Let me declare up front: I think Garth Nix is a genius who writes wonderful fantasy stories with exceptionally strong and feisty female protagonists, so Frogkisser! is everything I’ve come to expect – and much, much more. It’s hilarious!

An old kingdom in peril, an evil sorcerer determined to kill the princesses and become ruler; princes turned into frogs, wise and adorable dogs who speak, a mischievous but lovable wizard and a reluctant princess on a quest to save the kingdom – Frogkisser! has it all.

Our reluctant hero, the Princess Anya, is a plucky character, persistent and tenacious, and she and her outlandish band of protectors and followers courageously (and creatively) face danger at every turn, pursued by the evil creations of the dastardly sorcerer.

For all its irreverent humour, this is an astonishing tale of real depth; in her quest to save the kingdom and its people our hero finds self-enlightenment.

This charming, cheeky story skilfully draws from a number of sources to create a magical blend of fairy tale, fantasy and hilarity in the tradition of William Goldman’s The Princess Bride.

For readers who love fantasy and especially lovers of Diana Wynne Jones and Terry Pratchett this is such a treat. Highly recommended for age 12 to adult.

Athina Clarke is a Children’s & YA Book Specialist at Readings Malvern.