A fantasy novel set in the Merthyr area reflecting the hardship of life for local inhabitants while relating the wonderful and sad adventures of a young boy who gets himself into trouble after trouble after befriending a strange creature which appears on a local rubbish tip; for 9-13 year-old readers.

Nofel ffantasi wedi ei lleoli yn ardal Merthyr yn adlewyrchu caledi bywyd trigolion lleol wrth sôn am anturiaethau rhyfeddol a thrist bachgen ifanc sy'n ei gael ei hun mewn trafferthion mawr wedi iddo ddod yn ffrind i greadur rhyfedd sy'n ymddangos ar domen sbwriel leol; i ddarllenwyr 9-13 oed.

A Merthyr estate provides a realistic setting for the story of an imaginative, lonely boy following his discovery of ‘Barb the Cwmtaff creature’ with its harranguing metalic speech, cigarette legs and vicious blades under a tramp’s filthy, stinking mattress.

The author uses Standard English, Valleys English and invented language which work together to produce an interesting mix, and has devised an intriguing companion for one who is virtually ignored by his busy single mum and older sister, unexpectedly providing a point of contact between him and his mother’s new boyfriend.

What is it exactly? Is it a man-made device re-cycled from street rubbish, perhaps – or something altogether more fantastical? Whatever its origins, its presence enriches Marc’s life and helps him stand up to intimidation and bullying.

With a striking title and engaging main character, this book will appeal to nine to twelve year old boys in particular.

M. Lorna Herbert Egan

It is possible to use this review for promotional purposes, but the following acknowledgment should be included: A review from www.gwales.com, with the permission of the Welsh Books Council.

Gellir defnyddio’r adolygiad hwn at bwrpas hybu, ond gofynnir i chi gynnwys y gydnabyddiaeth ganlynol: Adolygiad oddi ar www.gwales.com, trwy ganiatâd Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru.