CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: BEN BUMBLEFOOT BY TEENA RAFFA-MULLIGAN

Due to time restraints while I work on my own novel, reviews on this site will now comprise a book blurb and a short response.

Teena Raffa-Mulligan has delivered another children’s book for middle-grade readers to love. Here’s the blurb:

Ben has been called Bumblefoot for as long as he can remember. It’s not a name he plans to keep. His dearest wish is to become one of the brave knight protectors of Castle Crag, which stands high on a cliff in the land of Faraway. When Princess Moonglow is diagnosed with the contagious fox splots as the royal party is about to set out for the Tenth All-Kingdom Games, Ben spots his chance to prove himself. Can he save the kingdom and his best friend, or will it be just another bumblefoot distaster?

What a charming tale! Ben Bumblefoot is the kind of character I love – a little bit clumsy (hence his nickname) and a lot of heart. When Ben is left to take care of the sick princess, he does so in a very Ben-like manner, complete with accidental recipe mishaps, trip-ups, and lots of laughter (at least from every one else). Teena Raffa-Mulligan’s delightful and light writing style is infused through this giggle-worthy book that explores friendship and belonging.

The illustrations complement the story well.

Whether for middle-grade readers to read alone, or for parents to read to younger children, Ben Bumblefoot is sure to delight.

Available from Xist Publishing and Amazon.