Martin Brown writes as cleverly as he draws. Nell and the Cave Bear is a charming story, full of adventures, humour, and friendship. We loved it! * Philip Reeve & Sarah McIntyre *
The illustrator of the Horrible Histories series has turned his hand to writing too - and with the bonus of lovely pictures - in this heart-warming large-font tale about a little girl and her pet cave bear who go on an incredible adventure down the mountain. Nell's runaway mission is in order to save her bear from being given away by her tribe, and in the journey that ensues the friends overcome trials and danger in order to stay together. * Absolutely Education *
This will be fun for Horrible Histories fans, and those who enjoy humour with fanciful history. * Books For Keeps *
Martin Brown is best-known for illustrating the Horrible Histories series, but Nell and the Cave Bear is his first fiction story. Following the adventures of Nell and her pet bear, the book's gentle humour will tickle any reader. With its core message of friendship and bravery, it is also a charming and comforting read. * The Scotsman *
Nell's exciting story is fast-paced but simply told, without unnecessary details or distractions. Mounting threat is present in the form of a band of wild hunters stalking Cave Bear for his skin, while comic relief is provided by a group from Nell's own tribe, who are attempting to hunt a herd of woolly mammoths without much success. Illustrated throughout in shades of blue, the pictures add character and gentle humour to a story which is ideal for newly independent readers. * Book Trust *
From truly horrible histories to a truly heartwarming adventure... renowned illustrator Martin Brown delights with his adorable young fiction debut. Nell and the Cave Bear has all the right ingredients for early readers... an exciting, easy-to-follow adventure full of new friendships, fun escapades, gentle humour, diverse animal and human characters, and all beautifully brought to life by Brown's exquisite two-tone artwork. A moving tale of togetherness with a message for the modern world... * Lancaster Guardian *
Martin Brown's Nell and The Cave Bear is an altogether lighter, brighter affair. Set in prehistoric times, it follows a girl from a cave-dwelling clan and her pet bear club who go off to explore a stream while the rest of the tribe are busy hunting mammoths. Adventure ensues, as their journey takes them into the clutches of a rival clan and onwards to the sea. Brown is best known as the illustrator of the Horrible Histories series and in this, his debut novel, his writing shows a clarity and good natured-ness to match his cartooning. * The Financial Times *
