Adam Gidwitz

I'm amazed by this book. Here are two reasons why:

1. It's about religion, ethics, prejudice, and the nature of good and evil. It's so deep, but it's never dull. It's mind-expanding, but it's not preachy. It's a really exciting book that explores really big questions.

2. It's like a kid's version of the Canterbury Tales! What? How did Adam Gidwitz even do that? Besides introducing young readers to elements of one of the foundational works of English literature, there are a lot of other cool links to the past here. The author's notes at the end of the book are definitely worth reading.

Finally, I'll mention that there's some spectacular violence in this book. I often dislike violence in children's literature, but I think it may have served a purpose here that makes it understandable and even great fodder for discussion. The Middle Ages were a violent time, for one. So you can say violence is a realistic aspect of the historical setting. And it also complicates our heroes, particularly William. They are saints, but they are not perfect.

But this book almost is.… (mehr)

* I got this book for review of the publisher for my honest thoughts*

I thought this was a great follow up to the first book in this series. I loved the adventure in this story and also how the storyline expanded the world. I just found this to a fast pace adventure story and think younger readers will fly throughout. I think the many illustrations will also increase the joy for this series. I really loved the dynamic between the professor and the kids in this novel. I really want to keep on reading this series. It was a def a super fun adventure series with some history tossed in!… (mehr)

I listened to this audiobook and found it to be adorable. I really loved the adventure aspects and just how fun and fast pace this story was. I loved it so much. I read it so fast and just loved the characters a lot. I think younger kids will adore this book, because the kids really were the heroes in this story. I enjoyed how this book did tackle some history elements in the story telling. I def will be getting the sequel to read. This is great starter series for younger readers or even a great read aloud book as well.… (mehr)