The dangerous business of being Trilby Moffat by Kate Temple

This is the dangerous story of Trilby Moffat, who took on one of the most treacherous jobs of all time. Well . . . outside of time, to be precise.  This book is the true and accurate record of how Trilby Moffat became (accidentally) the Time Keeper. 

The Dream Sickness is making people bake ancient cakes, speak dead languages and fall into an endless sleep. Trilby and her mother live alone but when her mother starts showing signs of the sickness, she knows she must take the train to the edge of time to find her last remaining relative and ask for help. 

Upon her arrival she discovers several problems with asking her aunt for help, not least of which is that her aunt isn’t around to help, then there is the man in the top hat trying to kill her and so much more!

This is the story of an ordinary girl who just wants to save her mum but, in the process, might just save everyone and have an incredible adventure along the way, as long as she survives long enough to discover the cure!! 

I absolutely loved this story, Trilby is a quirky character who has a never say die attitude even when there is someone intent on ending her existence.  The story is full of time-twisting treasures and adventures and humour that will captivate the reader and leave them wanting more. This book will be a favourite in classrooms as a read aloud with students hanging out for the next chapters.  It is also great read alone for students who are looking for a similar read to Nevermoor and Lemony Snicket. It would suit an independent reader who is looking for a challenge.

I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series.

Themes: Fantasy, Adventure, Family.

Mhairi Alcorn