A review by annieb123
Warren the 13th and the Thirteen-Year Curse by Tania del Rio

5.0

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Warren the 13th and the Thirteen-Year Curse is the third book in a middle grade series written by Tania del Rio. Due out 24th March 2020 from Quirk Books, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

These books are delightfully strange, humorous, well written, whimsically odd, and generally good (if occasionally dark) fun. This installment sees the inhabitants of Hotel Warren stranded on an uncharted tropical island and having adventures with pirates. The stories work well as standalone stories and it's not necessary to have read the previous books for continuity. The story will require a healthy suspension of disbelief and sense of fun however. The plot is non-stop, rollicking, and it's what I would definitely call a ripping yarn (with pirates, magic, and a sentient multi-eyed octopus sidekick thing called Sketchy).

The content is age appropriate and although it's aimed at a middle grade readership, it would make a fun bedtime read for younger kids. The art, by creator Will Staehle, is quirky and Edward Gorey-esque and moves the plot along as well as adding a load of personality to the narrative.

Highly recommended to all-ages and fans of middle grade fantasy (Spiderwick, Fablehaven, Mister Max, etc).

Four and a half stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes