Hatched, by Asphyxia

Hatched is the first title in a new Gothic series for younger readers. Told in diary format from the perspective of Martha, and illustrated with photographs and collages, the story will appeal to a range of reader

MONDAY
Shall I tell you my best secret? One day I’m going to be Lady Martha the Magnificent. I don’t know what my special talent is, but I’m going to find it. And when I do, ordinary people will fall over themselves to read my diary and learn all about my childhood.

Martha Grimstone is trying to find her place in the world. She lives with her grandfather, an apothecary, her aunt, who runs the family home, and her mother, a seamstress, who endlessly mourns the death of Martha’s father. Most of the time it seems to Martha that none of the adults notices her, or really appreciates her talents, and Martha spends her days trying to please. She practices her deportment as she collects the eggs for Aunt Gertrude, she takes meals to her mama, and she collects herbs for Grandpa Grimstone’s concoctions. If only she could make everyone happy!

Hatched is the first title in a new Gothic series for younger readers. Told in diary format from the perspective of Martha, and illustrated with photographs and collages, the story will appeal to a range of readers – from reluctant readers who will benefit from the visual elements, to more advanced readers who will enjoy the Gothic feel. The Grimstones are drawn from puppet characters used by the author in puppet shows and now translated into the written word.

This is a quirky offering which is bound to be a success with middle primary aged readers.

Hatched (Grimstones)

Hatched (Grimstones), by Asphyxia
Allen & Unwin, 2012
ISBN 9781742376882

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