Review: Eerie: Hunter and Collector

This book, I have to say, surprised me. I was expecting one thing and it gave me another. I suppose because the books are so small and thin, I presumed this new series would be for early readers, but I was wrong, oh so wrong. The content snuck up on me like Mrs Hunter on William. Let me explain.

William is a young lad who goes to his local school. He's a little bit of a loner and he stands out to Mrs Hunter almost immediately. What a delicious young lad. Mrs Hunter, you see, is not all that nice. She's also not Of This Place. She's from far, far away and just happens to enjoy hunting for young, unsuspecting children.

So, when Mrs Hunter targets young William to be her next victim, all goes exceedingly to plan - until William surprises Mrs Hunter with his own trump card. Let's just say, William is the collector in this story.

Clearly written for older readers, the content in this book is still age appropriate, but I must admit, quite creepy. The well-written and highly entertaining story keeps suspense like a slowly ticking clock, and the style of writing will appeal to many age groups.

I'm pleased this book has not been interspersed with illustrations. Although I think illustrated chapter books are fabulous, this new series has been cleverly designed to get reluctant readers reading (particularly older readers) without the need for imagery.

Frightfully good fun. 

Hunter and Collector is part of the new small-format Eerie series by S. Cary. Perfect for older boys who struggle to read. Electronic books are available in this series, and other books so far include:

Title: Eerie: Hunter and Collector
Author: S. Carey
Illustrator: Christopher Nielsen
Publisher: Penguin, $9.99 RRP
Publication Date: January 2013
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781742538136
For ages: 7 - 12
Type: Junior Fiction