... a work of art out of the simplest words ... -- Amanda Craig, The Times ... funny, mysterious, moving, frightening, and so deftly constructed as to be fiercely compelling. ... not beneath the attention of adult readers. -- Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times He weaves a story web, spiderlike, that holds the reader spellbound while he spins new thought-threads on universal themes -- Carousel, Autumn 2005 ... lilting prose and a seamless blending of primitive magic with discerning realism. ... elegiac lyricism of a lament for lost innocence but punctuated by moments of sharply observed humour, this adroit and perceptive novel has both immediate appeal and long-lasting resonance. -- The Guardian '... another gripping read from one of the master storytellers.' -- Books Quarterly '...this story is totally accessible...an involving and thought provoking read.' -- The Carnegie Medal Website 'Focusing on good and evil, love and desire and the supernatural, Clay transcends the limitations of some writing for children.' -- Catriona Ferguson
