But ancient artwork isn’t the only interesting thing happening on Galinios. There’s also the ancient myth of the two-headed hydra. Some people on the island are convinced it’s real and causing havoc in the waters around the island. Others believes it’s just a story and the recent strange events are just a coincidence.
Mary-Kate isn’t sure she’s ready for another mystery so soon. She barely made it out alive the last time and there’s lots to be anxious about on the island.
But sometimes you just have to step out a little bit more than you did the day before — pack your strawberry-scented notebook and glitter pens in your bag and look for the answers no one else is even searching for.
This is another brilliant instalment in this fantastic middle-grade series. Mary-Kate is such a brilliant character. She's quiet and nervous, and she doubts herself often, but she has an inner strength that shines (even when she can’t see it).
And the mystery in this book… so so good. It keeps you guessing until the end, and you really feel like you’re solving it alongside Mary-Kate — together.
Freda Chiu’s glorious black and white illustrations are divine. Sprinkled through the pages, they add something special to the story.
I adore this series by Karen Foxlee. It’s so much fun and very addictive, pulling in readers all the way through. If you know a middle-grade reader who loves mystery and adventure, I highly recommend you grab a copy of Miss Mary-Kate Martin’s Guide to Monsters: The Trouble with the Two-Headed Hydra.
And while you’re there, grab a copy of The Wrath of the Woolington Wyrm. You don’t need to have read the first to read the second, but I highly recommend that you do.
Title: Miss Mary-Kate Martin's Guide to Monsters: The Trouble with the Two-Headed Hydra
Author: Karen Foxlee
Illustrator: Freda Chiu
Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $15.99
Publication Date: 1 November 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760526634
For ages: 6 - 10
Type: Middle Grade
