My book review of 'The Other Side of the Whale Road' by KA Hayton

by KA Hayton
Recommended age: teen

Joss is 16 and really doesn't want to live in a remote Suffolk village, but he's been sent to foster carers after his mum burns down their house on the city estate.

People are friendly, though, and the history of the place brings a sense of mystery and intrigue, particularly when Joss falls off his bike in a gravel pit and ends up in an Anglo-Saxon settlement.

He is plunged into another life where the people he befriends here are in danger from bloodthirsty invaders. He needs to warn King Edmund. Will he do it in time? Will he ever be able to return to his old life?

This is a gripping and compelling time slip novel that has the added appeal of drawing on the distant myths and history of Suffolk. The two worlds are expertly handled and believable and the characters are vivid and engaging. Very enjoyable!

Date of this review: June 2021
Book publication date: 2nd September 2021