MISS MARY-KATE MARTIN'S GUIDE TO MONSTERS - THE TWO-HEADED HYDRA BY KAREN FOXLEE AND ILLUSTRATED BY FREDA CHIU

Mary-Kate Martin and her mum, Prof Martin, are visiting the lovely Greek island of Galinios were a construction site has uncovered ancient mosaics. The Prof has been called in to investigate the find which is delaying an extension to a famous sardine processing plant. Mythology tells that the island is protected by a two-headed hydra called AYO. Sadly no one has seen the creature for a while and the islanders have stopped celebrating its power to keep the surrounding waters safe and full of fish.

 Mary-Kate meets Nikos and goes on is island tour while her mother checks out the mosaic. This quickly turns into and investigation and search for clues as to what has happened to AYO. There have been some unexplained incidents that are be blamed on the two-headed hydra but Mary-Kate is not so sure. With Nikos’s help, the two monster hunters follow clues and keep watch over the activities of the suspicious Legendary Pest Control crew.

 The smiling face of Kyrios Famous Sardines, Katarina Kyrios, is a smooth talker who is keen to dismiss Mary-Kate and Nikos as two pesky kids. Mary-Kate knows there is something very wrong with the waters around Galinios and its problem starts at the sardine factory. Mary-Kate must overcome her fear of practically everything and her ability to see the worst-case scenario. With the help of her lucky objects and Nikos, she may well discover the secret of the two-headed hydra.

 Karen Foxlee has given readers another great adventure. The island of Galinios and its famous monster need help and Mary-Kate and her new friend Nikos, stand up to the challenge. Mary-Kate’s fear of the unknown and habit of thinking about all the bad things that can happen, are an insight into anxiety and possible remedies that may help combat the situation. Freda Chiu’s illustrations are clever and full of character. Mary-Kate’s special red sparkly shoes and the hydra itself capture the excitement and atmosphere perfectly. Readers will enjoy this next instalment of Miss Mary-Kate Martin’s Guide to Monsters.

 For Ages: 6-10 years

Number of Pages: 304

Published: November 2022 Allen & Unwin

Themes: Anxiety, bravery and perseverance