DownloadThe Portobello Bookshop Gift Guide 2024

Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion

A humorous adventure of courage and kindness

David MacPhail author Richard Morgan illustrator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Floris Books

Published:20th Aug '15

Should be back in stock very soon

Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion cover

In Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion, a polite young Viking faces challenges on a treacherous voyage to Scotland with a rowdy crew of adventurers.

In Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion, we meet Thorfinn, a remarkably polite young Viking who stands out in a world filled with ruthless marauders. As the son of Harald the Skull-Splitter, the village chief known for his ferocity, Thorfinn struggles to fit into the expectations of Viking life. Unlike his fellow adventurers, who thrive on chaos and conquest, Thorfinn prefers to keep the peace and help out with chores, such as washing the dishes. His gentle nature often puts him at odds with the more aggressive members of his crew, leading to humorous and challenging situations.

As the story unfolds, Thorfinn is thrust into a perilous journey to Scotland alongside a group of unruly adventurers who are less than thrilled to have him on board. With their penchant for mischief and a desire to prove their Viking mettle, the crew makes it clear that Thorfinn's niceness is not welcome. The voyage becomes a test of Thorfinn's character as he navigates the treacherous waters of both the sea and his companions' attitudes. Will he be able to stay true to himself while also earning the respect of his peers?

Thorfinn and the Awful Invasion is an engaging and illustrated tale that combines humor and adventure, making it an appealing read for young audiences. It cleverly contrasts the ideals of Viking bravery with the importance of kindness, creating a delightful narrative that encourages readers to embrace their individuality, even in the face of adversity.

'Thorfinn comes from a long line of ferocious, rampaging Vikings... But Thorfinn is a peace-loving, tea-drinking, jam-making thoroughly nice Viking... the first in a series by David MacPhail for newly fluent readers. The short, funny story is enhanced with illustrations by Richard Morgan.'
-- Jane Sandell, The Scotsman

'...delightful and truly funny brand new series.'
-- lovereading4kids

'A thrilling novel. The best I've read. My mum couldn't believe I read it in one day.'
-- George Daniels, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'I think this book is best for learners and children who like adventurous stories... I would give it 5 stars.'
-- Phoenix Williams, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'Thorfinn really is the nicest Viking ever!... Really great story with good humour.'
-- Tomasz Hawryszczuk, age 10, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'A slight twist on your usual Viking story, kept me on my toes.'
-- Oliver Lonsdale, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'I really really enjoyed this book. Thorfinn the napkin folder is a hero and the book is hilarious. I also liked the extras at the end of the book.'
-- Harry Gray, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'Great book for learning about Vikings!'
-- Connor Lobban, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'A really funny book, I loved this!'
-- Luke Killen, age 7, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'Funny, funny, funny...'
-- Hermione Chaytors, age 6, for lovereading4kids.co.uk

'The story cracks along at a good pace accompanied by humorous black and white drawings... This is a highly entertaining book celebrating difference that will delight newly confident readers.'
-- SLA (School Libray Association)

'Luca shares that both boys and girls would like this story and says, ''It's the humor that makes the book!'' '
-- Read Brightly

  • Short-listed for Laugh Out Loud Book Awards: 6-8 Years 2016

ISBN: 9781782501589

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 169g

136 pages