As a sample, this didn't really hook me, despite all of the excitement it tried to pack in, the sample was mostly exposition, without really offering much to latch on to, in terms of world-building or plot. the book tries to instil a sense of excitement by the reactions of Christopher and his Grandfather, but a lot of information is dumped on the reader in a way that doesn't really make the world or the characters' reactions feel real or appropriate, or at least for me personally. I felt like the author knew momentous life-changing events on an epic scale were about to happen, lives altered etc. and the characters reacted to that knowledge not to what was actually happening. I'd be interested to read more to see where it goes, but probably wouldn't hurry to seek out or buy the rest of the book based on what I've read so far.

Loved this action-packed sample and Katherine Rundell's expert use of language to draw the reader in. The sample started on an exhilarating high with the stampede and Christopher leaping into the water to rescue a strange creature from the lake. The links to mythology had me hooked from the start. A great set up for the ensuing adventure as Guardian of Archipelago. His meeting with the so far unnamed girl left me wanting more. Fantastic cliff-hanger.

Absolutely hooked - I can't wait to read the full book.
Who doesn't love a story filled with magic!

Wow! What an introduction to whet my appetite for Impossible Creatures. I absolutely cannot wait to read more of this incredible fantasy based on creatures of myth.
Christopher is out walking his dog when the ground begins to shake. Fearing an earthquake, he is shocked to see a huge green, scaled horse galloping towards him, followed by a stampede of other mythological creatures. Hearing a cry, he rescues a young creature which is drowning in the lake at the top of the hill. He is in awe of the creature – a griffin – and vows to protect it.
Imagine his shock when he discovers that his grandfather is aware of the existence of these creatures. In fact, he is the guardian of the way between the human world and the last surviving magic place: the Archipelago where creatures of myth live amongst humans. And this magical place is in trouble!
When Christopher attempts to send the young griffin home, he is attacked by a fierce creature, but is helped by a young girl who is looking for the griffin - and needs his help …
After reading this gripping extract, how could I not now be desperate to read more? I’m so looking forward to adventuring into a new world with Christopher and Mal; I just know its going to be a magical, exciting adventure!

Master storyteller, Katherine Rundell, writes with such grace and style. Any of her books are immediate must-reads and I have never been disappointed. Largely, I am left bereft that her book has ended.
With just a sample of Impossible Creatures, I am hooked and ready to continue the adventure with Christopher, his guardian grandfather and this new girl who has appeared. I love mythical creatures and know this book will leave me wanting to research more of them.
It would be amazing for this to be a series or to have the Guardian’s Bestiary as a follow up book.
This sounds exciting, adventurous and full of of heart!

I have read Katherine Rundell's works before and have been impressed by her brilliant writing style and captivating storytelling. The brief summary of the book has already left me excited and wanting more. If the sampler of the book is anything to go by, then Impossible Creatures is sure to be another outstanding addition to Rundell's already impressive repertoire. I cannot wait to read the rest of the book when it is released and am confident that it will not disappoint.