Philippa Pearce (1920–2006)

Fanciful...timey-wimey...too gentle and charming to be called sci-fi, but you get the idea.
In this book, written in the 50s, young Tom Long must go stay with his uncle and aunt to be quarantined in case he caught the measles from his brother.
While there, late at night, he hears the grandfather clock chime thirteen times. He discovers that at this mysterious signal, he is able to walk out the door into a beautiful garden that's not there during the day.
To begin with, he just enjoys playing and exploring. But eventually he makes friends with a girl named Hatty.
Who is she? When is she? And will Tom ever understand the enigma that is his Midnight Garden?
It's a really very touching story by the end, with a surprise twist that will give you all the feels. I suppose it was written for children, but it surprised me and I enjoyed it a lot. Think "The Secret Garden," but with the laws of physics bending. :D

I read this because of a discussion on the lovely Tea or Books podcast.… (lisätietoja)

I found this book one of my illustrated book shelves. Published in 2006, it is a soothing tale with black and white and colored pencil illustrations that are simply a joy to see. Till loves his dog more than anything. On their usual morning walk, the dog becomes dislodged from his collar. Beside himself with grief, in despair, he notes a tall, older man who calls himself "The Finder."

Going back to the beginning of the walk and all the characters found in the woods, The Finder begins to weave the story of how the dog got lost, and who saw him throughout his journey. Together, Till and The Finder, meet a host of amo,a;s who report what they saw. There is a heron, a one-eyed cat, a mole and two older ladies. Together, they all add pieces to the puzzle.

The description on the opening flap notes "Part detective, part fairy tale, A Finder's Magic has mystery, darkness and light."

This is a beautiful story with detailed illustrations.… (lisätietoja)