Voyage of the Sparrowhawk (Hardcover)
Winner of the 2020 Costa Children's Book Award
A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of 2021
A Times and Sunday Times Best Book of the Year
In the aftermath of World War One, everyone in the small town of Barton is rebuilding their lives. Ben needs to find his brother, Sam—who was wounded in action and is now missing—if he wants to avoid being sent to the orphanage. Lotti’s horrible aunt and uncle want to send her away from her beloved home to boarding school, just when she has successfully managed to get expelled from her last one.
When a chance encounter brings the two children together, each recognizes the other as a kindred spirit. But just as they’ve found their feet, disaster strikes, and Ben and Lotti must run away. They hatch a plan to cross the English Channel on Ben’s narrowboat, the Sparrowhawk, and track down Sam in France. But there’s something in France that Lotti is looking for, too. . . .
Funny, heartwarming, and wise, Voyage of the Sparrowhawk is full of high stakes, twists and connections, and—most of all—adventure.
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
With promising maps at the opening, many lovable characters, and first-rate storytelling, this chapter book offers a captivating reading experience.
— Booklist (starred review)
Employing a quiet voice reminiscent of classics with a hint of humor, Farrant pits resilient protagonists against numerous obstacles and setbacks, balancing loss and grief with joy and optimism in a lively adventure that wholeheartedly embraces the concept of found family.
— Publishers Weekly
Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny but consistently gripping, Voyage of the Sparrowhawk presses forward with all the purpose and beauty of a small, slim boat on fast-flowing waters.
— BookPage
One of the most compelling, joyous, tearjerking and delightful reads of the year.
— The Times
Dramatic, moving and perfectly paced.
— Daily Mail
A magnificent odyssey.
— New Statesman
Inspiring, beautiful, and utterly delightful, Voyage of the Sparrowhawk is a delicious emotional rollercoaster of a read that will stay with you forever.
— Liz Hyder