The Strange and Unlikely Tale of Montgomery, the Mysterious Bird of Mystery

Montgomery is indeed a bird with a bitter disposition. Elworthy's humorous tale has the cozy feel of an evening spent listening to a grandparent telling a life story, right down to the distracting side tracks and interruptions. Gramps - better known as The Astounding Alfredo - is the star of the story and tells an unbelievable tale filled with the quirks of a very full life.

The elaborate illustrations add charm to the narrative and the story is rich with detail. This book is an easy read, separated into bite-sized chapters that are easy for young kids to digest. The plot is entertaining and imaginative and the range of vocabulary is sure to enrich every reader.

Elworthy's ability to combine humour with the bizarre is perfectly displayed in this story and readers will find themselves compelled to reach the end of Gramps' story with all of its twists and turns. The tale is brimming with the razzle-dazzle of the magic biz and at the novel's conclusion, readers will be left wanting to hear more of Gramps' eccentric life.

This story delivers exactly what the title promises - a strange, yet unlikely tale of a bird whose mysterious ways cause a whole world of commotion.