Clementine Florentine

Now, this is not my usual genre to read and I don’t have much to compare it to, but suffice it to say that based on reading enjoyment alone, it deserves 5+ stars.

This book had me lol’ing and has already inspired my 7-year old to pick up his pens to write his own Clementine-inspired story.

In a reversal of the parent trap, Clementine and her arch-nemesis Callum are trying to break up her dad and his mom, who have just begun to date each other.

With a fabulous cast of intriguing and hilarious characters, Clementine gets up to all kinds of hilarious mischief in an attempt to avoid becoming Gollum’s (aka Callum’s) step-sister.

This story has everything to keep young readers engaged: a fast-moving plot, hilarious (and sometimes yucky) story-lines, inspiring kids and adults alike, and fabulous illustrations. If you got a young reader in your family, I can highly recommend Clementine Florentine!!!

Clem, a cheeky, bright, and witty poet who is excited to start Year 6 with her best friend Rom, is sure to be a favourite fictional character for young readers. Clem’s vibrant personality made me laugh throughout, especially with her use of phrases such as “What the bonkers conkers from Honkers". It is both her comedic character and the mischievous plotting with her poetic rival, Callum, that will keep you hooked all the way through this book. Clem and Callum go as far as settling their many differences to ensure the end of something as serious as their parent’s budding relationship, yet they go about it in a brilliantly sneaky and playful manner.
I also loved how Clem’s friendship develops with former punk legend, Lyn, and her pet parrot, Viv. You can learn a lot from Lyn’s life lessons and advice!
In a nutshell, this is such a fun and light-hearted read. A tonic for children and even their parents - giggles guaranteed!

Really fun read, I loved it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book.

I fell in love with Clem and her story from the opening lines! She’s such a fun and engaging character and an absolute pleasure to read about. Clementine Florentine is packed full of fantastic characters, a fast-paced plot and lots of hilarious scenes. Very rarely do I laugh out loud like I did with Clementine!

I love the friendship and dynamic between Clem and punk rock legend, Lyn Ferno and pet parrot, Viv. There are some really touching moments alongside the humour, and life lessons for everyone to take away.

Reminiscent of stories such as Tom Gates and the humour of Louise Rennison’s Georgia Nicolson, but for a younger readership!

Friendships, family and mayhem in this humorous story that I highly recommend for a light-hearted and fun read for children and adults alike. I hope there will be many more of Clem’s stories to come!