A boy and a girl, or three circuses, elves and Sznurówka – a review of the book “Franek and Finka. Circus of Dead Makabresek ”by Aneta Jadowska

How many people does it take for a fantasy writer to make an adventure and magic book for children? Two nieces, one nephew and … of course the author herself. In this case, I am delighted that children can be tiring, because it was thanks to them that Aneta Jadowska introduced us to Frank and Finka.

Discovering at the age of almost eleven that you come from a magical family and that you will be discovering the secrets of your powers and the new world all summer long – this is just an amazing surprise for Frank and Finka! It would be definitely only exciting if the whole situation was not due to the cancer of the mum of the twins and the resulting need for hospitalization of their nanny. However, no one has time to whine and surprise. Children once or twice are packed, because they are to be dealt with by an eccentric grandfather (whom – by a spell of oblivion – they did not remember existed) who was in charge of the circus functioning on the side of the world full of magic.

Welcome to the circus!

I am a fan of Aneta Jadowska’s work, so I accept each new title with enthusiasm and curiosity. Her latest work is an adventure-fantasy novel addressed to younger audiences, in which the main role is played by an extremely resolute and enterprising duo. Twins Franek and Finka are characters that you immediately like. The girl is charismatic and inventive, the boy, in turn, perfectly complements her with greater peace and at times with a sharp tongue and an artistic soul. They are both brave and incredibly devoted at the same time. They are not afraid to take risks if the good of their loved ones is at stake. Apart from them, the novel features a full range of other interesting curiosities: grandfather maestro Baltazar Bączek, founder of the Jutrzenka circus (which he cares for with full dedication), Branwen – a witch of Asian beauty,

Purple glutes portend problems

The story is based on two main threads. The first is discovering the powers of Frank and Finnish, the second is competition between circuses. Every once in a while there is a competition which, based on the ratings of the audience (including the elves from the Summer Court), selects the best team of artists and rewards them accordingly. Unfortunately, someone decided to sabotage the preparations for this solemn event, and therefore the lives of several of the artists were in danger. The twins (as befits curious children) decide to take on the case and get to its heart. Both threads intertwine seamlessly with each other – so that also an adult is quickly drawn into the story and cheers on its participants.

Applause! Applause! Bis!

Jadowska efficiently managed to move from telling about her fantastic adult world to a form closer to younger audiences. The story takes place in the realities known to us from other stories of this writer, which is confirmed, for example, by the reference to the magic of mom of twins (she is the Green Thumb) or the mention of Branwen about a witch known to her who had a recipe for gingerbread (the text about her can be found in the collection Harde Tales ). I will not spoil exactly what powers Franek and Fink have, but I liked the one possessed by the boy very much and it reminded me of Nico di Angelo from Rick Riordan’s books (whoever read – he will easily guess what’s going on). In addition to the fantastic elements, the topics of fear of the unknown, adaptation and difficulties in communication are also discussed here. The bond between siblings and the resulting mutual support are also often emphasized. Children face not only the dark opponent, but also the fear for their sick mother, whom they cannot help despite their magic. Each of the above-mentioned elements is smoothly connected with the plot, so that the whole thing is interesting and not infantile.

I don’t want to go to Hogwarts! I want to the circus!

I will want to present such books to my daughter when she grows up a little. I believe that the adventures of these magical twins are full of not only interesting events but also good values. In addition, Magdalena Babińska once again conjured up a beautiful cover and illustrations intertwined with the content of the reading. In my opinion, the whole thing is only worth recommending – especially to younger recipients, but as you can see from my assessment, also older ones may like it!