LITFEST: The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins

The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins (retold for children) by Katherine Woodfine

First published in 1868, Wilkie Collins's famous The Moonstone is often described as the first detective novel to be written in English. Now it has been abridged for today’s young readers by Katherine Woodfine.

The Moonstone, a priceless yellow diamond, is looted from an Indian temple by a murderous British colonel. Years later, it is given to young heiress Rachel Verinder as an eighteenth birthday present ... but seems to only bring danger and misfortune. On the night of her birthday, the gem is stolen once again and no one is above suspicion. Soon the eccentric Sergeant Cuff is on the case with the help of Rachel’s suitor, Franklin Blake. As they attempt to solve this puzzling crime, they are hindered by uncooperative witnesses, red herrings and a dark secret that could compromise the entire investigation...

AUTHOR:

Katherine Woodfine is the author of more than 15 books for children, including the Sinclair’s Mysteries and Taylor and Rose Secret Agents series. Her first published novel, The Clockwork Sparrow, was a Sunday Times bestseller and was nominated for numerous awards. A champion of children’s literature, she has previously worked on projects including the Children’s Laureate, YALC (the UK’s first young adult literature convention) and children’s books podcast Down the Rabbit Hole.

AGE GUIDANCE: 8-12yrs

Photo credit: Tom Pilston

VENUE: The Upper Hall, Atkinsons:

12 China Street, LA1 1EX / 01524 65470 / thehall@thecoffeehopper.com

ACCESS: This is an upstairs venue but there is step free access from Castle Hilll, down the small road next to La Casetta. This entrance is step free.  There is an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities.  Assistance dogs are allowed. There isn’t an induction loop.