‘The Good Hawk is an epic, fantasy adventure set in a mythic version of Scotland where fearsome warriors, magical creatures, and deadly secrets lurk in every shadow. One of the two protagonists is a fifteen-year old girl called Agatha. She is funny, kind, impulsive and loyal, and she also happens to have Down’s syndrome. The novel is not about Down’s syndrome, though.’ Joseph Elliott, Author
We have sent out a copies of the book to be reviewed by a couple of people so they can share their thoughts on this new novel. Here is our first reviewer…
Maya is 16 years old and her favourite genre of book often changes from romance to mystery. She is currently at her first year at college studying English, Maths, Employability and more. She loves going to the football and is a season ticket holder for Sunderland. She also enjoys musical theatre and enjoys writing stories.
Here is what she thought of The Good Hawk…
What is the book about?
The Good Hawk is a fantasy adventure story that has a main character Agatha, who has Down’s syndrome.
What did I like about this book?
I thought The Good Hawk was a really gripping book. I especially loved how it was full of adventure and that it follows the story of friendship.
Did I like Agatha? Is she a good representation of someone with Down’s syndrome?
I really liked Agatha and I think she is a good representation of someone who has Down’s syndrome, because she is brave and fierce. She respects her job as a Hawk, even when she makes mistakes along the way. Other people may think she’s slow, but I know that Agatha won’t let people think too little of her.
Was there anything I disliked about the book?
I’m not saying I don’t like the book it’s just not the type of book I read in particular. I did hope the book ended on a cliff-hanger
(Maya’s mum here, I read the book myself and explained to Maya what a cliff-hanger is and that the book did leave us with one re the necklace and wild wolves)
Do I think more books should be written about characters with Down’s syndrome?
I do want more books to write more characters with Down’s syndrome because I want young kids who have Down’s syndrome to feel like they’re being heard, I want them to feel that they’re proud of how amazing they are and I don’t what them to feel unwanted.
Who would I recommend the book to?
I would recommend teenagers to read this if they’re into fantasy adventure books like The Hobbit.
We also got the chance to interview author of The Good Hawk, Joseph Elliott:
‘I am a firm believer that all children deserve to see themselves reflected in the books they read. It’s also so important for everyone to be exposed to the same, rich diversity in literature as there is in the wider world. This diversity teaches children and adults alike that everyone is valued equally, no matter what their colour of skin, sexual orientation, or physical or cognitive abilities.’