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El lloc màgic
'And even though she only saw it in her dreams, she felt sure it was real.'
From her cellar bedroom, Clementine dreams of a magic place. And she's determined to find it one day. But first she must escape from her wicked aunt and uncle and from the Great Black City. With the help of her best friend, Gilbert, a very clever cat, she sets off on an epic journey that just might make her dreams come true.
A thrilling, moving and funny adventure about looking for the most magical place of all. HOME.
From her cellar bedroom, Clementine dreams of a magic place. And she's determined to find it one day. But first she must escape from her wicked aunt and uncle and from the Great Black City. With the help of her best friend, Gilbert, a very clever cat, she sets off on an epic journey that just might make her dreams come true.
A thrilling, moving and funny adventure about looking for the most magical place of all. HOME.
296 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2019
7 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Wormell
106 books30 followersChristopher Wormell is an English printmaker, principally known for his illustrated books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 16, 2019
This was a delightful read that I completed in one sitting. It tells the story of Clementine, a girl whose life consists on living in a dirty cellar, attending to the whims of her ferocious aunt and devious uncle. Set within a Victorian-esque backdrop, Clementine seeks for a life beyond the confines of the house she is trapped in, she is looking for a home. When Gilbert, a cat far wiser than he might first seem, befriends her, he sets in motion a series of events that leads Clementine down a path of adventure that will change her life.
All the ingredients of the rags to riches story are here accompanied prolifically throughout by Wormell's illustrations which slip between realistic and farcical. Pages bedecked with animal helpers, smoggy, Victorian backdrops and colourful landscapes, Aiken-esque villains and a healthy dose of hope make up the ingredients of a most wonderful tale.
A welcome shift perhaps lies in our hero, Clementine, who celebrates the strong women of traditional tales who had always been there until the Grimms and Perrault shifted the narrative perspective away from them. She brims with hope, is defiant, smart and self-reliant. A great character for all children to encounter.
All the ingredients of the rags to riches story are here accompanied prolifically throughout by Wormell's illustrations which slip between realistic and farcical. Pages bedecked with animal helpers, smoggy, Victorian backdrops and colourful landscapes, Aiken-esque villains and a healthy dose of hope make up the ingredients of a most wonderful tale.
A welcome shift perhaps lies in our hero, Clementine, who celebrates the strong women of traditional tales who had always been there until the Grimms and Perrault shifted the narrative perspective away from them. She brims with hope, is defiant, smart and self-reliant. A great character for all children to encounter.
August 2, 2020
This book is an easy reader with beautiful illustrations. I just love the colourful illustration at the end of the book.
Age - year 3-6
Age - year 3-6
November 21, 2022
Locul magic-Chris Wormell
O carte cu adevărat magică, aleasă de Damian vineri de la bibliotecă, carte finalizată în două zile. Adormea cu gândul la ea, îmi punea întrebări de genul :ce crezi că o să se întâmple, ca să se trezească a doua zi tot cu gandul la ea și să mă roage să continuăm lectura.
Clementina este o fetiță crescută de mătușa Vermilia și unchiul ei,Rufus. Din păcate nu are o copilărie fericită, este o prizonieră un casa lor, fiind ținută în pivnița sărăcăcioasă, scoasă de acolo numai ca să facă curat și mâncare. Singurul ei prieten este motanul Gilbert, iar visele sunt calea ei de evadare din zilele ei mohorate.
Într-o zi, vede pe geamul de la mansardă, acel "loc" pe care îl visase și decide să evadeze și să ajungă acolo.
Este o carte dureros de haioasă, modul minunat de scriere și traducere o face să fie foarte atractivă pentru micii și marii cititori. De aceea, vă invit să descoperiți și voi aventura Clementinei.
O carte cu adevărat magică, aleasă de Damian vineri de la bibliotecă, carte finalizată în două zile. Adormea cu gândul la ea, îmi punea întrebări de genul :ce crezi că o să se întâmple, ca să se trezească a doua zi tot cu gandul la ea și să mă roage să continuăm lectura.
Clementina este o fetiță crescută de mătușa Vermilia și unchiul ei,Rufus. Din păcate nu are o copilărie fericită, este o prizonieră un casa lor, fiind ținută în pivnița sărăcăcioasă, scoasă de acolo numai ca să facă curat și mâncare. Singurul ei prieten este motanul Gilbert, iar visele sunt calea ei de evadare din zilele ei mohorate.
Într-o zi, vede pe geamul de la mansardă, acel "loc" pe care îl visase și decide să evadeze și să ajungă acolo.
Este o carte dureros de haioasă, modul minunat de scriere și traducere o face să fie foarte atractivă pentru micii și marii cititori. De aceea, vă invit să descoperiți și voi aventura Clementinei.
February 5, 2020
I didn't really know what to expect when I picked this up, but the mention of magic and the beautiful cover had me intrigued. This reminded me a little of Harry Potter, Matilda and Howl's Moving Castle - all good comparisons! The story follows Clementine, a maltreated little girl who has never seen the outside world, save for a square of sky over her chimney...yet she dreams of a magic place with towering mountains covered in heather, fresh streams and a cosy cottage. Her aunt and uncle are con artists, but Clementine's life changes when her uncle forgets to lock the door into the attic one day and she is finally able to see more of the world.
The illustrations really add to the story, bringing her grotesque aunt and uncle to life. I did really enjoy this, especially the involvement of the dogs, but it ends without anything really being resolved or explained leaving me with lots of questions about the characters and their motivation, other than just to be horrid!
The illustrations really add to the story, bringing her grotesque aunt and uncle to life. I did really enjoy this, especially the involvement of the dogs, but it ends without anything really being resolved or explained leaving me with lots of questions about the characters and their motivation, other than just to be horrid!
July 2, 2024
I am so glad I finished this book. It was going on and on. The same thing happened over and over again and the twist happened at 65% and it stretched on and then finally everything was revealed and the two lived happily ever after. Hallelujah.
October 31, 2020
Sympathique, mais loin d'être inoubliable... Mais les dessins sont magnifiques !
April 8, 2021
L’he gaudit força. La protagonista és una nena òrfena, i la seva història és força clàssica i m’ha recordat a molts llibres que llegia de petita. Sobretot a l’inici la influència de Roald Dahl és súper evident.
Però el que més m’ha motivat són les il·lustracions, que són imprescindibles perquè ens expliquen coses que el text no diu. I que encara que tenen un estil força clàssic, m’han encantat perquè caracteritzen súper bé els tiets Randina, sobretot la tieta Vermília!
Però el que més m’ha motivat són les il·lustracions, que són imprescindibles perquè ens expliquen coses que el text no diu. I que encara que tenen un estil força clàssic, m’han encantat perquè caracteritzen súper bé els tiets Randina, sobretot la tieta Vermília!
March 12, 2021
Thank you so much, NetGalley and David Fickling Books, for the chance to read and review this book!
TW: kidnapping and child abuse
Mistreated and abused by her wicked aunt and uncle, Clementine dreams of a magic place from her cellar bedroom, hoping she will, one day, escape the Great Black City. With the help of a peculiar and magical cat, Gilbert, one day Clementine decides to make her dreams come true.
With amazing illustrations, The magic place is a wonderful and lovely fairytale. funny and heartbreaking, intriguing and moving. Clementine was abused and hurt all her life and she's determined to survive and escape from her prison and her awful relative. I loved the descriptions, so evocative and intense and how the author and the illustrator describe the Great Black City, The magic place, the characters and their adventures.
Gilbert, the Grimbles, are intriguing characters, well written and rounded and I loved reading this book!
It filled me with hope and magic and it's absolutely splendid.
TW: kidnapping and child abuse
Mistreated and abused by her wicked aunt and uncle, Clementine dreams of a magic place from her cellar bedroom, hoping she will, one day, escape the Great Black City. With the help of a peculiar and magical cat, Gilbert, one day Clementine decides to make her dreams come true.
With amazing illustrations, The magic place is a wonderful and lovely fairytale. funny and heartbreaking, intriguing and moving. Clementine was abused and hurt all her life and she's determined to survive and escape from her prison and her awful relative. I loved the descriptions, so evocative and intense and how the author and the illustrator describe the Great Black City, The magic place, the characters and their adventures.
Gilbert, the Grimbles, are intriguing characters, well written and rounded and I loved reading this book!
It filled me with hope and magic and it's absolutely splendid.
June 20, 2021
vi accorgerete subito quanto la storia di Clementine sia molto parallela a quella del maghetto più famoso di sempre costretto a vivere a casa dei suoi zii in un sottoscala sognando di andare in un posto felice; quello che amo dei libri per ragazzi è che alla fine si arriva davvero nel posto magico, che sia Hogwarts o un prato verde perché per ognuno di noi quel posto può essere diverso, semplice o magico ma carico di significato; questo libro vi farà divertire ma soprattutto emozionare, sottolineando la forza dell'amore e della famiglia senza mai cadere nel banale; questa edizione è decorata anche con splendide illustrazioni in bianco e nero che prendono a braccetto le parole e ci fanno un bel walzer assieme con tanto di piroette.
March 28, 2021
You know I’ve enjoyed a book when I read it all in one go.
I didn’t go into this book with any preconceived expectations as this is a new author for me, but I have been pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this read.
The illustrations captured my heart. I absolutely adore them! And the description. Oh the description! I can’t even explain how much this book hit me with all the feels!
I have never experienced a book that has allowed me to imagine the story so vividly, until I read this and I cannot recommend this enough!
I didn’t go into this book with any preconceived expectations as this is a new author for me, but I have been pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this read.
The illustrations captured my heart. I absolutely adore them! And the description. Oh the description! I can’t even explain how much this book hit me with all the feels!
I have never experienced a book that has allowed me to imagine the story so vividly, until I read this and I cannot recommend this enough!
January 18, 2024
A fun little adventure for children around 6-8 years old. Far too lively for me!
July 5, 2024
One of my favourite books from when I was younger, it's sweet and light hearted but also funny
March 8, 2025
Această carte are că personaj principal o fata pe nume Clamentine care are așa-zișii mătușa Vermilia și unchiul Rufus care erau extrem ( dar EXTREM DE CRUZI).
O încuiau pe ea in pivniță de fiecare data când se duceau la "munca "adică la jefuit oameni( treaba lui Rufus) și "cumpărăturile neplătite " treaba Vermiliei.
Când în oraș a venit Wiliam Clementine a aflat că ea a fost răpită de cei doi și nu erau unchi sau mătușa .El era fratele ei și au evadat și a dus-o pe Clementine la așa zisul Loc Magic care era acasa
O încuiau pe ea in pivniță de fiecare data când se duceau la "munca "adică la jefuit oameni( treaba lui Rufus) și "cumpărăturile neplătite " treaba Vermiliei.
Când în oraș a venit Wiliam Clementine a aflat că ea a fost răpită de cei doi și nu erau unchi sau mătușa .El era fratele ei și au evadat și a dus-o pe Clementine la așa zisul Loc Magic care era acasa
March 17, 2021
The beginning of this book was so good' I thought it was so creative and funny. A mix between Harry Potter and Matilda it had so much potential but the latter half just let it down.
I still enjoyed the book but I did find myself skipping a lot of the end.
I did however love the illustrations, they added so much to the story and made the reading experience much better.
I still enjoyed the book but I did find myself skipping a lot of the end.
I did however love the illustrations, they added so much to the story and made the reading experience much better.
December 19, 2019
An amazing story with such phenomenal descriptions. A good mix of adventure and excitement, as well as cliff hanger chapters.
November 16, 2020
Pas ce à quoi je m'attendais, mais c'était quand même chouette !
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December 18, 2019
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Il posto magico di Chris Wormell, libro per bambini pubblicato da Rizzoli il 12 novembre.
Il posto magico è un vero gioiellino da conservare in libreria per poterlo leggere ai propri figli quando avranno la giusta età per apprezzarlo. Perché, nonostante sia stato scritto nel 2019, ha l’andamento tipico dei libri classici per ragazzi. Già dalla scelta dell’ambientazione si capisce che l’intento dell’autore era quello di ricalcare quel genere: siamo nella Grande Città Nera in uno scenario che potremmo definire vittoriano. Poi abbiamo la bambina in difficoltà costretta dagli orribili zii a servirli senza poter mai mettere piede fuori di casa e infine abbiamo un ‘essere fantastico’ che accorrerà in suo aiuto per mostrarle come liberarsi da questa prigionia.
Clementine è una bambina che ogni giorno viene vessata dagli zii Vermilia e Rufus. Clementine non ha mai visto cosa il mondo può offrire e vive segregata nella buia e umida cantina dell’abitazione costretta ogni giorno a occuparsi della casa mentre gli zii sono al ‘lavoro’. Clementine è vestita di stracci e porta i capelli corti da quando la zia l’aveva sorpresa ad ammirarsi in uno specchio, l’unico amico che può vantare è Gilbert, il gatto della zia che ogni giorno deve scappare dalle sue grinfie per non finire crivellato dai colpi della sua spingarda. Se ci fosse una scala degli orrori sicuramente zia Vermilia sarebbe al primo posto perché in lei non vi è nemmeno un briciolo di umanità.
Le illustrazioni che accompagnano la narrazione, opera dello stesso autore, sono di grande impatto e permetteranno anche ai più piccoli di seguire la storia senza aver bisogno di saper leggere, basterà loro ascoltare e osservare le immagini. Troveranno così i volti degli zii, brutti sia dentro che fuori, con così tanti difetti che sembra impossibile possano essere concentrati in due sole persone. La zia è vendicativa, cattiva, una vera furia che non si fa problemi a sparare addosso alle persone e agli animali. Lo zio è subdolo e succube della moglie. Entrambi sono ladri che nascondono dietro ai loro sorrisi tutte le angherie che Clementine deve sopportare e dietro a diversi travestimenti le loro mani arraffatrici.
Un giorno gli zii decidono di uscire senza chiudere Clementine a chiave nello scantinato e questo permette alla bimba di avventurarsi in soffitta e trovare tutta la loro refurtiva, tra questi un piccolo coniglietto bianco che evoca in lei dei ricordi. Il gatto Gilbert le mostra anche come affacciarsi dalla finestrella ad oblò per osservare il mondo che è fuori da quelle mura claustrofobiche. Clementine osserva la strada e il suo sguardo viene attratto da un giovane che chiede informazioni ai passanti, tra questi anche ai suoi zii. Clementine teme di essere scoperta e nel rientrare dalla finestrella le sfugge di mano il coniglietto. Appena gli zii rincasano la rinchiudono nella sua cella senza alcuna possibilità di fuga, ma Clementine non smette di sognare e appena può osserva il cielo dalla canna fumaria del caminetto che non viene mai acceso, proprio in quel suo angolo di magia ritrova il coniglietto che aveva perduto. È anche merito del gatto più intelligente del mondo se Clementine non smette di sperare di tornare nel posto magico che compare spesso nei suoi sogni. Riuscirà Clementine a fuggire dai suoi tiranni e raggiungere con Gilbert Il posto magico?
La storia di Clementine appassionerà tutti i piccini, perché è davvero impossibile non sperare che tutto possa andare per il meglio e che i furfanti dei suoi zii vengano assicurati alla giustizia. Ci saranno momenti in cui vedrete il sorriso spuntare sulle bocche dei vostri figli, perché le avventure degli orribili zii sono piuttosto esilaranti, e altri in cui li vedrete intristirsi per la sorte che è toccata alla piccola Clementine ma, in ogni caso, la speranza di un lieto fine non abbandonerà mai i piccoli lettori. Consiglio di regalare Il posto magico alla fascia di età che va dai cinque (sarà un piacere leggerlo per loro, ve lo assicuro) ai dieci anni, se non avete ancora preso nessun libro per Natale e avete bimbi piccoli che amano le favole della buonanotte, questo fa al caso vostro.
Il posto magico di Chris Wormell, libro per bambini pubblicato da Rizzoli il 12 novembre.
Il posto magico è un vero gioiellino da conservare in libreria per poterlo leggere ai propri figli quando avranno la giusta età per apprezzarlo. Perché, nonostante sia stato scritto nel 2019, ha l’andamento tipico dei libri classici per ragazzi. Già dalla scelta dell’ambientazione si capisce che l’intento dell’autore era quello di ricalcare quel genere: siamo nella Grande Città Nera in uno scenario che potremmo definire vittoriano. Poi abbiamo la bambina in difficoltà costretta dagli orribili zii a servirli senza poter mai mettere piede fuori di casa e infine abbiamo un ‘essere fantastico’ che accorrerà in suo aiuto per mostrarle come liberarsi da questa prigionia.
Clementine è una bambina che ogni giorno viene vessata dagli zii Vermilia e Rufus. Clementine non ha mai visto cosa il mondo può offrire e vive segregata nella buia e umida cantina dell’abitazione costretta ogni giorno a occuparsi della casa mentre gli zii sono al ‘lavoro’. Clementine è vestita di stracci e porta i capelli corti da quando la zia l’aveva sorpresa ad ammirarsi in uno specchio, l’unico amico che può vantare è Gilbert, il gatto della zia che ogni giorno deve scappare dalle sue grinfie per non finire crivellato dai colpi della sua spingarda. Se ci fosse una scala degli orrori sicuramente zia Vermilia sarebbe al primo posto perché in lei non vi è nemmeno un briciolo di umanità.
Le illustrazioni che accompagnano la narrazione, opera dello stesso autore, sono di grande impatto e permetteranno anche ai più piccoli di seguire la storia senza aver bisogno di saper leggere, basterà loro ascoltare e osservare le immagini. Troveranno così i volti degli zii, brutti sia dentro che fuori, con così tanti difetti che sembra impossibile possano essere concentrati in due sole persone. La zia è vendicativa, cattiva, una vera furia che non si fa problemi a sparare addosso alle persone e agli animali. Lo zio è subdolo e succube della moglie. Entrambi sono ladri che nascondono dietro ai loro sorrisi tutte le angherie che Clementine deve sopportare e dietro a diversi travestimenti le loro mani arraffatrici.
Un giorno gli zii decidono di uscire senza chiudere Clementine a chiave nello scantinato e questo permette alla bimba di avventurarsi in soffitta e trovare tutta la loro refurtiva, tra questi un piccolo coniglietto bianco che evoca in lei dei ricordi. Il gatto Gilbert le mostra anche come affacciarsi dalla finestrella ad oblò per osservare il mondo che è fuori da quelle mura claustrofobiche. Clementine osserva la strada e il suo sguardo viene attratto da un giovane che chiede informazioni ai passanti, tra questi anche ai suoi zii. Clementine teme di essere scoperta e nel rientrare dalla finestrella le sfugge di mano il coniglietto. Appena gli zii rincasano la rinchiudono nella sua cella senza alcuna possibilità di fuga, ma Clementine non smette di sognare e appena può osserva il cielo dalla canna fumaria del caminetto che non viene mai acceso, proprio in quel suo angolo di magia ritrova il coniglietto che aveva perduto. È anche merito del gatto più intelligente del mondo se Clementine non smette di sperare di tornare nel posto magico che compare spesso nei suoi sogni. Riuscirà Clementine a fuggire dai suoi tiranni e raggiungere con Gilbert Il posto magico?
La storia di Clementine appassionerà tutti i piccini, perché è davvero impossibile non sperare che tutto possa andare per il meglio e che i furfanti dei suoi zii vengano assicurati alla giustizia. Ci saranno momenti in cui vedrete il sorriso spuntare sulle bocche dei vostri figli, perché le avventure degli orribili zii sono piuttosto esilaranti, e altri in cui li vedrete intristirsi per la sorte che è toccata alla piccola Clementine ma, in ogni caso, la speranza di un lieto fine non abbandonerà mai i piccoli lettori. Consiglio di regalare Il posto magico alla fascia di età che va dai cinque (sarà un piacere leggerlo per loro, ve lo assicuro) ai dieci anni, se non avete ancora preso nessun libro per Natale e avete bimbi piccoli che amano le favole della buonanotte, questo fa al caso vostro.
November 28, 2022
Ce livre est un bel objet, avec une couverture rigide carrée aux couleurs vives, avec une jolie doublure vert lime style papier peint. le genre de petit roman qu'on pourrait aimer avoir juste pour son apparence, mais qui a néanmoins un contenu plutôt fade.
Clémentine est l'archétype de l'Orpheline maltraitée/négligée et mal aimée, tout comme Cosette, dans les misérables, Jack dans "la pêche Géante", Sara Crew dans "La petite princesse", Élizabeth, dans "Wintehouse", Oliver dans son roman éponyme, et même, à un moindre degré, Harry Potter. Ici, Clémentine ignore même son nom, porte des haillons, ce qui ne l'empêche pas d'être très jolie, a une cellule à la cave en guise de chambre et est toujours de corvée de ménage entre deux tirage d'oreilles non mérités. Elle vit chez un oncle et une tante perfides et cruels qui volent de tout ( Tiens, comme pour Cosette!) Mais ici, contrairement aux misérables qui volent pour survivre, ces deux-là le font par pure méchanceté. Parce que ça leur fait plaisir. Seul point de consolation pour la malheureuse petite fille: un chat, Andy, qui lui tiens compagnie et tourne en ridicule le couple odieux.
Grosso modo, l'histoire est celle d'une petite fille qui va réussir à se sauver de la maison où elle est prisonnière depuis sa tendre enfance, avec une petite tournure dramatique à la fin que je ne vous dévoilerai pas. Une petite fille qui rêve d'un pays magique. Honnêtement, c'est non seulement déjà-lu, mais c'est aussi assez peu intéressant. C'est même parfois long. Clémentine hésite, regarde le ciel, a deux ou trois altercations avec les deux hurluberlus qui ne sont clairement pas son oncle et sa tante ( ça c'était pas difficile à deviner), pour finalement cavaler un peu sur les toits et FINAL dramatique-dont-je-ne-vous-dit-rien, mais qui a un lien avec le jeune homme qui cherche le couple quelque part au milieu du livre.
Le seul réel intérêt de cette histoire est, selon moi, le style de narration, qui est inclusif, puisqu'il s'adresse au lecteur de temps en temps. Les dessins ne sont pas mal non plus, mais assez clichés.
Autrement, je n'adhère pas à ce couple totalement méchant sans raisons, qui ont kidnappé une enfant juste parce qu'ils en avaient envie. De plus, kidnapper une enfant aussi jeune sous-tend qu'ils ont du en prendre soin, mais je ne les vois pas changer des couches, donner le biberon ou lui donner un bain pour ensuite la traiter comme une pestiférée. Ça ne tiens pas du tout la route. Qui plus est, si on a des bases en développement de l'enfant, on constate que Clémentine s'en sort anormalement bien pour une enfant qui n'est jamais sortie dehors, n'a reçu aucune scolarisation, aucune source d'affection et aucune stimulation cognitive. Sa conception même du bien et du mal devrait être ambiguë. Or, elle comprend très bien que ses oncle et tante sont des vils personnages. Comment l'a t-elle apprit? Mystère. Oui, sans doute que j'extrapole trop, mais les récits d'orphelins ont presque tous cette même tare de prétendre qu'un enfant peut survivre psychologiquement à des traitements inhumains sans aucunes séquelles. Pourrions-nous exiger un minium de rigueur psychologique, même en jeunesse? Enfin, SURTOUT pour la jeunesse?
Autre point qui me désole: encore une fois, les deux MÉCHANTS sont hideux, grotesques et laids, alors que la pauvre petite orpheline a un doux et beau visage, des membres minces et une silhouette harmonieuse. On travaille fort pour enseigner aux enfants que le physique ne fait pas la personne, alors quand je vois des auteurs modernes nous resservir l'indigeste sauce du Méchant-Moche et de la Belle-Innocente, je ne suis pas ravi, pas du tout.
Finalement, au terme de cette longue histoire manichéenne, je ne retiens absolument aucune leçon, aucune morale ni aucunes valeurs défendue. J'imagine que le message général est du genre: "Il faut croire en ses rêves", mais encore là c'est assez surfait. "Garder espoir"? Un peu large. "Les méchants finissent toujours par perdre?", ça on le sait, merci Disney.
Donc, même avec une couverture attrayante, franchement, ce livre ne vaut pas le détour. Vous avez pléthore des romans de ce genre qui sont plus intéressants ( voir les titres évoqués plus haut), et, il faut dire qu'ils sont pour la plupart devenus des classiques. Et socialement, l'archétype de l'Orphelin Maltraité est plutôt désuet pour les romans modernes. Un peu comme l'archétype de la belle adolescente pieuse et stupide. Ce sont des archétypes qui avaient plus de valeurs à une époque où il y avait pleins de gens qui pouvaient s'identifier à eux, mais en 2021, plus vraiment.
Bref, selon moi, vous ne ratez rien en choisissant de ne pas lire cet roman jeunesse.
Catégorisation: Roman Fiction, littérature jeunesse intermédiaire, second cycle primaire, 8=9 ans
Note: 4/10
Clémentine est l'archétype de l'Orpheline maltraitée/négligée et mal aimée, tout comme Cosette, dans les misérables, Jack dans "la pêche Géante", Sara Crew dans "La petite princesse", Élizabeth, dans "Wintehouse", Oliver dans son roman éponyme, et même, à un moindre degré, Harry Potter. Ici, Clémentine ignore même son nom, porte des haillons, ce qui ne l'empêche pas d'être très jolie, a une cellule à la cave en guise de chambre et est toujours de corvée de ménage entre deux tirage d'oreilles non mérités. Elle vit chez un oncle et une tante perfides et cruels qui volent de tout ( Tiens, comme pour Cosette!) Mais ici, contrairement aux misérables qui volent pour survivre, ces deux-là le font par pure méchanceté. Parce que ça leur fait plaisir. Seul point de consolation pour la malheureuse petite fille: un chat, Andy, qui lui tiens compagnie et tourne en ridicule le couple odieux.
Grosso modo, l'histoire est celle d'une petite fille qui va réussir à se sauver de la maison où elle est prisonnière depuis sa tendre enfance, avec une petite tournure dramatique à la fin que je ne vous dévoilerai pas. Une petite fille qui rêve d'un pays magique. Honnêtement, c'est non seulement déjà-lu, mais c'est aussi assez peu intéressant. C'est même parfois long. Clémentine hésite, regarde le ciel, a deux ou trois altercations avec les deux hurluberlus qui ne sont clairement pas son oncle et sa tante ( ça c'était pas difficile à deviner), pour finalement cavaler un peu sur les toits et FINAL dramatique-dont-je-ne-vous-dit-rien, mais qui a un lien avec le jeune homme qui cherche le couple quelque part au milieu du livre.
Le seul réel intérêt de cette histoire est, selon moi, le style de narration, qui est inclusif, puisqu'il s'adresse au lecteur de temps en temps. Les dessins ne sont pas mal non plus, mais assez clichés.
Autrement, je n'adhère pas à ce couple totalement méchant sans raisons, qui ont kidnappé une enfant juste parce qu'ils en avaient envie. De plus, kidnapper une enfant aussi jeune sous-tend qu'ils ont du en prendre soin, mais je ne les vois pas changer des couches, donner le biberon ou lui donner un bain pour ensuite la traiter comme une pestiférée. Ça ne tiens pas du tout la route. Qui plus est, si on a des bases en développement de l'enfant, on constate que Clémentine s'en sort anormalement bien pour une enfant qui n'est jamais sortie dehors, n'a reçu aucune scolarisation, aucune source d'affection et aucune stimulation cognitive. Sa conception même du bien et du mal devrait être ambiguë. Or, elle comprend très bien que ses oncle et tante sont des vils personnages. Comment l'a t-elle apprit? Mystère. Oui, sans doute que j'extrapole trop, mais les récits d'orphelins ont presque tous cette même tare de prétendre qu'un enfant peut survivre psychologiquement à des traitements inhumains sans aucunes séquelles. Pourrions-nous exiger un minium de rigueur psychologique, même en jeunesse? Enfin, SURTOUT pour la jeunesse?
Autre point qui me désole: encore une fois, les deux MÉCHANTS sont hideux, grotesques et laids, alors que la pauvre petite orpheline a un doux et beau visage, des membres minces et une silhouette harmonieuse. On travaille fort pour enseigner aux enfants que le physique ne fait pas la personne, alors quand je vois des auteurs modernes nous resservir l'indigeste sauce du Méchant-Moche et de la Belle-Innocente, je ne suis pas ravi, pas du tout.
Finalement, au terme de cette longue histoire manichéenne, je ne retiens absolument aucune leçon, aucune morale ni aucunes valeurs défendue. J'imagine que le message général est du genre: "Il faut croire en ses rêves", mais encore là c'est assez surfait. "Garder espoir"? Un peu large. "Les méchants finissent toujours par perdre?", ça on le sait, merci Disney.
Donc, même avec une couverture attrayante, franchement, ce livre ne vaut pas le détour. Vous avez pléthore des romans de ce genre qui sont plus intéressants ( voir les titres évoqués plus haut), et, il faut dire qu'ils sont pour la plupart devenus des classiques. Et socialement, l'archétype de l'Orphelin Maltraité est plutôt désuet pour les romans modernes. Un peu comme l'archétype de la belle adolescente pieuse et stupide. Ce sont des archétypes qui avaient plus de valeurs à une époque où il y avait pleins de gens qui pouvaient s'identifier à eux, mais en 2021, plus vraiment.
Bref, selon moi, vous ne ratez rien en choisissant de ne pas lire cet roman jeunesse.
Catégorisation: Roman Fiction, littérature jeunesse intermédiaire, second cycle primaire, 8=9 ans
Note: 4/10
July 4, 2021
✨The Magic Place by Chris Wormell- 3/5✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Clementine is imprisoned by her tyrannical uncle and auntie to live a miserable existence. Her only source of comfort is her trusty cat and her vision of finding “the magic place”. So when she is given the lucky opportunity to escape, Clementine doesn’t pause to think. But, does the “magic place” really exist? And what will clementine do when she discovers the shocking truth?
************************✨********************************
A adventure novel with a classically fairytale storyline. The Grimbles are very interesting villains much like the twits who’s ignorant escapades provide humour and imagination to the story. Chris Worley also does a great job filling each page with illustrations to promote reader engagement.
However, I felt that the Grimbles constant escapes from the large crowd of people wasn’t entirely feasible. It would have been better if the Grimbles had their own children they had trained to steal for them . As a result, the police never suspected them if they were caught.
Their weren’t any significant plot twists and the story does become tiring close to the end. Clementine’s discovery of the magic place being her parents home was a underwhelming surprise. This was especially the case because we don’t even get to meet Clementines parents at the end of the book.
A better plot would have been if aunt Vermilia’s buck buster actually shot and killed Clementine when she was in the chimney. However, Clementine escapes and meets William unbeknownst of her own death. With Clementine’s help William brings the gremlins to justice. During this time, Clementine realises she is a ghost and with her purpose fulfilled, she finally departs to “the magic place”.
Although, this would have been more macabre it would have created some much needed emotional and poignant scenes.
When Auntie Vermilla is caught by the police and crowd, uncle Rufus is oddly described as dancing in his clutches. I didn’t understand this scene considering the fact he’s wife has just been apprehended by police. Also, the sudden appearance of the crowd of dogs who pursue the Grimbles in the finale was unexplained.
To conclude, “The magic place” began with some engaging chapters which had significant opportunity to create a surprising and original storyline. Unfortunately the premise then takes a unexpected dive towards a mediocre and unimaginative version of Matilda .
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Clementine is imprisoned by her tyrannical uncle and auntie to live a miserable existence. Her only source of comfort is her trusty cat and her vision of finding “the magic place”. So when she is given the lucky opportunity to escape, Clementine doesn’t pause to think. But, does the “magic place” really exist? And what will clementine do when she discovers the shocking truth?
************************✨********************************
A adventure novel with a classically fairytale storyline. The Grimbles are very interesting villains much like the twits who’s ignorant escapades provide humour and imagination to the story. Chris Worley also does a great job filling each page with illustrations to promote reader engagement.
However, I felt that the Grimbles constant escapes from the large crowd of people wasn’t entirely feasible. It would have been better if the Grimbles had their own children they had trained to steal for them . As a result, the police never suspected them if they were caught.
Their weren’t any significant plot twists and the story does become tiring close to the end. Clementine’s discovery of the magic place being her parents home was a underwhelming surprise. This was especially the case because we don’t even get to meet Clementines parents at the end of the book.
A better plot would have been if aunt Vermilia’s buck buster actually shot and killed Clementine when she was in the chimney. However, Clementine escapes and meets William unbeknownst of her own death. With Clementine’s help William brings the gremlins to justice. During this time, Clementine realises she is a ghost and with her purpose fulfilled, she finally departs to “the magic place”.
Although, this would have been more macabre it would have created some much needed emotional and poignant scenes.
When Auntie Vermilla is caught by the police and crowd, uncle Rufus is oddly described as dancing in his clutches. I didn’t understand this scene considering the fact he’s wife has just been apprehended by police. Also, the sudden appearance of the crowd of dogs who pursue the Grimbles in the finale was unexplained.
To conclude, “The magic place” began with some engaging chapters which had significant opportunity to create a surprising and original storyline. Unfortunately the premise then takes a unexpected dive towards a mediocre and unimaginative version of Matilda .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2021
Thank you so much to David Fickling Books and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
A young girl is trapped in a house with two cruel thieving adults who treat her as though everything bad or every little mistake is her fault. She dreams of a Magic Place far away with mountains and beautiful colours, looking for any sort of sunlight down in her dark basement room.
This story was really interesting and sad but fun. The adults were horrible through and through which helped you really feel even more for Clementine. Whilst reading all I wanted her to do was escape, I kept saying in my head get out whilst you can. I really felt for her. The cat Gilbert you’ll adore him, the one character that comes and goes and interacts with every character and also helps to make life better for Clementine.
The story honestly wasn’t what I was thinking or expecting it was going to be, I really enjoyed it, it had lots of magic, lots of sweetness, lots of sadness and lots of humour too. The ending was perfect and rounded off the story perfectly.
From the start of meeting one character in the story (will give no spoilers) I personally knew who he was going to be and why he was there and I was very glad that I was right. What an adventure he had to keep going on.
I haven’t yet mentioned probably the funniest part of the story and when you read it you’ll laugh too, several times through the story one little dog gathers up so many more dogs and all they participate in a huge chase. I will not state the cause or reason (spoilers) but my goodness it will have you laughing so much when you get to it.
This book was a really unique book, a very original concept and had some elements similar to that of Roald Dahl’s books. A sweet lead that you feel an utter connection too, a pair of odious evil adults who you cannot wait for something bad to happen too and a dream that centres the heart of the lead.
I really enjoyed this book, it was an easy, fun, funny, sad sweet book; the chapters are very entertaining and it will keep you heavily engaged in the story the whole time. You won’t want to be done until you’ve gotten to the last page.
As an additional note, I loved the illustrations they were so beautiful and also that they were part of the story, the story itself referenced to an image that was surrounding it, I loved that originality and that they became interactive as such, perfect addition to this book.
A young girl is trapped in a house with two cruel thieving adults who treat her as though everything bad or every little mistake is her fault. She dreams of a Magic Place far away with mountains and beautiful colours, looking for any sort of sunlight down in her dark basement room.
This story was really interesting and sad but fun. The adults were horrible through and through which helped you really feel even more for Clementine. Whilst reading all I wanted her to do was escape, I kept saying in my head get out whilst you can. I really felt for her. The cat Gilbert you’ll adore him, the one character that comes and goes and interacts with every character and also helps to make life better for Clementine.
The story honestly wasn’t what I was thinking or expecting it was going to be, I really enjoyed it, it had lots of magic, lots of sweetness, lots of sadness and lots of humour too. The ending was perfect and rounded off the story perfectly.
From the start of meeting one character in the story (will give no spoilers) I personally knew who he was going to be and why he was there and I was very glad that I was right. What an adventure he had to keep going on.
I haven’t yet mentioned probably the funniest part of the story and when you read it you’ll laugh too, several times through the story one little dog gathers up so many more dogs and all they participate in a huge chase. I will not state the cause or reason (spoilers) but my goodness it will have you laughing so much when you get to it.
This book was a really unique book, a very original concept and had some elements similar to that of Roald Dahl’s books. A sweet lead that you feel an utter connection too, a pair of odious evil adults who you cannot wait for something bad to happen too and a dream that centres the heart of the lead.
I really enjoyed this book, it was an easy, fun, funny, sad sweet book; the chapters are very entertaining and it will keep you heavily engaged in the story the whole time. You won’t want to be done until you’ve gotten to the last page.
As an additional note, I loved the illustrations they were so beautiful and also that they were part of the story, the story itself referenced to an image that was surrounding it, I loved that originality and that they became interactive as such, perfect addition to this book.
January 20, 2020
Ambientato nella Grande Città Nera, dove l’aria è resa pesante dal fumo e la fuliggine, il lettore scopre la storia di Clementine. Una bambina che vive chiusa nello scantinato di casa e viene maltrattata e sfruttata dagli zii che, per come si comportano, sembrano più dei mostri che degli esseri umani. Ad allietare in qualche modo le giornate tristi e grigie di Clementine, c’è Gilbert, un gatto che la aiuterà a trovare il suo posto magico.
Devo dire che mi aspettavo di più da questa lettura. La trama è molto semplice, lineare, non ci sono particolari intrecci o colpi di scena. La storia si alterna con Clementine, che vive segregata in casa e inizia a scoprire la bellezza del cielo e la sensazione piacevole del sole sulla pelle, e i piani dei perfidi zii.
Mi è piaciuta molto l’ambientazione, mi ha rievocato l’atmosfera cupa di una Londra passata, e ho apprezzato alcuni elementi classici che sono presenti nel romanzo come: la bambina maltrattata che sogna un posto migliore e gli zii crudeli.
La presenza di Gilbert dà una nota “fantastica” alla storia. Il gatto si palesa sempre nel momento del bisogno. E’ un felino furbo, scaltro e intelligente. Ad accompagnare la storia ci sono delle illustrazioni che spesso sono inserite in sequenza per rappresentare al meglio alcune scene.
Un libro carino che si legge velocemente, dallo stile semplice e leggero.
Credo che sia una buona lettura per i bambini che si approcciano al passaggio dai libri per più piccoli a quelli per ragazzi, proprio perché la trama è molto semplice e le illustrazioni accompagnano la storia rendendola interessante e dinamica.
Devo dire che mi aspettavo di più da questa lettura. La trama è molto semplice, lineare, non ci sono particolari intrecci o colpi di scena. La storia si alterna con Clementine, che vive segregata in casa e inizia a scoprire la bellezza del cielo e la sensazione piacevole del sole sulla pelle, e i piani dei perfidi zii.
Mi è piaciuta molto l’ambientazione, mi ha rievocato l’atmosfera cupa di una Londra passata, e ho apprezzato alcuni elementi classici che sono presenti nel romanzo come: la bambina maltrattata che sogna un posto migliore e gli zii crudeli.
La presenza di Gilbert dà una nota “fantastica” alla storia. Il gatto si palesa sempre nel momento del bisogno. E’ un felino furbo, scaltro e intelligente. Ad accompagnare la storia ci sono delle illustrazioni che spesso sono inserite in sequenza per rappresentare al meglio alcune scene.
Un libro carino che si legge velocemente, dallo stile semplice e leggero.
Credo che sia una buona lettura per i bambini che si approcciano al passaggio dai libri per più piccoli a quelli per ragazzi, proprio perché la trama è molto semplice e le illustrazioni accompagnano la storia rendendola interessante e dinamica.
February 23, 2021
This is truly a beautiful tale with stunning illustrations.
As in many classic tales for children we have a child imprisoned by evil relatives and in this case we have Clementine used as a servant to her evil aunt Vermilia and Uncle Rufus. The story takes place against a Victorian backdrop and the grime and darkness of the period is wonderfully captured. Clementine’s journey to escape the clutches of the wicked relatives is fast paced. With the support of Gilbert the cat, she battles to escape the darkness of her cellar to finally reach her envisioned Magical Place
The story is beautifully told with a language that pulls you in and lets your imagination picture scenes and empathise with Clementine’s dilemmas. But it is ultimately the illustrations of Chris Wormell that steal the show. They are enchanting and humorous and entailed to an extent that every emotion of the characters is clearly displayed to further enhance the tale. There is a charming classic feel to the imagery reminiscent of Edward Ardizzone’s in Stig of The Dump or Garth Williams’ and Charlotte’s Web.
This book is perfect to be read by or read to children from 7-10 . I would highly recommend this to challenge year 2 readers but would make an excellent story for drama and writing activities with lower KS 2 learners.
It’s important that we encourage children to read with love and enjoyment and broaden their pallete of authors so step away from Mr Walliams and next time get this for your children.
As in many classic tales for children we have a child imprisoned by evil relatives and in this case we have Clementine used as a servant to her evil aunt Vermilia and Uncle Rufus. The story takes place against a Victorian backdrop and the grime and darkness of the period is wonderfully captured. Clementine’s journey to escape the clutches of the wicked relatives is fast paced. With the support of Gilbert the cat, she battles to escape the darkness of her cellar to finally reach her envisioned Magical Place
The story is beautifully told with a language that pulls you in and lets your imagination picture scenes and empathise with Clementine’s dilemmas. But it is ultimately the illustrations of Chris Wormell that steal the show. They are enchanting and humorous and entailed to an extent that every emotion of the characters is clearly displayed to further enhance the tale. There is a charming classic feel to the imagery reminiscent of Edward Ardizzone’s in Stig of The Dump or Garth Williams’ and Charlotte’s Web.
This book is perfect to be read by or read to children from 7-10 . I would highly recommend this to challenge year 2 readers but would make an excellent story for drama and writing activities with lower KS 2 learners.
It’s important that we encourage children to read with love and enjoyment and broaden their pallete of authors so step away from Mr Walliams and next time get this for your children.
December 19, 2019
Ho sempre sostenuto che una casa non è un luogo fisico, quanto piuttosto un rifugio dell’anima, in grado di farci sentire accolti e accettati, oltre che amati. Quando tutto questo non avviene, una casa resta uno sterile tetto sulla testa, privo di qualsiasi accezione di calore.
Clementine non sa cosa sia davvero una casa, né una famiglia, né degli amici. Ha sempre vissuto segregata fra le mura – e spesso addirittura in uno stanzino in grado di contenere a malapena un letto e delle coperte lise – di una costruzione grigia e triste, immersa nel lugubre oceano di una Grande Città Nera, fatta di tanti palazzi e priva di ogni colore. I suoi unici familiari sono i suoi zii, Vermilia e Rufus: la prima tozza e forzuta, il secondo alto e smilzo, con un volto simile a un coccodrillo.
Tutto ciò che Clementine riceve da loro sono punizioni insensate, lavori domestici da svolgere e lo stretto necessario per non farla morire di stenti. Il suo unico alleato è un gatto di nome Gilbert che, più coraggioso di lei, trova sempre il modo di sfuggire alle grinfie di zia Vermilia, andando e venendo a piacimento.
...continua sul blog: https://tralemaniunlibro.blogspot.com...
Clementine non sa cosa sia davvero una casa, né una famiglia, né degli amici. Ha sempre vissuto segregata fra le mura – e spesso addirittura in uno stanzino in grado di contenere a malapena un letto e delle coperte lise – di una costruzione grigia e triste, immersa nel lugubre oceano di una Grande Città Nera, fatta di tanti palazzi e priva di ogni colore. I suoi unici familiari sono i suoi zii, Vermilia e Rufus: la prima tozza e forzuta, il secondo alto e smilzo, con un volto simile a un coccodrillo.
Tutto ciò che Clementine riceve da loro sono punizioni insensate, lavori domestici da svolgere e lo stretto necessario per non farla morire di stenti. Il suo unico alleato è un gatto di nome Gilbert che, più coraggioso di lei, trova sempre il modo di sfuggire alle grinfie di zia Vermilia, andando e venendo a piacimento.
...continua sul blog: https://tralemaniunlibro.blogspot.com...
November 9, 2021
Clementine is kept locked up by her horrible aunt and uncle and only sees the outside by looking up her chimney to see a small square of sky. Despite this she has always dreamed of a place with huge mountains and green and wind, she calls this The Magic Place and it is what keeps her going even though everything at home seems so horrible.
I just knew this was going to be a magical book right from the start. I loved how the pictures weren't just illustrations but were actually a part of the story. Though I must say the vivid descriptions were quite expressive even without the pictures to look at. I could imagine the beetle-like Aunt Vermilia and crocodile Uncle Rufus.
Although Clementine doesn't seem to have much to hope for, she shows her strength and bravery. She manages to keep her defiance and gets back at her aunt and uncle is some small ways, even though she knows she will be punished. She always holds on to her hope that one day she will get away from them and find The Magic Place. I absolutely love a magical pet, and surely Gilbert is part magic as he is such a clever cat! He and a group of very persistent dogs actually play a big part in helping to save the day. With Gilbert's support, Clementine doesn't give up on her wish to escape.
I just knew this was going to be a magical book right from the start. I loved how the pictures weren't just illustrations but were actually a part of the story. Though I must say the vivid descriptions were quite expressive even without the pictures to look at. I could imagine the beetle-like Aunt Vermilia and crocodile Uncle Rufus.
Although Clementine doesn't seem to have much to hope for, she shows her strength and bravery. She manages to keep her defiance and gets back at her aunt and uncle is some small ways, even though she knows she will be punished. She always holds on to her hope that one day she will get away from them and find The Magic Place. I absolutely love a magical pet, and surely Gilbert is part magic as he is such a clever cat! He and a group of very persistent dogs actually play a big part in helping to save the day. With Gilbert's support, Clementine doesn't give up on her wish to escape.
June 30, 2020
A solid story. Chris Wormell is very obviously influenced by classic youth fiction authors like Roald Dahl with his story of child abuse at the hands of two comically sinister villains. Clementine's story does effectively tug at your heartstrings. You want her to escape, you invest in this small child and every step closer she gets to freedom, you're cheering her from the pages. Uncle Rufus and Aunt Vermilia truly steal the show. The two villains are so comically sinister, so ugly, so irredeemably evil. I appreciate the simplicity that Wormell takes in developing the two fiends. They commit crimes...because they like to. Aunt Vermilia steals everything that isn't nailed down because she can and because it's fun. Both her and Rufus are masters of disguise and Wormell takes care to actually show you how they do what they do, I loved that!
Much of the book's unique feel comes from how the narrator directly interacts with the reader, providing asides, and pulling back the curtain to reveal how the villains perform their vile deeds.
This was a very satisfying read. I believe this would make an incredible parent/child read aloud at bedtime.
Much of the book's unique feel comes from how the narrator directly interacts with the reader, providing asides, and pulling back the curtain to reveal how the villains perform their vile deeds.
This was a very satisfying read. I believe this would make an incredible parent/child read aloud at bedtime.
February 23, 2021
This book was sent to me digitally by Netgalley in return for a review.
This was an utterly charming book and it was so refreshing to read a tale where there were no references to mobile phones, laptops or Xbox games. Instead we had a story with good old fashioned villains.
The story, set in what seems to be a Victorian landscape, is about Clementine who lives with her Aunt Vermilia and Uncle Rufus - two of the most dreadful people you could come across. The way they are described is wonderful and the illustrations that run through the book capture their 'evilness' brilliantly and we are shown in detail how they commit their crimes. Although I say that Clementine lives with these two characters, in truth, she has a metal bed in an empty cellar room that she is locked in regularly. Her one friend is a white cat, Gilbert, who keeps appearing. Clementine has never been outside, she has never seen the world but dreams of a Magic Place where she could be happy.
The writing style is perfect for an adult reading aloud to children, the author uses questions to encourage to the child to think, to search through the beautifully detailed illustations. Reading this reminded me of the books that I used to read when my own son was young - a perfect book to share. The story - well, I won't spoil it but what normally happens to villains? But - look out for the dogs, that's all I'll say. Terrific fun.
All in all a great book for kids.
Thank you Netgalley.
This was an utterly charming book and it was so refreshing to read a tale where there were no references to mobile phones, laptops or Xbox games. Instead we had a story with good old fashioned villains.
The story, set in what seems to be a Victorian landscape, is about Clementine who lives with her Aunt Vermilia and Uncle Rufus - two of the most dreadful people you could come across. The way they are described is wonderful and the illustrations that run through the book capture their 'evilness' brilliantly and we are shown in detail how they commit their crimes. Although I say that Clementine lives with these two characters, in truth, she has a metal bed in an empty cellar room that she is locked in regularly. Her one friend is a white cat, Gilbert, who keeps appearing. Clementine has never been outside, she has never seen the world but dreams of a Magic Place where she could be happy.
The writing style is perfect for an adult reading aloud to children, the author uses questions to encourage to the child to think, to search through the beautifully detailed illustations. Reading this reminded me of the books that I used to read when my own son was young - a perfect book to share. The story - well, I won't spoil it but what normally happens to villains? But - look out for the dogs, that's all I'll say. Terrific fun.
All in all a great book for kids.
Thank you Netgalley.
March 7, 2021
Triggerwarnings for physical and mental child abuse.
Because of the title The magical place i believed this to be a magical story. It is not. There is no magic in this story so if your looking for that you should move on. If your looking for a quick middlegrade about a girl finding her own power, a family reunion and a cute cat keep on reading.
This is the story of Clementine or as she knows herself oye, she is locked up in the basement by her aunt and auncle and need to do all kind of chores. She dreams about a colorful she calls the magic place, she would love to go there but all the windows and doors in the house are shut.
This is a story about a girl who with the help of a cat finds her own strenght. And learns to make her own desicions. It was a quick read and had pretty drawings in it.
Thank you David Fickling Books and netgalley for gifting me this e-arc in exchange for an honest review. And although i would not have picked it up if i knew it wasnt a magical story i did enjoyed it quit a bit!
Because of the title The magical place i believed this to be a magical story. It is not. There is no magic in this story so if your looking for that you should move on. If your looking for a quick middlegrade about a girl finding her own power, a family reunion and a cute cat keep on reading.
This is the story of Clementine or as she knows herself oye, she is locked up in the basement by her aunt and auncle and need to do all kind of chores. She dreams about a colorful she calls the magic place, she would love to go there but all the windows and doors in the house are shut.
This is a story about a girl who with the help of a cat finds her own strenght. And learns to make her own desicions. It was a quick read and had pretty drawings in it.
Thank you David Fickling Books and netgalley for gifting me this e-arc in exchange for an honest review. And although i would not have picked it up if i knew it wasnt a magical story i did enjoyed it quit a bit!
May 20, 2021
What a wonderful book! We find ourselves immersed in a Great Black City in England, set in the Victorian era, where Clementine dreams of a magical place where she can escape to. Clementine is a young girl who is not treated very well by her aunt and uncle, they make her do awful chores and useless tasks and at the end of the day lock her up in the cellar!
Clementine doesn’t feel as though she belongs and when cleaning one day she finds an object which changes her and her determination to find the magic place grows. She will have to be quick and with the help of her best cat friend Gilbert they start off on an adventure to find the magic place.
I read the book in 1 sitting and it is perfect for readers from 7 years upwards. The story was fast paced and after the chapters it left me wanting to find out what will happen next! The drawings are beautiful and give the reader a better understanding of the characters and settings that are written about.
Clementine doesn’t feel as though she belongs and when cleaning one day she finds an object which changes her and her determination to find the magic place grows. She will have to be quick and with the help of her best cat friend Gilbert they start off on an adventure to find the magic place.
I read the book in 1 sitting and it is perfect for readers from 7 years upwards. The story was fast paced and after the chapters it left me wanting to find out what will happen next! The drawings are beautiful and give the reader a better understanding of the characters and settings that are written about.
February 26, 2024
Dickensian characters and a sympathetic protagonist.
I missed Wormell's illustrations in this audio version, as he's a fantastic artist, but this was a title we listened to on a couple of long journeys to keep us entertained, with 13 and 6 year olds sat next to me.
It kept our attention, the story of a young girl in her cellar, forced to be a servant to her aunt and uncle, who are certainly not the upstanding citizens they present to the world. Clementine (who doesn't even know this is her name) dreams of escape, but can she do it? How?!
My youngest was riveted, very invested in the story, and we did enjoy the narrator's vocal creations of the horrid aunt and uncle.
Quite short a listen overall, only 3-4 hours, following patterns of storytelling you might expect (with a James and the Giant Peach feel as well as little Oliver Twist mixed in there).
For ages 6-11.
I missed Wormell's illustrations in this audio version, as he's a fantastic artist, but this was a title we listened to on a couple of long journeys to keep us entertained, with 13 and 6 year olds sat next to me.
It kept our attention, the story of a young girl in her cellar, forced to be a servant to her aunt and uncle, who are certainly not the upstanding citizens they present to the world. Clementine (who doesn't even know this is her name) dreams of escape, but can she do it? How?!
My youngest was riveted, very invested in the story, and we did enjoy the narrator's vocal creations of the horrid aunt and uncle.
Quite short a listen overall, only 3-4 hours, following patterns of storytelling you might expect (with a James and the Giant Peach feel as well as little Oliver Twist mixed in there).
For ages 6-11.
August 25, 2020
" ... In ogni caso, io da grande non sarò come loro, e di certo io non tratterò i bambini come fanno loro! E quando sarò grande non sarò più qui ... "
Racconto a tratti dalle tinte fosche tipiche dei libri di formazione del secolo scorso, alternate a momenti umoristici che smorzano un po' la cupezza della realtà in cui vive Clementine.
Non tutti i bambini godono di una vita serena, il grande guaio è che gli "altri" raramente se ne accorgono, gli "altri" sembrano incapaci di andare al di là delle apparenze perchè è indubbiamente più comodo non vedere, non sapere, non capire.
Racconto a tratti dalle tinte fosche tipiche dei libri di formazione del secolo scorso, alternate a momenti umoristici che smorzano un po' la cupezza della realtà in cui vive Clementine.
Non tutti i bambini godono di una vita serena, il grande guaio è che gli "altri" raramente se ne accorgono, gli "altri" sembrano incapaci di andare al di là delle apparenze perchè è indubbiamente più comodo non vedere, non sapere, non capire.
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