Elizabella and the Haunting of Lizard Lake Zoe Norton Lodge & Georgia Norton Lodge
Walker, 2020. ISBN: 9781760651855.
(Ages: 7-9) Recommended. Sisters TV presenter and comedian Zoe
Norton Lodge and graphic designer and illustrator, Georgia Norton
Lodge continue with the hijinks and humour of their Elizabella
series. What pranks can Elizabella and her friend Minnie pull off at
the annual Year 4 camp - food dye in the showerheads or in the
teacher's coffee machine? With Mr Gobblefrump Acting Principal of
Bilby Creek Primary School in charge, will there be any
opportunities for fun at all?
When Elizabella's frill neck lizard Lizzie overhears their campsite
is at Lizard Lake, he decides to stowaway in her bag. With high
hopes of meeting lizard friends, he can communicate and philosophise
with like-minded creatures. 'Don't worry, be happpy' is the camp
motto, and Agapantha/Christine, Star, Minnie and Mo are the happiest
counsellors ready to help the kids have the best time. Even Mr
G-Frump's swept up in happiness, his strict ways are set aside. The
Opportunity Course proves challenging, but the campers and even Mr
G-Frump prove themselves able to conquer their fears.
With ghostly hauntings, midnight lake escapades in a canyes not a
canoe and curious dreams, Elizabella and Minnie find themselves
solving mysteries and making a new friend. Lizzie's explorations add
to the fun; who knew camp lizards spoke Lizish and not English? With
plenty of delicious food cooked by Miss Goose, loads of fun
activities and time to uncover camp secrets, Elizabella's time at
camp is brimful of happiness.
Georgia Norton Lodge's fun illustrations capture the highlights,
from the happy mantras to Dougal the missing counsellor's
reappearance and Lizzie and Barney's foodie forays. Zoe Norton
Lodge's descriptive style, her love of unusual names and word twists
to promote happiness add to the appeal. Elizabella and the
Haunting of Lizard Lake is just right for readers who enjoy
quirky characters, humour in school and family stories.
Themes: Camping, Mysteries, Humour.
Rhyllis Bignell