What an amazing, heart warming novel. The Kingdom and the Cave is a unique, beautifully crafted story of friendship adventure with a touch of magic and fantasy. As I read this book I simply could not stop smiling, I felt as if I were in the story with the characters. The story is set in the days of Kings and Queens and the originality paints a perfect picture in your mind. The story is based around a talking cat named Mickle and a young Prince named Michael as well as an old but wise horse, Minerva. The friendship around the animals and the prince is beautiful to watch as the writer creates unique behaviours for each character.
The plot and how the story is set up is excellent and Joan Aiken has put in nice twists and turns when you least expect it. The story always has an engaging event happening that keeps you enthralled and interested. Joan Aiken has also used descriptive words and has worked hard to paint a picture in your mind for every scene and character. As I read this book it was like there was a movie of the book going on in my head.
I recommend this book for ages 9 and up. This is a book for people who like adventure, mystery, kidnap, magic, fantasy, talking animals and a friendship so amazing that by the end of the book you will be connected to the characters like they are to each other.
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