We loved Matilda Woods’ first book, The Boy, the Bird and the Coffin Maker, which was shortlisted for our Readings Children’s Book Prize in 2018. Her follow up is another fantastic, lyrical book with a fable-like quality. The Girl, the Cat and the Navigator is a wonderful adventure with touches of magic and stylish illustrations throughout.

Nordor is a town where houses are built from wood that comes from shipwrecks, and they sway as though still at sea. Oona dreams of adventures, but she was born a girl. While her father, a successful captain, goes off to hunt whales, Oona must remain on land with mean, vapid stepsisters that are straight out of Cinderella. However, Oona is daring and determined. She makes moves to see the icy North, a place of legend, danger and mythical creatures, for herself. She’s a great character with a kind heart and a hunger for knowledge and adventure. This book has a classic feel and a particularly satisfying ending. Highly recommended for ages 9+.

Kim Gruschow is the children’s book buyer at Readings St Kilda.