Juxtabook

Jill and the Lost Ponies by Jane Badger

Jill and the Lost Ponies by Jane Badger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A brilliant evocation of the world of Jill Crewe as she pursues her first year, pony-less, in secretarial college. Jane Badger captures beautifully the world and the characters of Ruby Ferguson's beloved pony book series to create a new story that had me smiling from start to finish. Voice, tone, and Jill's follies and internal self-agonising are all presented freshly and authentically. Anne, Susan Pyke, Jill's mother (and her soppy stories), cousin Cecilia, Captain Cholly-Sawcutt and other well-loved characters are all here too. I loved every minute and hope she writes some more!

Not only does Jane Badger write fiction she also publishes books. Read more about the UK's premier pony book expert here.

One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

 

 

If you've just spent half term with a teenager dripping about and are determined to have some good reading matter lined up for them for the summer then you could so much worse than this, reviewed by a tame 14 year old I know:

One of Us Is Lying, by Karen M. McManus, is the sort of book you can never put down. It focuses on a group of teenagers, who witness the unexpected death of one on of their classmates, Simon, while in detention with him. Suddenly, the four students find themselves suspects in a murder investigation. They all had a motive and a chance to commit the crime, but as more characters become involved, it becomes clear that some people may have wanted Simon dead more than others.

One of Us Is Lying is fast paced and full of plot twists, the characters are unique with contrasting personalities and the setting of a high school makes the theme of murder seem all the more dangerous, which adds to the excitement. The story finishes with a surprising climax that will leave you amazed.

This book would be perfect to pack for a journey or to read while on holiday. I would recommend it for all teenagers, who like a page-turner. If you enjoyed it, you may also like Between the Lies, by Cathy MacPhail.

I have read this book too and agree with the reviewer: it really is a page turner and it kept this middle-aged reader as engaged as the teen. Not least because it is very reminiscent of the film The Breakfast Club, though One of Us is Lying follows the disparate group of protagonists beyond the detention until the clever reveal at the end.