Phoenix

An exciting and involved space adventure which engages with big themes . . . Atmospheric illustrations are a bonus.

Peters Books

Incredible . . . If sci-fi is your thing then Phoenix is a must-read, if sci-fi isn’t your thing then Phoenix is a should-read, trust me!

Raimy, Readaraptor

A big (and big-hearted) story . . . Said’s child-centred, inclusive text and McKean’s gorgeous images combine to produce a story that will encourage young imaginations to take flight. The final sequence, in particular, is both stunning and uplifting.

Linda Buckley-Archer, Guardian

An action-packed adventure that will appeal to both boys and girls.

Linda Buckley-Archer, Guardian

Lucky is a great super hero for kids, someone who puts others first . . . The illustrations by Dave McKean were very inspirational . . . I give this book 10/10!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Louis, HomeForBookwormsLikeMe

Completely absorbing . . . The book is beautiful - lavishly illustrated by Dave McKean, with words and pictures working seamlessly together.

Julia Eccleshare, Guardian

This book kept catching my eye in bookstores . . . The writing, as well as the illustrations, bring the story to life beautifully. . . Lucky is unforgettable.

Books and Writers JNR

There were some genius twists that kept me guessing at the ending. There’s no way I could have ever predicted the last chapters. They were heartbreaking, yet hopeful, and so beautiful . . . HIGHLY recommended for any sci-fi fans, fantasy fans, out there - and also anybody who wants a new favourite book.

Books and Writers JNR

This is fabulous, high-octane stuff, with an uplifting ending, stunningly illustrated by the brilliant McKean

Sally Morris, Daily Mail

Like the brightest light from the furthest star, this book is a creation to behold . . . It is a breathtaking epic space adventure that will have you gripped

Vincent Ripley, Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books

Brilliant . . . a total pageturner. . . gloriously produced

Jacqueline Wilson

A rip-roaring plot . . . awe-inspiring artwork.

The Book Bag

Said is bold enough to know that sometimes, things can get scary, and young readers need that . . . [The illustration] uses the vastness and emptiness of space as a tool, filling this negative space with the movement of lines that enhance the vastness, and both the fear and joy that comes with being alone in it . . . A beautiful and awesome mythology, . . A remarkable adventure story for any age.

Dork Shelf

An extraordinary tale of science-fiction, adventure, love and war . . . Phoenix is a remarkable novel, uniting Said’s incredible storytelling with wonderful illustrations that bring to life an entire universe of creativity and imagination. Full of suspense, intrigue, action, emotion and more, this is a fantastic read which must surely be set for great things.

Booktrust

Breathlessly paced . . . A powerful story of great scope and ambition, from an expert storyteller. And with these gorgeously deep black-and-white illustrations, the great McKean is on absolutely top form here.

Daniel Hahn, The Independent on Sunday

Fierily poetic on a galactic scale, Lucky's search for his father, against a background of interplanetary peril, is totally transporting - as are the illustrations.

Imogen Russell Williams, The Metro

It is layered with depth and meaning right from the get go . . . These multilayered themes and ideas, reinforced by strong characterisation, make this book shine . . . The result is a touching, meaningful story for children and adults alike.

Barbara Melville, Interzone issue 249