Ruby Redfort is back. Now, though, the thing that she’s watching her back for are the poisonous rumours that are snaking their way around Twinford. Problems at school, problems at Spectrum and problems with the baby casually referred to as “the Lemon”, Ruby certainly has worries. But what are these peculiar Taste Twister adverts that has everyone guessing the product? And why do they need figuring out?
I have always been a Ruby fan – smart, witty and the best dress sense that I think it was possible for people to have in 1973 (if the pictures I’ve seen are anything to go by), what’s not to love (other than being on the wrong end of her witty retorts)?
Feel the Fear (the book before this in the series) was entertaining, but not my favourite, leading me to worry that I wouldn’t be going as a certain thirteen-year-old this World Book Day. Pick Your Poison, however, has boosted my love of all things Redfort. The ingenious codes (courtesy of Marcus du Sautoy) would have been completely over my head but were explained in a way even I could understand! This understanding went a long way in making this book a firm favourite, because a lack of understanding and the 526 pages would have seemed like a chore.
Along with the expertly balanced hilarious conversations and the sitting-on-the-edge-of-my-seat-slash-beanbag anticipation that built up throughout the book, I’d say it was a success. This book definitely has a darker tone than previous volumes in the series, but this made it more realistic for me and I can honestly say that for a series to keep me hooked from the release of the first book up to now is an achievement.
Lauren Child, I take my Redfort glasses off to you!
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop
