3 Reasons Why You Should Read The Strange and Unlikely Tale of Montgomery, the Mysterious Bird of Mystery by Antony Elworthy

What’s the book about?

Gramps had what they call a ‘Chequered Career’ which he insists on regaling to his sceptical grandson. He’s been a stuntman and a deep-sea diver, but his most exciting, and discombobulating, career was when he was a magician. Known as The Astounding Alfredo, and he became famous throughout the world, especially for the disappearing trick with his dove – Montgomery, The Mysterious Bird of Mystery.
Unfortunately, Montgomery is not just mysterious, but malevolent, envious and ambitious.
And Gramps and Montgomery discover that fame has a way of changing people – and places.

Expect the unexpected and believe the unbelievable in this hilarious debut novel from acclaimed animator Antony Elworthy.

Recommended for: 

Ages 8+

Three reasons to read it: 

1. Given Elworthy’s background as an animator for beloved films like Coraline and The Corpse Bride, it’s no surprise that the illustrations in The Strange and Unlikely Tale of Montgomery, the Mysterious Bird of Mystery are enchanting and vivid. Each page is adorned with whimsical artwork that brings the characters and their escapades to life. The combination of narrative and visual artistry creates a captivating experience, encouraging readers to fully immerse themselves in Gramps’s magical world and the antics of Montgomery.
2. Elworthy balances humor with heartfelt moments, ensuring that the story resonates on multiple levels. The lightheartedness of Gramps’s tales draws readers in, while the deeper themes of ambition, envy, and the true meaning of magic leave a lasting impression. This blend makes The Strange and Unlikely Tale of Montgomery not only an entertaining read but also one that encourages reflection on the real magic in life: relationships, dreams, and the adventures we embark.
3. From the very start, this book promises a wild ride through the eccentric life of Gramps, a man whose past is filled with fantastical exploits. As he regales his skeptical grandson with tales of being a stuntman, a deep-sea diver, and ultimately, a magician, readers are swept into a world where reality blurs with whimsy. Elworthy’s playful storytelling ensures that every page turn reveals something unexpected and entertaining, making it a perfect read for those who love a good adventure.

Buy a copy of The Strange and Unlikely Tale of Montgomery, the Mysterious Bird of Mystery here.

About the author:

Antony Elworthy is an illustrator, animator and children’s book author who has worked on critically acclaimed television and Oscar-winning feature film productions around the world. His most recent film credit was Lead Stop Motion Animator on Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio. He was also Lead Animator for Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs and Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie as well as Animator on Coraline and Corpse Bride. Antony lives in Christchurch, NZ, where he is Animation Director on the hit preschool TV show Kiri and Lou (starring Jemaine Clement). He is currently Director of Animation on Sauvages, a new film by Claude Barras.