Escape the Rooms

In Escape the Rooms, two children navigate through a series of puzzles and traps to find their way home while dealing with loss and overcoming fears. The book has received praise for its cleverness, humor, and illustrations, comparing it to Alice in Wonderland and The Crystal Maze.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 10 June 2021
Publisher: Scholastic

Escape the Rooms is a captivating book that has been likened to a blend of Alice in Wonderland and The Crystal Maze, achieving a perfect balance between classic and modern elements. Written by Graham Norton and illustrated by Anita Mangan, this high-energy adventure story follows the journey of Jack and Cally as they find themselves plunged into a mysterious world of puzzles and traps.

As Jack bungee-jumps at a fairground, he has no idea that he is about to embark on a mind-bending adventure that will take him through a series of bizarre and wondrous rooms. Along the way, he encounters a mysterious girl named Cally, who becomes his ally in the quest to find their way home.

What follows is a hilarious and heart-pounding journey filled with puzzles, traps, and unexpected obstacles. From murderous polar bears to hundreds of tiny yet ferocious lions, Jack and Cally must use their wits and teamwork to overcome each challenge. The story is also a poignant exploration of loss and grief, as the children navigate their way through the rooms while dealing with the recent loss of their parents.

What sets Escape the Rooms apart is its brilliant and clever storytelling. Graham Norton's witty dialogue and the vivid descriptions of the rooms bring the story to life, making it an engaging and immersive experience for readers of all ages. Anita Mangan's illustrations, with their bold colors and cartoonish style, perfectly complement the tone of the book, adding an extra layer of excitement and humor to the adventure.

The book has received widespread praise from critics and readers alike. Good Housekeeping describes it as a "brilliant, clever, kind of genius book," while Virgin Radio praises it as a "high-energy, laugh-out-loud, fully illustrated adventure story." The Guardian praises it as a "beautiful and exciting adventure that ignites the imagination," and Edith Bowman calls it a "captivating and heartwarming tale."

In addition to its entertaining and thought-provoking qualities, Escape the Rooms is also a story about friendship, overcoming fears, and being kind to oneself. Jack and Cally's journey together teaches them valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance, and their friendship serves as a source of strength and support throughout their adventure.

Escape the Rooms is the first book in a series, and readers are eagerly anticipating the next installment. The book has already been adapted into a popular escape room game, which has become a popular attraction in cities around the world. Whether you are a fan of adventure stories, puzzles, or just looking for a fun and engaging read, Escape the Rooms is a must-read that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

In conclusion, Escape the Rooms is a brilliant and captivating book that has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. With its blend of classic and modern elements, witty storytelling, and stunning illustrations, it is a must-read for anyone who loves adventure, puzzles, and stories that explore the human condition. Whether you are a child or an adult, this book will transport you to a world of wonder and excitement, and leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781407193625