The quality of this book is evident from the moment you hold it in your hands. It reminds me of the beautiful books I read as a child, with soft thick paper, and intricate illustrations. The Midwatch was an absolute pleasure to read.
Maggie Fishbone is an orphan from Mud Harbour. After pushing bully Ned McCoy into the harbour, she is deposited in the city at The Midwatch Institute for Orphans, Runaways and Unwanted Girls. At first glance, the Midwatch is an intimidating place, and Maggie dreads what awaits her there.
However, all is not as it seems. Soon Maggie is making interesting new friends, developing an unusual skillset, and engaging in dangerous and heart-stopping adventures as she makes her contribution to keeping the city safe.
What a treasure of a book. The cast of characters shines from the pages, as the girls go about solving mysteries and challenging villains. Each chapter finishes with a page from ‘Useful things every girl should know,’ though these are far from typical ‘useful things’. The pace never lets up. And the setting is awe-inspiring – an alternate 1920’s USA with airships. The beautifully detailed illustrations bring the setting to life and create a sense of movement across the pages.
The Midwatch is quirky and hilarious and utterly brilliant. I loved it and fervently hope for a sequel.
Anna Quinlan - Author 