The Tunnels Below

This is a nice adventure story for children. I really liked the main character, the story, the side characters and the messages given in the book.
I'd say it'd be cheering and encouraging for a child to read.
Thanks a lot, NG and the publisher for this copy.

Wow, this was definitely different from what I was expecting, but in a good way! Reminded me of Alice In Wonderland (my favourite childhood story) but with its own unique twist. Would definitely recommend!

The Tunnels Below by Nadine Wild-Palmer is an imaginative and unique adventure story with a fast-paced plot, a creative range of characters and a big problem to solve. This book is a great read for primary school-aged children, as well as younger teens.

Set in a complex and slightly bizarre world placed just below the London Underground, The Tunnels Below shines in both its interesting world-building and its cast of intriguing and distinctive characters. While I initially struggled to get into the story, I was soon completely sucked into the story as I wondered exactly what kind of world Cecilia had ended up in and how she was going to get home. Even as an adult reader I was kept guessing by the numerous plot twists, and found the issues Cecilia and her new friends faced both complex and inventive.

Despite being a plot-focused story, Wild-Palmer manages to develop her characters in equally compelling ways. Cecilia is a great main character: brave, determined, and resourceful. I enjoyed the nuances and depth she was given, and the variety in the way she related to different characters, particularly the development of her friendship with Luke and the very realistic relationship she had with her younger sister.

The world of the tunnels has many incredibly unique elements, and I loved the vivid descriptions of the dwellers and their unusual ways. Wild-Palmer’s descriptive skills allow her to create a strong picture of even the strangest of scenes. One of my favourites was the remarkable descriptions at Mrs Hoots Haberdashery, especially Cecilia’s dress made up of scraps of lace and tin foil.

Overall, this book has all the elements needed in a fast-paced adventure story, as well as some heart-warming moments of friendship. There is an Alice in Wonderland flavour, without quite so much nonsense. The writing was clear and simple, but with exciting and interesting content - perfect for kids regardless of reading level.

rating: 4.4

a really fast explanation: it's very cute, it was fast and it had some really interesting moments that I loved to read

and I want to thank Netgalley for givin me an e-ARC of this book.

The Tunnels Below was a quite imaginative and eccentric story that gave a Neil Gaiman/ Alice in Wonderland vibe. The plot was eventful, fast paced but nothing too unique. It was the classic 'saving the fantasy world and finding a way to return to the normal world' kind of story. I've read quite a few books similar to this so it wasn't anything new for me. The world building, however, was fantastic. I loved the way it was strange yet had a mystical feel. The main character was a feisty science lover so that was a big yes from me! The only thing that fell flat was the plot. I was stuck at 65%, wondering why I was reading on as it was quite predictable but I made it through. It got a bit boring at places but maybe that was just me.
Overall I enjoyed the world and character and I give it a 3.5* rounded up to 4*.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the E-arc!