The 1,000-year-old Boy by Ross Welford

“The 1,000-year-old Boy” is a children’s novel written by Ross Welford. Published in 2018, the book tells the story of a boy named Alfie Monk who has been alive for a thousand years due to a magical curse.

Alfie Monk, the protagonist, looks like an ordinary eleven-year-old boy, but in reality, he has lived for a millennium. Due to an encounter with a Viking sorcerer named Volund, Alfie stopped aging and has remained the same age for centuries. He has witnessed significant historical events and experienced various time periods, yet he has kept his secret hidden from the world.

When Alfie’s mother dies, he finds himself alone and without a legal guardian. He is taken into foster care by a kind-hearted family, the Lotts. With the help of his new friends and foster siblings, Aidan and Roxy, Alfie starts adjusting to a more contemporary world.

As the story unfolds, Alfie becomes entangled in a quest to break the curse that has made him immortal. Together with Aidan and Roxy, he embarks on an adventure to find the mythical tree Yggdrasil, said to hold the power to undo the spell. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and meet new friends who aid them in their quest.

“The 1,000-year-old Boy” explores themes of friendship, family, loss, and the value of time. It touches upon the challenges of fitting in and finding one’s place in the world, despite being different. The novel also delves into the idea of living a long life and the perspectives it can offer.

Ross Welford’s writing style is engaging and accessible for young readers, blending humor, emotion, and adventure. The book combines elements of fantasy and historical fiction, transporting readers through different time periods while maintaining a contemporary narrative.

Overall, “The 1,000-year-old Boy” is a heartwarming and imaginative children’s novel that explores themes of identity, friendship, and the preciousness of time. It offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on what it means to live a long life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have.