A review by saesteorra
The Night Animals by Sarah Ann Juckes

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.25

The Night Animals is a beautiful, moving tale about family and mental health. Nora is a young carer whose mother is dealing with PTSD. Without a support network close at hand, Nora is struggling alone - until she meets the night animals.  

Over the course of the story, Nora is taken on a journey by four animal guardians: a fox, a hare, a raven and an otter. These ghostly incarnations of native British wildlife are stunningly illustrated throughout the book by Sharon King-Chai. Without saying a word, the ghost animals guide Nora to the people and the help she needs, and help her to rediscover the wonder and joy of being a child. 

I read this book in a single sitting. Sarah Ann Juckes has a gift for highlighting the magic of nature in her work, and her characters are complicated and real. A hopeful, meaningful read for children and adults alike.