The Memory Thief

A boy troll who steals other people’s memories, but can’t remember his own and a girl who is trying to forget painful memories collide and form an unlikely alliance.

I was swept away quickly into the story, with descriptive language playing a large part of that immersive experience, “huge patterns of lichen explode across the slate roof, bursting into circular rings like frozen fireworks.” It was a pleasure to read such imagery in a book targeted at the 9+ age bracket.

I know chapter books are not usually noted for their illustrations, however Kieran Rynhart’s illustrations throughout the book are magical, and opening each chapter with words nestled amongst the view of a twisted oak tree make the reader feel like they are slipping deeper and deeper into the magical story.

The Memory Thief is an original take on Scandinavian mythology set in a NZ public garden, with themes of empathy and friendship, a fabulous read aloud and perfect for young readers who like fantasy mixed with a bit of adventure. Storylines have also included The Memory Thief in their 2021 Notable Books List.

Title: The Memory Thief

Author: Leonie Agnew

Illustrator: Kieran Rynhart

Publisher: Penguin Random House New Zealand

ISBN: 9780143775720

RRP: $18.99

Format: Paperback

Publication: July 2021

Ages: 9+

Do you have any advisory warnings for this book? No

Reviewer: Louana McCormack, Librarian, Opaheke School, Auckland

How are you recommending this book? Highly recommended.

Opening sentence: ‘Max?’ Follow the voice.

You can buy this book here and read a student review on the Hooked on Books website here