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Crowfall
A rip-roaring, island-hopping adventure - and unforgettable ecological fable - from the award-winning author of Wildspark and Brightstorm.
Ironhold is an orderly place where "industry brings prosperity", and where nature is pushed aside for progress. But when Orin Crowfall, a lowly servant boy, learns that the island itself is in grave danger, that knowledge makes him a target of powerful forces. He narrowly escapes on a small boat, but then faces a fight for survival with his robot friend, Cody, in the stormy ocean, pursued by a terrifying sea monster.
Can they make it to safety, somewhere beyond the horizon? And will Orin find a way back to save his family before everything is destroyed? To succeed, Orin will need to dig deep for courage, trust in new friends, and, ultimately, have faith in himself.
This is fantasy adventure at its finest: riotous adventure, memorable characters, incredible world building, and a powerful, thought-provoking message about ecological balance.
Ironhold is an orderly place where "industry brings prosperity", and where nature is pushed aside for progress. But when Orin Crowfall, a lowly servant boy, learns that the island itself is in grave danger, that knowledge makes him a target of powerful forces. He narrowly escapes on a small boat, but then faces a fight for survival with his robot friend, Cody, in the stormy ocean, pursued by a terrifying sea monster.
Can they make it to safety, somewhere beyond the horizon? And will Orin find a way back to save his family before everything is destroyed? To succeed, Orin will need to dig deep for courage, trust in new friends, and, ultimately, have faith in himself.
This is fantasy adventure at its finest: riotous adventure, memorable characters, incredible world building, and a powerful, thought-provoking message about ecological balance.
313 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2021
8 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Vashti Hardy
36 books164 followers Vashti Hardy is a children’s book author who lives near Lancashire, England, with her husband and three teens. She has an honors teaching degree and an MA in creative writing from the University of Chichester.
Vashti Hardy est une auteure jeunesse. Elle a enseigné pendant de nombreuse années à l'école primaire. Après avoir quitté l'enseignement pour se consacrer davantage à l'écriture, elle devient conceptrice-rédactrice et cadre dans le marketing numérique. Elle est titulaire d'un M.A. en création littéraire de l'Université de Chichester. Elle compte également parmi les diplômés de la Golden Egg Academy, une école destinée aux auteurs de livres pour enfants et aide régulièrement les nouveaux élèves de l'institution. Vashti Hardy vit avec son mari et ses trois enfants près de Brighton dans le Sussex de l'Est.
Vashti Hardy est une auteure jeunesse. Elle a enseigné pendant de nombreuse années à l'école primaire. Après avoir quitté l'enseignement pour se consacrer davantage à l'écriture, elle devient conceptrice-rédactrice et cadre dans le marketing numérique. Elle est titulaire d'un M.A. en création littéraire de l'Université de Chichester. Elle compte également parmi les diplômés de la Golden Egg Academy, une école destinée aux auteurs de livres pour enfants et aide régulièrement les nouveaux élèves de l'institution. Vashti Hardy vit avec son mari et ses trois enfants près de Brighton dans le Sussex de l'Est.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 15, 2021
I did a spoiler-free interview with author Vashti Hardy on my YouTube channel, which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/GFD21aGDSVE
Vashti Hardy has done it again!!
What a wonderful book this one is, with so many important themes and messages about nature and technology, as well as our relationship with both, but told in such a fantastical way, in a way only Vashti Hardy knows how!
I loved Orin and his journey - it was exciting and rather fast-paced. Cody, his companion, was incredible and I loved their friendship. It even got a little emotional by the end too, but oh so wonderful! I also love the world Vashti paints too, so much thought and care went into it (including time) and I could visualise this world as being so real, as if it could happen.
You cannot fault Vashti's writing style, it's so engrossing and I always get this warm fuzz whenever I start one of her books because I know I'm in great hands.
Vashti Hardy has done it again!!
What a wonderful book this one is, with so many important themes and messages about nature and technology, as well as our relationship with both, but told in such a fantastical way, in a way only Vashti Hardy knows how!
I loved Orin and his journey - it was exciting and rather fast-paced. Cody, his companion, was incredible and I loved their friendship. It even got a little emotional by the end too, but oh so wonderful! I also love the world Vashti paints too, so much thought and care went into it (including time) and I could visualise this world as being so real, as if it could happen.
You cannot fault Vashti's writing style, it's so engrossing and I always get this warm fuzz whenever I start one of her books because I know I'm in great hands.
January 30, 2022
With every Vashti Hardy book I read, it stays clear why she’s become a favorite author. This was amazing! Ironhold is an orderly place where "industry brings prosperity", & where nature is pushed aside for progress. But when Orin Crowfall, a lowly servant boy, learns that the island itself is in grave danger, that knowledge makes him a target of powerful forces. He narrowly escapes on a small boat, but then faces a fight for survival with his robot friend, Cody, in the stormy ocean, pursued by a terrifying sea monster. This has all the steampunk goodness I love from from her, but also nature & ecological elements mixed in. And I absolutely loved that! This has so much adventure, & I had the absolute best time. Phenomenal world building as usual, & the most amazing characters ever. Cody has my whole heart. What an AMAZING best friend to have by your side. Orin was an amazing MC, & what a brave kid, who didn’t even realize how brave he was. Superb character growth/ development. I also adored Ferelith, & how her & Orin helped each other so much. The 3 of them made the most incredible team. The whole idea of fixies, the Eard, the core, life-light, the seeds, everything about Ironhold & Natura including their differences, sea monster, the storms, the crows..everything was just so fascinating & so intriguing. I was hooked from the start. Great messages/themes on having faith in yourself, courage, trust, friendship, & the balance that we must have in nature. Loved this so much. What a phenomenal adventure story. Highly recommend! STUNNING cover by the amazing George Ermos too!💜
July 10, 2021
Another brilliantly written adventure from the Queen of world building, Vashti Hardy.
Orin Crowfall loves with his parents, grandad and 'pet' robot/friend Cody on Ironhold - an island of industry and strict rules. But one day, Orin makes a discovery that leads to his sudden departure to sea and the risk of facing The Creature that guards the waters and prevents Ironhold from outsiders. After a frightening battle with the elements and the mechanical sea monster, Orin and Cody finds themselves far from home and possibly in more danger than if they'd stayed on Ironhold.
Orin and Cody need to find a way back home, to save not just themselves but the people of Ironhold and the island itself.
A great, pacey treat for ages 7/8 upwards. Vashti Hardy writes fascinating worlds you want to visit and characters you want to be best friends with or villains you can't help but love (and hate). A must read!
Orin Crowfall loves with his parents, grandad and 'pet' robot/friend Cody on Ironhold - an island of industry and strict rules. But one day, Orin makes a discovery that leads to his sudden departure to sea and the risk of facing The Creature that guards the waters and prevents Ironhold from outsiders. After a frightening battle with the elements and the mechanical sea monster, Orin and Cody finds themselves far from home and possibly in more danger than if they'd stayed on Ironhold.
Orin and Cody need to find a way back home, to save not just themselves but the people of Ironhold and the island itself.
A great, pacey treat for ages 7/8 upwards. Vashti Hardy writes fascinating worlds you want to visit and characters you want to be best friends with or villains you can't help but love (and hate). A must read!
July 24, 2021
Once again another amazing land created by Vashti Hardy. I don't know how she creates these worlds - but each time it feels so real and you become so immersed in the story.
I love the whole fantasy/steampunk/invention genre and this book has the added theme of sustainability. What happens when you focus on technology and what happens if you take nature for granted? Is there a way of finding a balance? Looking forward to maybe another book about Orin as I would love to see how the story develops.
I love the whole fantasy/steampunk/invention genre and this book has the added theme of sustainability. What happens when you focus on technology and what happens if you take nature for granted? Is there a way of finding a balance? Looking forward to maybe another book about Orin as I would love to see how the story develops.
September 21, 2022
An action-packed fantasy adventure in which young lad Orin strives to save his island home and bring down an elite ruling class that are bringing about its destruction to further their own ends. An imaginative story with political and environmental messages as well as a satisfying emotional punch
July 28, 2021
This is not as good as the author’s other books, for me. Turning the environment into a sentient being isn’t a particular original concept—plenty of science fiction television shows, as well as other books, have done it before and much better. I could call the conclusion from a mile away.
Orin also lacks the personality that some of Hardy’s other characters had in spades. I do like the message the book is trying to convey, but I think the execution could have been a little more interesting.
Orin also lacks the personality that some of Hardy’s other characters had in spades. I do like the message the book is trying to convey, but I think the execution could have been a little more interesting.
January 4, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐
“The tale of Orin Crowfall could be anything he wanted it to be.”
I loved the way this fantasy world incorporated real life problems like deforestation and pollution into the story and how successful it was in that. The two main settings of mechanical city and clean island really conveyed this part of the story further.
“Hey Orin Crowfall. I think that’s what you call destiny!”
Robot characters and machine characters are some of the purest characters we have in this world and this fact is proven by Cody. Cody is so sweet and I just want to give him a hug and squeeze him until he suffocates and dies.
“The storm appeared without warning.”
I love the fact that Vashti Hardy’s books always have this element of exploration in them and this book was not exception to this. I also liked the comparison of the crows being free in a way that Orin wasn’t and in a way he wished to be. This book was cleverly crafted.
“The tale of Orin Crowfall could be anything he wanted it to be.”
I loved the way this fantasy world incorporated real life problems like deforestation and pollution into the story and how successful it was in that. The two main settings of mechanical city and clean island really conveyed this part of the story further.
“Hey Orin Crowfall. I think that’s what you call destiny!”
Robot characters and machine characters are some of the purest characters we have in this world and this fact is proven by Cody. Cody is so sweet and I just want to give him a hug and squeeze him until he suffocates and dies.
“The storm appeared without warning.”
I love the fact that Vashti Hardy’s books always have this element of exploration in them and this book was not exception to this. I also liked the comparison of the crows being free in a way that Orin wasn’t and in a way he wished to be. This book was cleverly crafted.
July 21, 2021
There is an emerging genre (sub-genre?) of fiction called climate fiction (cli-fi.) It's often speculative, ranging from dystopia leaning to science fiction or fantasy leaning. Regardless of where it falls in the other genres, cli-fi books always focus on environmental damage and human's involvement in it - usually them trying to save it as well as how they've destroyed it.
CROWFALL falls squarely into the cli-fi sub-genre, probably sci-fi leaning rather than fantasy (though, like all Vashti Hardy's books, it's in that science-fantast blurred spot between them.) Orin discovers his leaders are exploiting the island they live on, and have damaged it so badly that it's about to fail. Rather than trying to solve the problem (because that means giving up their benefits), they're going to abandon ship. A pretty easy to understand allegory for our world!
This book has all of Hardy's characteristic charm, with fast-paced action and a lovely sidekick. Having such STEM focused books (which is always a win in my book), rather than your typical animal sidekick, Orin has Cody, a robot who's got her own mind and isn't afraid to tell Orin what she thinks of his human abilities (or lack thereof.) Cody was my favourite of the characters because she just was not going to pass up an opportunity to tell them what fools they were being.
There are maps (is it a Vashti Hardy book without maps?!) showing the world with more detail than is seen in the book, which helps make the world feel more expansive. Plus there are all sorts of unexplained parts of the world from the sunken city and "silver below." Hopefully that means there is a possibility of there being further books in this world as it certainly feels like there are mysteries to be uncovered.
CROWFALL falls squarely into the cli-fi sub-genre, probably sci-fi leaning rather than fantasy (though, like all Vashti Hardy's books, it's in that science-fantast blurred spot between them.) Orin discovers his leaders are exploiting the island they live on, and have damaged it so badly that it's about to fail. Rather than trying to solve the problem (because that means giving up their benefits), they're going to abandon ship. A pretty easy to understand allegory for our world!
This book has all of Hardy's characteristic charm, with fast-paced action and a lovely sidekick. Having such STEM focused books (which is always a win in my book), rather than your typical animal sidekick, Orin has Cody, a robot who's got her own mind and isn't afraid to tell Orin what she thinks of his human abilities (or lack thereof.) Cody was my favourite of the characters because she just was not going to pass up an opportunity to tell them what fools they were being.
There are maps (is it a Vashti Hardy book without maps?!) showing the world with more detail than is seen in the book, which helps make the world feel more expansive. Plus there are all sorts of unexplained parts of the world from the sunken city and "silver below." Hopefully that means there is a possibility of there being further books in this world as it certainly feels like there are mysteries to be uncovered.
September 4, 2021
I’ ve loved several books by Vashti since I read her debut, so I was very excited to pick up her newest release, which follows a boy named Orin who lives on the industrial, orderly island of Ironhold, and what happens when he discovers the island is going to crumble and the leaders are doing nothing to stop it. He sets out with his fixie friend Cody to try and save the island and the people he loves, and ends up on an island-hopping adventure. My favourite part of this was most definitely the incredible world that Vashti has created; I find it amazing that she can conjure up such unique and equally fascinating settings in her imagination with every book, and I honestly think this might be my favourite one yet. The whole concept is just amazing and I love the parallels between the crisis the island faces and the climate crisis we face in real life. I also really liked Orin, his need to constantly try and fix things definitely spoke to my soul and I loved that he always wanted to do the right thing. Cody was such an interesting character too, and the villains were definitely pretty scary. This was such a great reading experience, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys their fantasy with ecological themes being explored.
October 5, 2021
There is something truly inspiring, heartwarming, epic and wonderfully educational about Vashti's new book, Crowfall. Without a doubt it is her best children's book to date (in my humble opinion), because the prose is - at the same time - remarkably sparse yet entirely with a strength of authorial voice that all writers dream of achieving!
Centering on the adventures of Orin Crowfall, his family and his little flying robot friend Cody (who is beautifully sarcastically), this is a engaging eco-story about a group of destructive authority figures who are wantonly sucking the soul out of Orin's home-island, Ironhold. Orin and Cody decide to try and save the island, but are swept away to another, much more organic place they never knew existed...where they discover new friends and new enemies...and potentially a way to save Ironhold from utter disaster.
This story has steampunk sea monsters, stormy tension, amazing inventiveness and world-building, and will keep you gripped from start to finish. Highly recommend this book!
Centering on the adventures of Orin Crowfall, his family and his little flying robot friend Cody (who is beautifully sarcastically), this is a engaging eco-story about a group of destructive authority figures who are wantonly sucking the soul out of Orin's home-island, Ironhold. Orin and Cody decide to try and save the island, but are swept away to another, much more organic place they never knew existed...where they discover new friends and new enemies...and potentially a way to save Ironhold from utter disaster.
This story has steampunk sea monsters, stormy tension, amazing inventiveness and world-building, and will keep you gripped from start to finish. Highly recommend this book!
August 13, 2022
This is my first outing with Vashti Hardy and it won’t be my last. Orin lives on Ironhold an island that is all about industry and order. One day he finds that his home is dying and he and his family and all the islanders are at risk. Him and his robot friend Cody who i have to say is a great companion set off on an adventure that takes them to another island and shows them how they should try to live in harmony with what they have and others too. This is a great adventure story with lots of twists and turns along the way with an eco message at its heart. I look forward to reading more by this author, it doesnt matter if your or 10 or 110 this will delight anymore who has a heart for adventure and nature.
December 1, 2021
I’m a Vashti Hardy fan
The Brightstorm books are superb. However, the ‘SteamPunk’ for kids genre is becoming a little stretched now. I liked the concept of this story, the ecological theme, the importance of caring for natural resources and how rampant technology and urbanisation can be destructive- I get it.
But the story as a whole just felt a little predictable, which is such a shame.
Did I enjoy the story overall? Yes.
Would I recommend the book? Yes, to a 8-9 year old wanting a good starter chapter story.
Would I read it again myself? No, probably not.
Hey… you can’t love every book!
I look forward to Hardy’s next story though.
The Brightstorm books are superb. However, the ‘SteamPunk’ for kids genre is becoming a little stretched now. I liked the concept of this story, the ecological theme, the importance of caring for natural resources and how rampant technology and urbanisation can be destructive- I get it.
But the story as a whole just felt a little predictable, which is such a shame.
Did I enjoy the story overall? Yes.
Would I recommend the book? Yes, to a 8-9 year old wanting a good starter chapter story.
Would I read it again myself? No, probably not.
Hey… you can’t love every book!
I look forward to Hardy’s next story though.
July 22, 2021
An exciting adventure story with a clear eco message that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. I enjoyed Brightstorm and this is just as good. As a primary year 6 teacher, I recommend this book for ks2 children. It is easy to read and exciting cliff hangers at the end of each chapter. The relevant climate change message, fantastical worlds created (love the turtle especially!) and superb mechanical monster make it an worthwhile read. I shall be recommending it to my next class!
April 27, 2023
Well this was absolutely lovely. Gorgeous cover with an equally gorgeous, immersive and sweet story to match. Orin and Cody made an adorable duo and the world and concept of the story was extremely well realised, kind of reminded me of Avatar. The ending was very sweet as well. I'd definitely recommend this book and can see myself reading more of Vashti's books in the future!
November 10, 2023
I had to read this for a competition at school- this book was very well written, but also jumped to the end a bit too fast.
Some of the parts seemed a bit pointless, until I though about it and realised how they effected the overall plot.
This book has made its way to one of my favourites; thanks school competition (I guess)
Some of the parts seemed a bit pointless, until I though about it and realised how they effected the overall plot.
This book has made its way to one of my favourites; thanks school competition (I guess)
October 2, 2024
If you're into reading about a kids version - aged probably 9-10- of a dystopian future then this is for you. I had to read this EXTREMELY boring book for school and hated every minute. The reason I gave it 2 stars was because I liked Cody his robot.
Anyways... if you're 10 you'll probably like this...
Anyways... if you're 10 you'll probably like this...
October 3, 2021
An amazing adventure with a wonderful ecological theme throughout. There are some fabulous messages in this much needed story for our younger generation. Vashti Hardy can do no wrong, everything she writes is magical.
April 30, 2022
Absolutely brilliant and layered with such depth. Loved the world, the characters and the nuance with which all was handled. Hardy is becoming a truly solid children's author and I would happily read anything she writes.
August 13, 2023
I am a huge fan of Vashti Hardy’s books but haven’t read many of her books that aren’t part of the Brightstorm series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and love how the author has woven in some very grown up issues and concepts into a younger reader book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and love how the author has woven in some very grown up issues and concepts into a younger reader book.
August 1, 2021
No matter how bad things got, there was always light to be found in the darkness.
September 1, 2021
What another stunning read from @vashti_hardy I was totally drawn into the worlds of Ironhold and Natura and had to find out the outcome of Orin’s fight to save his home.
September 4, 2021
4.25 stars
November 30, 2021
Another breath taking, inspiring and magical book by Vashti Hardy. I really liked the messages behind this beautiful story.
March 26, 2022
I really enjoy Vashti Hardys books. I preferred the Brightstorm books but this was still a good read, filled with adventure.
January 16, 2024
Great adventure
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2024
4.25 stars
May 9, 2025
It was a bit stretched, in my opinion. It needed a bit more time for the plot to settle.
February 4, 2022
My first 5-star read of the year! I loved this middle grade which was a mixture of sci-fi, fantasy, adventure and an ecological fable as well. Very fast paced and I’m sure this will get a lot of children / YA’s reading more books. This is my first by this author but I’ll definitely be reading more. Just brilliant.
December 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It was not quite as good as the Brightstorm books for me but I still really enjoyed it! Vashti Hardy is so easy to read and so much fun! I liked Orin and the world of Ironhold and the tree it was really well done.
4 stars loads of fun
4 stars loads of fun
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews