The Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker

A beautiful introduction to magical realism for the young and young at heart!

Matilda Woods' debut novel is a wonderfully written work of magical realism, set in an indeterminate time and place, and combining elements of drama, mystery and fairy tale. The book is not very long, and the language is not very difficult, but the prose is lovely. What I liked best about the book is that it deals with serious (and important) subjects like death and loneliness in a straightforward and accessible way, in a manner that does not condescend and will not be overwhelming to the majority of younger readers. And the occasional bizarre or fantastical elements add significant interest.