Quentin Blake's first ever colour illustrated book, Patrick, has been re-issued - and the story of the man with the magical violin has lost none of its vibrancy.

There are many delights to savour in this series. First and foremost, the wonderful, sardonic voice of the all-knowing and all-weary Bartimaeus

As witty and orginal as the first two books in the series, Ptolemy's Gate is fast, funny, inspired writing for children at its best

Stroud demonstrates here that what and how he writes should never be taken for granted

The return of one of my favourite ever characters . . . Completes the brilliant Bartimaeus trilogy

Jonathan Stroud goes from strength to strength . . . Dramatic tension and coruscating wit never falter