I love David Almond's writing and the way it evokes the readers emotions. This story is no different and you can't help but absolutely fall in love with Sylvester, the old puppet maker and his puppet. It's reminiscent of Pinocchio but takes a turn to explore themes such as professions and crafts that in time will be lost and forgotten, the love an passion for a craft which in turn becomes a profession, how friendship can blossom in the most unlikely of places or circumstances, the importance of a local community and how certain people within each community can really bring everyone else together and it definitely make me think a bit harder about what I would hope to see when i'm older and retired and take tally of my life experience. There is so much nostalgia coming through the pages and I loved how subtle and gentle the writing is, appealing to children and grown ups alike. We all look back to our childhood's fondest memories and it was lovely to consider how much within his community Sylvester was part of most peoples fondest memories.
A really lovely read, i think anyone in KS2 and above would enjoy reading this.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.

Sylvester feels like his time is ending, he has inspired children for decades with his wondrous puppets but he’s becoming someone of the past. One last bit of magic is on the cards for a little girl and for himself when Puppet arrives to brighten their spirits.

David Almond has created a lovable story with adorable illustrations from Lizzy Stewart. It not only brings a smile to the reader and yet tugs at our heart strings as the connections deepen for Sylvester and Fleur.

A sweet story to help your heart grow a few sizes.

David Almond has such a magic way with words. From my days of teaching his classic book Skellig to my new students all the way up to this, his newest release, there is always something special about his writing.

Puppet is a joy filled uplifting tale of family, friendship and never giving up on your dreams that will be loved and adored by all those who read it.

David Almond is one of my favourite authors and again, he has created a wonderful, life affirming tale. Puppet is build from experience, love and a life well lived. The story is a celebration of creativity, nature, dark and light, stories, life and legacy.

A familiar tale told in an equisite manner, with adoreable artwork from Lizzie Stewart. Filled with wonder and delight.

David Almond is wonderful author who can capture the magic and wonder within his stories while exploring deeper emotions within characters but in a gentle and subtle way.
Puppet could be seen as a retelling of Pinocchio but it doesn't necessarily feel that way.

Silvester is a puppet maker and widowed- he has a reputation with his wife for creating some of the most beautiful puppets and shows in the area so much so the local museum want to exhibit his creations.
One final time at making a puppet he finds he has created a life like character who he simply calls Puppet. But Puppet is no ordinary creation; he begins to walk and make some attempts at communicating.

Silvester's affection for Puppet grows and he takes him out into the local community- Puppet becomes known as Kenneth. Puppet's naivety places him in danger and little incidents arise.
Whilst walking, Silvester and Kenneth meet Fleur and her mum Antonia- a friendship forms and soon Fleur becomes an "apprentice" of Silvester learning how. to create puppets and finally leading up to a public performance- all the time Silvester getting more and more tired.

This is a tale about love- for one another; love -for the pleasure doing something you enjoy; love - for sharing enthusiasm and knowledge.

This is a perfect longer read for 7-10 year olds - a gentle plot with depth. A wonderful year 3/4 class read where the listeners still have that magic inside to believe but where larger themes of life and aging can be discussed.

Highly recommended also as a beautiful bedtime read. A charming winner

This book really pulled at my heartstrings. This is my favourite among all the books written by the author. Maybe it is because I am a bit like the old man in the story, old and alone. Half way through the book and I was already in tears.

The language used in the story is not that difficult but the message behind the story is a bit deep, so this might be better for UKS2 students.