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The Five Realms #5
Uki and the Swamp Spirit
From bestselling author and winner of the Blue Peter Best Story Book Award, Uki and the Swamp Spirit is the fifth title set in the world of Podkin One-Ear.
Uki had the sensation of a sickly green light, spreading out through the networks of water. Of tendrils connecting all the creatures of the marsh in a web . . . Linking itself so it could poison it all and destroy it.
Uki and his friends have two more spirits to find and capture. After defeating Valkus, they make for Clarice, who is spreading disease through the swamps. Can Uki and his friends outwit him - all whilst they themselves are being chased by the Endwatch and Jori's clan of assassins?
Uki had the sensation of a sickly green light, spreading out through the networks of water. Of tendrils connecting all the creatures of the marsh in a web . . . Linking itself so it could poison it all and destroy it.
Uki and his friends have two more spirits to find and capture. After defeating Valkus, they make for Clarice, who is spreading disease through the swamps. Can Uki and his friends outwit him - all whilst they themselves are being chased by the Endwatch and Jori's clan of assassins?
338 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
16 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Kieran Larwood
23 books285 followersKieran Larwood is the author of Freaks, and was the winner of the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition 2011.
Kieran is one of only two male Reception class teachers on the Isle of Wight.
His days mainly consist of singing nursery rhymes, tying shoelaces, trying to locate who has had an ‘accident’ by sense of smell alone, and vast, endless mountains of paperwork.
Kieran graduated from Southampton University with a degree in English, and also did a foundation year at Falmouth College of Art. Ever since he first read The Hobbit at age six, he has been passionate about stories and storytelling.
Kieran lives with his family on the Isle of Wight. It is his dream to write full time and leave the ‘accidents’ to someone else.
Kieran is one of only two male Reception class teachers on the Isle of Wight.
His days mainly consist of singing nursery rhymes, tying shoelaces, trying to locate who has had an ‘accident’ by sense of smell alone, and vast, endless mountains of paperwork.
Kieran graduated from Southampton University with a degree in English, and also did a foundation year at Falmouth College of Art. Ever since he first read The Hobbit at age six, he has been passionate about stories and storytelling.
Kieran lives with his family on the Isle of Wight. It is his dream to write full time and leave the ‘accidents’ to someone else.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 9, 2021
A heck of a lot of good adventure action, storytelling and heroism! Talking rabbits make everything better ❤️
February 22, 2021
One of the best in the series so far - and quite extraordinary to read about an evil plague spirit during Covid lockdown! These continue to be some of the best kids books being written at the moment, and my 9 year old loves them.
October 23, 2021
"Being brave doesn't mean you aren't frightened. It just means you carry on with what you have to do in spite of it."
I am continuing on reading the Uki series to my kids after loving the Podkin series. One of my favorite things about Kieran Larwood's books is that the main characters are relatable to kids and to all of us. They aren't perfect or superheroes. They are rather imperfect like the rest of us. In the words of Shakespeare: "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." Uki's story starts as a poor orphan boy who has been a bullied outcast his whole life. During his flight from home, he has an epic quest thrust upon him and along the way, he meets some fellow outcasts, who quickly become family to him. In Uki and the Swamp Spirit, Uki, Jori, and Kree are on the hunt for Charice, who has already started to spread her plague and disease through the swamps and fens. As the story is told by our traveling bard to his apprentice, we also get to catch up with their story as the Bard tells Uki's tale. The original characters in Podkin's stories were such a special way to start the Five Realms stories. So, I love that we still get to hear little tidbits of their lives years later as the Bard tells his stories.
I am continuing on reading the Uki series to my kids after loving the Podkin series. One of my favorite things about Kieran Larwood's books is that the main characters are relatable to kids and to all of us. They aren't perfect or superheroes. They are rather imperfect like the rest of us. In the words of Shakespeare: "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." Uki's story starts as a poor orphan boy who has been a bullied outcast his whole life. During his flight from home, he has an epic quest thrust upon him and along the way, he meets some fellow outcasts, who quickly become family to him. In Uki and the Swamp Spirit, Uki, Jori, and Kree are on the hunt for Charice, who has already started to spread her plague and disease through the swamps and fens. As the story is told by our traveling bard to his apprentice, we also get to catch up with their story as the Bard tells Uki's tale. The original characters in Podkin's stories were such a special way to start the Five Realms stories. So, I love that we still get to hear little tidbits of their lives years later as the Bard tells his stories.
July 13, 2020
I just love this elementary fantasy series: it continues to delight, with wonderful characters, enticing story-within-a-story narration, and a fascinating world. I love everything about this latest addition to the Five Realms world, and am eagerly awaiting the third in the series.
December 17, 2020
Can I please give this story 6 stars, please? The whole series actually? It is getting better and better!
Uki and his friends are an amazing cast, i like them even better than podkin and his friends and family. But saying that, I especially like how there is some kind of link between the two, established by the story told within a story. It works amazingly well.
I don't think its a spoiler to say it ends on a cliffhanger! And now we have to wait i don't know how long to read the next part of the story!
Uki and his friends are an amazing cast, i like them even better than podkin and his friends and family. But saying that, I especially like how there is some kind of link between the two, established by the story told within a story. It works amazingly well.
I don't think its a spoiler to say it ends on a cliffhanger! And now we have to wait i don't know how long to read the next part of the story!
September 4, 2021
This continues the story of Uki Two-Furs, a rabbit who’s been tasked with capturing four escaped ancient spirits, who could destroy the world of the Five Realms, and his journey into the Fenlands in order to find Charice, who is causing a horrific plague, accompanied by his friends Jori and Kree. It also sees the Bard and Rue (and a future version of Jori!) being held hostage by the Endwatch, and I think those scenes were my very favourite of the book. I love Rue so much, I love how much the Bard loves him, and it’s so interesting to see an older Jori. But back to Uki’s story, which the Bard tells throughout! Uki feels like a misfit because of the traumatic experiences he’s had due to looking different to other rabbits, and I love how this adventure is allowing him to grown in confidence, but he’s still determined to look out for others and treat them with kindness. Jori is just so incredibly cool and I’m obsessed with her, and Kree is so funny and feisty and I love how much she loves Mooka! The supporting cast are phenomenal too, especially Coal and Ma Gurdle, and Charice is one of the nastiest baddies of the whole series to date. And I don’t even have the vocabulary to talk about Necripha!! The plot is absolutely gripping and I think the worldbuilding is just extraordinary, to the point where I’m hoping for a few more sequel series to allow the reader to explore it fully. I can’t believe I’ve already come to the end of Kieran Larwood’s backlist given I only read Podkin One-Ear less than a year ago, but now I’m officially up to date and on the edge of my seat for the next book, after THAT cliffhanger made me so worried about a certain character.
April 30, 2023
This was so good! Kieran manages to write a perfect blend between the present day story and the story that happened years before. We discover bit by bit what happened to the characters and the things that led to current events.
The bard is still my favourite character in the series (he also has the best quotes) but I love Uki, Jori and Kree. They are still children, it shows in their thoughts and actions, but they are also so brave. I love the relationship between these three and I can't hope for a reunion in the present.
And if I have nightmares about bugs in the nights to come, I'm totally blaming the author!
The bard is still my favourite character in the series (he also has the best quotes) but I love Uki, Jori and Kree. They are still children, it shows in their thoughts and actions, but they are also so brave. I love the relationship between these three and I can't hope for a reunion in the present.
And if I have nightmares about bugs in the nights to come, I'm totally blaming the author!
November 22, 2025
Brief Summary
Uki and the Swamp Spirit continues the expanding tapestry of the Five Realms universe, shifting the focus away from Podkin and onto Uki, a new and compelling protagonist. After being awakened by a mysterious ancient magic, Uki finds himself tasked with stopping an emerging threat in the murky, dangerous swamplands. Alongside a new cast of companions, Uki encounters strange creatures, forgotten lore, and a looming spirit that threatens the land. The story both connects to the earlier Podkin narratives and opens up fresh corners of the world, giving readers a richer view of the realms.
Initial Thoughts
Coming into this story with familiarity from the Podkin tales, I was immediately struck by how naturally the narrative broadens the Five Realms universe. The shift to Uki works very well: he is distinct, determined, and shaped by his own vulnerabilities. The setting, darker, wetter, more mysterious, creating a tone that feels new yet comfortably tied to the series’ roots. The early chapters set the pace quickly, making it easy to settle back into the world.
Enjoyment
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale, especially the way it builds on the existing world while introducing entirely new characters and environments. The unexplored swamplands are atmospheric and vividly realised, offering danger, wonder, and a sense of ancient magic.
The heart of the story lies in the friendship between Uki and his companions. Each character brings their own qualities, and together they navigate obstacles that would be impossible alone. The themes of trust, loyalty, and quiet courage are woven through the narrative, and it is uplifting to see how the power of friendship triumphs over fear and adversity. The connection to Podkin’s world enriches the reading experience without overshadowing Uki’s own journey.
Objections
If I were to raise any minor objections, it would be that the shift to a new protagonist may initially feel unfamiliar for readers deeply connected to the Podkin storyline. Some moments could also have benefitted from slightly slower pacing to allow certain emotional beats to land more fully. However, these are small observations in an otherwise well-crafted and engaging narrative.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Uki and the Swamp Spirit is a strong and enjoyable addition to the Five Realms series. It successfully expands the world while maintaining the spirit and charm that draws readers in. Uki’s journey, guided by friendship and trust, reinforces one of the series’ most enduring messages: that true strength often comes from the bonds we form with others. I found it a thoroughly rewarding read that both honours what came before and sets the stage for new adventures to come.
Uki and the Swamp Spirit continues the expanding tapestry of the Five Realms universe, shifting the focus away from Podkin and onto Uki, a new and compelling protagonist. After being awakened by a mysterious ancient magic, Uki finds himself tasked with stopping an emerging threat in the murky, dangerous swamplands. Alongside a new cast of companions, Uki encounters strange creatures, forgotten lore, and a looming spirit that threatens the land. The story both connects to the earlier Podkin narratives and opens up fresh corners of the world, giving readers a richer view of the realms.
Initial Thoughts
Coming into this story with familiarity from the Podkin tales, I was immediately struck by how naturally the narrative broadens the Five Realms universe. The shift to Uki works very well: he is distinct, determined, and shaped by his own vulnerabilities. The setting, darker, wetter, more mysterious, creating a tone that feels new yet comfortably tied to the series’ roots. The early chapters set the pace quickly, making it easy to settle back into the world.
Enjoyment
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale, especially the way it builds on the existing world while introducing entirely new characters and environments. The unexplored swamplands are atmospheric and vividly realised, offering danger, wonder, and a sense of ancient magic.
The heart of the story lies in the friendship between Uki and his companions. Each character brings their own qualities, and together they navigate obstacles that would be impossible alone. The themes of trust, loyalty, and quiet courage are woven through the narrative, and it is uplifting to see how the power of friendship triumphs over fear and adversity. The connection to Podkin’s world enriches the reading experience without overshadowing Uki’s own journey.
Objections
If I were to raise any minor objections, it would be that the shift to a new protagonist may initially feel unfamiliar for readers deeply connected to the Podkin storyline. Some moments could also have benefitted from slightly slower pacing to allow certain emotional beats to land more fully. However, these are small observations in an otherwise well-crafted and engaging narrative.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Uki and the Swamp Spirit is a strong and enjoyable addition to the Five Realms series. It successfully expands the world while maintaining the spirit and charm that draws readers in. Uki’s journey, guided by friendship and trust, reinforces one of the series’ most enduring messages: that true strength often comes from the bonds we form with others. I found it a thoroughly rewarding read that both honours what came before and sets the stage for new adventures to come.
January 5, 2021
Well after the cliff hanger of the previous books framing device it was a relief to pick this book up.
The fens of Hustland are a creepy delight and the spirit of plague was as revolting as you could wish.
The final confrontation was a great deal more tense than the previous book, with more revealed about the ancients.
Horrifyingly the framing device ends on another traumatising cliff hanger!
The fens of Hustland are a creepy delight and the spirit of plague was as revolting as you could wish.
The final confrontation was a great deal more tense than the previous book, with more revealed about the ancients.
Horrifyingly the framing device ends on another traumatising cliff hanger!
June 21, 2023
I think this has to be the best book in the series. I have always loved Rue but I am loving him even more in the one. I do forget that he is still so young. And I am really enjoying Uki's story as well, he has shown great care and strength. Totally had a cry at the ending and once again, I am thankful that I have the next book ready to go.
February 8, 2021
can't wait for the next book in this series
February 17, 2021
These books just get better and better. Really enjoyed this one.
I read Podkin book 1 to my year 5 class. They’ve left now and I’ve just continued with the series.
I read Podkin book 1 to my year 5 class. They’ve left now and I’ve just continued with the series.
July 11, 2021
This one certainly wasn't as good as the rest but I didn't read them very near so I couldn't remember each detail. I loved the ending though it was a great cliffhanger
February 21, 2022
Enjoyable
October 24, 2022
My kids have loved all of the other books in this series but this one was noticeably less good in their opinion, we felt it was definitely too overshadowed by covid.
February 8, 2023
Larwood has created a fascinating world. Well done. My 9 yr old loves these!
January 16, 2024
Perhaps my favourite so far? I just like the vibes of these books. Let it be known I love Mooka.
I wonder if it will be Uki who will save Rue?
I wonder if it will be Uki who will save Rue?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2024
Brilliant to continue the story of Uki 👍🏽
December 5, 2024
“Stories tell us we’re not alone.”
More fast-paced excitement, humour and heart from the master of mid-grade
More fast-paced excitement, humour and heart from the master of mid-grade
February 3, 2025
A lot darker than the previous books, but gorgeously written as always.
July 7, 2025
Alicia
May 30, 2024
Another excellent book that ended too soon.
January 27, 2023
Sometimes you want to read a kid series, then gosh darn it, this series is for you—excellent little fantasy series about rabbits, and magic. I love Podkin and Uki. Kree.
May 5, 2025
J’ai encore une fois beaucoup aimé cette aventure de fantasy anthropomorphe ! Uki est un personnage que j’apprécie énormément et sa quête m’a vraiment captivée. Le trio qu’il forme avec Jori et Kree est très attachant, et les relations qu’il développe avec d’autres sont réussies. J’ai aussi trouvé les petits interludes très bien placés et l’histoire parallèle aussi prenante que l’intrigue principale. Bref, je conseille cette série !!!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews