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The Ice Monster

By David Walliams

Orphan Elsie’s frozen mammoth leads her from London into a mystery at the icy ends of Earth.

exciting humorous heartwarming adventurous

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.83

From 36 readers

What do our readers think of The Ice Monster? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the funny, adventurous story and often like Elsie's bravery, the mammoth and Dotty's silly humour. Some children find the fart and poo jokes too frequent, and a few think the story feels predictable.

Genres

Adventure Humour Historical Fiction

What is The Ice Monster about?

In Victorian London, ten-year-old orphan Elsie discovers a frozen woolly mammoth from the North Pole. Determined to learn more, she embarks on a thrilling adventure that takes her from the bustling streets of London to the icy Arctic, forming an extraordinary friendship along the way.

About the author

David Walliams is a much-loved British author best known for his funny and imaginative books for children, such as 'Gangsta Granny' and 'The World's Worst Children.' His stories are filled with adventure, humour, and unforgettable characters, making reading fun for everyone. David is also known for entertaining families on television.

Discussion ideas around The Ice Monster

Elsie's courage: Elsie faces danger and uncertainty but keeps going. What makes her brave, and when does her courage help or cause problems?

An extraordinary friendship: Why do Elsie and the mammoth form such a strong bond, even though they are so different?

Home and belonging: Elsie has experienced loneliness and rejection. What does the story suggest makes a place or a group feel like home?

Victorian London: How does the setting of Victorian London shape Elsie's adventure, and what might surprise a child living there today?

Real monsters: The title makes the mammoth sound frightening. What makes someone or something seem like a monster, and can appearances be misleading?

Pages

496 pages

Reading age

Junior (8-13)

This edition

2020

First published

2018

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