KIDDO REVIEWS: The Lost Jewels

Find out what Kiddo Book Club book reviewer Kate Younie thinks of The Lost Jewels by Kirsty Manning.

BOOK REVIEW BY KATE YOUNIE

Kate Younie shares her big & little thoughts on what to read, listen to & watch (& where to do it) on Instagram
Kate | Adelaide, AU | English & History Teacher |
@Big_Little_words

The Lost Jewels

Kirsty Manning

The Big:

A small treasure is found in an old house in Cheapside, London. How it became to be buried there is unknown. Flash forward to present day and respected jewellery historian, Kate Kirby, is given the opportunity to investigate the origin. She learns the story behind these precious gems, known as the Cheapside jewels. Her task is to write an article for a magazine with the help of renowned photographer, Marcus. They travel to London, India, Sri Lanka and Paris exploring the past and uncovering secrets. Kate learns her great- grandmother, Essie, is connected to her findings and the story becomes personal.

The Little:

The Lost Jewels, by Australian author Kirsty Manning, is inspired by a true story. A mystery, from the early 1600s, through the early 1900s to present day, which is woven intricately together. Even though the story flows through these different time periods, Manning does well to have the reader invested in the characters and their stories throughout the novel. I was particularly immersed in Essie’s story; the heartbreak, poverty and despair living in London in the 1920’s. Perfect for those who love historical fiction and those who love a story about love … and who doesn’t like that!
Rating: 3.5/5

The Lost Jewels is published by Allen & Unwin

RRP $32.99

Buy

You may also like

Oz Comic-Con returns to the Adelaide Showgrounds on 30–31 May 2026, with celebrity guest Gordon Cormier, the Kids Cosplay Parade, free gaming zones, Artist Alley and two days of pop culture fun for the whole family.
Adelaide children aged 3 to 17 who are receiving hospital care are showcasing their artwork in a free five-month exhibition at Credit Union SA's King William Street headquarters, running from 29 May to 20 October 2026.
We're giving away one Happy Kat postpartum recovery kit, valued at $84.95, to support a new mum through the fourth trimester.
Bec Morse on the social anxiety, guilt and daily confusion sparked by the Kristy, Kirsty, Kristen and Kirsten names, and whether there is any hope for the rest of us.