Celia Rees's 'The Cunning Man' plunges readers into a spine-chilling mystery set against the atmospheric backdrop of a Cornish cottage. The story follows Finn, a young protagonist tormented by vivid, terrifying dreams of a huge wave. These nightmares intensify upon her arrival at the cottage, leading her to uncover an ancient curse linked to a vengeful figure, Griffiths, who possesses the eerie ability to conjure storms through knot-tying. The narrative expertly builds suspense as Finn races against time to break the curse and escape mortal danger.
The book handles themes of fear and the supernatural directly, presenting a clear conflict between good and evil. The emotional arc starts with Finn's anxiety and fear, gradually shifting towards determination and bravery as she confronts the source of the curse. This is a book for children who are drawn to spooky tales and enjoy unraveling mysteries. A parent might reach for this when their child is looking for a thrilling, slightly scary read that still feels age-appropriate for late elementary or early middle school.
Parents should be aware that the book contains 'spine-chilling' elements, including terrifying dreams, a vengeful antagonist, and the threat of 'mortal danger.' While not overly graphic, these elements contribute to a genuinely suspenseful atmosphere. Younger readers (9-10) might find some scenes intense, while older readers (11-13) will likely relish the thrill. The provided age range of 4-11 seems inaccurate given the 'teen thriller' description and the book's content; it is much better suited for ages 9-13. What sets this book apart is its strong sense of place, using the Cornish setting and its folklore to create a unique and immersive supernatural mystery.
