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Journey To Layamon
When a new wand in Morgalderon’s ruthless hands gives him the power to destroy an enchanted land, a brave girl and boy must seek magic of their own to stop him. In a time long ago, adventurous 11 year old Hanna sets off for the mysterious land of Layamon. Joined by a new boy in her village, the daring and reckless Nono, she soon learns they have a knack for finding danger and inspiration along the way. Arriving in Layamon, they encounter stunning natural wonders, wise animals, tricksters, and spells. Their discoveries lead to friendships with a magical elephant and a sometimes featherbrained fairy queen. In the end, Hanna and Nono will have to guide their new friends’ powers and wield magic themselves in a thrilling showdown for Layamon’s survival.
228 pages, Paperback
Published September 21, 2023
1 person want to read
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
February 7, 2026
Journey To Layamon by Stephen Curtin, with illustrations by Sarah Pogue, is an energetic and imaginative middle grade fantasy that captures the spirit of classic quest tales while offering fresh characters and a richly inventive world. The story follows eleven year old Hanna and the daring newcomer Nono as they leave their ordinary village and step into the enchanted realm of Layamon a land filled with wonder, danger, and unexpected allies.
Curtin excels at creating a sense of discovery. Each chapter introduces new marvels: talking animals with ancient wisdom, mischievous tricksters, and a delightfully unpredictable fairy queen. The magical elephant companion is a particularly memorable creation, blending humor with heart and giving the adventure emotional warmth alongside its high stakes.
At the center of the novel is the threat posed by Morgalderon, whose powerful wand endangers the very existence of Layamon. Rather than relying solely on destiny or inherited power, Hanna and Nono must grow in courage, judgment, and friendship to meet the challenge. This emphasis on character growth makes the fantasy feel grounded and relatable for young readers.
Sarah Pogue’s illustrations complement the narrative with a sense of movement and whimsy, helping bring the strange landscapes and creatures of Layamon to life. The book balances peril with playfulness, offering the kind of immersive journey that invites children to imagine themselves inside the story.
With its classic themes of bravery, loyalty, and the discovery of inner strength, Journey To Layamon is a rewarding read for fans of magical adventures and richly built fantasy worlds.
Curtin excels at creating a sense of discovery. Each chapter introduces new marvels: talking animals with ancient wisdom, mischievous tricksters, and a delightfully unpredictable fairy queen. The magical elephant companion is a particularly memorable creation, blending humor with heart and giving the adventure emotional warmth alongside its high stakes.
At the center of the novel is the threat posed by Morgalderon, whose powerful wand endangers the very existence of Layamon. Rather than relying solely on destiny or inherited power, Hanna and Nono must grow in courage, judgment, and friendship to meet the challenge. This emphasis on character growth makes the fantasy feel grounded and relatable for young readers.
Sarah Pogue’s illustrations complement the narrative with a sense of movement and whimsy, helping bring the strange landscapes and creatures of Layamon to life. The book balances peril with playfulness, offering the kind of immersive journey that invites children to imagine themselves inside the story.
With its classic themes of bravery, loyalty, and the discovery of inner strength, Journey To Layamon is a rewarding read for fans of magical adventures and richly built fantasy worlds.
Displaying 1 of 1 review