Review: The Stupendous Sonny by Ellie Clements

I loved The Wondrous Prune when I read it last year so I was very excited to discover that there was another book in this series about children from the same neighbourhood who develop incredible abilities.  The Stupendous Sonny is a heartfelt, exciting adventure that completely captured me, making it an unputdownable, one-sitting read.

12-year-old Sonny loves superhero films and comics so it probably isn’t surprising that he dreams of having superpowers of his own.  Imagine his surprise and excitement when he discovers that he has developed telekinetic abilities and can fly and teleport.  He tells his best friend, Elliot, who is intrigued but doesn’t believe him until Sonny begins to get his powers under control and proves his abilities.  Can Sonny use his powers to help himself and others, or will he find that he puts himself and others in danger?

Sonny wants to share his abilities with his dad but, before he can, his dad is involved in a serious road accident.  His mother is working away from home and is unable to get home quickly, so his Aunt Cleo, who has been estranged from the family, moves in to look after him and his younger brother and sister.  Can Sonny trust her enough to tell her about his superpowers, or does she already know more than she should?  Does she have his best interests at heart, or does she have darker motives?

This is both a wonderfully exciting, action-packed adventure and a heartfelt story of family and friendship with some wonderfully humorous moments.  I really enjoyed learning more about the Delmere Magic which I found so intriguing, and loved spotting Prune’s cameo appearance.  I would absolutely love to read the story of another character in this book who I won’t mention, but I think anyone who reads this brilliant story will know who I mean! 

I adored Sonny who has to deal with some difficult issues, including being bullied; his feelings towards his mother; and, the uncertainty around his father’s health after his serious accident.  Sonny is braver than he thinks and faces situations which he finds difficult with courage.  He is determined to learn how to control his powers and wants to use them to help others, but he is also fallible and makes some impulsive decisions which makes him all the more likeable.  Elliot is a wonderful friend who he trusts with his secrets and who supports him – and teases him as good friends do!

This is a fantastically exciting, heartwarming adventure, perfect for readers of 9+ and is one I would highly recommend. 

Thank you to the author, Ellie Clements, for sending me a copy.  My review is my honest opinion.