Hattie Brown versus the Cloud Snatchers (Hattie Brown Series #1)

Hattie Brown lives with her mum who is depressed. She looks after her mum, reminding her to eat and making her food. One afternoon Hattie notices that things have been going missing in the house, including the butter she is just about to use.

After making her mum a sandwich she opens the fridge to put the cheese away and notices a tiny elephant on one of the shelves. The elephant grabs hold of Hattie and pulls her in. After a long time whirling, Hattie lands in a strange place called Somewhere-Nowhere, oh and the elephant is no longer tiny it is full size.

Trouble is only special hundredth children are supposed to be brought to Somewhere-Nowhere and the elephant, Victor is in trouble for bringing her through. A dragon, Sir Gideon, wants to take Hattie and return her to her world before he gets in trouble for her being there, but it isnt long before the guards find them.

Soon though Hattie discovers something sinister about this land and is determined to put it right.

Hattie Brown versus the Cloud Snatchers is the first book in a series about a young eleven-year-old girl who is taken to another realm by an elephant through her fridge. The elephant took her as she could see him, something humans are not supposed to be able to do.

The book had an Alice in Wonderland vibe to it, especially the falling for what seemed like a very long time and then landing in a place where animals and objects talk, though a more up to date version.

The plot is essentially about one young girl who has spent her young life caring for her mother being dragged to a world she has never heard of and she wants to get back to her mum but she also knows that she needs to help a group of children who have been kidnapped by the evil Lord who runs Somewhere-Nowhere. Hattie is strong, capable, hot-headed at times, and remarkable for her age.

The book is quite an adventure and fun too. It is a little on the long side and at times the story seemed to stall before picking up again. Whilst I enjoyed the book Im not sure I would continue with the series as I didnt feel fully invested in Hatties story, nor the world-building which for a child reading the book might be enough but for me felt lacking. Though I can see young readers being enthralled by the strange land and the talking animals.

Book Reviewed on Whispering Stories Book Blog
*I received a free copy of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed

I needed a present for a neighbour’s 9 year-old girl and bought Hattie on recommendation from another parent. I can’t claim to be an expert in children’s fiction but the effect on Maggie down the street was lovely. I went round yesterday and she was literally dancing round the kitchen with her copy, saying how much she loved Hattie and joking about looking into the fridge to see if there was another world in there. I’ve never had that level of reaction from any kid to a present I’ve given, so I don’t think she was acting for my benefit! Apparently her 11 year-old brother is enjoying it too and they fight over access.
All this made me have a read of the first few chapters. Huge fun, the right level of suspense for this age group, I think and charming enough keep an adult interested if you like to read to your children. Remember this is the first of a trilogy, so read them in order!

What a fantastic story. We can’t wait for the rest of the trilogy to see what happens to Hattie and all the folk of Somewhere Nowhere next. Everyone in the family has a favourite character. Mine is Bench. But there was equal love for Arthur, Victor and Credo. Sir Gideon is funny. I love Bench and his stern little ways. The whole thing is a total joy. Rock on Hattie!

Such a colourful story you feel you’ re really there in Somewhere – Nowhere land. The plot and story telling really draw you in – it would be lovely if they made a film of the books. It’s difficult to decide on our favourite characters – so many to choose from – The Knowledge Worm, Lady Violet, Victor or Bench? Not to mention the heroine/hero Hattie and Arthur. My children loved it and we listened to the first two audio books, non stop in the car in the summer. We can’t wait to listen to the third and final instalment when we can drive long distances again. Beautifully written. More please!

A truly enchanting read. I really enjoyed reading this. It was something a little bit different and was truly magical.

Galaxyaudiobook Member Benefit

- Able to comment

- List watched audiobooks

- List favorite audiobooks

- Bookmark will only available for Galaxyaudiobook member