A review by lastbraincell
The Secret of Platform 13 by Eva Ibbotson

4.0

So charming. We know of the identity of the Prince the moment we meet him, but never grow impatient for that moment of the big reveal, because we are willingly distracted by Ibbotson's descriptions of one magical being after the other, and start to enjoy the company of the band of unlikely Rescuers. I've seen this compared to Harry Potter, but it's not strong enough a likeness, and many fantasy books have magical portals and hidden islands. If there weren't HP I'd say this was similar to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (plain but humble and kind child vs. brats, who learns he is the heir to a wonderful kingdom), but still, not close enough. This is its own book, and though it shares many elements with others in the same genre, it's a special blend that can proudly stand alone.