Hattori Hachi: Stalking the Enemy by Jane Prowse
Published by Piccadilly Press
Review by Hollymay Gladwin
Hattie’s complicated Ninjutsu life is once again turned upside down in this wonderful second book, Stalking The Enemy.
With a new villain on the scene called Raven, Hattie is called to Kielder to find out what he is planning and why. Along the way she discovers a world of secrets and legends and also the truth about the people around her. On top of all that, she has to fight the evil Kataki.
The language of this novel is modern and quite easy to read, making it suitable for a range of reading abilities. Also it is easy to imagine what is going on, particularly the scenery and the amazing Ninja fights that happen throughout the book!
Jane Prowse has an excellent imagination and has incorporated her knowledge of modern teenage life into her novel effectively, making it possible for teenagers to connect with the book.
The three main characters, Neena, Mad Dog and Hattie, have different personalities and backgrounds, creating a wonderful friendship full of trust and loyalty.
For those who have not read the first book, you will definitely like this trio! What I liked especially about this book was the use of Japanese Ninjutsu terms and a short explanation of what they are. I thought that this was a very good and effective technique as the reader is learning something new as they read the story.
Boys should not be put off by the main character being a girl; this delightful book is full of Ninja action and packed with clever surprises that will hook anyone who reads it! Overall, Hattori Hachi: Stalking the Enemy is definitely well worth reading!