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The Night Animals
Uncover the ghost animals within in this moving and uplifting story about finding help where you need it, from the highly acclaimed author and illustrator of The Hunt for the Nightingale. Nora's mum has good days and bad days, but the bad days are getting worse. It's been just the two of them for always, and they don't need anyone else. When the rainbow-shimmering ghost animals Nora used to see when she was small start to reappear, she's convinced that they hold all the answers. Along with new friend Kwame, Nora follows a glittering ghostly fox, hare, raven and otter on the adventure of a lifetime, helping her to find the strength she needs to help her family. In a heartbreaking and hopeful narrative, Sarah Ann Juckes' stunning novel, illustrated by the award-winning Sharon King-Chai sees a brave young girl face down her ghosts. For fans of The Last Bear and Julia and the Shark. Praise for Hunt for the Nightingale 'Full of hope, beauty & ultimately a healing song to nature' Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear'An incredibly moving story of feeling lost and finding your way again' Lisa Thompson, author of Rollercoaster Boy'Will break your heart and mend it back together again' Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild 'This poignant exploration of grief and denial seen through the eyes of a child is underpinned by lessons about kindness, acceptance and nature' Daily Mail
267 pages, Paperback
Published January 5, 2023
14 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ann Juckes
8 books58 followersSarah Ann Juckes writes books for young people. Her YA debut Outside (Penguin) was nominated for the Carnegie Medal Award 2020, shortlisted for Mslexia’s Children’s Novel Award, and longlisted for the Bath Novel Award.
Her latest novel, The World Between Us will be published by Penguin in March 2021 and has already sold in three other territories (Germany, France and Italy).
She works with writers from all over the world via Jericho Writers and is on the board for Creative Future – a charity supporting under-represented writers.
She collects old editions of J. M. Barrie's 'Peter Pan and Wendy' and feels most at home in the middle of a forest.
Her latest novel, The World Between Us will be published by Penguin in March 2021 and has already sold in three other territories (Germany, France and Italy).
She works with writers from all over the world via Jericho Writers and is on the board for Creative Future – a charity supporting under-represented writers.
She collects old editions of J. M. Barrie's 'Peter Pan and Wendy' and feels most at home in the middle of a forest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 6, 2023
A sweet and compassionate story about a young girl navigating understanding her emotions and her mum's PTSD diagnosis.
TW: discussion about PTSD and panic attacks.
TW: discussion about PTSD and panic attacks.
January 14, 2023
A great story, well written and riveting. It made me cry buckets as there's a lot of grief but also hope.
Loved every moment of it and I think that the author is a talented storyteller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
Loved every moment of it and I think that the author is a talented storyteller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
May 10, 2023
Ce roman nous est narré du point de vue de Nora. Elle n’est qu’une enfant mais elle a grandi trop vite car sa mère est atteinte de PTSD.
Alors qu’elle se noie dans une solitude dont elle n’a pas conscience, elle commence à voir des animaux fantômes et c’est là que sa vie va changer.
Vous l’aurez compris, cette aventure extraordinaire est une métaphore. Elle est pleine de symbolique pour aider Nora à avancer. Ces animaux lui apparaissent dans un but précis et ce n’est qu’après coup qu’elle comprend lequel. Mais surtout, ils emmènent Nora dans une quête empreinte de poésie et de magie là où son quotidien n’est que tristesse et solitude.
Il y a un lyrisme qui se dégage des pages. Par l’intermédiaire de Kwame, avec qui elle se lit d’amitié, Nora apprend à demander de l’aide et à en recevoir, elle ose s’exprimer alors qu’elle réprime ses émotions et elle accepte de s’ouvrir au monde. Bien qu’elle soit réticente à partager ce qu’elle pense, elle dépasse ses limites grâce à lui. The night animals est un joli conte d’apprentissage de la vie. C’est une leçon pour tous les âges, un rappel que ce n’est pas une faiblesse de recevoir de l’aide, qu’on ne peut pas porter le poids du monde seul sur ses épaules.
J’ai donc passé un bon moment avec Nora. J’ai aimé la voir s’ouvrir aux personnes qui l’entourent, la voir réapprendre à vivre ou à rire. Je n’ai pas toujours partagé ses manières d’être mais elle a su m’émouvoir. J’ai hâte de pouvoir partager cette histoire avec mon fils. Je pense qu’on a tous quelque chose à apprendre de ce roman. C’est une bonne découverte.
Alors qu’elle se noie dans une solitude dont elle n’a pas conscience, elle commence à voir des animaux fantômes et c’est là que sa vie va changer.
Vous l’aurez compris, cette aventure extraordinaire est une métaphore. Elle est pleine de symbolique pour aider Nora à avancer. Ces animaux lui apparaissent dans un but précis et ce n’est qu’après coup qu’elle comprend lequel. Mais surtout, ils emmènent Nora dans une quête empreinte de poésie et de magie là où son quotidien n’est que tristesse et solitude.
Il y a un lyrisme qui se dégage des pages. Par l’intermédiaire de Kwame, avec qui elle se lit d’amitié, Nora apprend à demander de l’aide et à en recevoir, elle ose s’exprimer alors qu’elle réprime ses émotions et elle accepte de s’ouvrir au monde. Bien qu’elle soit réticente à partager ce qu’elle pense, elle dépasse ses limites grâce à lui. The night animals est un joli conte d’apprentissage de la vie. C’est une leçon pour tous les âges, un rappel que ce n’est pas une faiblesse de recevoir de l’aide, qu’on ne peut pas porter le poids du monde seul sur ses épaules.
J’ai donc passé un bon moment avec Nora. J’ai aimé la voir s’ouvrir aux personnes qui l’entourent, la voir réapprendre à vivre ou à rire. Je n’ai pas toujours partagé ses manières d’être mais elle a su m’émouvoir. J’ai hâte de pouvoir partager cette histoire avec mon fils. Je pense qu’on a tous quelque chose à apprendre de ce roman. C’est une bonne découverte.
December 17, 2022
A sweet tale of a young girl who is struggling to deal with her mums diagnosis of PTSD. Throughout the story she goes through the whole sequence of emotions, from sadness, anger, denial and acceptance and is guided through her journey with the help of the rainbow animals who appear only to her and lead her to the support she needs. It's a nice gentle approach to dealing with mental health and how asking for help and trusting the people around you can get you through difficult times.
I was confused as to why the book is called The Night Animals because they mainly appear during the day?!
All in all a nice quick read which I'll be recommending to my younger customers in work.
I was confused as to why the book is called The Night Animals because they mainly appear during the day?!
All in all a nice quick read which I'll be recommending to my younger customers in work.
May 24, 2023
CAWPILE 6.00 3.5 STARS
A lovely MG tackling the delicate subject of mental health, Nora our main character's mum suffers from PTSD and this book really is Nora tackling her feelings surrounding that and the life she is leading. There's mentions of bullying, the stigma of mental health but it has a wonderful whistful optimism about it- about asking for help is not shameful.
A lovely book aimed at children, I found it sad at times and hopeful at the end.
A lovely MG tackling the delicate subject of mental health, Nora our main character's mum suffers from PTSD and this book really is Nora tackling her feelings surrounding that and the life she is leading. There's mentions of bullying, the stigma of mental health but it has a wonderful whistful optimism about it- about asking for help is not shameful.
A lovely book aimed at children, I found it sad at times and hopeful at the end.
January 4, 2023
Gosh. This is beautiful. Nora and her night animals made for a wonderful story about the strength we all have inside us, the joy that friendships bring and the importance of asking for help. So often we say we’re fine… and we’re not. I loved Kwame and his grandad - they brought light and hope to this story. Nora dealing with her mum’s PTSD was written beautifully. It made me so happy to see such positive portrayals of teachers too - so often teachers are the baddies in books, so reading a supportive one was a refreshing change. I just wanna give this book a hug.
December 29, 2022
Amazing story, full of great characters and touching upon sensitive topics like PTSD, appropriate for ages 9+, don't miss it!
April 7, 2023
Superb!
Nora's mum has her ghosts. These ghosts mean she is struggling with PTSD. Nora will do anything to help her mum, when her own ghost animals appear to help guide her way.
A hidden gem which gently manoeuvres through a family managing PTSD. I think it's done very well which makes this a beautiful story.
Nora's mum has her ghosts. These ghosts mean she is struggling with PTSD. Nora will do anything to help her mum, when her own ghost animals appear to help guide her way.
A hidden gem which gently manoeuvres through a family managing PTSD. I think it's done very well which makes this a beautiful story.
June 28, 2025
4,5⭐️
January 5, 2023
For my second read of the year I thought I would read the Waterstones Children’s book of the month “The Night Animals.”
A story about Nora, a little girl who’s mum has PTSD. Nora is struggling to cope with the effects of her mums condition when suddenly The Night animals begin to appear in the forms of a Fox, a Hare, a Raven and an Otter. These creatures take Nora on a journey that teaches her that she isn’t alone… they teach her about friendship, courage and that it’s ok to ask for help.
It’s a beautiful story and it’s quite a sophisticated read for children. I think the message within these pages is wonderful and I absolutely loved Nora and her friend Kwame is perfect too.
The writing style is gorgeous too, very comforting and cosy … it’s a stunning read … I’m going straight onto her other book now “The Hunt for The Nightingale”
A story about Nora, a little girl who’s mum has PTSD. Nora is struggling to cope with the effects of her mums condition when suddenly The Night animals begin to appear in the forms of a Fox, a Hare, a Raven and an Otter. These creatures take Nora on a journey that teaches her that she isn’t alone… they teach her about friendship, courage and that it’s ok to ask for help.
It’s a beautiful story and it’s quite a sophisticated read for children. I think the message within these pages is wonderful and I absolutely loved Nora and her friend Kwame is perfect too.
The writing style is gorgeous too, very comforting and cosy … it’s a stunning read … I’m going straight onto her other book now “The Hunt for The Nightingale”
August 7, 2023
Need to digest my thoughts but my goodness this was one hell of a powerful book that I think would help both children and adults alike. This was bloody fantastic and deserves so much more praise and pushing out there for people to take notice of.
Let me digest more and I will come back with final thoughts
Let me digest more and I will come back with final thoughts
March 4, 2024
Een warm boek, die je doet herinneren aan dat iedereen wel eens in z’n leven hulp nodig heeft en hoe moeilijk het is daar aan toe te geven. Heerlijk om even tussendoor te lezen en te genieten van de prachtige illustraties.
December 21, 2022
Nora is adamant there is nothing wrong with the world – yes, her single mother parent is off sick as being an ambulance paramedic has given her long-term PTSD. But that's not an issue. If anything, the only thing notable about the world is that everyone else in it is lacking in understanding, and that Nora can see ghost animals – indeed we start this with her waking up to a ghost fox lying on top of her bed. Is it the case – could it possibly be, do you think – that the animals know better than Nora about how to proceed with life?
This is a book about capitalised Issues, but done so rivetingly and entertainingly that you never feel hectored about any of them. It shows us a lovely relationship between Nora and her mother, and a much younger one between the girl and Kwame, a lad who is the same year-group yet different class in school, and a part-time resident just across the road. It also shows the relationships between Nora and the animals – the first chunk is a little too obviously (for an adult audience at least) about how the fox points out to Nora that solitude does not leave her in good standing, and then there is a ghost this and a ghost that, and so on, all with nudges that they hope will help her iron out all the wrinkles in her life.
It feels a little awkward slightly at times to have the book split apart into such obvious chunks – the animal does their thing, and vanishes – but the pages still read so well throughout that these stops and starts are never a problem. This is really a commendable read, and enough of an effort to make you want to track the author's future output with anticipation, as well as check back on her debut for this age bracket. OK, it's not perfect – a side-issue with bullying is really clunky and pat – but this is a warm, engaging read, keeping us on our toes as to what will happen to its welcome spread of characters, and still getting to the core of the emotions caused by all those Issues, whether they be bitterness, self-isolation, or the way we are too happy to bury the need to call for help too deep for our own good. A strong four stars.
This is a book about capitalised Issues, but done so rivetingly and entertainingly that you never feel hectored about any of them. It shows us a lovely relationship between Nora and her mother, and a much younger one between the girl and Kwame, a lad who is the same year-group yet different class in school, and a part-time resident just across the road. It also shows the relationships between Nora and the animals – the first chunk is a little too obviously (for an adult audience at least) about how the fox points out to Nora that solitude does not leave her in good standing, and then there is a ghost this and a ghost that, and so on, all with nudges that they hope will help her iron out all the wrinkles in her life.
It feels a little awkward slightly at times to have the book split apart into such obvious chunks – the animal does their thing, and vanishes – but the pages still read so well throughout that these stops and starts are never a problem. This is really a commendable read, and enough of an effort to make you want to track the author's future output with anticipation, as well as check back on her debut for this age bracket. OK, it's not perfect – a side-issue with bullying is really clunky and pat – but this is a warm, engaging read, keeping us on our toes as to what will happen to its welcome spread of characters, and still getting to the core of the emotions caused by all those Issues, whether they be bitterness, self-isolation, or the way we are too happy to bury the need to call for help too deep for our own good. A strong four stars.
January 15, 2023
This is a story that will pull at your heart strings.
We follow Nora as she bravely follows ghost animals (as well as her own) whilst also trying to help her mum battle her own demons.
This young girl is unfortunately struggling to deal with her mums condition - post traumatic stress disorder - but when ghost animals begin to appear in the forms of a Fox, a Hare, a Raven and an Otter, it became apparent to me as the reader that this all part of a coping mechanism.
These stunning creatures take Nora on what I'd describe as a journey of discovery. And the further she travels, the more she begins to realise that she doesn't need to be alone.
Rich in vivid descriptions, this is a tale that is compassionate and poignant.
With talk of PTSD, panic attacks and bullying, Jukes does a sensitive job of exploring grief in different forms within families and friendships.
Mental illness is a topic that I feel still needs to be talked about a lot more, especially within the younger generation and this book highlights these struggles in a way that is relatable and not at all patronising.
A real feature for me was the growing friendship between Nora and Kwame. The bond that they formed was sweet. An unlikely duo that together proved that you don't all need to be the same, you just have to be willing to listen.
The main message that I took away from the story is that we should all feel able to ask for help. It isn't something to ashamed of needing assistance in some shape or form. We all need a reliable shoulder to lean on every once in a while.
And the courage that was needed in this tale grew with every turn of the page.
The Night Animals is filled with hope and healing. Along with the illustrations, it is a beautiful story that was ultimately like a hug in a book.
We follow Nora as she bravely follows ghost animals (as well as her own) whilst also trying to help her mum battle her own demons.
This young girl is unfortunately struggling to deal with her mums condition - post traumatic stress disorder - but when ghost animals begin to appear in the forms of a Fox, a Hare, a Raven and an Otter, it became apparent to me as the reader that this all part of a coping mechanism.
These stunning creatures take Nora on what I'd describe as a journey of discovery. And the further she travels, the more she begins to realise that she doesn't need to be alone.
Rich in vivid descriptions, this is a tale that is compassionate and poignant.
With talk of PTSD, panic attacks and bullying, Jukes does a sensitive job of exploring grief in different forms within families and friendships.
Mental illness is a topic that I feel still needs to be talked about a lot more, especially within the younger generation and this book highlights these struggles in a way that is relatable and not at all patronising.
A real feature for me was the growing friendship between Nora and Kwame. The bond that they formed was sweet. An unlikely duo that together proved that you don't all need to be the same, you just have to be willing to listen.
The main message that I took away from the story is that we should all feel able to ask for help. It isn't something to ashamed of needing assistance in some shape or form. We all need a reliable shoulder to lean on every once in a while.
And the courage that was needed in this tale grew with every turn of the page.
The Night Animals is filled with hope and healing. Along with the illustrations, it is a beautiful story that was ultimately like a hug in a book.
December 23, 2022
I previously read another book by this author 'hunt for the nightingale' and adored it. It's one of the best books i've read and left me sobbing. But this book just didn't have even remotely the same effect on me. I almost felt it was written by a different author.
the premise is good. A girl whose mother is suffering from PTSD, is struggling with life and interacting with other people. They always want to know how she is, and although things are definitely not fine, she is determined to try and make things normal, so tells everyone that everything is fine. However, sometimes her mother cant leave her room, cant cook or do anything much at all. Nora has withdrawn from her friends, in an effort to try and hide that things aren't really fine.
then she starts seeing these ghostly animals with rainbow auras, and they seem to be trying to tell her or show her something.
basically this is a story about accepting reality, finding true friends and understanding that it is OK to ask for help!
Although I didn't really enjoy this story too much (at least in comparison to hunt for the nightingale), there was still a really good message to be had.
the topic might be a bit hard for some kids, but equally, this book could be perfect for kids who are perhaps going through the same things, and it might give them hope and the strength to also ask for help. So from that point of view, I can't fault the message that it's putting across.
the premise is good. A girl whose mother is suffering from PTSD, is struggling with life and interacting with other people. They always want to know how she is, and although things are definitely not fine, she is determined to try and make things normal, so tells everyone that everything is fine. However, sometimes her mother cant leave her room, cant cook or do anything much at all. Nora has withdrawn from her friends, in an effort to try and hide that things aren't really fine.
then she starts seeing these ghostly animals with rainbow auras, and they seem to be trying to tell her or show her something.
basically this is a story about accepting reality, finding true friends and understanding that it is OK to ask for help!
Although I didn't really enjoy this story too much (at least in comparison to hunt for the nightingale), there was still a really good message to be had.
the topic might be a bit hard for some kids, but equally, this book could be perfect for kids who are perhaps going through the same things, and it might give them hope and the strength to also ask for help. So from that point of view, I can't fault the message that it's putting across.
June 8, 2023
I’m FINE! says Nora. Nora, you are not. Mum is diagnosed with PTSD. You are having a stressful life. You can’t handle this. You are only a child, you don’t have to act like a adult.
Imagine this:
Your mum is diagnosed with a illness. You see weird ghost animals, and when you tell people they think you are mad. No one wants to friends with you.Mum has good and bad days but when the bad days get worse, you think that the ghost animals might hold the answer to your worries. One day, you go to school and this boy wants to be friends with you. You honestly don’t want to be friends with him. He gives you a piece of paper and he says that you can come to his house anytime. You come back from school and you see a note saying this:
Darling,
I’m so sorry. Can you go your friends house?
I love you.
Mum x
You can’t go to a friends house because no one is friends with you anymore. You decides to go to that strange boys house. Day after day the same thing happens with the note and slowly you and the boy become friends. You are still seeing the animals. Your friend called Kwame and you goes on the a adventure following the ghost animals. ……..
That Is what life is like for Nora. That is only the first bit though. Keep reading the book to find out……….
Imagine this:
Your mum is diagnosed with a illness. You see weird ghost animals, and when you tell people they think you are mad. No one wants to friends with you.Mum has good and bad days but when the bad days get worse, you think that the ghost animals might hold the answer to your worries. One day, you go to school and this boy wants to be friends with you. You honestly don’t want to be friends with him. He gives you a piece of paper and he says that you can come to his house anytime. You come back from school and you see a note saying this:
Darling,
I’m so sorry. Can you go your friends house?
I love you.
Mum x
You can’t go to a friends house because no one is friends with you anymore. You decides to go to that strange boys house. Day after day the same thing happens with the note and slowly you and the boy become friends. You are still seeing the animals. Your friend called Kwame and you goes on the a adventure following the ghost animals. ……..
That Is what life is like for Nora. That is only the first bit though. Keep reading the book to find out……….
January 24, 2023
This is a beautiful, but rather sad story. It is also touching and hopeful, dealing with issues that many children may find difficult. But sadly, these are issues that a huge number of children live with every day and this book gives voice to their struggle and feelings. It is a story of finding hope, allowing friendship, having the strength and courage to ask for help when you need it…and of facing the fear of change. The Night Animals also contains a subtle, yet stirring ode to nature; the characteristics of animals and how different ones behave; the healing power that lies in being in the natural world; the importance of preserving it.
There are so many aspects about this book that I could talk about. The storytelling flows smoothly and makes it easy to read and follow. It can be a difficult read for some. But it is an important read, I feel. Covering mental health issues, children as carers, a sensitive and genuine approach to bullying and arriving at understanding and courage, The Night Animals is hopeful. It is exciting, adventurous and true. I feel it would be a great classroom novel, as it opens up a place of communication, compassion and kindness, allowing us to really feel how much we need to show consideration to others; how to face difficult situations with courage and empathy. Touching, timely, well-expressed, imaginative and heartfelt. Simply lovely. Don’t let this one pass you by. It’s something we all need.
There are so many aspects about this book that I could talk about. The storytelling flows smoothly and makes it easy to read and follow. It can be a difficult read for some. But it is an important read, I feel. Covering mental health issues, children as carers, a sensitive and genuine approach to bullying and arriving at understanding and courage, The Night Animals is hopeful. It is exciting, adventurous and true. I feel it would be a great classroom novel, as it opens up a place of communication, compassion and kindness, allowing us to really feel how much we need to show consideration to others; how to face difficult situations with courage and empathy. Touching, timely, well-expressed, imaginative and heartfelt. Simply lovely. Don’t let this one pass you by. It’s something we all need.
January 15, 2025
While I understand why ten-year-old Nora acts the way she does (she is just FINE on her own and doesn't need help from ANYONE, EVER), it is a bit exhausting to read. She's honestly pretty horrible to Kwame (and anyone else that tries to help/be nice to her) through most of the novel. Nora is the way she is because her mom has severe PTSD from being a paramedic and now it's just Nora and her mom in a house all by themselves. Most days, Nora's mom can't even get out of bed. Nora's parents are divorced and her dad is off in India saving tigers instead of raising his only daughter.
The ghost animals leading Nora to Kwame, and then to other locations where someone needs help was interesting - though suspension of belief is required to think that two ten-year-old kids can just hop onto a train, ride it to the seaside, and everything else that happens on that journey.
Jukes does a good job of addressing PTSD through the eyes of a child and Sharon King-Chai's illustrations are a good addition to the story.
The ghost animals leading Nora to Kwame, and then to other locations where someone needs help was interesting - though suspension of belief is required to think that two ten-year-old kids can just hop onto a train, ride it to the seaside, and everything else that happens on that journey.
Jukes does a good job of addressing PTSD through the eyes of a child and Sharon King-Chai's illustrations are a good addition to the story.
January 11, 2023
so very sweet. a young girl's story of trying to live day by day while trying to care for her mother with PTSD. i don't usually read 9-12 fiction but it's our children's book of the month and my coworker recommended it.
this book will be very important and affirming for many children and i'm so glad there are more books like this for younger readers. i don't think nora had to forgive and befriend her bully to be honest, and i do think this could have been communicated instead, as her character is very much a people pleaser anyway. the title is also a weird one for me and i felt that 'the day animals' or 'the ghost animals' would have been more appropriate (as she calls them ghosts) and they also never turn up at night from what i recall? i still super enjoyed this one, although i'm not really a children's reader so my rating is a bit of a reflection of that!
this book will be very important and affirming for many children and i'm so glad there are more books like this for younger readers. i don't think nora had to forgive and befriend her bully to be honest, and i do think this could have been communicated instead, as her character is very much a people pleaser anyway. the title is also a weird one for me and i felt that 'the day animals' or 'the ghost animals' would have been more appropriate (as she calls them ghosts) and they also never turn up at night from what i recall? i still super enjoyed this one, although i'm not really a children's reader so my rating is a bit of a reflection of that!
March 13, 2023
The Night Animals is a beautiful, moving tale about family and mental health. Nora is a young carer whose mother is dealing with PTSD. Without a support network close at hand, Nora is struggling alone - until she meets the night animals.
Over the course of the story, Nora is taken on a journey by four animal guardians: a fox, a hare, a raven and an otter. These ghostly incarnations of native British wildlife are stunningly illustrated throughout the book by Sharon King-Chai. Without saying a word, the ghost animals guide Nora to the people and the help she needs, and help her to rediscover the wonder and joy of being a child.
I read this book in a single sitting. Sarah Ann Juckes has a gift for highlighting the magic of nature in her work, and her characters are complicated and real. A hopeful, meaningful read for children and adults alike.
Over the course of the story, Nora is taken on a journey by four animal guardians: a fox, a hare, a raven and an otter. These ghostly incarnations of native British wildlife are stunningly illustrated throughout the book by Sharon King-Chai. Without saying a word, the ghost animals guide Nora to the people and the help she needs, and help her to rediscover the wonder and joy of being a child.
I read this book in a single sitting. Sarah Ann Juckes has a gift for highlighting the magic of nature in her work, and her characters are complicated and real. A hopeful, meaningful read for children and adults alike.
January 2, 2023
Nora sees rainbow ghost animals, she knows nobody else can see them, but the fox seems to be trying to lead her somewhere... Perhaps they are trying to tell her something?
With a different animal for each message can Nora find a way to help her Mum get better?
They're fine, they are a team, but things have been hard recently.
I thought this was a clever way of explaining why it's good to find friends & those you can trust, & that it's okay to ask for help if you or a loved one are struggling.
Beautiful descriptive writing with wonderful illustrations that enhance the journey Nora makes with her new friends. Perfect for 8-12yr olds as there is something for all ages to understand from The Night Animals.
With a different animal for each message can Nora find a way to help her Mum get better?
They're fine, they are a team, but things have been hard recently.
I thought this was a clever way of explaining why it's good to find friends & those you can trust, & that it's okay to ask for help if you or a loved one are struggling.
Beautiful descriptive writing with wonderful illustrations that enhance the journey Nora makes with her new friends. Perfect for 8-12yr olds as there is something for all ages to understand from The Night Animals.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2023
One of my self-imposed goals this year is to read more middle-grade books in order to better understand what’s current in children’s lit.
So I kicked it off with the Waterstones children’s book of the month - the Night Animals.
This is a lovely, imaginative novel that deals with sensitive issues in a creative way.
Nora is a girl whose mother is going through a rough time, and honestly Nora is fine with it. Fine!
Except she’s not.
With the appearance of a ghost fox, Nora begins an adventure collecting new friends along the way and learning more about herself and her family.
A solid start to the year!
So I kicked it off with the Waterstones children’s book of the month - the Night Animals.
This is a lovely, imaginative novel that deals with sensitive issues in a creative way.
Nora is a girl whose mother is going through a rough time, and honestly Nora is fine with it. Fine!
Except she’s not.
With the appearance of a ghost fox, Nora begins an adventure collecting new friends along the way and learning more about herself and her family.
A solid start to the year!
January 30, 2023
This is a really magical book for readers aged 9-12.
Nora is having a hard time. Her mum is a paramedic who has PTSD as a result of the stresses of work. She finds it difficult to manage and a lot of the time responsibilities fall on Nora’s shoulders. Since her dad left, Nora and her mum have been a team, but Nora is finding it harder and harder to manage life. When a series of magical animals arrives at her door, Nora starts an adventure that will change her life and allow her to ask for the help she so desperately needs.
This is a beautifully sensitive book that tackles the important subject of child carers in a magical, clever and creative way.
Nora is having a hard time. Her mum is a paramedic who has PTSD as a result of the stresses of work. She finds it difficult to manage and a lot of the time responsibilities fall on Nora’s shoulders. Since her dad left, Nora and her mum have been a team, but Nora is finding it harder and harder to manage life. When a series of magical animals arrives at her door, Nora starts an adventure that will change her life and allow her to ask for the help she so desperately needs.
This is a beautifully sensitive book that tackles the important subject of child carers in a magical, clever and creative way.
April 22, 2023
2.5/5
I listened to the audiobook.
This was a very average story for me. It's cute with the ghosts animals, and I related heavily to this aspect because I had imaginary animals when I was a kid. It was a little hard to get into for me, and I wasn't a fan of the ending and the real reason for the ghost animals. Not quite sure what I wanted. I'm glad we're talking more and more about mental illness though and how it affects families. I want to see even more stories involving this topic.
I listened to the audiobook.
This was a very average story for me. It's cute with the ghosts animals, and I related heavily to this aspect because I had imaginary animals when I was a kid. It was a little hard to get into for me, and I wasn't a fan of the ending and the real reason for the ghost animals. Not quite sure what I wanted. I'm glad we're talking more and more about mental illness though and how it affects families. I want to see even more stories involving this topic.
January 3, 2023
Thank you for the chance to read this ARC. The Night Animals is a powerful story of Nora, dealing with difficult issues. Her dad left when she was young, and lives abroad, and her Mum is struggling with PTSD.
Nora begins to see ghost animals, all helping her in different ways, leading her to new friendships and understanding it's ok to ask for help
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and read it in one sitting.
I will be looking out other books from this author.
Nora begins to see ghost animals, all helping her in different ways, leading her to new friendships and understanding it's ok to ask for help
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and read it in one sitting.
I will be looking out other books from this author.
January 6, 2023
A wonderful adventure that that deals with mental health, how it effects those around you, and the importance of asking for help.
This is a story that deals sensitively with mental health and friendships whilst still having a story that feels well rounded and full of heart and humour. The friendship between Nora and Kwame is so lovely, and the descriptions of the night animal so vivid. I wish I had a Kwame and some night animals for myself.
This is a story that deals sensitively with mental health and friendships whilst still having a story that feels well rounded and full of heart and humour. The friendship between Nora and Kwame is so lovely, and the descriptions of the night animal so vivid. I wish I had a Kwame and some night animals for myself.
June 17, 2025
Nora vede tot felul de animale fantomă. Oare ce vor ele sa ii transmită? O poveste despre copii, cu greutăți ale vieții și cum reușesc să se refugieze în viziuni sau ceea ce pare desprins din realitate pentru a putea prinde curaj și a îndrepta greșelile adulților. Este o carte frumoasă pentru copii cat și pentru adulți, dar mi se pare prea lungă pentru ceea ce transmite de fapt, suspansul este menținut pentru prea mult timp în viziunea mea.
December 4, 2022
This is an incredible read that I found to be so moving with practically every page moving me in some way. It is well written with a compelling storyline and well developed characters and is full of both heart-wrenching moments that will have you biting you lip with emotion and hopeful moments that will leave you uplifted. A great read.
December 18, 2022
This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I cried and smiled , I'm glad I read this first before reading it to the children as they may have found Grandma sobbing a bit upsetting. It is such an important book though addressing many of current issues in society so I will read it again together. I beautiful heartrending but ultimately redemptive book.
April 6, 2023
Amazing! I can’t award the full five star because it’s not quite ‘The hunt for the nightingale’.
Really nice story, great character development and love how it really touches on how your mind can please tricks on you and help you remember things in special ways and show you what’s important whilst still hiding the truth.
Really nice story, great character development and love how it really touches on how your mind can please tricks on you and help you remember things in special ways and show you what’s important whilst still hiding the truth.
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