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A Goblyn Wood Adventure #1
Into Goblyn Wood
Fairies are real, but their power is waning . . . Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and discover the magic of Goblyn Wood, with the first book in a major new fantasy series for fans of Nevermoor and Podkin One-Ear!
Are you ready to enter Goblyn Wood . . . ?
Hazel has always known she was different, but she doesn’t know where she came from. When her best friend Pete is kidnapped by strange creatures, she must gather her courage and enter Goblyn Wood , a forest inhabited by fairies . But their magic is being drained away, and Hazel soon realises that her own power is the key to saving both Pete and her new friends. Embarking on an epic journey of discovery, can Hazel restore the balance of the fairy realm?
The debut fiction novel from Waterstones prize-shortlisted Anna Kemp – enter this rich and immersive new fantasy world and meet a powerful new hero.
Are you ready to enter Goblyn Wood . . . ?
Hazel has always known she was different, but she doesn’t know where she came from. When her best friend Pete is kidnapped by strange creatures, she must gather her courage and enter Goblyn Wood , a forest inhabited by fairies . But their magic is being drained away, and Hazel soon realises that her own power is the key to saving both Pete and her new friends. Embarking on an epic journey of discovery, can Hazel restore the balance of the fairy realm?
The debut fiction novel from Waterstones prize-shortlisted Anna Kemp – enter this rich and immersive new fantasy world and meet a powerful new hero.
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Published September 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 29, 2024
Jeśli uwielbiacie Baśniobór to myślę że ta może wam się spodobać.
Jeśli chodzi o mnie to po prostu nie mój typ książek dla dzieci
Jeśli chodzi o mnie to po prostu nie mój typ książek dla dzieci
January 15, 2026
Practically perfect whimsical read in every way, with all the charm of Narnia.
I was instantly engrossed. I think this is a wonderfully immersive and imaginative read to encourage children's vocabulary. The writing is so descriptive and lyrical perfectly matching the tone of the novel. I liked how the author didn't shy away from including interesting and more mature words in her descriptions that can be enjoyed by fellow fairy readers of all ages!
The main character Hazel is on par with the great female heroines such as Alice, Dorothy etc. The world of the Goblyn Wood is brimming with magic and folktale. Everything about it sparkles and fizzes with enchantment. There was plenty of action, adventure and heart, as well as a beautiful reminder of the magic of nature. I loved the inclusion of Kemp's mythology of fairies!
The illustrations have this old-fashioned feel to them, like in traditional fairy folk novels, paring wonderfully with the story.
A warm and whimsical read that has capture my fairy heart! I cannot wait for the next adventure!
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5mQnvkS1...
I was instantly engrossed. I think this is a wonderfully immersive and imaginative read to encourage children's vocabulary. The writing is so descriptive and lyrical perfectly matching the tone of the novel. I liked how the author didn't shy away from including interesting and more mature words in her descriptions that can be enjoyed by fellow fairy readers of all ages!
The main character Hazel is on par with the great female heroines such as Alice, Dorothy etc. The world of the Goblyn Wood is brimming with magic and folktale. Everything about it sparkles and fizzes with enchantment. There was plenty of action, adventure and heart, as well as a beautiful reminder of the magic of nature. I loved the inclusion of Kemp's mythology of fairies!
The illustrations have this old-fashioned feel to them, like in traditional fairy folk novels, paring wonderfully with the story.
A warm and whimsical read that has capture my fairy heart! I cannot wait for the next adventure!
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5mQnvkS1...
September 11, 2022
3.75 stars. Interesting story although I wanted more from it. But I'm sure many kids will be happy to lose themeselves in magical world. I'm not a fan of cliffhangers in children's literature though. Imagine the kid's disappointment when the story doesn't resolve at the end of the book.
July 2, 2023
One of my favourite reads this year (despite being decades older than the target audience). What sublime world-building, beautiful imagery (especially of nature, woven throughout), and well-written characters who you can't help but become attached to. Warmth exudes throughout this book - the perfect cup of tea in your favourite mug. Hazel has shades of Tamora Pierce's Daine, Terry Pratchett's Tiffany Aching, and Philip Pullman's Lyra (three characters in three worlds I love deeply) and yet is altogether her own. To quote Kemp: my heart broke with happiness, reading a novel with such soul.
I am recommending this to everyone I know - a book that is a delight to read out loud for both parents and children! Though...I absolutely cannot wait for the next two books (two??? I have to wait for two???)!
I am recommending this to everyone I know - a book that is a delight to read out loud for both parents and children! Though...I absolutely cannot wait for the next two books (two??? I have to wait for two???)!
January 8, 2025
Wciągnęła mnie od pierwszych stron. Uwielbiam książki fantastyczne, przeznaczone dla młodszych czytelników, w których jest dużo magii. „W goblinowym lesie” to książka nie tylko o wróżkach, ale i o przyjaźni a przede wszystkim o szukaniu własnego JA.
Hazel czuje się inna, czuje, że nie pasuje do innych dzieci i jednocześnie czuje się lekko samotna. Ma swojego najlepszego przyjaciela, który jest dla niej jak brat, ale co jeśli go zabraknie? Gdy razem uciekają z sierocińca do Goblinowego Lasu, a Pete zostaje porwany, dziewczynka rusza mu na ratunek. Odkrywa, że nie jest w tym lesie po raz pierwszy, znajduję miejsce do którego pasuje i odkrywa niezwykłą moc, która w niej drzemie. Tak mnie zaciekawiła i czytając płynęłam po tej książce, aż nie zauważyłam kiedy to juz koniec. I to w takim momencie! Czekałam na niego odkąd Hazel wyruszyła w swoją podróż i okazało się, ze jeszcze trochę sobie poczekam. Ale jest na co! Jest warto!
🌙Jeśli lubicie:
✨książki dla młodszych
✨magie w książkach
✨wróżki
✨ciekawa, pełną akcji fabułę
✨przyjaźń w książkach
✨odkrywanie/poznawanie siebie
To książka „W goblinowym lesie” jest dla ciebie idealna! No i oczywiście nie mogło w niej zabraknąć pięknych ilustracji 😍❤️
Hazel czuje się inna, czuje, że nie pasuje do innych dzieci i jednocześnie czuje się lekko samotna. Ma swojego najlepszego przyjaciela, który jest dla niej jak brat, ale co jeśli go zabraknie? Gdy razem uciekają z sierocińca do Goblinowego Lasu, a Pete zostaje porwany, dziewczynka rusza mu na ratunek. Odkrywa, że nie jest w tym lesie po raz pierwszy, znajduję miejsce do którego pasuje i odkrywa niezwykłą moc, która w niej drzemie. Tak mnie zaciekawiła i czytając płynęłam po tej książce, aż nie zauważyłam kiedy to juz koniec. I to w takim momencie! Czekałam na niego odkąd Hazel wyruszyła w swoją podróż i okazało się, ze jeszcze trochę sobie poczekam. Ale jest na co! Jest warto!
🌙Jeśli lubicie:
✨książki dla młodszych
✨magie w książkach
✨wróżki
✨ciekawa, pełną akcji fabułę
✨przyjaźń w książkach
✨odkrywanie/poznawanie siebie
To książka „W goblinowym lesie” jest dla ciebie idealna! No i oczywiście nie mogło w niej zabraknąć pięknych ilustracji 😍❤️
September 19, 2022
This is the debut fiction novel from Anna Kemp and let me tell you, you are in for a treat.
Kemp has created a fantastic new fantasy world.
Filled with magic and wonder we are introduced to an array of shall we say interesting characters. Who knew that there was a hierarchy of the fairies to contend with.
The story begins with Hazel and her only friend, Pete, who both have dreams of escaping Ditchmoor the quite frankly horrific orphanage where they currently reside. However when it looks like those dreams might just come true, Pete is kidnapped and Hazel finds herself in some questionable company.
Just who is friend and who might be an enemy? That is the ultimate question.
What an adventure.
Prepare to be transported to this new land that is both mystical and remarkable.
Hazel is a talented protagonist (even if that talent isn't fully recognised yet) and what she is about to achieve at such a young age is astonishing.
Along with a brave and creative supporting cast, this is a girl on a mission and whilst she is challenged both mentally and physically, we get to see a real strength of character. Something to to truly inspire younger readers.
With plenty of twists and turns, this is an explosive start to what I think will be an utterly charming new series.
A special mention to illustrator David Wyatt, the images within the novel really helped bring the story to life!
This is a tale that shows courageous and kindness, both admirable traits.
And I think I can safely say that once you enter the Goblyn Woods, you won't want to leave.
Kemp has created a fantastic new fantasy world.
Filled with magic and wonder we are introduced to an array of shall we say interesting characters. Who knew that there was a hierarchy of the fairies to contend with.
The story begins with Hazel and her only friend, Pete, who both have dreams of escaping Ditchmoor the quite frankly horrific orphanage where they currently reside. However when it looks like those dreams might just come true, Pete is kidnapped and Hazel finds herself in some questionable company.
Just who is friend and who might be an enemy? That is the ultimate question.
What an adventure.
Prepare to be transported to this new land that is both mystical and remarkable.
Hazel is a talented protagonist (even if that talent isn't fully recognised yet) and what she is about to achieve at such a young age is astonishing.
Along with a brave and creative supporting cast, this is a girl on a mission and whilst she is challenged both mentally and physically, we get to see a real strength of character. Something to to truly inspire younger readers.
With plenty of twists and turns, this is an explosive start to what I think will be an utterly charming new series.
A special mention to illustrator David Wyatt, the images within the novel really helped bring the story to life!
This is a tale that shows courageous and kindness, both admirable traits.
And I think I can safely say that once you enter the Goblyn Woods, you won't want to leave.
December 10, 2022
My thanks to Simon & Schuster Children's UK for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Into Goblyn Wood’ by Anna Kemp.
This is the start of a new Middle Grade fantasy series. Tales set in magical woods always draw my attention, especially if accompanied by folkloric elements.
Eleven-year-old Hazel Quince has always known that she is different. She has lived at Ditchmoor Home for the Wretched since her mother left her there when she was two. It’s a Dickensian style orphanage run by the cruel Miss Fitch and her wardens.
Hazel and her best friend Pete enter the Goblyn Wood hoping to find the Wild Children, rumoured to be runaways from Ditchmoor who have found sanctuary there. Then Pete is kidnapped by a band of strange creatures. In order to save him Hazel has to venture into the heart of the Goblyn Wood, rumoured to be inhabited by fairies. What she discovers there will answer many questions though pose many more.
Hazel was a delightful protagonist who quickly won my heart. Anna Kemp integrates traditional faerie folk lore into her story as well as her own ideas about their origins and natures.
Overall, I found ‘Into Goblyn Wood’ an enchanting tale of fun and adventure. The text is accompanied by whimsical illustrations by David Wyatt.
It is the kind of fantasy that is bound to appeal to the young at heart, no matter their physical age. It does end rather abruptly, though I will be looking forward to seeing what further adventures there will be for Hazel and friends.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
This is the start of a new Middle Grade fantasy series. Tales set in magical woods always draw my attention, especially if accompanied by folkloric elements.
Eleven-year-old Hazel Quince has always known that she is different. She has lived at Ditchmoor Home for the Wretched since her mother left her there when she was two. It’s a Dickensian style orphanage run by the cruel Miss Fitch and her wardens.
Hazel and her best friend Pete enter the Goblyn Wood hoping to find the Wild Children, rumoured to be runaways from Ditchmoor who have found sanctuary there. Then Pete is kidnapped by a band of strange creatures. In order to save him Hazel has to venture into the heart of the Goblyn Wood, rumoured to be inhabited by fairies. What she discovers there will answer many questions though pose many more.
Hazel was a delightful protagonist who quickly won my heart. Anna Kemp integrates traditional faerie folk lore into her story as well as her own ideas about their origins and natures.
Overall, I found ‘Into Goblyn Wood’ an enchanting tale of fun and adventure. The text is accompanied by whimsical illustrations by David Wyatt.
It is the kind of fantasy that is bound to appeal to the young at heart, no matter their physical age. It does end rather abruptly, though I will be looking forward to seeing what further adventures there will be for Hazel and friends.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
September 8, 2022
Hazel and her only friend, Pete, have dreams of escaping the abysmal orphanage and having adventures together. But dreams can be burst in the worst ways, especially when Pete is kidnapped and Hazel lands in the middle of Goblyn Wood trying to work who is friend or foe and why she has a strange connection to this land of magic.
I love a story that you can really get absorbed in and Hazel’s exploits had me hooked right from the beginning and it really was hard to drag myself away from the vivid descriptions of the woods and the marvellous creatures. I found the hierarchy of the fairies curious and liked the idea of the different factions in the woods. A rebellion is always good for giving characters more layers, and I look forward to seeing where this goes in further stories. Hazel is my kind of main female character, courageous, curious and kind.
There's magic in these woods and within each chapter!
I received an early copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
It was really enjoyable, and the only drawback is that I will probably have to wait way too long to know what will happen next!
I love a story that you can really get absorbed in and Hazel’s exploits had me hooked right from the beginning and it really was hard to drag myself away from the vivid descriptions of the woods and the marvellous creatures. I found the hierarchy of the fairies curious and liked the idea of the different factions in the woods. A rebellion is always good for giving characters more layers, and I look forward to seeing where this goes in further stories. Hazel is my kind of main female character, courageous, curious and kind.
There's magic in these woods and within each chapter!
I received an early copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
It was really enjoyable, and the only drawback is that I will probably have to wait way too long to know what will happen next!
November 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It gripped me from the start, and wove an interesting story full of components that seemed just random at first, but all came together in the end.
The book, of course, ends on a cliffhanger. But this just made me excited to read the next in the series!
at first, i was sure this would be a one off book, as it felt like the story was pretty enclosed. But towards the end i realised that there were some little things I'd not taken notice of that were important, and because very important towards the end, leading to the next book in the series.
I liked the characters, especially Portuna and the wizard Perig. They were full of life and very fun to read about.
the story was lively and had some lovely upbeat moments, without taking away from the seriousness of the main story.
The book, of course, ends on a cliffhanger. But this just made me excited to read the next in the series!
at first, i was sure this would be a one off book, as it felt like the story was pretty enclosed. But towards the end i realised that there were some little things I'd not taken notice of that were important, and because very important towards the end, leading to the next book in the series.
I liked the characters, especially Portuna and the wizard Perig. They were full of life and very fun to read about.
the story was lively and had some lovely upbeat moments, without taking away from the seriousness of the main story.
November 25, 2022
I bought this book for my 8 year old, but the story was so absorbing that I had to read the whole thing before I could hand it over. This is a really good adventure, where you follow the heroine into the world of fairies. I loved the idea of the fairy world existing beneath the roots of trees - a great network of corridors, clearings and villages. It’s beautifully described, with vivid descriptions of the fairies’ homes, families, friendships, food, parties and play. There’s plenty of suspense in this story, and some clever twists and turns. Once I had handed the book on to its rightful 8 year old owner, I was glad to see that she felt the same way - it’s sparked lots of lovely fairy-inspired drawing and play at our house
September 27, 2022
Absolutely loved 'Into Goblyn Wood' -- and can't wait to read the next book. Anna Kemp has created a courageous and relatable heroine in Hazel; it was a pleasure and a lot of fun to join her and the Wild Children on their quest. I was utterly immersed in the Goblyn Wood with its faes, fairies, gossiping trees, and other characters -- this is a book for 9-12 year olds, yes, but there's plenty for adults to sink their teeth into as well. Also, the book is a great reminder of the power of nature and how important it is for us all to take our time to learn about it and appreciate it.
June 2, 2023
I enjoyed the story and the world building. Kemp creates a rich world with deep and beautiful imagery so that both children and adults alike should enjoy. My only composting complaint is the ending: Why the cliffhanger? Is there a book two in the works? What's happening!?
I'm not a fan of cliffhangers. I understand why a writer would use them to let the reader imagine the next step in the story, but as an adult, I am disappointed not to have a resolution, and I suspect children would be more so.
I'm not a fan of cliffhangers. I understand why a writer would use them to let the reader imagine the next step in the story, but as an adult, I am disappointed not to have a resolution, and I suspect children would be more so.
July 25, 2022
Clearly a lot of work has gone into making this junior fantasy a rich, developed and lively one. If the same could be said for pulling us back for parts two and three we'd be on to a clear winner.
For my full, four star review, please turn to :-
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/I...
For my full, four star review, please turn to :-
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/I...
January 16, 2023
Such a great book, I can't wait for the next one in the series! An exciting adventure full of warmth and magic, beautifully written and full of memorable characters. It explores fairy lore and how it connects with the natural world in a really original and engaging way, too. I loved it and absolutely recommend it.
May 13, 2024
2.5 rounded up. Enjoyed this enough to get into it but struggled through the second half as it feels like it's dragging a bit. Would've rated this a 3 but the ending of the story is a cliffhanger! I don't mind a cliffhanger generally but nothing is resolved and I feel like there's not enough left for a whole second book
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October 28, 2022Great story with a strong girl lead. Hadn’t heard this description of fairies before - it’s a lovely idea. Want to know why the professor tricked Hazel and who is the mysterious person he was talking with… next book please.
February 28, 2023
My near seven year old and ten year old nephew both loved this book. Anna Kemp has created an incredible world, with an inspiring lead character. The plot is exciting and my daughter loved guessing at what was to come. Both kids are really excited for the next instalment.
July 25, 2025
Po prostu okej, bez większego szału. Wystarczająco ciekawa, by czytanie sprawiało jakąś przyjemność, ale nie zostanie ze mną na długo. Na pewno sięgnę po kolejny tom, bo jestem ciekaw jak to się skończy
March 4, 2023
This is a very good book, I loved it!
April 27, 2023
I love the idea of this book. Beautiful characters and a fantastically created world but the ending just left me gutted! I think it should have been tied up better.
November 8, 2023
Fantastical and magical. This book gripped me by the heart and wouldn't let go. Adorable characters and an enthralling storyline. Absolutely wonderful from beginning to end.
June 17, 2024
It was a cliffhanger but it was still enjoyable and quite fun too. When Hazel realises she is a slipskin (A person who can turn into any animal) She uses her powers to save her stolen friend Pete.
September 1, 2024
Very exciting story about a girl who finds out she was a fairy and makes friends in goblyn wood until her friend Pete gets taken and she needs to find him
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2025
I really loved this series. The characters were very genuine and the storyline was captivating! The audiobook version was impeccable as well ✨
April 12, 2025
książka bardzo mi się podobała przeczytałam ją w październiku tamtego roku i czekałam na drugą część i mam w planach ją kupić 🌳
July 18, 2025
A good start to the series!
September 20, 2022
Loved this - creates a wonderful magical world full of excitement and adventure. Makes you want to be part of it. Would highly recommend for a fun, gripping, cosy read.
October 27, 2022
Such a good story, and so beautifully written. Suspenseful action, wonderful characters and scene setting, I felt totally absorbed.
November 14, 2025
What a wonderful mini epic fantasy for older children! With gorgeous, rich illustrations and beautiful world-building.
It gets a little heavy and dark towards the end, so I wouldn't recommend it for really young readers, so maybe 9+.
The characters are fab, especially Hazel. She acts as you hope a heroine would. Very likeable and brave and a good friend.
I love love love the fact that the Hazel insists they tell Portuna's father where they're going and what they're doing, and not just sneak off and cause him lots of worry. It's so refreshing to see this in a middle grade book. So often the characters aren't truthful with their parents or guardians or show them respect and trust. There are lots of good family and friend dynamics going on throughout.
Excellent story! Just not for really young readers, see below for some content.
CW:
-Lang- blasted, Lord knows, crackpots, ruddy cheek (p.156), stars above, clouds above,
-bullying
-girl abandoned by her family
-ref to witchcraft and demons
-death of a fairy boy
-bit of a new age part where all the fairies join hands around a stone and sway and stamp their feet and they all get energy from the earth
-a character is a wizard geomancer, who does stone magic, with crystals and stuff
-the fae are people who died 'before their time', and cut off from both life and death
-the storyline about a faction of fairie folk/fae who control the flow of life and cut it off from places, where the inhabitants die if they don't get out, could be quite distressing for some kids
-a character lifts Hazel up by her throat and she starts to choke
-p.208
-using stones to draw out enchantment
-death, fairies drained of life
-water witch
-the mc kills in self defense (we don't see it till afterwards)
SPOILER:
...
..
.
-there is a gut wrenching moment where the mc finds her mum is still alive and they spend time together. And then,
SPOILER:
...
..
.
she realises it's an illusion. We only realise this as she does, so it's a bit of an emotional roller-coaster for the reader.
-you also find out that some people have been taking kids from the orphanage under false pretences. The kids think they are going to a new home and family, but they're being taken to the Fae. We don't know why, but it will be harrowing for some sensitive readers.
It gets a little heavy and dark towards the end, so I wouldn't recommend it for really young readers, so maybe 9+.
The characters are fab, especially Hazel. She acts as you hope a heroine would. Very likeable and brave and a good friend.
I love love love the fact that the Hazel insists they tell Portuna's father where they're going and what they're doing, and not just sneak off and cause him lots of worry. It's so refreshing to see this in a middle grade book. So often the characters aren't truthful with their parents or guardians or show them respect and trust. There are lots of good family and friend dynamics going on throughout.
Excellent story! Just not for really young readers, see below for some content.
CW:
-Lang- blasted, Lord knows, crackpots, ruddy cheek (p.156), stars above, clouds above,
-bullying
-girl abandoned by her family
-ref to witchcraft and demons
-death of a fairy boy
-bit of a new age part where all the fairies join hands around a stone and sway and stamp their feet and they all get energy from the earth
-a character is a wizard geomancer, who does stone magic, with crystals and stuff
-the fae are people who died 'before their time', and cut off from both life and death
-the storyline about a faction of fairie folk/fae who control the flow of life and cut it off from places, where the inhabitants die if they don't get out, could be quite distressing for some kids
-a character lifts Hazel up by her throat and she starts to choke
-p.208
-using stones to draw out enchantment
-death, fairies drained of life
-water witch
-the mc kills in self defense (we don't see it till afterwards)
SPOILER:
...
..
.
-there is a gut wrenching moment where the mc finds her mum is still alive and they spend time together. And then,
SPOILER:
...
..
.
she realises it's an illusion. We only realise this as she does, so it's a bit of an emotional roller-coaster for the reader.
-you also find out that some people have been taking kids from the orphanage under false pretences. The kids think they are going to a new home and family, but they're being taken to the Fae. We don't know why, but it will be harrowing for some sensitive readers.
November 6, 2022
Wow....just what we've been waiting for...a whole new magical world, so beautifully crafted and such a gripping page turner. My 10 yr old daughter couldn't put it down and insisted on reading passages out loud to her siblings. The characters are brilliantly drawn and quickly become 'real'. We are definitely going to buy one for the school library! Can't wait for the sequel......
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews