Peanut Jones and the Twelve Portals

This was more detailed than the first book and was definitely more in-depth. I enjoyed it so much and just could not put it down. The details in this book was outstanding. Major cliffhanger at the end to the point where I was ready to throw it across the room......haha. Outstanding book and definitely one of my favourites this year. I devoured this in one day and can't wait for the sequel.

It is a while since Peanut, Rockwell and Little Bit have been through the portal to Chroma, but recently more post-its with her missing Dad's handwriting on have been appearing in her lunch box and important works of art have been disintegrating in some of the world's most illustrious galleries. When Mum goes off to the ballet with her creepy boss, it gives the three the opportunity to return to the British Museum to access the portal... But what is Science mad big brother Leo doing there? And what is the devious Mr White in Chroma planning to do now he has the magic pencil?
I loved the illustrations, the wit, the characterisation and satisfying twists and turns in the plot. This is a hugely entertaining second instalment of the Peanut's adventures in the magical world where all creativity has its source, and I can't wait for the finale!

This book was everything I was hoping it would be. I love the idea of using a magic pencil to be able to draw something which would then become real. The illustrations are amazing and really help to bring the story to life. My class, who love everything magical, are going to love this during story time and I can't wait to be able to share it with them. Hopefully there will be a book 3.

We first became familiar with Rob’s work during the pandemic and we have bought several of his books since.

My 10 year old daughter is not a massive reader at all but when she read the first book of Peanut Jones, she could not put it down and was completely engrossed in it. So when the sequel popped up on NetGalley we were desperate to see if it lived up to her expectations - and it did!

Packed with Rob’s incredible illustrations and with Peanut as a heroine to be admired, this book is perfect for children aged 8-11.

I will be recommending it to my school, whilst eagerly awaiting the next instalment!
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review.

A superb sequel! Peanut Jones is a brilliantly written character with her sidekicks it feels like there is no mountain she can't climb or mystery she can't solve. This is a brilliantly pacey adventure with plenty twists, turns and moments of absolute peril. The villain and his evil plot is so dastardly, readers can't help but be drawn in to the story. Speaking of drawings, the artwork throughout is incredible and I love all the references to famous works of art! This is a clever and super fun kids adventure and I can't wait for the next instalment!

‘Peanut Jones and the Twelve Portals’ is the second adventure in the ‘Peanut Jones’ series by author/illustrator Rob Biddulph. The second book sees us reunited with Peanut and her school friend, Rockwell and Peanut’s younger sister, Little Bit. They are still on a mission to save Chroma, The Illustrated City, from the mayor of the city, Mr White, who wants to take away all its colour. He is also still in possession of the magic pencil that Peanut found in the first book.
Peanut has yet to find her missing dad, but is pleased that post-it note messages have started appearing in her lunchbox again; she is convinced they are from her dad and that he is trying to tell her something.
Famous paintings all over the world have been disappearing by disintegrating, just like drawn objects do when they are in the real world and not Chroma. Could there be a connection between the two? Peanut, Little Bit and Rockwell tell Peanut’s mum they’re going for a sleepover at the science museum during the school holidays, but they’re actually going to the National Portrait Gallery to use the hidden portal to travel to Chroma. Once again, they meet with the Markmakers and other members of the resistance to try and foil whatever Mr White’s master plan is. Whatever it is, it seems to have something to do with the multiple portals in and out of Chroma.

Just as humorous and witty as the first book, I thoroughly enjoyed my journey back to Chroma with Peanut, Little Bit and Rockwell. Little Bit, as ever, surprises the others with her extensive knowledge of many subjects and the orange and monotone illustrations are just brilliant. I love the message about the importance of creativity and can’t wait for the third instalment (although I’m sad to hear it will be the last!) This is a great series that children (and adults!) of all ages will enjoy.