Twell Town is a charmingly whimsical tale about an imaginative eleven-year-old girl, Bunny Thread, and her unexpected journey to the quirky land of Twell Town. Bunny, a talented seamstress with a knack for crafting, creates a bear friend, Dexter, who comes alive and whisks her away to a world where memory foam cobblestones and felt vegetables abound. The story takes Bunny through a fantastical adventure, complete with daring escapades, eccentric characters, and a plot revolving around the mysterious and coveted Ball of Ruby Yarn. Through humor, intrigue, and vivid storytelling, author Harriet M. Winter transports readers to a delightfully odd world where the ordinary meets the magical.

What really struck me about this middle-grade fantasy was the creativity. Winter’s ability to craft a universe where pipe-cleaner hair and knitted citizens feel entirely plausible is truly extraordinary. For example, the character Professor Sniff, with his pipe cleaner hair and knack for inventing the absurd, is a delightful mix of eccentricity and ingenuity. His flower-arranging machine and Anti-Smudge Liquid are just the tip of the imaginative iceberg, making me laugh and admire the sheer inventiveness of this world.

The writing is brimming with humor, and Winter’s talent for infusing personality into the characters and objects alike is remarkable. Dexter, the mischievous bear, is both hilarious and endearing, and his banter with Bunny is full of warmth and wit. For instance, when Dexter describes Wick Racket as “a full-blown fruitcake,” you can’t help but grin at his colorful phrasing. The story’s dialogue sparkles, giving each character a voice that feels uniquely theirs, whether it’s Bunny’s earnest curiosity or Mayor Trilby’s exasperation.

The plot, while enchanting, leans on the familiar trope of a magical quest to recover a stolen treasure. Winter brings her own unique flair to the story, adding charm and whimsy, though there were moments where I think the stakes could have felt a bit more heightened. Still, the vividly described settings, from Twell Town’s bustling square to Dexter’s curiously tidy den, kept me engaged and turning pages.

Twell Town is a delightful read for anyone who loves whimsical adventures. It’s perfect for younger readers who enjoy the likes of Alice in Wonderland or older ones who appreciate a splash of nostalgia for their childhood imaginings. Harriet M. Winter has created a world that feels as cozy as a handmade quilt and as surprising as finding a singing bear on your windowsill.

Pages: 81 | ASIN : B089QSHMQ9