Published: 2025
Author: JLP Higgins
Genres: Fantasy, Magic, Adventure, Friendship, Cats, Folklore, Creatures, Magical
Audience (Grade Levels): Grades 5-8
Number of Stars: 5-Stars
Goodreads Link: The Truth About Snurdles
Triggers: None
Review By: Heather Turner
Publisher’s Summary
A fantastical adventure set deep in the bowels of the Earth in another world, the world of the ancient and long-lived Snurdles, the magical Norwegian Forest Cats, fearsome fire spiders and the six-legged Alogosei.
Driven into the wilderness of the high Himalayas by humans, the Snurdles are sought out by King Machitis of Atlantis and taken to that fabled isle to utilise their abilities. Barely escaping Atlantis sinking into the ocean, they undertake an epic and dangerous journey across the sea and Antarctica where they almost perish, until they find an entrance to their hidden world. Since that ancient time the Snurdles have secretly helped humanity with their love and intelligence, trying to save our world so that theirs survives too. They search for children with the potential to save it, all the while preserving literature, art, knowledge and culture in their vast caverns underground. This is a story for all children who worry about the future. There is no need. They are never far from a Snurdle.
Review
The Truth About Snurdles is one of those books that reminds you why middle grade fantasy is so much fun. At its heart, it is an adventure story about three friends who stumble into a hidden world beneath our feet, but it is also filled with imaginative creatures, secret histories, and the idea that ordinary kids can make an extraordinary difference. It is the kind of story that invites readers to wonder, “What if?” and then takes that idea as far as it can go.
What really stood out to me was the world-building. The Snurdles are wonderfully original, and the underground civilization they have created is packed with fascinating details. From magical Norwegian Forest Cats and fearsome fire spiders to sprawling hidden cities and priceless historical treasures, there is always something new waiting around the next corner. Every chapter seemed to introduce another piece of this hidden world, and I found myself wanting to know even more about its history and the creatures that inhabit it.
I also appreciated that the fantasy is balanced with themes that feel very relevant to today’s readers. The story touches on environmental stewardship, preserving history, friendship, and hope for the future. It even explores ideas like renewable energy and caring for our planet, but it does so through the lens of an exciting adventure rather than a lesson. Young readers will come away with plenty to think about without ever feeling like they are being preached to.
The three main characters are easy to root for, and I enjoyed watching them work together as they uncovered the Snurdles’ secrets. Their curiosity and willingness to help made them believable middle grade protagonists, and I think readers will enjoy imagining themselves right alongside them on the adventure.
This is the kind of book that would appeal to readers who enjoy hidden worlds and imaginative adventures like The City of Ember, Gregor the Overlander, or even The Secret of Platform 13. There is plenty of mystery to keep the pages turning, and the sense of wonder never really lets up.
I could easily see this becoming a favorite for readers who enjoy fantasy but also appreciate stories grounded in friendship and hope. If your readers love memorable creatures, secret civilizations, and stories where ordinary kids discover extraordinary worlds, The Truth About Snurdles is definitely worth adding to your list. I know I will be keeping an eye out for more adventures with the Snurdles in the future.
Classroom & Curricular Connections
- Science / Environmental Studies: The narrative highlights themes of environmental stewardship, renewable energy, and conscious caretaking of the planet, providing a natural connection to earth science, conservation units, and sustainability lessons.
- Social Studies / History: With elements tracking historical preservation, ancient secrets, and lost cities like Atlantis, the text serves as an excellent companion for discussions regarding cultural heritage, archeology, and folklore.
- SEL (Social-Emotional Learning): Centering on themes of hope for the future and relieving anxiety about global issues, the book offers strong support for managing anxiety and fostering teamwork and proactive problem-solving among young adolescents.
Readalikes
- George Glass & the Khaos Theory by Brett N Holmes
- The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
- Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins
