RE: Obernewtyn

Other worlds, talking animals and magical abilities are some of my favourite things, so I'm really glad I got the opportunity to try Obernewtyn. It's one of my all-time favourites, and I enjoyed reading the other books in this series.

Elspeth Gordie is a brilliant character who deals with everything thrown at her. She's struggling with her own abilities and changes, but puts her own fears aside to try and uncover the secrets of the strange place that is Obernewtyn. Her world has almost been destroyed by a nuclear holocaust that hasn't left many survivors, and now anyone left with a mutation (ability) is declared a misfit and sent to work on farms. Every day is a struggle for Elspeth, as she fights to hide her ability and ensure her safety. She's brave and headstrong, and more clever than she looks.

Maruman, a cat who can communicate with Elspeth, is my favourite character from this book. I love cats anyway, but to know one that talks is beyond cool. I really enjoyed his mysterious advice and knack for appearing just when needed, though I now have more questions than answers! I struggled with the slower pace of this book, though I did eventually get used to it. Sometimes I like reading a story that gently peels back its layers, rather than racing through the plot in record time.

I'm really interested to see where Carmody takes the story in the books following Obernewtyn, and how she deals with so many themes and issues within her writing. I'll be sure to read The Farseekers in the future, so I can continue Elspeths journey with her