Skellig: Winner of the Carnegie Medal Paperback – 5 Sept. 2013

Wonderful writing and such a moving and original story

Genuinely excellent story. Full of moments that bring you to tears. Full of moments that make you laugh. Wonderful details.

This book is aimed at pre-teens* and explores the feelings of Michael as his baby sister is struggling to survive in hospital. Sensitively written I liked the way Michael's character developed and he became less resentful of the time his parents spent with the new baby. The 'old man' in the garage serves as a welcome distraction for him and whilst unable to help his sister he can try and help Skellig. His relationship with Mina, the girl who lived down the lane, was particularly nice to read about. Through her character the voice of William Blake can be heard, wanting children to be free and able to enjoy nature as opposed to being stuck in the traditional schooling system. The knowledge that she naturally shares with Michael certainly shows the advantages and freedom of learning in a less restricted way. However it could be argued that this idea is more appealing to the adult reader! The traditional school system is not painted too bleakly though, with the warmth and care shown by his teachers and friends being one of the benefits of being part of a school.Skellig the character was certainly unusual and whilst I'm not sure I still really understand the why's and wherefores of some things about him, he was interesting. I could easily see why the children would want to help him and the concept of what he was and what made him better (kind acts) made for a hopeful and unusual look at the effect love has on us.* I think reviewers who think there is too much swearing are being a little OTT. 'Bloody hell' (which is as bad as it gets) is pretty realistic (and even mild) when there are no adults about.

This is an amazing book. Quite an unexpected read. Should be on the school curriculum!Suitable for adults and children.

I picked up Skellig for my 12-year-old son and I have to say, I'm impressed. The story is engaging and perfect for his age group. It deals with important themes like friendship, family, and acceptance in a way that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. I can't wait for him to dive into this imaginative and unique tale.

The book is moving and it makes you want to have wings like skellig the kindness of all the people involved in the story creates an amazing book full of wonder.

Loved this story and the depiction of a child’s thoughts and feelings. The writing takes risks . Page turning events and depictions of imaginary events. Has lots of potential for how a child deals with life events.

This book is my favourite story of the year!!Meet Michael,an eleven year old boy who meets a thing,not a human,not an animal,a thing.In this terrific tale Michael meets this creature who who is grumpy and grizzly,as the story unfolds this creature tells Michael his name "Skellig" along with Michaels friend Mina we find out more about SkelligMina is a very clever girl who is homeschooled and her thoughts about school are very strong(that she thinks school is wrong),she is very individual,she is very individual and does not really care about what other people think about her,but Michael has a problem his baby sister has a heart disease that may kill her, and things are not looking good.A couple of questions need to be answered,will Michael,Mina and Skellig work as a team and save the baby? and what is Skellig?Is he an angel or a bird?I think he is an angel that has been sent to guide michael through these hard times.You never find out but clues are given along the wayWHAT WILL YOU THINKcharlie age 11