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3.33 AVERAGE
3.33 AVERAGE
Interesting historical fiction/mystery set in early Renaissance Italy. At times it seemed a bit stilted and heavy-handed.
A fun little murder mystery that kids can handle but still has intrigue and magic and a journey abroad. I loved the old Italian setting!
It was a very interesting book where we learn about the Italian Renaissance and the first printing machine. The main character, Fabrizio is very mysterious because we don't know anything about his life and I really enjoyed how he uses quotes of famous authors all the time.
The ending is also very unexpected and the story is quick but detailed. I recommend it absolutely!
The ending is also very unexpected and the story is quick but detailed. I recommend it absolutely!
Set in medieval times in Pergamontio Italy, there is a deadly plot to overthrow the king. But what is illusion and what is real? Fabrizio, the servant boy to Mangus the Magician, must figure it out before they both die.
Creative historical fiction on reactions to the invention of the printing press. Suited to the 8-10yo crowd.
A dim but kindhearted protagonist
Commoners idioms with some philosophical depth
Solid introduction to mystery for kids
Commoners idioms with some philosophical depth
Solid introduction to mystery for kids
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Travel back to Medieval Times when the printing press was the newest technology in the land and magic was feared. King Claudio outlaws magic and Magnus is thrown in jail. Magnus' newest servant is a mission to save him from jail and a sentence of death.
I do not read many stories set in Medieval Times, but Avi shares a wonderful tale of mystery. I particularly enjoyed the new technology that travelers brought to the city - a printing press. A great treasure was discovering that a Printer's Devil was the individual who set the type and brushed on the ink. The sticky ink would cover the worker and make him (or her) look like a devil.
Avi wrote this story in 2009, but it is a prequel to Midnight Magic written in 2004. I am interested to see where the story leads in the next book.
As far as the narrator goes...I waited too long to write this review. I would slot Woodman in the average category. Nothing dynamic stood out and I finished the audiobook, so he has an enjoyable voice.
I do not read many stories set in Medieval Times, but Avi shares a wonderful tale of mystery. I particularly enjoyed the new technology that travelers brought to the city - a printing press. A great treasure was discovering that a Printer's Devil was the individual who set the type and brushed on the ink. The sticky ink would cover the worker and make him (or her) look like a devil.
Avi wrote this story in 2009, but it is a prequel to Midnight Magic written in 2004. I am interested to see where the story leads in the next book.
As far as the narrator goes...I waited too long to write this review. I would slot Woodman in the average category. Nothing dynamic stood out and I finished the audiobook, so he has an enjoyable voice.