River Boy

Tim Bowler's award-winning and breathtaking book River Boy is now available in this stunning new edition with cover artwork by Tom Clohosy Cole and an introduction by award-winning writer, David Almond.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Grandpa is on his deathbed, his once-strong hands now barely able to move. Despite his physical limitations, he remains stubbornly defiant, refusing to stay in the hospital. His sole focus is on completing his final painting, "River Boy." Jess, his granddaughter, is initially perplexed by his refusal to let go. However, as she delves deeper into the mysterious painting, she too becomes entangled in its captivating story.

One day, while exploring the riverbank where Grandpa has been working on his painting, Jess meets the river boy himself. The boy, who appears to be a young boy with a mischievous glint in his eye, introduces himself as the guardian of the river. He tells Jess that the painting holds a powerful secret, one that could bring great danger to the river and its inhabitants.

Determined to help her grandfather and protect the river, Jess sets out on a mission to uncover the secret of the painting. She discovers that the painting is a depiction of a boy who had a deep connection with the river and its creatures. However, the boy's connection with the river was not without its challenges.

As Jess continues to delve deeper into the painting, she learns that the boy had a tragic accident that led to his disappearance. The river boy's spirit is trapped within the painting, desperately trying to communicate with the outside world. Jess must find a way to break the curse and bring the river boy back to life before it's too late.

With the help of her grandfather and the river boy, Jess embarks on a perilous journey through the river and its surrounding countryside. They face many challenges, including treacherous terrain, dangerous creatures, and even their own doubts and fears. But Jess is determined to succeed, and she uses her own courage and ingenuity to overcome each obstacle.

In the end, Jess is able to break the curse and bring the river boy back to life. The river is once again safe, and the boy is reunited with his family. Jess is hailed as a hero, and her grandfather is grateful for her determination and bravery.

This incredible story of courage, determination, and the power of love and friendship will captivate readers of all ages. Tim Bowler's writing is masterful, and the illustrations by Tom Clohosy Cole are stunning. "River Boy" is a timeless masterpiece that will be cherished for generations to come.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192769602