The Twelve

by Liz Hyder, Tom de Freston, Liz Hyder
The Twelve cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Fantasy
Buy online
Waterstones
Hardback • £14.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2651
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781782693994
  • Publisher: Pushkin Press
  • Published: 2024-10-10
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

At the stroke of midnight on winter solstice, Libby disappears without a trace, remembered only by her sister Kit and a mysterious boy named Story. To bring her back, they must embark on a perilous journey into the distant past, navigating a land rich with ancient folklore and hidden dangers. Their quest is not just about time travel but unraveling the secret of the Twelve, a mystery that could alter the course of history. The Twelve has been acclaimed for its haunting and resonant storytelling, reminiscent of works by Alan Garner and Susan Cooper. Set against the backdrop of the Welsh landscape, this tale weaves together elements of ancient magic, good and evil, and a race against time. Winner of the 2024 Nero Prize for Children's Fiction and the 2025 Tir Na N-Og award, it has also been recognized as a Financial Times and Guardian Book of the Year.

Reviews
Linda's Book Bag · 2025-01-06
magical 4.50

The illustrations by Tom De Freston are stark and perfectly executed, adding a contrasting impact to both the images and narrative. The book is described as deeply atmospheric and compelling, throbbing with ancient power and mystery.

The reviewer highlights the stark and perfectly executed illustrations by Tom De Freston, which add a contrasting impact to both the images and narrative. They describe the book as deeply atmospheric and compelling, throbbing with ancient power and mystery. The reviewer suggests it's a magical read perfect for those who love something with a bit of intrigue and depth. The book's themes and illustrations together create a powerful and engaging experience.

Quick quotes

    Tom De Freston's stark, perfectly executed, illustrations add a contrast that makes both images and narrative so impactful.

    Deeply atmospheric and compelling, The Twelve is a magical read, throbbing with ancient power and mystery.

    Perfect for those who love something with a bit of intrigue and depth.

The Guardian · 2024-11-12
memorable 4.20

The book is a memorable and vivid exploration of the ancient past, ideal for tweens and teens who love beachcombing for fossils.

The reviewer praises the book for its vivid rendering of the ancient past, making it a memorable read. They suggest it's ideal for tweens and teens who enjoy exploring themes related to fossils and the natural world. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to transport readers to a different time and place, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read. The overall tone is positive, emphasizing the book's unique qualities and appeal to a specific audience.

Quick quotes

    Liz Hyder won the older readers' category in the Waterstones children's book prize for her memorable debut Bearmouth.

    The ancient past is rendered vividly in this book that is ideal for tweens and teens who love beachcombing for fossils.

    Now, in The Twelve...

Left On The Shelf Book Blog · 2024-10-29
beautiful 4.00

The main character, Kit, is well-realised and easy to identify with, making the book a beautiful and engaging read.

The reviewer found the main character, Kit, to be well-realised and easy to identify with, which adds to the book's charm. They describe it as a beautiful book to read, highlighting the engaging nature of the protagonist. The reviewer also mentions Kit's new friend, suggesting that the relationships in the book are well-developed and add depth to the story. Overall, the reviewer seems to have enjoyed the book for its character development and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    This was such a beautiful book to read.

    The main character, Kit, was well realised and easy to identify with.

    Kit's new friend, ...

Reading Zone · 2024-10-10
Enchanting 4.50

The book is deeply atmospheric and compelling, filled with ancient power and mystery, making it a magical read.

This reviewer is drawn into the enchanting world of The Twelve, describing it as deeply atmospheric and compelling. They appreciate the book's mysterious and magical qualities, which they believe will captivate readers who enjoy a sense of ancient power and intrigue. The reviewer's language suggests a strong positive impression, highlighting the book's unique and immersive qualities.

Quick quotes

    Deeply atmospheric and compelling

    A magical read, throbbing with ancient power and mystery

    Perfect for those who love something...

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