Thornhill

Reviewed by: Kristin Taylor - Biddeford High School, Biddeford, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: March 6, 2018

Review

This is the author's debut illustrated novel about Ella Clarke who is intrigued by a tragedy that had befallen the now closed Thornhill Institute, a former girls orphanage. Flashback 35 years to the white pages of Mary's diary, an orphaned girl that creates puppets to be her friends then to the black and white artwork depicting Ella's story in between. A beautiful and spooky diary type novel that is well developed not only with the characters, but the plot as well. There is a subtle theme within the story of the importance of child advocacy.

Illustrations are done in black and white with important details of Ella's life that correlate with the diary portion of Mary. Great book to have on the shelves for reluctant readers that like a good ghost story. Recommended for grades 5 and up.

Overall Book Score: excellent