Sting Of The Zygons

Review: Monster hit or a loch less than expected?

With the help of organiser (and enormous Doctor Who fan) Daniel Abbott, the Year 6 kids at Millbrook Combined School, High Wycombe tackled Stephen Cole's latest novel, Sting of the Zygons.

Here's what Asim, Cynthia, Destiny, Naomi and Neelam had to say:

What is the book about?

The Doctor and Martha arrive in the Lake District in 1909, where they find the local inhabitants hunting a monster in the nearby lake. What they actually uncover is a more sinister presence - that of the shape-shifting Zygons and their Skarasens.

What were the characters like?

Neelam: It was well written, because you couldn't tell what the intentions of the 'guest' characters were - they might be good or bad.
Cynthia: They seem to be smiling, but they may be covering up what they are. We weren't told what they were thinking and it added to the mystery of who really were Zygons.
Destiny: I liked Martha - she had attitude. The author made her seem like she did what she wanted, but sometimes she did need the Doctor's reassurance.
Asim: The main characters were well written. Their speech sounded just like the real thing, on television.

Was it exciting?

Naomi: Yes! You didn't know what was going to happen; you couldn't guess how they would solve the problems.
Asim: They used ellipsis to keep you guessing. You really wanted to find out what would happen next...(!)

What were your favourite bits?

Neelam: I liked the bit where the Zygons chased Edward off the cliff. It was really well described, especially what he did, what he saw and how he felt.
Asim: I liked the end where they were fighting; where the Doctor was winding up the Zygon.
Cynthia: The conversation - it made me feel like I was talking to the Doctor.
Naomi: Where they find the Zygons and describe them as 'mushroom-heads'!
Cynthia: Oh yes, and mine! They gave lots of description. It was very funny!
Destiny: Mine was where Martha found the Doctor for the second time. She was very edgy because she wasn't sure if he was the Doctor, or a Zygon trying to kill her.

What were your least favourite bits?

Neelam: The description of Mrs. Unswicks' breakfast. It sounded disgusting!
Cynthia: I thought there was too much description - I just wanted to get on with the exciting story.

Which age group do you think it's suitable for?

Some of the language was difficult to understand. We think slightly older people should read it.

Would you recommend it?

To those who love Doctor Who, it is a 'must' read! We gave it 9 out of 10.

Special thanks to Katharine Harper, Librarian, for all her assistance.