Three Scoops
David Hill
OneTree House
Pub. 2021

September 06, 2021

Do you like fantasy? What about historical fiction? Are you a sci-fi fan, or do you like all three genres? Do you find it hard to choose what to read next?

Why not try them all?

History, fantasy, sci-fi.  Past, present, future.  Three quite different stories set in three vastly different time periods.  One thing in common: all written by one of New Zealand’s best authors.

Sometimes, picking up a whole new novel can be too much work.  Sometimes, it is nice to just be able to dip your toes into something light, rather than take a big dive into the deep end.  But there is a definite gap in young adult literature.  It is almost impossible to find standalone story collections without ties to other novels.  Wouldn’t it be nice to find a little story or three, full of fascinating plot and exciting characters, yet short enough to read in a single sitting?

Enter Three Scoops by David Hill.

A few weeks ago, I listened to the author David Hill speak at Puke Ariki’s Festival of the Word.  I was captivated by his attitude towards writing.  During the talk, he mentioned a new release he had coming up: a collection of young adult novellas.  So, when I discovered Three Scoops was up for review, I simply had to request it.

The first piece in this collection is Coming Home; a story of true friendship through the toughest of times.  Harry and his horse Blaze are best friends.  Harry is excited to go off a fight in South Africa with Blaze, but things do not go to plan.

If you love War Horse by Michael Morpurgo or Loyal Creatures by Morris Gleitzman, you will enjoy this story.

The next novella is I Wish. This one is my personal favorite of the three.  The main character, Trent Karam, has just moved to a new flat with his mum.  He is about to start at a new school and wants the other kids to think he is cool and interesting.  Luckily, he finds something special amongst the moving boxes that might help him.

This one is perfect for fans of Harry Potter and other thrilling and funny fantasy books.

The final piece in this perfect trio is Strange Meeting.  Sophie’s dad works at a rocket company which is about to send a huge satellite into space.  But there is something strange going on.

I would recommend this book to an age range of around 8-12, but teens and adults would love it too.

All three of these fantastic stories will have you captivated until the final page. I would recommend Three Scoops to anyone who loves Harry Potter, Michael Morpurgo novels, horses, goblins, and short, snappy stories that pack a punch.  This astounding book bridges a gap in young adult literature.  A perfect read for just dipping your toes in.

• Sasha Maclean lives in New Plymouth.