Review of Perdita, the Witch and the Toyshop by S S Saywack Staff Review by Jo Hanna

Perdita, the Witch and the Toyshop tell the story of a young girl called Perdita and her wish to enter a toyshop that sells the most amazing toys. Unfortunately, Professor Eberhardt—the shop owner—refuses to allow children in the shop. Hans Balmer is the only child who has ever managed to get inside on a dare, and he refuses to tell anyone what he saw.

Perdita dreams about entering the mysterious shop, as animals and people randomly vanish from the town. Christmas is getting closer, and with the arrival of the strange people that camp on the outskirts of town, Perdita wonders if there’s a connection between them and the missing people and animals.

This book is a gem, and I can see people of all ages enjoying it. It was a lovely reading experience with twists and turns that had me guessing until the end. The language is authentic, flowing, and funny, and the description of the environment is beautiful.

The characters are believable—especially Perdita, who throughout the book strives to find the truth, no matter what other people believe.

I can’t recommend this book enough.

Inglestone Manor by SS Saywack