'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Friday, 17 July 2026

Review: Fearless Finn

Finn is a young modern day knight in shining armour. He is on a hero quest to defeat a dragon that has caused chaos in his village. Donning his home made armour of a cardboard breastplate, saucepan helmet, saucepan lid for a shield and a broom for a sword, he sets off on his mission to find and conquer the fire-breathing dragon that has left a path of destruction.

But when he finally meets the foe, he discovers that this dragon is not as dangerous or fierce as he first thought. Can Finn be the hero perhaps in a completely different way?

Fearless Finn is such a big (in size as well as heart) visually appealing book that young readers will love from start to finish. With beautiful rhymes and loveable characters, children will enjoy exploring each page as they follow Finn’s journey from home to cave and back again.

The soft pastel illustrations by Lauren are so unique in their simplicity and complement the storyline beautifully. The characters she has drawn, human and animal, show a range of emotions that add to the text. The endpapers are bright and bold and highlight the joyful resolution of the story.

This book would be a fabulous read aloud at home and in the classroom. The wide double page spreads provide so many little details to discover and enjoy (like the gorgeous Maude the highland cow) as well as a storyline that champions those who dare to be brave in order to help others. Plus, it is always a wonderful bonus when a book includes a recipe that the reader can have fun creating and remembering why it bought joy in the story.

Added fun fact - Lauren included herself, Kristin (the author) and 2 other author friends as part of an illustration on a page in the book. What a beautiful way to celebrate the story’s theme of friendship.

Title: Fearless Finn
Author: Kristin Martin
Illustrator: Lauren Mullinder
Publisher: MidnightSun Publishers, $29.99
Publication Date: 1 May 2026
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781922858733
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book