Goodnight Silver is a stunning, fantasy eco-adventure celebrating the magic and wildness of nature, the bonds of friendship and the transforming power of hope. An utterly captivating story, brimming with that special bookish magic that Abi instils in all her writing. Her words bring smiles, tears and leave a heart filled with warmth and comfort.

Ten-year-old Emmy arrives in the Altai Mountains in Mongolia with her parents for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday. A heartbreaking loss has made her a pessimist so, instead of being excited, she worries about all the things that could go wrong. But, sometimes, things going wrong can bring unexpected adventure, new friendships and ignite hope.

When Emmy is separated from her parents during a sudden blizzard, she finds herself lost and seeking shelter in a cave. But something else has sought refuge there: a frightened snow leopard cub who immediately warms to animal-loving Emmy. Despite her fear that hunters may have killed Silver’s mother, Emmy dares to allow a sliver of hope to enter her heart. Can she save this lost young ‘ghost of the mountain’ and even allow herself to believe that his mother may still be alive?

And so begins the most incredible, inspirational adventure as Emmy and Silver, together with new friend Tuli, find themselves on a heart-racing quest to reach Whisperfell, a magical land where wild animals are given sanctuary from the dangers they face in the real world. Can they unite a mother and her cub? Can they protect those threatened by a determined and ruthless predator?

I absolutely loved joining this wonderful trio on their unforgettable journey, brimming with danger and secrets, through the wild, frozen Mongolian landscape and into a hidden magical world. Both worlds are connected through nature spirits, a central tenet of Mongolian belief and folklore.

I really liked the strong environmental messages portrayed through the fight against illegal poaching, the need to protect endangered species, and the benefits of rewilding. Emmy and Tuli deeply respect the wild wonder and the danger that co-exist in nature.

I adored the heart-achingly tender bond between Emmy and Silver who find each other at a time when both are lost, alone and in need of hope – and magic. I felt that it was just perfect that they team up with a loyal, kind-hearted young Mongolian boy who believes in the power of words – and in magic.

The e-Arc I read did not have all the illustrations but those that were included are absolutely stunning. I’m really looking forward to buying a copy so that I can see all the illustrations before sharing this wonderful book with my class.

A magical, heart-warming adventure, brimming with friendship and hope, perfect for young readers of 8+.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.