Katherine Rundell’s ”Impossible Creatures” marks the Swedish debut of another prominent children’s author emerging from the hallowed halls of Oxford University, joining the ranks of literary giants like Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Philip Pullman. Rundell, a former fellow at All Souls College, boasts an impressive resume, having penned a prize-winning book on 17th-century poet John Donne, authored several acclaimed children’s books, and garnered prestigious awards, including the British Book Award for Author of the Year in 2024 and the Children’s Book of the Year award for ”Impossible Creatures.” This inaugural volume of a promised trilogy promises a fantastical adventure that blends classic fantasy tropes with Rundell’s distinctive narrative style.

The story revolves around two children from vastly different worlds. Christopher, a young boy living in London with his overprotective father, possesses an unusual affinity for animals, a trait inherited from his deceased mother and her father, who resides in the Scottish wilderness where Christopher is sent for the summer. Meanwhile, Mal, a girl from the magically protected Archipelago—a cluster of hidden islands in the North Atlantic—inhabits a realm teeming with mythical creatures, from mermaids and unicorns to sphinxes and centaurs, all sustained by the ”glimmer,” a primal magic emanating from a giant apple tree.

However, this magical sanctuary faces a dire threat: the glimmer is fading, causing chaos, unnatural behaviors, and tragic deaths among the Archipelago’s inhabitants. Forced to flee a would-be assassin, Mal escapes through a portal to the Scottish Highlands, where she encounters Christopher. Bound by a shared purpose, they embark on a perilous journey back to the Archipelago, first to evade Mal’s pursuer and then to uncover the cause of the dwindling glimmer before it extinguishes the magic entirely.

Rundell masterfully weaves a rich tapestry of British wit, engaging asides, and direct addresses to the reader, creating an immersive and dynamic narrative that pays homage to classic fantasy while carving its own unique path. The story seamlessly blends humor and seriousness, juxtaposing lighthearted banter with poignant moments of sacrifice and loss. This blend of levity and gravity, coupled with a fast-paced plot brimming with intriguing characters, exotic locales, and thrilling challenges, forms the backbone of the book’s undeniable appeal.

While the narrative draws inspiration from well-established fantasy traditions, it avoids imitation through Rundell’s distinct literary voice. Her prose is infused with a playful spirit and a constant dialogue with the reader, creating a unique and engaging reading experience. This innovative approach to storytelling, combining witty humor with a profound exploration of deeper themes, ultimately constitutes the book’s greatest strength. The narrative maintains a brisk pace, continually introducing new characters, settings, and obstacles, ensuring that the reader remains captivated throughout the unfolding adventure.

However, Rundell’s anachronistic 19th-century stylistic flourishes, characterized by overly dramatic language, occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative. Phrases like “it flashed violently with hot, wild satisfaction in his face” feel more suited to the early 1800s than the present day. Furthermore, the translation, at times, appears stilted and literal, potentially impacting the overall readability, especially for a children’s book. These stylistic quirks, while not detrimental to the overall enjoyment of the story, do occasionally detract from the otherwise seamless narrative flow.

Despite these minor flaws, ”Impossible Creatures” remains a captivating read, propelled by the author’s irrepressible storytelling energy. The constant influx of new elements, from characters and locations to challenges and revelations, creates a sense of continuous momentum, preventing the narrative from ever stagnating. The story fluctuates between moments of exhilarating suspense and touching emotion, offering a diverse and engaging reading experience. While the narrative can become somewhat chaotic at times, the sheer exuberance and inventiveness of Rundell’s storytelling ultimately prevail, leaving the reader eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series. This vibrant and imaginative tale promises a bright future for the series and further solidifies Rundell’s place among the notable children’s authors to emerge from Oxford.

Dela.