The Wondrous Tale of Lavender Wolfe

By Karen Foxlee

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

A new book by Karen Foxlee is always something to celebrate and The Wondrous Tale of Lavender Wolfe is a wondrous and wonderful tale indeed, full of mystery and magic, inventive and memorable characters and a compelling protagonist. This is firmly aimed at middle grade, a space she is comfortable in although she has written for other age groups.  Her  multi-award-winning books include Ophelia and the Marvellous Boy, A Most Magical Girl, the Miss Mary-Kate Martin’s Guide to Monsters series, Lenny’s Book of Everything and Dragon Skin. Karen says that ‘story writing is about creating a world, breathing characters to life and enticing readers on a journey’.

Here we follow Lavender as she is ‘rescued’ from the steps of Whitby Harbour by Big Agatha who can detect magical ability in young children. She becomes a kitchen rat on board a pirate ship that is desperately trying to find and return stolen treasure before all those on board suffer a terrible fate. Lavender becomes Hans Whitby, for only boys are allowed to work in the kitchen, (some of the other ‘boys’ may have had different names before they came on board).

Throughout the many tumultuous events Lavender holds on to her name which is her only link to her mother who left her on the steps. Big Agatha says that ‘ you are much more than your name, always remember that all of us are a tale within a tale within a tale’. p 13. As the story unfolds the secrets of many are revealed including who and what is Big Agatha, and the mysterious and haunting Captain Odyssyia Pleasant with her long blonde hair, violet eyes and a bird’s wing in place of an arm!  These are just some of the fascinating characters that transfix the reader and keep you turning the pages.

Karen says that she loved how ‘Lavender began to grow and change – from a quiet pickpocket in Whitby to a brave young girl who can call the wind,’ and that is the heart of the story, that, and the evolving idea of treasure. What are the real worthwhile treasures in our lives? These underlying themes and the complex characterisation underpinning all the mystery and adventure make this a sometimes challenging story but one that is always richly rewarding.

The ending hints at a sequel, and I for one say, yes please!

A recommended Reader’s Cup title

Teaching Resources

A & U Children 2025

Karen Foxlee