For anyone who isn’t familiar
with Trig Points, the introduction in the book explains that thousands of
people from all over the world have walked to Trig Points on top of hills and
mountains in the UK and have never once given a thought to their purpose other
than to mark a point of reference on an Ordnance Survey Map, me being one of
them. The process of placing Trig Points
on top of prominent hills and mountains began in 1935 to assist in the accurate
re-triangulation of Great Britain. They are no longer used to help shape maps
although they still act as beacons for walkers and cyclists. Many are now being
demolished as satellites are used in their place.
This is an exciting adventure
story full of magic, aimed at 7-12 year olds.
After enjoying the book, I’m sure many readers will be inspired to
explore the hills and mountains of the UK. With places such as The Yorkshire
Dales and The Peak District mentioned in the story children will either relate
to them having already visited them, or after reading will have a desire to explore
them. It may also give readers a
yearning to pack a rucksack and explore the beautiful British Isles's countryside
to look for Trig Points themselves – and maybe Trignomes (more about these
later).
Fans of The Hobbit, Lord Of The
Rings, or Narnia, will love this well-written children’s story stressing the
value and importance of friendship. It's
a magical tale about Trignomes (a special type of gnome; not your ordinary,
commonplace garden gnome but one which is actually alive), who live in Trig Points
and what happens when they meet humans for the very first time.
One night the hero of the tale,
nine-year-old Jonathan sets out in search of answers to what is missing from
his life. He comes across a Trignome, Freddie, who lives inside a Trig Point.
Freddie with his white, spikey hair which sticks out at strange angles beneath
his brown pointed hat, a pot belly like a balloon hanging over his corduroy
trousers and funny, pointed shoes is in need of help with a mysterious mission
and Jonathan feels compelled to go along with him, not least because he feels
somewhat threatened by his soon-to-be new friend.
They embark upon an adventure of
a lifetime and learn about friendship, loyalty and what to do when things go
wrong. It is an enchanting story from start to finish.
For any lovers of gnomes or
stories about gnomes, this magical world created by the author will enthral and
delight. There’s adventure, mystery and
fun included in the story, which is beautifully written with accompanying black
and white sketch illustrations. It will definitely inspire a child’s
imagination and get them wondering more about the countryside and those who
inhabit it; if only to wonder every time they see a Trig Point, who or what lives
there.
It is an engrossing tale which
will have readers eager to turn the page to discover more about the magical
world that Jonathan has stumbled upon since meeting Trignome Freddie.
Revieer - Anne Pritchard
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