- ASIN: B0CNZT2PLJ
- Publisher: AngJon Hornibrook, a collaboration between Deirdre Tobin and Angele & Jonathan Hornibrook; 1st edition (25 Nov. 2023)
- Language: English
- Print length: 204 pages
- Genre: Irish Folklore and Myth
The BookViral Review:
A Magical Tale of Family, Belonging, and the Wonders of the Natural World
A Time for Lepralites by AngJon Hornibrook and Deirdre Tobin is a captivating novel that masterfully blends Irish folklore, family relationships, and the delicate balance between humanity and nature. Set in the picturesque Irish countryside, the story follows Adam McCarthy and his children, Katie and Clive, who rescue two peculiar little beings—Titch-Ella and Hoaby—after finding them trapped in the snow. What starts as an ordinary morning walk soon turns into a life-changing discovery, as the McCarthy family welcomes the Lepralites into their home, unlocking secrets about a hidden world that exists alongside their own.
A World Hidden in Plain Sight
The Lepralites are small, winged creatures with a rich and mysterious culture. Unlike fairies—whom Hoaby insists they are not—they have strong ties to nature, living in harmony with the land. They are watched over by crows, who act as their silent guardians, ensuring their safety from predators and other unseen threats. However, despite their ability to blend into the environment, Titch-Ella and Hoaby’s misadventure in the storm exposes them to humans, leading to an unusual friendship that challenges both worlds’ understanding of one another.
The Lepralites’ world is filled with intriguing characters and customs. One particularly touching subplot follows a Lepralite suffering from hay fever, an affliction that forces him to leave his community. The idea of being separated from one’s kind due to an unavoidable condition is heartbreaking, yet it mirrors real-world issues of displacement and adaptation. His story adds depth to the book’s exploration of change, resilience, and the sacrifices required to find a new home.
Side Adventures with the Owls and Other Mystical Elements
Beyond the central story of Titch-Ella and Hoaby integrating into the McCarthy household, the novel is filled with rich side adventures that enhance its magical charm. One such episode involves an encounter with owls—wise but formidable creatures who play a crucial role in the Lepralite world. The interactions between the Lepralites and the owls reveal a deeper mythology, where different animal species have their own rules and territories. These encounters serve as moments of both danger and revelation, reminding readers that the natural world is as unpredictable as it is beautiful.
A Tale of Family and Belonging
At its core, A Time for Lepralites is a story about family—not just in the traditional sense, but in the way we find connection, even in unexpected places. Katie quickly bonds with the Lepralites, fascinated by their culture and eager to help them. Clive, in his innocent enthusiasm, calls them “fairies” despite Hoaby’s objections, creating lighthearted moments that make their interactions feel organic and heartwarming. Adam, the ever-reliable father, ensures their safety while grappling with the larger implications of their existence.
The novel also explores what it means to belong. For the Lepralites, who are deeply tied to their traditions, the idea of coexisting with humans is both thrilling and unsettling. Through their journey, the book raises thoughtful questions: How much of our identity is shaped by where we come from? Can we truly find home in a new place, even if it means leaving behind what we’ve always known?
Final Thoughts
A Time for Lepralites is a beautifully written tale that balances humor, adventure, and heartfelt emotion. Hornibrook and Tobin have created a world that feels both fantastical and deeply rooted in reality, with characters who are as endearing as they are thought-provoking. The novel’s message about kindness, the importance of preserving nature, and the connections between all living things make it a must-read for fantasy lovers of all ages.
With its rich storytelling, engaging characters, and moments of pure magic, this book is a delightful journey into a world that feels as real as the one outside our windows. Perfect for fans of The Borrowers, The Spiderwick Chronicles, and classic Irish folklore, A Time for Lepralites is a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary discoveries happen when we least expect them.
It is a highly recommended five star read.
