Mr Mumbles

Written by Barry Hutchison

Narrated by David Thorpe

Kyle’s imaginary friend from childhood is back… with a vengeance.

Kyle hasn't seen Mr Mumbles in years. And there's a good reason for that: Mr Mumbles doesn't exist.

But now Kyle's imaginary friend is back, and Kyle doesn't have time to worry about why. Only one thing matters: staying alive…

A major series from a fresh new talent, brought to you by the publisher that put horror on the map

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Release date: Jan 7, 2010
• ISBN: 9780007346066

Barry Hutchison

Barry Hutchison is an award-winning children's author and screenwriter, currently hiding up a mountain in the Highlands of Scotland. Since landing his first children's book publishing deal in 2008, Barry has toured extensively around UK schools, sharing his love of reading and stories about weeing in the kitchen sink with pupils of all ages. He has a passion for encouraging reluctant boys to pick up a book, and in 2013 was appointed as Scotland's third Patron of Reading, becoming the first man to hold the position. A lifelong fan of funny books, Barry loves making readers laugh with his unique brand of comedy. He lives with his wife, Fiona, and his children, Kyle and Mia, none of whom appreciate his jokes in the slightest.

Reviews for Mr Mumbles

[sassybrit · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Kyle has a mother who doesn't believe a word he says, a forgetful nan in a home and a father he has never seen. It's no wonder Kyle was troubled as a child and made up an imaginary friend, a father figure, to keep him company.

But when he hears scratching noises in the attic above his bedroom, and a girl around his age called Ameena later comes to his rescue, it's clear that someone from his past is out to kill him. Could it be that his invisible friend, Mr Mumbles is back and even uglier and meaner than ever? And do both his mother and nan know more than they are letting on about Kyle's past?

For a kids book I found this an enjoyable read, although I do feel that being the first in a series the meat of the story is yet to come. The idea of a world named 'The Darkest Corners' where the neglected and forgotten ghosts of the past hang out, is pretty cool and I loved the scary Keller house next door - but we only touched lightly on these and I know there must be more to look forward to. An enjoyable and scary read that will keep your kids reading under the covers all night long, and possibly scared to turn the lights out, too.

[madhousemirror · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This had me up until the wee morning transfixed on the page (ok, screen: it's only available on Kindle in the US) and I was so disappointed when all the perfect suspense and horrifically enjoyable action was done that I downloaded every other available book. I hope he gets published in the US soon so I can have hard copies. The series of Invisible Fiends is fantastic. Please note: this book is aimed at older children, but any age that likes to be scared would love this book.