h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hello, long time since we swopped book talk. Just wanted to share a couple of recent reads which impressed (all in the top age end of children's reading) - the second and third Philip Reeve books, Predator's Gold and Infernal Devices - one more to come apparently. I remember you had read Mortal Engines, wondered whether you had looked at these (I though the third the least good, but still worth the effort).
The second is a real find - Michael Lawrence, again a series starting with 'A Crack in the Line'. The second I have just started. Really interesting stuff about alternative realities and no compromises to audience. Very much a thoughtful reader's book.
Last but not least, 'The Cry of the Icemark', Stuart Hill. Battles and werewolves, but with some humour, good story and made me want to push on with it. Apparently there is going to be a sequel.
Interested to know if you had come across any of these and if so . .what's the verdict?
Happy reading.

Hi steve!

Sorry it's taken so long to reply to you. As you can probably tell, I'm not around h2g2 much. Feel free to email me any time though (address on my space).

I still haven't got very far with the Philip Reeve books (lack of time rather than enthusiasm). I did see him again at a literary festival last month though, along with Diana Wynne Jones and Frank Cottrell Boyce. First time I'd seen FCB, and I thought he was very amusing and interesting to listen to. Have seen PR and DWJ previously, and they were both inspiring, as always.

I haven't read either of the other books you mention, although I have heard of Stuart Hill and picked his first book up a couple of times. I'm currently reading 'Seeker' by William Nicholson, which is highly recommended. I also saw WN last month, and was again impressed by what he had to say. If you ever get the chance to hear him speak, it is well worth it. However, truth be told, I haven't read Seeker for a couple of weeks either, as my current book of choice is 'In Search of Gandhi' by Richard Attenborough. A fascinating read, inspired by the film of the man by the man! I seem to be going through something of a non-fiction phase at present, especially where books on Gandhi are concerned. I find it incredible that such a person existed, and so short a time ago. Everything new I read about him astonishes me further.

Happy reading too, and hope to chat again soon.

Sus