When the story started nearing it's end, I still didn't feel connected to the Hobs because we'd been there for so little time, yet Wick acted as if he'd been there for months. Conditions for the orphans, whose real names are taken from them when they arrive, are simply appalling. Harklights is the tale of Wick, an orphan who lives and works in the harsh Harklights Match Factory.

As Wick learns more of the ways of nature and the forest from Pa Herne, he’s examined by the woodsprites.Wick must prove himself to the Hobs and help them solve a serious problem that is threatening to destroy their homes and maybe even their entire species.

When Wick escapes to the dangerous ‘outside’ he is adopted by the Hobs, tiny people who live a green life and devote themselves to looking after the forest and everything that lives in it.

While our focus is on the narrator’s hopes and fears, behind them all is a tale of despoilation, exploitation and cruelty fully relevant in our contemporary world which will resonate even with the most innocent young reader. It seems there is no life or future beyond the walls of the matchstick factory; certainly nobody every escaped. With ideas such as making a wild corner in the garden, building woodpiles for insects and planting bee and butterfly-friendly flowers, readers can become stewards of nature, playing an active role in conservation and protection for the future. What’s more, we know how much Wick longs to have the sort of family he discovers for we’ve some idea of the horrors he’s experienced. Your selection was perfect for our children and what really made the difference was your ability to engage with each child, discuss their interests and help them to choose a suitable book based on your extensive knowledge of the books you were selling.