Even though I don’t read Middle Grade books often, I sure know how to pick the right ones. Rooftoppers sounded like a charming read, and that’s exactly what it ended up being. Get lost in the world and adventures of rooftop orphans with Katherine Rundell’s spirited and wonderful novel.
Sophie was found as a baby floating in a cello case in the English Channel. Luckily, she was taken in by Charles. Charles’s eccentric nature is alarming to child services, despite how apparently loving he is as Sophie’s guardian. Charles’ eccentricity clearly influences Sophie, who insists on wearing trousers and writing on the walls. They’re an adorable duo, and it’s impossible not to love them immediately.
When the Welfare Agency decides that Charles is unsuitable to take care of a girl, it becomes Sophie’s mission to find her mother, who she believes is still alive. Charles goes along with her as they skip off to Paris in search of a woman they hardly know anything about, the only clue being that she plays the cello.
As Sophie gathers more clues, she’s introduced to a whole new world; one she intuitively knows is one that her mother belongs to. She meets some very interesting characters, like the rooftop orphan Matteo, and embarks on a beautiful and emotionally resonating adventure.
Sophie is such a lively young girl and following her journey was beyond pleasurable. That was very much aided by Nicola Barber’s narrating. Her voices and accents were pitch perfect, when she was playing the inquisitive Sophie or the taciturn Matteo. Barber fully embodies Rundell’s unique characters and imaginative storytelling. Barber makes the audiobook version quite special and an absolute recommendation.
I can’t say I’ve ever read a book like Rooftoppers. It’s so different, but its themes are so familiar. It tackles the orphan story, but puts a new twist on it. Sophie’s tale is illuminated by all these characters she encounters, especially Matteo. He is standoff-ish, harsh and kind of condescending, but man, do I love that kid. He had me laughing before he even said anything because I just knew what his reaction would be to Sophie’s latest inquiry. It’s kind of crazy how immediately and how well we get to know these characters; it’s a true testament to Rundell’s writing.
If you’re looking for a charming story that pretty much has it all, look no further than the roof because those who dwell high above us know adventure, bravery and heart. Rooftoppers is a fascinating and unforgettable read, a true gem waiting to be discovered by a curious and unfailing resolute reader.
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Rating: 10/10
Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell is now available wherever books and audiobooks are sold.
Book Info:
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio (September 2013)
Length: Approx. 5 hours , 50 minutes
Series: N/A
Source: Unabridged audiobook (Provided by publisher)
Genre: Middle Grade, Historical Fiction, Family
Completed: October 2013
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