Franklin's Emporium

Two short, charming little stories about Alex and her encounters with a strange old department store – in itself a curio from a bygone age – where wishes can come true and (very) strange events unfold. (The second story offers a clever little twist on being invisible.)

Alex is an engaging character and the individuals she meets on her adventures – annoying little princess, mean-spirited pet shop owner - all make their mark. I especially liked the cadaverous elevator operator; he manages to be spooky and loveable at one and the same time.

But what I really like is the language. Both books are beautifully written, and use a vocabulary that’s challenging without being too difficult to understand. The words never slow the story down. Great for young native-English readers, and just as good for slightly older children learning English. Being entertained always helps the lesson stick, and that’s what both books are: very definitely entertaining

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