Unfairies

By Huw Aaron

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

This rollicking and irreverent graphic novel, the first in a series, by Welsh cartoonist, author and illustrator and now graphic artist, Huw Aaron is a total treat to read. In this deep dive into fairyland, we learn that fairies are actually as magical as slugs, fairy dust is just dandruff, they don’t grant wishes, and, according to Pip, the hero of the story – ‘Fairies are horrible violent disgusting stupid backstabbing treacherous selfish sneaks. I should know. I’m one of them.’ So immediately you know that the readership is age 10 and up.

The fairies live in a garden dominated by a huge oak tree, the Oakhold, where most of the fairies live and most of the action occurs. Pip, a nobody (her own words) is a feisty, party loving, adventurous type who offers to take the report about the mouldy food higher up the tree to those who need to know and can do something about it. What follows is a hilarious series of epic adventures where Pip meets a host of other memorable characters including Twiglet Treekin, a trainee treeguard, Stickler, an officious rule enforcer, Thorn an ambitious officer, Old Moyla, a crazy librarian, and several nefarious and double-dealing political types. There is a prophecy and a Staff of Dentistry, sorry, Destiny which Pip covets.

This enjoyable romp is full of action, jokes abound, and has the usual themes of friendship, family, and resilience. Aaron is a sophisticated writer who packs a lot into each frame. The artwork is brilliant – intense, detailed, and very expressive. I will never again see the word fairies without thinking of this book.

Recommended for middle grade readers and up.

Puffin 2025

Huw Aaron