Live Love Laugh Learn … Create the possibilities

Andy and Ghost Boy by Karen Tyrrell – a review – #readilearn

Today it is my pleasure to share my review of Karen Tyrrell’s fabulous new junior fiction novel Andy and Ghost Boy. With its theme of friendship, it’s a perfect read for the International Day of Friendship on 30 July.

About author Karen Tyrrell

Karen Tyrrell is a Brisbane author, speaker, educator, performer, Children’s Rights Ambassador, Australia Reads Ambassador and child empowerment author. Karen presents costumed writing workshops, pantomimes, readers theatre and author talks with co-writer Steve Tyrrell. Karen’s acclaimed books include Song Bird Rainforest Rescue which was shortlisted for the Speech Pathology Book of the Year 2019, STOP the Bully, Bailey Beats the Blah, Harry Helps Grandpa Remember and other titles in the Song Bird series. Karen has won a major mental health award, 7 grants and a mentorship with the Society of Editors. You can find out more about Karen on her website: www.karentyrrell.com.

About Andy and Ghost Boy

The blurb

‘Disaster magnet, Anxious Andy dreams of finding one true friend and his forever school, but how can he when Ghost Boy, his rambunctious friend, sabotages everything?

Andy and Ghost Boy trigger a catastrophe at school.

At Camp Discovery, a bully showdown results in disaster.

How can Andy become the hero and save the day?’

Themes

Bravery, Anxiety, self-care, coping skills, resilience, mindfulness, bullying, feelings, identity, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma , friendship, inclusion.

Trailer

What I like about Andy and Ghost Boy

Andy and Ghost Boy is a fast-paced, action-packed Junior Fiction novel that will keep young readers engaged from beginning to end. We meet Andy as he begins his first day at yet another new school. As for many children starting a new school, Andy is not only anxious, he is super anxious, when he’d really rather be a super hero.

One disaster follows another as Andy tries to overcome his anxieties and find his inner strength, especially when confronted by the relentless bully. With the help of a mystery girl and a ghost boy, Andy discovers where his real strength lies.

One of my favourite themes is the power of friendship and I like the way Karen Tyrrell has woven this into her story. A friend helps Andy deal with his anxieties and in turn,

Continue reading: Andy and Ghost Boy by Karen Tyrrell – a review – readilearn

Comments

19 responses to “Andy and Ghost Boy by Karen Tyrrell – a review – #readilearn”

  1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

    I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know author Karen Tyrell from Brisbane and her work. Andy and Ghost Boy sounds like such an engaging book for young readers with important messages. First day of school can be daunting and there can be many anxieties – sometimes the hardest challenges come from within. Like you, I agree the theme power of friendship is a good one. Kids tend to learn a lot while having good, memorable times with other kid – the joy of being a kid. I also like that she included both real and imaginary friends in this book. Such vivid imagination. Thank you for sharing a wonderful review. Hope you are doing well this winter 😊💕

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Norah Avatar

      Hi Mabel. Thank you for your lovely response to Karen’s book. It is everything that you say.
      Our winter has been very mild. I hope you have enjoyed winter too. I know you’ll be waiting for the summer to return.

      Like

      1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

        A good book the younger ones. It has been cold but not as cold. But not exactly warm enough for me 😄 Very much looking forward to Summer over here. Hope you enjoy the last month of winter for the year and have a good week 💕

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Norah Avatar

          Thanks, Mabel. You too!
          PS I’ve seen your post in my inbox. I’ll get to it soon. 🙂

          Like

          1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

            So kind of you to make time for my blog, Norah. I look forward when you have time to drop by 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful weekend ahead 💕

            Liked by 1 person

            1. Norah Avatar

              I had a lovely weekend, thank you, Mabel. I hope you did too.

              Like

              1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

                It was a good weekend. Never long enough but it comes around again. Hope you are having a good start to the week 🙂

                Liked by 1 person

                1. Norah Avatar

                  It does come around again – all too soon! Have fun!

                  Like

                  1. Mabel Kwong Avatar

                    Enjoy your weekend, Norah. Wishing you well and a restful one 🙂

                    Liked by 1 person

  2. Jacqui Murray Avatar

    Good review and it looks like a fun book.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Norah Avatar

      It is a fun book, Jacqui.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. Jennie Avatar

    This is a great review, Norah.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Norah Avatar

      I’m pleased you enjoyed it, Jennie.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Miriam Hurdle Avatar

    I liked your review, Norah. This is a great book for young readers as they have anxiety over new environments and seek friendship and acceptance. I liked all the theme areas included in the book.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Norah Avatar

      Thank you for your kind words, Miriam. It is a lovely book.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Miriam Hurdle Avatar

        You’re welcome, Norah!

        Liked by 1 person

  5. Karen Tyrrell Author Avatar
    Karen Tyrrell Author

    Thanks Norah,
    for this very uplifting Review on Andy & Ghost Boy.
    I appreciate you taking the time to both read and review Andy & Ghost Boy.
    Hope all the little worriers out there, feel BRAVER after reading Andy & Ghost Boy.

    Thanks for your kind friendship,
    Karen xx
    http://www.karentyrrell.com

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Norah Avatar

      I’m sure the book will have an empowering effect for many, Karen. Congratulations on this recent publication.

      Like

Leave a reply to Jacqui Murray Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.