Uncle Digit and the Truth About Magic is an enthralling middle-grade+ adventure fantasy (for all ages) by Jeremy Hullah. Released 4th Jan 2024, it's 323 pages and is available in ebook format. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout.
This is an almost entirely story driven tale in interconnected parts; stories within stories. The relationship between the titular protagonist and his 11 year old nephew Finn is refreshing and sweet without being saccharine.
There's a multi-generational aspect to the story, as Uncle Digit (who is a photojournalist), embarks on an expedition to the Arctic to try to solve the mystery of his own father's disappearance in the same area when he (Uncle "Digit") was a child. He relays his progress in letters back to Finn when he can.
The entire book is a story within a story, and the technique is used to good effect by the author here. It's marketed as being aimed at a 12-18 year old audience, but there are good takeaways here for all ages. There are a few instances of disturbing violence and body horror included in the book, not totally graphic, but present, and it might be a little scary for very squeamish younger readers (but probably not).
It's not explicitly foreshadowed, but it appears the book is the first of a potential series, and future adventures may be coming. The writing isn't derivative at all, but there's a wistful vibe to the story which will likely appeal to fans of Michel Guyon and T.J. Klune.
Four stars. Very nicely done. There's a distinct science fiction element to the story which was unexpected but nicely wrought.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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