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Marnie Midnight #1
Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery
A magical new young fiction series from best-selling author and illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson!
Meet Marnie Midnight – a little moth with BIG dreams!
Marnie Midnight is SO excited to be starting at Minibeast Academy. She adores everything about the moon and she can’t wait to learn about its magic. But Marnie soon discovers that nobody believes in moon magic anymore!
Marnie is determined to get to the bottom of this moon mystery. The little moth and her minibeast friends explore far and wide in their search for the truth. But will they survive a run-in with a rebellious rat or an out-of-this-world trip with the terrifying Early Bird . . . ? One thing is for sure, Marnie is a little bug having a BIG Adventure!
Meet Marnie Midnight – a little moth with BIG dreams!
Marnie Midnight is SO excited to be starting at Minibeast Academy. She adores everything about the moon and she can’t wait to learn about its magic. But Marnie soon discovers that nobody believes in moon magic anymore!
Marnie is determined to get to the bottom of this moon mystery. The little moth and her minibeast friends explore far and wide in their search for the truth. But will they survive a run-in with a rebellious rat or an out-of-this-world trip with the terrifying Early Bird . . . ? One thing is for sure, Marnie is a little bug having a BIG Adventure!
224 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2024
3 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Laura Ellen Anderson
91 books180 followersLaura Ellen Anderson is the illustrator of several books for children, as well as the author-illustrator of the graphic novel Evil Emperor Penguin. Laura Ellen Anderson lives in London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 8, 2024
I picked this book for my #februaryreadingprompt of #hugday
The book had to be like a warm hug and this sweet middlegrade story was exactly that.
Initially, I thought this would be just another story about the animal kingdom, but I was happy when it turned out to be much more. Our protagonist(baby Moth) is excited to start her education at the Minibeast Academy and learn all about moon magic. However, she is pretty disappointed when all the teachers act like walking on glass whenever the topic arises and no one believes in it anymore. Sure that there is a mystery behind the true reason why no one here would talk about it, the little moth has decided it's time to take charge herself.
The narration of the story was done proficiently with character introductions as the book progressed. There were a few surprises here and there that kept the overall zest of the book lively and adventurous. If you are looking for a short read that surpasses the average imagination, you may enjoy this one.
Thank you @netgalley @harpercollinsuk @laura_ellen_anderson for the ARC.
Genre: #childrensfiction #fantasy
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
The book had to be like a warm hug and this sweet middlegrade story was exactly that.
Initially, I thought this would be just another story about the animal kingdom, but I was happy when it turned out to be much more. Our protagonist(baby Moth) is excited to start her education at the Minibeast Academy and learn all about moon magic. However, she is pretty disappointed when all the teachers act like walking on glass whenever the topic arises and no one believes in it anymore. Sure that there is a mystery behind the true reason why no one here would talk about it, the little moth has decided it's time to take charge herself.
The narration of the story was done proficiently with character introductions as the book progressed. There were a few surprises here and there that kept the overall zest of the book lively and adventurous. If you are looking for a short read that surpasses the average imagination, you may enjoy this one.
Thank you @netgalley @harpercollinsuk @laura_ellen_anderson for the ARC.
Genre: #childrensfiction #fantasy
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
December 7, 2024
Marnie Mignight and the Moon Mystery is the first in a fantastic new series from the author of the popular Amelia Fang books and they are just as special. The main character in this one is a little moth called Marnie Midniight and she is starting a new school - Minibeast Academy. She is so excited to begin her moon lessons and is upset when they are cancelled. This leads to Marnie and her new friends going off on adventures to find out why. Marnie is little in size , but big in personality. I can't wait to read more books in this series. It is such a fun series for middle grade and just as fun for parents. This audiobook version captures the excitement and adventure perfectly. #marniemidnightandtgemoonmystery #lauraellenanderson #netgalley #audiobook
February 19, 2024
The most precious mini beast story with so much clever creativity and little nods to childhood imagination with bugs that made me chuckle. Floyd is my new spirit bug
June 30, 2024
Jako ta autorka je prostě totální génius na vymýšlení těhle světů.😍
September 19, 2024
A magical story of Marnie and her pals quest for do the right thing. A lovely story to read to your child.
March 9, 2025
Filing this under "books I would've loved as a child". This was a lot of fun to read, and it's filled with fantastic illustrations. Bonus points for how cute Milo is!
November 11, 2025
Marnie Midnight.
Marnie Midnight.
Marnie Midnight the moth.
Marnie Midnight the moth who is obsessed with the moon and moon magic.
Oh, sorry. I had thought about writing this review in the form of a poem or a rap - there are oh so many words that rhyme with Midnight - but I'm not good at that sort of thing, so I'll spare you that slather of word dung and just be straightforward with my thoughts on 'Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery':
What a cute, funny, ludicrous, charming, and quick book for children that can be buzzed through in a day. Bugs, the crescent moon, and moon magic - yes, please!
It is rather like a bug-themed version of Laura Ellen Anderson's other book (and series), 'Rainbow Grey'. They both have wide-eyed, enthusiastic young female protagonists, who idolise a much older, female seasoned pioneering explorer and researcher (whom nobody else is a fan of), and who go to an esteemed academy based around their species (with all the creativity that goes with that specifically-themed premise), and have two best friends - an effeminate, fussy boy and a more aggressive, impulsive, go-getter girl - and together the child trio break school rules to go out into the wider world on their own to solve a big mystery that could potentially endanger their own world and people.
(Some of these tropes and templates are similar to 'Amelia Fang', come to think of it.)
While 'Marnie Midnight' isn't as exciting as 'Rainbow Grey', nor are the stakes as high, it still manages to be enjoyable on its own termite, turfy terms. There are plot holes, forgotten plot points, and loads of characters that are introduced and then completely dropped from the story just as quickly (they are sure to feature more prominently in the sequels), but it does have its fun and humorous elements and moments.
Spoiler-free examples include: Marnie the moth, with her love for the moon (same!) and her red jumper knitted for her by her dad; the fabulous (and nosy parker) Floyd Flombiddium the half-bee/half-ladybird (?), called an "A"; Star Vonstrosity the tiny ant, who is a war princess with the personality of Wednesday Addams; travels in/on snails and slugs...and mammals; a ladybird with square spots; a mean girl butterfly trio named Veronica, Thelma and Louise (...I really don't get why that reference is here...seriously, why? The film is one of my favourites, but still...someone help me! I'm losing my mind!); champion earthworm bodybuilders--er, burrowers; shifty flies from the "bad part" of a dustbin; a forbidden Moon Club at the very top of Minibeast Academy (the kids' boarding school); and of course, a bit of the mysterious and mythical moon magic, with its own Book of Spells, that's on the moon itself!
Charming, creative, funny and giggly - and thoughtful and loving - little things like these are what make 'Marnie Midnight' a special, somewhat guilty pleasure of mine. There's not a dull page in this addictive, zippeddy-zip book. It's utterly bonkers, and it embraces how bonkers it is. This line exists within it: "I'M TOO BURLY TO DIIIIIIIIE!" Plus there's a moment of self-awareness where Floyd points out that the very beginning of the school term is too early for any of them to already be solving a mystery and having an adventure. Indeed, it seems like the whole book takes place in the span of a few days!
One difference it has from 'Rainbow Grey' is that Marnie first meets Floyd and Star upon approaching and entering Minibeast Academy, instead of them already being friends from the start. Oh, and I'd thought that the little green caterpillar on the cover of 'Marnie Midnight' would be Marnie's cute and annoying pet and sidekick - it turns out he's her younger brother, Milo, and after a cute, humorous goodbye as she leaves for the academy for the first time at the end of chapter three, he disappears from the rest of the book. He's one of many characters who get swatted away by the narrative. Why is he on the cover, then? For extra cuteness attraction? How misleading.
Additionally, there's an anti-racism, myth-busting, and tolerance message, which is very nice and appreciated.
('Rainbow Grey' and 'Amelia Fang' contain themes and lessons exactly like these as well...)
Finally, I like that Floyd is implied to be dyslexic, and have anxiety (and is autistic?).
Read 'Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery' for a fun time for an afternoon, and possibly night, when hopefully a crescent moon will be waxing (and polishing and shining brightly).
Now, I must flutter off tonight, when the moon magic will be good.
Final Score: 3.5/5
Marnie Midnight.
Marnie Midnight the moth.
Marnie Midnight the moth who is obsessed with the moon and moon magic.
Oh, sorry. I had thought about writing this review in the form of a poem or a rap - there are oh so many words that rhyme with Midnight - but I'm not good at that sort of thing, so I'll spare you that slather of word dung and just be straightforward with my thoughts on 'Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery':
What a cute, funny, ludicrous, charming, and quick book for children that can be buzzed through in a day. Bugs, the crescent moon, and moon magic - yes, please!
It is rather like a bug-themed version of Laura Ellen Anderson's other book (and series), 'Rainbow Grey'. They both have wide-eyed, enthusiastic young female protagonists, who idolise a much older, female seasoned pioneering explorer and researcher (whom nobody else is a fan of), and who go to an esteemed academy based around their species (with all the creativity that goes with that specifically-themed premise), and have two best friends - an effeminate, fussy boy and a more aggressive, impulsive, go-getter girl - and together the child trio break school rules to go out into the wider world on their own to solve a big mystery that could potentially endanger their own world and people.
(Some of these tropes and templates are similar to 'Amelia Fang', come to think of it.)
While 'Marnie Midnight' isn't as exciting as 'Rainbow Grey', nor are the stakes as high, it still manages to be enjoyable on its own termite, turfy terms. There are plot holes, forgotten plot points, and loads of characters that are introduced and then completely dropped from the story just as quickly (they are sure to feature more prominently in the sequels), but it does have its fun and humorous elements and moments.
Spoiler-free examples include: Marnie the moth, with her love for the moon (same!) and her red jumper knitted for her by her dad; the fabulous (and nosy parker) Floyd Flombiddium the half-bee/half-ladybird (?), called an "A"; Star Vonstrosity the tiny ant, who is a war princess with the personality of Wednesday Addams; travels in/on snails and slugs...and mammals; a ladybird with square spots; a mean girl butterfly trio named Veronica, Thelma and Louise (...I really don't get why that reference is here...seriously, why? The film is one of my favourites, but still...someone help me! I'm losing my mind!); champion earthworm bodybuilders--er, burrowers; shifty flies from the "bad part" of a dustbin; a forbidden Moon Club at the very top of Minibeast Academy (the kids' boarding school); and of course, a bit of the mysterious and mythical moon magic, with its own Book of Spells, that's on the moon itself!
Charming, creative, funny and giggly - and thoughtful and loving - little things like these are what make 'Marnie Midnight' a special, somewhat guilty pleasure of mine. There's not a dull page in this addictive, zippeddy-zip book. It's utterly bonkers, and it embraces how bonkers it is. This line exists within it: "I'M TOO BURLY TO DIIIIIIIIE!" Plus there's a moment of self-awareness where Floyd points out that the very beginning of the school term is too early for any of them to already be solving a mystery and having an adventure. Indeed, it seems like the whole book takes place in the span of a few days!
One difference it has from 'Rainbow Grey' is that Marnie first meets Floyd and Star upon approaching and entering Minibeast Academy, instead of them already being friends from the start. Oh, and I'd thought that the little green caterpillar on the cover of 'Marnie Midnight' would be Marnie's cute and annoying pet and sidekick - it turns out he's her younger brother, Milo, and after a cute, humorous goodbye as she leaves for the academy for the first time at the end of chapter three, he disappears from the rest of the book. He's one of many characters who get swatted away by the narrative. Why is he on the cover, then? For extra cuteness attraction? How misleading.
Additionally, there's an anti-racism, myth-busting, and tolerance message, which is very nice and appreciated.
('Rainbow Grey' and 'Amelia Fang' contain themes and lessons exactly like these as well...)
Finally, I like that Floyd is implied to be dyslexic, and have anxiety (and is autistic?).
Read 'Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery' for a fun time for an afternoon, and possibly night, when hopefully a crescent moon will be waxing (and polishing and shining brightly).
Now, I must flutter off tonight, when the moon magic will be good.
Final Score: 3.5/5
February 13, 2024
Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery follows Marnie the moth. She is "friendly, enthusiastic and loves everything about the moon!" and is just starting at Minibeast Academy. “It feels like only yesterday you started at the Larvae Learning Zone. Look at you now – all grown up and off to BIG bug school!”
There she makes friends with an ant called ⭐ (as in the emoji) and a “bee-who-was-an-A” called Floyd - "I'm sixty per cent bee, thirty-nine per cent ladybird, and the remaining one per cent we do not discuss."
Marnie loves the moon. “I want to be strong enough to fly to the moon, just like Lunora Wingheart” who is a famous moonologist and is Marnie’s hero but has long ago disappeared after going to the moon to try and find the forgotten Book of Moon Spells.
It isn’t long at school when Marnie gets into trouble for her love of the moon because her form tutor Mr Atlas “a tall, miserable-looking moth with tired-looking yellow eyes [who] wore an expression of annoyance” hates the moon. “There will be no talk of the moon in this school!” he says. There’s something going on with the disappearance of Lunora and the school coverup and it is up to Marnie and her friends to get to the bottom of it.
The book has a recognisable art style (look at those eyes) given the author/artist is behind the Amelia Fang books. And the story does well to convey a beautiful bug world from the off - "The Snail Rail raced underground along the Slime Line at super speed. The bugs on board rode in colourful carriages, and the air was full of hums and clicks and flitters and flutters of critters of all shapes and sizes as they set off on their morning travels." The story starts well and has a satisfactory ending before a couple of pages after the story – “magnificent minibeast fact or fiction” – where things that in the story that aren’t real or can’t be done in real life are addressed (which I think is useful for kids to know what is fact and what is fiction). Overall, 4-stars (and a moon). ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙
There she makes friends with an ant called ⭐ (as in the emoji) and a “bee-who-was-an-A” called Floyd - "I'm sixty per cent bee, thirty-nine per cent ladybird, and the remaining one per cent we do not discuss."
Marnie loves the moon. “I want to be strong enough to fly to the moon, just like Lunora Wingheart” who is a famous moonologist and is Marnie’s hero but has long ago disappeared after going to the moon to try and find the forgotten Book of Moon Spells.
It isn’t long at school when Marnie gets into trouble for her love of the moon because her form tutor Mr Atlas “a tall, miserable-looking moth with tired-looking yellow eyes [who] wore an expression of annoyance” hates the moon. “There will be no talk of the moon in this school!” he says. There’s something going on with the disappearance of Lunora and the school coverup and it is up to Marnie and her friends to get to the bottom of it.
The book has a recognisable art style (look at those eyes) given the author/artist is behind the Amelia Fang books. And the story does well to convey a beautiful bug world from the off - "The Snail Rail raced underground along the Slime Line at super speed. The bugs on board rode in colourful carriages, and the air was full of hums and clicks and flitters and flutters of critters of all shapes and sizes as they set off on their morning travels." The story starts well and has a satisfactory ending before a couple of pages after the story – “magnificent minibeast fact or fiction” – where things that in the story that aren’t real or can’t be done in real life are addressed (which I think is useful for kids to know what is fact and what is fiction). Overall, 4-stars (and a moon). ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙
February 17, 2024
I received an audiobook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
MARNIE MIDNIGHT AND THE MOON MYSTERY is an adorable tale of minibeasts and the moon.
All the characters in this book are minibeasts - moths and bees and ants and much more. They live in a world alongside ours, going to school and avoiding "swatters" (humans). A lot of imagination has gone into creating this world and how things like taxis and dinning rooms would work in their society. Things like "the early bird catches the worm" and "incy-wincy spider" are real. It was a delight to immerse myself in this world.
This minibeast world allows the book to be stuffed full of facts about the natural world, showing off the wonder and diversity of bugs. Some of the plants are obviously made up (like the "naughty Nigel") but this doesn't confuse the matter at all, because the names clearly help distinguish between the invented and the real. Plus there's a note at the back highlighting the truth behind a few of the key plot points.
The mystery at the heart of the book (what happened to Lenora and why is everything about the moon forbidden at school) means this book does not feel like a traditional magic school book. The book focuses in on Marnie, Floyd, and Star, without time spent on other students being bullies or difficulties in lessons. These elements might come up in later books, but I enjoyed getting to see the school setting used in a different way.
Fern Kay narrates, bringing the characters to life with an array of voices. I imagine a lot of fun was had coming up with the different voices, imagining what different creatures might sound like. The end result was certainly entertaining.
In all, it is a great start to a new series for younger MG readers.
MARNIE MIDNIGHT AND THE MOON MYSTERY is an adorable tale of minibeasts and the moon.
All the characters in this book are minibeasts - moths and bees and ants and much more. They live in a world alongside ours, going to school and avoiding "swatters" (humans). A lot of imagination has gone into creating this world and how things like taxis and dinning rooms would work in their society. Things like "the early bird catches the worm" and "incy-wincy spider" are real. It was a delight to immerse myself in this world.
This minibeast world allows the book to be stuffed full of facts about the natural world, showing off the wonder and diversity of bugs. Some of the plants are obviously made up (like the "naughty Nigel") but this doesn't confuse the matter at all, because the names clearly help distinguish between the invented and the real. Plus there's a note at the back highlighting the truth behind a few of the key plot points.
The mystery at the heart of the book (what happened to Lenora and why is everything about the moon forbidden at school) means this book does not feel like a traditional magic school book. The book focuses in on Marnie, Floyd, and Star, without time spent on other students being bullies or difficulties in lessons. These elements might come up in later books, but I enjoyed getting to see the school setting used in a different way.
Fern Kay narrates, bringing the characters to life with an array of voices. I imagine a lot of fun was had coming up with the different voices, imagining what different creatures might sound like. The end result was certainly entertaining.
In all, it is a great start to a new series for younger MG readers.
July 1, 2025
Marnie Midnight and the moon mystery.
A new series from Laura Ellen Anderson author of the popular children's books Amelia Fang, Rainbow Grey amongst others.
The new protagonist is a little moth girl called Marnie who is off to Big Bug school and she loves the moon...naturally. But why has moon magic been disregarded?
At the Minibeast Academy Marnie will meet a lovely eclectic crew of amusing mini beast characters. The narrator did a great job bringing these to life, Floyd the bee was my favourite. There is a good balance between mystery and humour in this lovely tale and I did genuinely laugh out loud a couple of times. Always makes a far more enjoyable reading/listening experience when reading to/with your children if you actually enjoy the story too. The mystery element was spot on for younger readers to keep it interesting and it is set up nicely for book two. The author also includes a small fact checking section at the end explaining which plants, mini beasts, natural abilities are real e.g earthworms don't really have "abs" this made me smile and would probably satisfy those children who sometimes need the whimsy elements explained/disproved with solid facts.
This is exactly the kind of book I would have picked up to read as a young child who loved anything magical and whimsy but wanted a step up from the "girly sweet fairy" stories. This will no doubt be another hit and I will keep this series in mind for gifts for the little people in my life.
Thank you to Laura Ellen Anderson
HarperCollins UK Audio and
NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
A new series from Laura Ellen Anderson author of the popular children's books Amelia Fang, Rainbow Grey amongst others.
The new protagonist is a little moth girl called Marnie who is off to Big Bug school and she loves the moon...naturally. But why has moon magic been disregarded?
At the Minibeast Academy Marnie will meet a lovely eclectic crew of amusing mini beast characters. The narrator did a great job bringing these to life, Floyd the bee was my favourite. There is a good balance between mystery and humour in this lovely tale and I did genuinely laugh out loud a couple of times. Always makes a far more enjoyable reading/listening experience when reading to/with your children if you actually enjoy the story too. The mystery element was spot on for younger readers to keep it interesting and it is set up nicely for book two. The author also includes a small fact checking section at the end explaining which plants, mini beasts, natural abilities are real e.g earthworms don't really have "abs" this made me smile and would probably satisfy those children who sometimes need the whimsy elements explained/disproved with solid facts.
This is exactly the kind of book I would have picked up to read as a young child who loved anything magical and whimsy but wanted a step up from the "girly sweet fairy" stories. This will no doubt be another hit and I will keep this series in mind for gifts for the little people in my life.
Thank you to Laura Ellen Anderson
HarperCollins UK Audio and
NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2025
‘’Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery" is a wonderfully enjoyable adventure that captivates with its imaginative storyline and delightful characters. I read this book as it was one of the featured new books at my local library. Set in a world of minibeasts, the story follows Marnie, a curious moth who attends school and dreams of the moon and moon magic. Her fascination peaks with the intriguing Lunora Wingheart, a moonologist who mysteriously gets lost on her journey to the moon.
Marnie's adventure is brilliantly supported by her friends—Star, an ant with unwavering loyalty, and Floyd, a charming creature who is half bee and half ladybird. Together, they uncover a plot that could ruin their beloved moon. It’s a thrilling twist when they discover their grumpy teacher, Mr. Atlas, is scheming to send earthworms to the moon to destroy it! His dislike for moon magic adds an exciting tension to the story and raises questions about his true identity and motives.
The writing is rich with detail, making the bustling world of minibeasts feel alive and vibrant. Marnie and her friends' determination to save the moon leads them on a daring journey, culminating in a heartwarming reunion with Lunora. The ending brings delightful revelations about Mr. Atlas that leave readers surprised and satisfied.
Overall, it's a delightful story filled with adventure, friendship, and the magic of the moon. A perfect read for kids and anyone who loves adventure tales that inspire imagination! Highly recommend!
Marnie's adventure is brilliantly supported by her friends—Star, an ant with unwavering loyalty, and Floyd, a charming creature who is half bee and half ladybird. Together, they uncover a plot that could ruin their beloved moon. It’s a thrilling twist when they discover their grumpy teacher, Mr. Atlas, is scheming to send earthworms to the moon to destroy it! His dislike for moon magic adds an exciting tension to the story and raises questions about his true identity and motives.
The writing is rich with detail, making the bustling world of minibeasts feel alive and vibrant. Marnie and her friends' determination to save the moon leads them on a daring journey, culminating in a heartwarming reunion with Lunora. The ending brings delightful revelations about Mr. Atlas that leave readers surprised and satisfied.
Overall, it's a delightful story filled with adventure, friendship, and the magic of the moon. A perfect read for kids and anyone who loves adventure tales that inspire imagination! Highly recommend!
February 10, 2024
Having loved the Rainbow Grey series, I was excited to get stuck into this by the same author.
Imagine Harry Potter crossed with Despicable Me, throw in a mystery, some astrology and a whole load of mini beasts and you know that this is going to be an amazing read!
This is the first book in this series so it was great to get a proper introduction to all our main characters.
Marnie, the moth, just about to start at the mini beast academy and she's so excited to learn all there is to know about the moon and it's magic.
It was great to meet all Marnie's new friends too, some different bugs with different personalities.
As the bug friends explore, they discover some strange goings on and need to go on a big adventure to solve the mystery - that was so vague.... but I can't give any spoilers and you really will enjoy reading this one.
This is perfect for those just starting out on their independent reading journey. It's exciting and full of adventure - lots to keep you glued to the pages and racing to the end.
I especially loved the funny parts, lots of which were aimed at us adults reading to our small ones which had me laughing along too.
At the end of the book there was an additional section running through some extra information about mini beasts - such as the fact that they'd not exist a trip to the moon but also some unbelievable truths too.
Loved this and am keen to see this develop through the series.
Imagine Harry Potter crossed with Despicable Me, throw in a mystery, some astrology and a whole load of mini beasts and you know that this is going to be an amazing read!
This is the first book in this series so it was great to get a proper introduction to all our main characters.
Marnie, the moth, just about to start at the mini beast academy and she's so excited to learn all there is to know about the moon and it's magic.
It was great to meet all Marnie's new friends too, some different bugs with different personalities.
As the bug friends explore, they discover some strange goings on and need to go on a big adventure to solve the mystery - that was so vague.... but I can't give any spoilers and you really will enjoy reading this one.
This is perfect for those just starting out on their independent reading journey. It's exciting and full of adventure - lots to keep you glued to the pages and racing to the end.
I especially loved the funny parts, lots of which were aimed at us adults reading to our small ones which had me laughing along too.
At the end of the book there was an additional section running through some extra information about mini beasts - such as the fact that they'd not exist a trip to the moon but also some unbelievable truths too.
Loved this and am keen to see this develop through the series.
June 10, 2025
- middle grade pre menších
- pre deti 7+
- svet chrobáčikov
- magické prvky
- dobrodružný príbeh
Marnie je jednoznačne jedna z najkrajších middle grade knižiek na slovenskom trhu. Videli ste jej spracovanie ? Kniha je plná nádherných čiernobielych ilustrácii a okrem iného, má aj oriezku. To je niečo, s čím som sa pri middle grade knihách na našom trhu ešte nestretla.
Marnie Moľová je prekrásne ilustrovaný príbeh s väčšími písmenkami, ako to pri middle grade knihách býva. Hlavná hrdinka Marnie je minitvor, ktorý vyrastá v podzemnom mestečku, no vždy túžila vidieť mesiac. Keď dostane možnosť študovať na akadémii pre minitvory, jej sen sa začína plniť. Prečo je však všetko spojené s mesiacom zakázané? Odhaľovanie záhad a porušovanie pravidiel sa môžu začať.
Táto knižka kombinuje veľa prvkov, ktoré mám rada. Je dobrodružná, vtipná a poukazuje na tie správne hodnoty, ako sú priateľstvo, či viera v samého seba. Autorkin štýl je pútavý a ľahko sa číta, pričom ilustrácie krásne dopĺňajú príbeh. Kniha obsahuje aj množstvo skutočných faktov o chrobákoch a hmyze, ktoré sú šikovne prepojené s vymyslenými prvkami – mesačnou mágiou. Tento mix reality a fantázie robí príbeh ešte pútavejším.
Ak máte radi sympatických hrdinov a trochu hmyzej mágie, tak vám knihu odporúčam. No a ja som zvedavá, kam nás Marnie zavedie v jej ďalších dobrodružstvách.
- pre deti 7+
- svet chrobáčikov
- magické prvky
- dobrodružný príbeh
Marnie je jednoznačne jedna z najkrajších middle grade knižiek na slovenskom trhu. Videli ste jej spracovanie ? Kniha je plná nádherných čiernobielych ilustrácii a okrem iného, má aj oriezku. To je niečo, s čím som sa pri middle grade knihách na našom trhu ešte nestretla.
Marnie Moľová je prekrásne ilustrovaný príbeh s väčšími písmenkami, ako to pri middle grade knihách býva. Hlavná hrdinka Marnie je minitvor, ktorý vyrastá v podzemnom mestečku, no vždy túžila vidieť mesiac. Keď dostane možnosť študovať na akadémii pre minitvory, jej sen sa začína plniť. Prečo je však všetko spojené s mesiacom zakázané? Odhaľovanie záhad a porušovanie pravidiel sa môžu začať.
Táto knižka kombinuje veľa prvkov, ktoré mám rada. Je dobrodružná, vtipná a poukazuje na tie správne hodnoty, ako sú priateľstvo, či viera v samého seba. Autorkin štýl je pútavý a ľahko sa číta, pričom ilustrácie krásne dopĺňajú príbeh. Kniha obsahuje aj množstvo skutočných faktov o chrobákoch a hmyze, ktoré sú šikovne prepojené s vymyslenými prvkami – mesačnou mágiou. Tento mix reality a fantázie robí príbeh ešte pútavejším.
Ak máte radi sympatických hrdinov a trochu hmyzej mágie, tak vám knihu odporúčam. No a ja som zvedavá, kam nás Marnie zavedie v jej ďalších dobrodružstvách.
February 1, 2024
This book is amazing!
You can tell it's written by the same author as the 'Rainbow Grey' books.
Her characters are always fun and exciting. I feel like I actually know the characters in this author's books, and they become like the friends you've always needed. I liked the characters' really quirky names that you wouldn't usually hear in this book.
The chapter names were exciting, and some made me laugh, and I couldn't wait to get to that chapter.
I love how you think you know what's about to happen next in the story, then BAM, there's another twist - a good twist.
Is it as good as the 'Rainbow Grey' books? Well, I loved the theme of 'Rainbow Grey' so much as it's about things I love (rainbows and clouds), but I loved the characters and story in both and I like that this book feels a little more grown up. (I'm more grown up now, too).
It's just great! I always wanted 10 more minutes to read at bedtime because I was gripped, and I felt like I was actually in the story.
Kenny, age 10
You can tell it's written by the same author as the 'Rainbow Grey' books.
Her characters are always fun and exciting. I feel like I actually know the characters in this author's books, and they become like the friends you've always needed. I liked the characters' really quirky names that you wouldn't usually hear in this book.
The chapter names were exciting, and some made me laugh, and I couldn't wait to get to that chapter.
I love how you think you know what's about to happen next in the story, then BAM, there's another twist - a good twist.
Is it as good as the 'Rainbow Grey' books? Well, I loved the theme of 'Rainbow Grey' so much as it's about things I love (rainbows and clouds), but I loved the characters and story in both and I like that this book feels a little more grown up. (I'm more grown up now, too).
It's just great! I always wanted 10 more minutes to read at bedtime because I was gripped, and I felt like I was actually in the story.
Kenny, age 10
September 23, 2024
I was lucky to be sent an early copy of this by the publisher which I was super pleased about because I had been very excited to read this book! If you know me, you'll know that I especially love reading books about miniature worlds. And WOW I love the tiny bug world that Laura Ellen Anderson has created! It's a little bit dark but also sparkly and comforting all at the same time and I LOVED all the little details like the butterflys (BETTERflys as they like to call themselves 🤣) having their anntennae glittered and being the 'mean girls' of the class and Marnie's little knitted jumper made by her dad (so sweet!) and Star the ant princess who's name is actually spelt: ⭐️. It's a hugely imaginative world with stunning illustrations (the characterizations of the different bugs are amazing!) And the story is very funny with lots of clever puns too! I LOVED it! Actually ended up going to sleep late last night because I wanted to finish the book. 🙈 I love little Marnie, she's such an endearing character! As are her friends! Can't wait to see what they get up to next!
May 13, 2024
4.5⭐️
Marnie Midnight, recently transformed from caterpillar to moth, is going to “big bug school”!
At Minibeast Academy, Marnie meets critters of all sorts and becomes friends with Floyd, an unspecified bug (part ladybug, part bee 🤔) and Star, a tiny ant big on revenge — for her father was betrayed and killed in a chewing gum trap!
All Marnie wants is to learn more about the legendary Lunora Wingheart, said to have died in her pursuit of moon magic.
This was an empowering, bold adventure with fun references to public transport like the Snail Rail, as well as communicating via the silky fibres of the World Wide Web. And BEWARE THE EARLY BIRD! 😉
I picked this title out from a list of latest middle grade releases by @definitelybookskids and as usual, I think I have such an eye for good #kidlit 😄 Yay!
Marnie Midnight, recently transformed from caterpillar to moth, is going to “big bug school”!
At Minibeast Academy, Marnie meets critters of all sorts and becomes friends with Floyd, an unspecified bug (part ladybug, part bee 🤔) and Star, a tiny ant big on revenge — for her father was betrayed and killed in a chewing gum trap!
All Marnie wants is to learn more about the legendary Lunora Wingheart, said to have died in her pursuit of moon magic.
This was an empowering, bold adventure with fun references to public transport like the Snail Rail, as well as communicating via the silky fibres of the World Wide Web. And BEWARE THE EARLY BIRD! 😉
I picked this title out from a list of latest middle grade releases by @definitelybookskids and as usual, I think I have such an eye for good #kidlit 😄 Yay!
February 3, 2024
This is so sweet and creatively written. A audio book story for young children, with humour and quips to keep older children happy as well.. For parents, again humour to make listening more than once a pleasure. Why more than once? Because this may well become your child’s, listen again and again, favourite. Also a note of caution for any budding, or professional, entomologists - this is a work of fiction. And fun for all that!! I especially like ⭐️ (listen and you will understand). Thank you to Harper Collins UK Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
March 30, 2024
Marnie Midnight has just started Minibeast academy, and she can’t wait to learn all about the moon and its mysterious magic. But when the teacher doesn’t even mention it, Marnie needs to find out why. Will her and her two new friends (Floyd and Star) discover the truth?
I loved this book. I always enjoyed Laura’s books, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series when it comes out. I liked all of the characters, but especially Marnie because she was brave, she never gave up and always believed in herself and her friends. I would definitely read it again, and I would recommend it for anyone 7+.
I loved this book. I always enjoyed Laura’s books, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series when it comes out. I liked all of the characters, but especially Marnie because she was brave, she never gave up and always believed in herself and her friends. I would definitely read it again, and I would recommend it for anyone 7+.
April 22, 2024
Beautifully presented (sprayed edge copy) but fab illustrations throughout.
Marnie Midnight is a Moth who now she has emerged is going to the Minibeast Academy. she is really excited because her hero Lunora Wingheart, a moonologist, went there. She supposedly tried to fly to the moon to find the fabled Book of Moon Spells but never returned. Eaten by the Early Bird apparently.
Marnie and her new friends Floyd (a bee who is actually an A) and Star (an ant princess) want to try to find about about Lunora but Mr Atlas says they will do no moon studies and everyone else thinks that moon magic is a myth.
How can Marnie help? Can she learn about the moon?
Marnie Midnight is a Moth who now she has emerged is going to the Minibeast Academy. she is really excited because her hero Lunora Wingheart, a moonologist, went there. She supposedly tried to fly to the moon to find the fabled Book of Moon Spells but never returned. Eaten by the Early Bird apparently.
Marnie and her new friends Floyd (a bee who is actually an A) and Star (an ant princess) want to try to find about about Lunora but Mr Atlas says they will do no moon studies and everyone else thinks that moon magic is a myth.
How can Marnie help? Can she learn about the moon?
March 6, 2024
A cute story that follows Marnie Midnight as she starts at minibeast academy. We follow her as she makes some new friends and enemies, learns more about her hero Lunora Wingheart and finds out a few truths along the way.
This is a fun story for 7+ about friendship and standing up for what you believe in.
This is a fun story for 7+ about friendship and standing up for what you believe in.
March 30, 2024
Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery is a warm hug of a kids book!
Marnie is a delightful main character, and all her friends are amazing in their own unique way. Laura Ellen Anderson also illustrates her book, and she does a fantastic job making all the characters come to life!
I enjoy reading kids books, and this author writes some of my favorite series.
An auto-buy author for sure!
Marnie is a delightful main character, and all her friends are amazing in their own unique way. Laura Ellen Anderson also illustrates her book, and she does a fantastic job making all the characters come to life!
I enjoy reading kids books, and this author writes some of my favorite series.
An auto-buy author for sure!
January 14, 2024
Marvellous mini bugs star in this illustrated fantasy for readers of 7+. My full review is here: http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
February 8, 2024
Marnie may be tiny but she has a big personality!First in a new series this is a fun story with themes of friendship & adventure. The illustrations are lovely, especially the line of bugs running down each side of the page and the book has sprayed edges - which I love!
March 2, 2024
Absolutely brilliant, as expected! Full of the wonderful writing and amazing illustrations thst we've come to expect from Laura Ellen Anderson, and a fantastic set of characters that I can't wait to read more of!
March 16, 2024
This was so canny! I loved marnie’s bravery and her journey all the way to finding out what happened to her hero! The gorgeous illustrations just make me so happy. Star is 100% my favourite from this.
January 14, 2025
I really liked this book . It was heartwarming and interesting, I couldn’t stop reading it! It definitely wasn’t a book that feels like a chore to read, it’s a book you really WANT to read. Not too hard , not too easy , but very fun and mesmerising.
May 28, 2024
Read this with my 7yo and the rating is his. We had a lot of fun following along on Marnie's adventure!
August 8, 2024
Zoals altijd een leuk verhaal ook al zijn de personage gebaseerd op insecten 🙃
January 3, 2025
Laura Ellen Anderson has created a sweet little magical world with Marnie Midnight. The world building is great, with the minibeast school described in intricate detail. I particularly liked the concept of transportation across garden fences.
The narrator does a great job of creating all the different characters, (although the bee best friend was pretty annoying) and making it really entertaining to listen to.
I have to admit, it lost me a bit at the point at which they travelled to the moon on the back of a vegetarian robin, but my daughters (6 and 9) absolutely ate it up and declared it brilliant, so it certainly appeals to the target market! They can’t wait for the sequel.
Fans of Amelia Fang and Rainbow Grey will definitely love this newest series from the author, but it will appeal to any insect-obsessed child with a bit of imagination!
The narrator does a great job of creating all the different characters, (although the bee best friend was pretty annoying) and making it really entertaining to listen to.
I have to admit, it lost me a bit at the point at which they travelled to the moon on the back of a vegetarian robin, but my daughters (6 and 9) absolutely ate it up and declared it brilliant, so it certainly appeals to the target market! They can’t wait for the sequel.
Fans of Amelia Fang and Rainbow Grey will definitely love this newest series from the author, but it will appeal to any insect-obsessed child with a bit of imagination!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2025
Loved reading this book with my Year 3 Class ❤️
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