Spellboda

by J.C. Clarke

[Rach Wood]

Since Trevor's mum died, he has only talked to her cat, Mrs Bingo-Wings. Stuck at home with his dad, who barely looks at him without yelling, the 13-year-old boy is also having trouble at school, taking out his pain and resentment into disruption in the classroom. But then he meets Midge, a peregrine falcon in danger, and finds out he has a gift that could change his life forever. Thrown into the heart of a magical adventure, Trevor will have to overcome his fears if he wants to successfully embrace his destiny.

Tackling difficult topics, such as grief, anger and neglect, Spellboda isn’t always an easy read, especially when Trevor’s dad yells and throws things at him. Still, while I think the topic could have been explored further, it's amazing to see how Trevor and Midge's friendship helps Trevor make peace with his pain, to be more understanding and open.

Since Trevor volunteers at a local centre for birds of prey, the author also addresses animal conservation, which I appreciated very much, especially because J C. Clarke’s knowledge and passion for falconry shine through from the very start. I loved learning more about birds of prey, their training and caring; and it was a genius move to give such vivid and distinct personalities to the variety of characters from the local wildlife, like Tiberius, the eagle, Roger, the fox, and Crispin, the corvine.

I think the book would be perfect if the relationship between Trevor and his father was better addressed and deepened. So, I was torn between giving this a 3 or a 4, but I rounded up. I have to thank NetGalley and The Book Guild for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.