers are reliable and wise. I sort of liked that this was the best orphanage ever. The creepy house is just as appropriately creepy. And the villain is actually more complex and hard to figure than is usually the case.
The thing is, though, that there has been so much monologuing about Tess's origins, and the portal, and the doohickey that was tucked into her blanket, and there has been so much foreshadowing, hinting, and rising scary background music, that the reader starts to become impatient for something to happen to actually advance the action. We all know where this is going, and we all know what the deal is with all of the characters, so let's put the plot into drive and get moving.
Luckily, just as the reader's patience begins to wear out, (I despaired when Tess sat down in the secret garden to read "The Secret Garden"), the book does catch fire and take off. All it takes is some creepy man monologuing.
The rest of the book is exciting and fast paced. Admirably, the author never abandons character and wit in service of the action and adventure. Tess remains consistently engaging and appealing as our heroine, and ends up being even better at action than at creepy mansion moping. So we all end with a big and satisfying bang. (All of this is similar to the flow of the author's first book, "The Eye of the North", so if you know and like that book you'll slip right in to this one.)
The more I thought about this the more I came to admire both the Tess character and Tess's girl and woman friends. I also appreciated the understated naturalness of Tess's interest in science and her physical courage. If you want a STEM heroine, this is a fine place to start.
(Please note that I received a free ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
June 15, 2020
This is a portal fantasy for middle grade readers, featuring two worlds, one in an alternate historical (1940s World War II) universe, with the possibility of many, many more.
The idea is that Tess' father uses a special device, a Star-Spinner, to deposit her as a baby on the steps of the Ackerbee Home for Lost and Foundlings, seconds before he's found by someone chasing him.
Now, the Home is, for a delightful change, not a horrible orphanage full of bullies and miscreants, but instead features a very kind and caring head, Miss Ackerbee, who has no qualms about Tess carrying around a tarantula to anchor her in the world. She's fully aware Tess disappears -- vanishes -- whenever the spider, Violet, isn't with her. Miss Ackerbee is also unusually astute for a head mistress in a middle grade book, and has figured out that Tess isn't from her world.
So when Norton F. Cleat comes to claim Tess and whisks her away to "Roedeer Lodge," Miss Ackerbee knows something's up, gives Tess the heads-up and spills the beans on all she knows about her, before letting Tess go.
It's with Cleat, however, that Tess finds an abandoned chapel and learns to use the Star-Spinner, which her father left on the orphanage steps with her. She encounters a boy her age, Thomas, who's lost his mother and father in another world, one ravaged by war -- a version of our WWII.
There she discovers Cleat's real intentions, and some of her family roots . But because there are many worlds, like the pages of a book stacked on high, she may never know exactly which one she's from.
The author bases the attack in the book on a real event, a 1941 Luftwaffe attack on Dublin, although she fictionalizes it. I wouldn't consider the book historical fiction, however, as it's clearly fantasy, and there's a set up for additional books to continue the story and each of those "realities" would have to be different than ours.
Enjoyed the read!
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students? Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: http://amb.mystrikingly.com/
The idea is that Tess' father uses a special device, a Star-Spinner, to deposit her as a baby on the steps of the Ackerbee Home for Lost and Foundlings, seconds before he's found by someone chasing him.
Now, the Home is, for a delightful change, not a horrible orphanage full of bullies and miscreants, but instead features a very kind and caring head, Miss Ackerbee, who has no qualms about Tess carrying around a tarantula to anchor her in the world. She's fully aware Tess disappears -- vanishes -- whenever the spider, Violet, isn't with her. Miss Ackerbee is also unusually astute for a head mistress in a middle grade book, and has figured out that Tess isn't from her world.
So when Norton F. Cleat comes to claim Tess and whisks her away to "Roedeer Lodge," Miss Ackerbee knows something's up, gives Tess the heads-up and spills the beans on all she knows about her, before letting Tess go.
It's with Cleat, however, that Tess finds an abandoned chapel and learns to use the Star-Spinner, which her father left on the orphanage steps with her. She encounters a boy her age, Thomas, who's lost his mother and father in another world, one ravaged by war -- a version of our WWII.
There she discovers Cleat's real intentions, and some of her family roots . But because there are many worlds, like the pages of a book stacked on high, she may never know exactly which one she's from.
The author bases the attack in the book on a real event, a 1941 Luftwaffe attack on Dublin, although she fictionalizes it. I wouldn't consider the book historical fiction, however, as it's clearly fantasy, and there's a set up for additional books to continue the story and each of those "realities" would have to be different than ours.
Enjoyed the read!
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students? Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: http://amb.mystrikingly.com/
October 29, 2020
I enjoyed this book about orphan, Tess, who soon realizes she is not from this world. She's plucky, loves science exploration, and her closest friend is Violet, a black tarantula that she raised from a baby. There are the classic Victorian elements. The orphanage seems to know nothing of what happened to her family- just that she was left in the cold on the front step by a man. Tess feels loved and safe in this well run home for girls and has many friends. She has time to work on her science experiments with her closest girl friend, Wilf, who is less than graceful with the lab equipment. Soon a thin mustached villain type, Mr. Cleat, comes and forces the Orphanage to let her go to his big creepy house with a nefarious housekeeper. Tess has been told that he claims to be a relative . Whether or not he is, she knows that she is now a prisoner and that he wants something from her that cannot be good. Apparently he is an inventor and a member of a society that believes in alternate universes existing in parallel. What he does not know is that she has the artifact that he has been looking for, one that most believe is a legend or was destroyed. The dear Head Mistress gave it to her before she left explaining that it was with her when she was left at the orphanage. Tess finds a secret place to be alone in an old chapel on the grounds where she can look closely for the first time at the artifact. Soon she sees that the mechanism can move. Her discovery opens up a whole new world where she finds, Thomas, a friend her age. Maybe she can discover where she came from and see her parents again. Here the plot accelerates and Tess finds herself able to explore the other world for longer times. Of course the housekeeper finds out and her artifact and spider are taken away. Mr.
Cleat forces her to agree to help him with his mission or he will kill Violet and explode the orphanage. As the plot progresses science fiction meets World War II Ireland. Our ending seems to beg for a sequel. I hope there is one for I know young patrons who really loved this story about perseverance, ingenuity, compassion, and friendship.
Cleat forces her to agree to help him with his mission or he will kill Violet and explode the orphanage. As the plot progresses science fiction meets World War II Ireland. Our ending seems to beg for a sequel. I hope there is one for I know young patrons who really loved this story about perseverance, ingenuity, compassion, and friendship.
February 17, 2019
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tess is not an ordinary girl. With a tarantula, Violet, as a pet, and a sharp mind that leads her to experimenting, Tess has lived all her life in an orphanage, with no clue about her parents. When a mysterious man appears and claims to be a distant relative, it's her chance to learn more about who she is. As time passes, Tess realizes that she might not actually be from this dimension - a suspicion that grows stronger by the strange behavior of her new guardian. Can she find out who her parents were and why she was brought to this world? What does Norton F. Cleat, her guardian, know about that he's not telling? And why?
The Star-spun Web is a very unique story about friendship, families, love and intelligence. Tess is a hero very different from your average, and a figure children can actually aspire to. The story is fast-paced and holds small mysteries for children to find, and there's definitely a lot of humor involved to keep them engaged.
However, I felt there were many cracks in the plot. The introduction to Tess's life by her principal is so abrupt, that it in no way can be believable. Having an adult just proclaim to a child that "you might just be from another dimension" as if saying "i think your father is from Sweden" is not a believable or convincing way to tell a story. Such bumps continue to exist throughout the story, making it less exciting than it could actually be. While I do understand this is a children's book, it doesn't mean it should be less convincing - after all, children are even more perceiving than adults.
Overall, the concept was incredible. The world building was insufficient. But it can still be a fast, enjoyable read for many readers.
Tess is not an ordinary girl. With a tarantula, Violet, as a pet, and a sharp mind that leads her to experimenting, Tess has lived all her life in an orphanage, with no clue about her parents. When a mysterious man appears and claims to be a distant relative, it's her chance to learn more about who she is. As time passes, Tess realizes that she might not actually be from this dimension - a suspicion that grows stronger by the strange behavior of her new guardian. Can she find out who her parents were and why she was brought to this world? What does Norton F. Cleat, her guardian, know about that he's not telling? And why?
The Star-spun Web is a very unique story about friendship, families, love and intelligence. Tess is a hero very different from your average, and a figure children can actually aspire to. The story is fast-paced and holds small mysteries for children to find, and there's definitely a lot of humor involved to keep them engaged.
However, I felt there were many cracks in the plot. The introduction to Tess's life by her principal is so abrupt, that it in no way can be believable. Having an adult just proclaim to a child that "you might just be from another dimension" as if saying "i think your father is from Sweden" is not a believable or convincing way to tell a story. Such bumps continue to exist throughout the story, making it less exciting than it could actually be. While I do understand this is a children's book, it doesn't mean it should be less convincing - after all, children are even more perceiving than adults.
Overall, the concept was incredible. The world building was insufficient. But it can still be a fast, enjoyable read for many readers.
June 5, 2020
The first few chapters of this book honestly bored me a little. The pace felt a bit too slow and I felt like there were too many not-so-important details going on at first. However, things got a lot more interesting once you reached the conflict. And to prove this: I finished 200+ pages today because I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
Our main character, Tess, was very brave and realistic. She was the kind of heroine that still had to face her moment of vulnerability now and then and I adored her for that. I rooted for her the whole time not only because I hated how nasty Mrs.Thistletorn really was, but also because of her bravery and cleverness. And the fact that she cared about Violet a lot made me admire her even more. Tess even risked everything (including the fate of the whole multi-universes) for her pet.
Talking about Mrs. Thistletorn has made me realize that I despised her so much to the point that I have to applause O'Hart for her really good job polishing her characters and making their every action believable. You should read the book yourself and find out why on earth did I dislike her so much. Hint: Mrs. Thistletorn was a perfect example of a bully. She was super snobby, mean, and... you know what? Just read the book. You'd hate her, too, I guarantee.
The writing style in this book was beautiful. I liked the way the author described the experience of jumping from one reality to another. I also liked the fact that there's a lot of historical events mentioned here, and it was cool to see how different layers of reality were strangely impacted. I couldn't help but think that it all made sense. Really, good job.
However, I had some unanswered questions about Tess and it bugged me so much. Please let me know if there's an explanation about my questions throughout the book. I'm afraid I might've missed it. So here we go:
Overall, I think this book was very enjoyable. The ending was absolutely my favorite because it was so badass. Besides the science (which was described in an interesting way), I adored the friendship in this book, too. It was touching to see girls helping girls (even kids) in such a hard situation. Their friendship was truly inspiring, and I'm now craving for books this sweet.
For more reviews, visit my blog talenthusiast.blogspot.com
Our main character, Tess, was very brave and realistic. She was the kind of heroine that still had to face her moment of vulnerability now and then and I adored her for that. I rooted for her the whole time not only because I hated how nasty Mrs.Thistletorn really was, but also because of her bravery and cleverness. And the fact that she cared about Violet a lot made me admire her even more. Tess even risked everything (including the fate of the whole multi-universes) for her pet.
Talking about Mrs. Thistletorn has made me realize that I despised her so much to the point that I have to applause O'Hart for her really good job polishing her characters and making their every action believable. You should read the book yourself and find out why on earth did I dislike her so much. Hint: Mrs. Thistletorn was a perfect example of a bully. She was super snobby, mean, and... you know what? Just read the book. You'd hate her, too, I guarantee.
The writing style in this book was beautiful. I liked the way the author described the experience of jumping from one reality to another. I also liked the fact that there's a lot of historical events mentioned here, and it was cool to see how different layers of reality were strangely impacted. I couldn't help but think that it all made sense. Really, good job.
However, I had some unanswered questions about Tess and it bugged me so much. Please let me know if there's an explanation about my questions throughout the book. I'm afraid I might've missed it. So here we go:
Overall, I think this book was very enjoyable. The ending was absolutely my favorite because it was so badass. Besides the science (which was described in an interesting way), I adored the friendship in this book, too. It was touching to see girls helping girls (even kids) in such a hard situation. Their friendship was truly inspiring, and I'm now craving for books this sweet.
For more reviews, visit my blog talenthusiast.blogspot.com
November 29, 2019
MY THOUGHTS:
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book reminds me a bit of Lemony Snickets', A Series of Unfortunate Events, when I read the premise. Then, as I started reading the book, I realized I was nowhere near that series, but entering into a new, originally themed series full of strong characters, great writing and a fantastic setting.
There's especially a wonderful MC who is brave, family-oriented, smart, loves science and isn't afraid of the unknown. She loves a big spider... how cool is that? I wanted to know more about her and her two friends who were quirky, funny and loyal. They added comic relief and sarcasm. I found myself smiling at their interactions and interventions.
The whole idea that the main character loved science, was wholly supported for her passion and even given a "lab" space to conduct her experiments is extraordinary. There's an entire science and technology theme here too throughout the book with experiments, revelations, and an introduction to multiverses all discovered at the hands of a female protagonist.
There's a bit of a mystery to solve, a discovery to be made and all takes place in an orphanage and during WWII. I found this book fascinating and well-paced, moving along at a steady and exciting pace.
A great middle-grade book that I highly recommend, a true standalone that has the potential to branch out into a mini-series. Also if you have time, pick up her debut novel, The Eye of the North. You won't be disappointed.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book reminds me a bit of Lemony Snickets', A Series of Unfortunate Events, when I read the premise. Then, as I started reading the book, I realized I was nowhere near that series, but entering into a new, originally themed series full of strong characters, great writing and a fantastic setting.
There's especially a wonderful MC who is brave, family-oriented, smart, loves science and isn't afraid of the unknown. She loves a big spider... how cool is that? I wanted to know more about her and her two friends who were quirky, funny and loyal. They added comic relief and sarcasm. I found myself smiling at their interactions and interventions.
The whole idea that the main character loved science, was wholly supported for her passion and even given a "lab" space to conduct her experiments is extraordinary. There's an entire science and technology theme here too throughout the book with experiments, revelations, and an introduction to multiverses all discovered at the hands of a female protagonist.
There's a bit of a mystery to solve, a discovery to be made and all takes place in an orphanage and during WWII. I found this book fascinating and well-paced, moving along at a steady and exciting pace.
A great middle-grade book that I highly recommend, a true standalone that has the potential to branch out into a mini-series. Also if you have time, pick up her debut novel, The Eye of the North. You won't be disappointed.
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