Just So Stories

Walker Books

September 2025

ISBN13:9781529526127

Australia RRP:$18.99

New Zealand RRP:$21.99

I loved The Chime Seekers and I am Rebel, both of which cemented Ross as an exciting author of adventure/fantasy, so I was very pleased to get this one. What a rousing rollercoaster adventure this one is!

Tick has been raised by Grandfather along with his little brother, Leaf, hidden away from the world. The woods in which they live have always been a shelter and a haven. But now Grandfather is dead, and danger is imminent as their land, Ellia, is being invaded by the Drene.

Tick is so afraid but determined to protect Leaf and, at least, he still has Grandfather’s amazing horse, Pebble, even if they have nothing else to take with them on a desperate escape to the King’s Keep, at the foot of the far away mountains.

As if this dangerous journey is not fraught enough, the Hunter – one of Drene’s forward guard assassins and his hawk – is hard on their trail. Especially so, as Tick has been able to wrest possessions from the Hunter’s saddlebags when the man was unhorsed – including what appear to be secret papers.

Tick realises along this terrible and arduous journey with a tiny brother but also a clever and protective horse, just how much Grandfather has taught him over the years – many survival strategies. He can smile whenever he remembers the old man calling him Small Wonder but misses him so fiercely.

The two boys are in grave peril for the entirety of their trek to the mountains and encounter both villains and heroes but finally make it to what should be their sanctuary, only to find that it is the King himself who has betrayed the Ellians.

What can be done now? Tick is all but overcome by the intensity of his feelings but thanks to loyal guards and citizens, the climax of this adventure is a truly triumphant moment.

From first page to last this was action-packed, filled with emotions, posed questions, created extreme tension but also showed the importance of hope. What an absolutely cracking read it is!

Your readers from around 9/10 years old right up to lower secondary will relish this one, especially those with a leaning to this kind of fantasy/adventure. Loved it for the characters – especially Twig and Pebble [yes, the horse is most definitely a character] and for the theme that heroes come in all sizes and shapes – even Small Wonder type. It’s fabulous 5 🐎⛰️👑🖤⚔️ rating for this one.