> Skip to content

Article  •  15 July 2021

 

Real Readers Review: The Memory Thief

Former British children's laureate, Chris Riddell, has said The Memory Thief is "Intriguing, exciting, everything about this story captured my imagination." But what do our Puffin Ambassadors think? Read on to find out!

'To be honest I think this is the best book I’ve ever read.'

- Jake, 9, Hamilton (read Jake's full review)

 

'Do you like magical books that keep you reading and reading and you never want to stop? Well, this book, the Memory Thief by Leonie Agnew, is the perfect book for you. It is an amazing mixture of fantasy and adventure, and you will find yourself sucked into a different world, with surprises around every corner.’

- Barnaby, 11, Christchurch (read Barnaby's full review)

 

'I wished the book never ended!'

- Paige, 11, Papamoa (read Paige's full review)

 

'I completely fell in love with this book. I knew from the first word this would be one of my favourite books ever.'

- Georgia, 8, Ohope (read Georgia's full review)

 

'This book was amazing at painting a picture in my mind, the images were as clear as glass and left me excited to continue reading. In conclusion, the book was amazing and I hope the author writes a sequel.'

- Taylor, 10, Hamilton (read Taylor's full review)

 

‘The Memory Thief’ is a book that makes you wonder. I loved how it captured me and how I always felt I needed to just read and read. I could not stop to sleep, could not stop to go to school. I was always reading as I did my jobs.'

- Netanya, age 10, National Park (read Netanya's full review)

 

I can recommend this book for readers who enjoy mysteries, adventures, fantasy and stories about friendship.  I think this would be a great story for readers over the age of 7.

- Brennan, 10, Wellington (read Brennan's full review)

 

‘Something I thought Leonie Agew did really well was build suspense. It kept me hanging at the end of each chapter, and I wanted to keep reading. I could just imagine what everything looked like. I loved the book because it was exciting and Imaginative.’

- Kahlan, 10, Auckland (read Kahlan's full review)

 

'I really enjoyed reading this book because of all the excitement that was built up within it. As soon as I finished a couple chapters I couldn't stop reading it!'

- Scarlett, 11, Maungaraki (read Scarlett's full review)

 

Feature Title

The Memory Thief

A magical, award-winning novel about a girl who wants to escape her memories and a troll who is desperately trying to remember his, from the acclaimed author of Conrad Cooper's Last Stand and The Impossible Boy

Read more

More features

See all
Article
10 debut authors share where the ideas for their first novels came from

Learn about the inspiration behind debut authors’ first novels.

Article
Calling all Lottie Brooks fans!

Do you know a young reader who loves the Lottie Brooks series? We want to hear from them!

Article
Project Hail Mary giveaway!

Enter for a chance to win 1 of 10 double passes and the FTI edition of Project Hail Mary! Coming to cinemas on the 19th of March.

Article
Jacinda Ardern to appear at NZ writers festival events

Penguin Random House is delighted to announce that Jacinda Ardern will be doing three book events in New Zealand in April and May.

Article
Books for reluctant readers post-Percy Jackson

They've closed the final Percy Jackson book. Now what?

Article
The best graphic novels for reluctant readers

Graphic novels are the perfect way to get disinterested readers to pick up a book.

Article
Books to keep older kids entertained this Easter long weekend

Easter is coming up, and once the novelty of chocolate wears off, older kids still need something to sink their teeth into.

Article
NZ Booklovers Awards Shortlist 2026

See the Penguin Random House NZ books shortlisted for the 2026 NZ Booklovers Awards

Article
The best Easter activities with Bluey!

Easter fun with Bluey! Whether you're a fan of quizzes, crafts, colouring, or biscuit decorating, we've rounded up the best Easter activities so you and your little ones can celebrate Easter with their favourite, Bluey!

Article
The best hockey romance books!

So, you’ve watched a particular hockey romance series that left you wanting more? You’ve come to the right place. After all, every great series is based on an even better book.

Article
You'll Always Be My Baby

The perfect bedtime picture book gift for parents and grandparents

Article
Editor's Rave Review: Stepping Up

Cath, our Penguin NZ Children's Publisher on what makes STEPPING UP by David Hill a very special book

Looking for more articles?

See all articles