They say opposites attract and the two main characters of this charming Norwegian novel couldn’t be more different. Lena and Trille live next door to each other and where Trille is sensitive and steadfast, Lena is a resilient daredevil who gets them into all manner of scrapes with her impetuous and questioning nature.

This is a gentle and magical book about friendship and loving families with the added attraction of a different culture that is in tune with the sea and the land. Lena reminds me of a modern-day Pippi Longstocking, and Trille, who fears Lena doesn’t consider him her best friend, is her trusty sidekick. However when needs must, Trille can be bold and brave enough to save someone or something he cares deeply about.

Simply told Waffle Hearts is thoroughly enjoyable and would suit children aged from 6 to 10.

Alexa Dretzke