The Thickety by J.A. White

I was introduced to The Thickety by pure chance at work when a really neat looking envelope arrived in the mail. I found myself constantly looking at the artwork and took it home at the end of my shift, fast forward a few hours later and I'd completed the book and sent a fan-girling email to the author. The moment I started the book I knew how phenomenal it was going to be, filled with vivid imagery and skill boosting vocabulary, this book is awesome for the intended age range of 8-12 and even better for all humans that like to read at all. In the time this book has been released I have sold just about 60 copies to readers ranging from 8-53 years old. Filled with beautiful scenery, terrifying beasts, laughter and heart ache The Thickety is a captivating read for any fan of the Harry Potter series.

When Kara Westfall was five years old, her mother was convicted of the worst of all crimes: witchcraft. Years later, Kara and her little brother, Taff, are still shunned by the people of their village, who believe that nothing is more evil than magic. Especially the dark that emanates from a lush forest advancing on the village, known by many names, Sorydyr's Realm, The Dark Wood, but mostly the Thickety. Lured into it's shadows by a strange bird and promises of secrets revealed, young Kara stumbles upon the answers she has always sought, but uncovers even more than she bargained for. Finding a powerful book, that may have belonged to her mother, Kara is overwhelmed by the power to right the wrongs done unto her and her family. Kara's adventure leads her on a roller coaster of trials and tribulations teaching her life lessons she never thought she'd need to learn.

Fast paced and exciting from beginning to end The Thickety is a four book series that you can not miss. The characters will make you love them and as you make your way through the strange forest of Sordyr you find not everything is always as it may seem. Watch the shadows and listen carefully, there are many hidden truths to be found all around you. Easily my most recommended read at all times, I can not stress how well I believe this series has the power to do.