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4.13 AVERAGE
4.13 AVERAGE
adventurous
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
You simply can't pitch a book as reminiscent of Tolkien and Pullman and expect me not to have high expectations, but alas, that is how this book has been marketed and I fear it has been to its disadvantage. Impossible Creatures is a fun romp. In fact, I'd like to see this story unfold in an animated film. The creatures introduced here are so magical and wonderful that it's hard not to be mesmerized by them, no small thanks to the beautiful illustrations. But as the book went on, it started to feel like we were just showing new creatures left and right without doing any actual worldbuilding. We barely get to just sit with the characters and get to know them better because they're constantly on the move. We don't get invested in who they are as individuals beyond our surface level impression of them. Overall, not necessarily a bad read, just very okay. I am intrigued where Rundell will take the story in the sequel though.
I may have bought way too many exclusive editions of this book
Instantly one of my favorites of all time. This isn't simply a children's book. It's a beautiful and heart-felt/wrenching work of art.
I will be going to buy a copy for my home library first thing in the morning.
Yes!
I will be going to buy a copy for my home library first thing in the morning.
Yes!
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Yep! It is as good as they say. This unlocked the feelings I had when first reading The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Harry Potter, and Percy Jackson, or watching shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender. There is magic on each page and wonder in each vivid description.
I am such a sucker for a middlegrade. There is something special about the simple, yet wonderous nature of the storytelling and power in each quote, imparting valuable life lessons. In this one there is a lot of commentary surrounding the underestimation of children, the strength and burden of memory, and, of course, the courage and bravery that lives in the heart of every child who refuses to turn and run from a challenge. These lessons are so important to learn at this age and I think Rundell does it in a fun and entertaining way.
Christopher and Mal were fantastic to follow and the little found-family that they gather along the way are dear to my heart. I tried picking just one favorite....but I simply can't. The myriad of magical creatures, mysterious strangers, and brave adventurers that are contained within, each offer something special to the story. They act as elements of world-building, character development, and they help to further the story. The characters are spunky, funny, and full of personality. Each is unique from the others and none are unlikable.
My only real complaint is that the pacing seems to speed up toward the end and we quickly hop from scene to scene, not giving us the opportunity to live in the moments that could have helped to build this story further,
Overall, an incredible read that has heart, humor, and adventure. Perfect for that special kid in your life or that person who wants to rediscover the magic they once held deep inside. I hope this is the beginning of a series, as I am desperate to follow Christopher as he ventures back to the Archipelago and encounters more of the magical species that reside within.
I am such a sucker for a middlegrade. There is something special about the simple, yet wonderous nature of the storytelling and power in each quote, imparting valuable life lessons. In this one there is a lot of commentary surrounding the underestimation of children, the strength and burden of memory, and, of course, the courage and bravery that lives in the heart of every child who refuses to turn and run from a challenge. These lessons are so important to learn at this age and I think Rundell does it in a fun and entertaining way.
Christopher and Mal were fantastic to follow and the little found-family that they gather along the way are dear to my heart. I tried picking just one favorite....but I simply can't. The myriad of magical creatures, mysterious strangers, and brave adventurers that are contained within, each offer something special to the story. They act as elements of world-building, character development, and they help to further the story. The characters are spunky, funny, and full of personality. Each is unique from the others and none are unlikable.
My only real complaint is that the pacing seems to speed up toward the end and we quickly hop from scene to scene, not giving us the opportunity to live in the moments that could have helped to build this story further,
Overall, an incredible read that has heart, humor, and adventure. Perfect for that special kid in your life or that person who wants to rediscover the magic they once held deep inside. I hope this is the beginning of a series, as I am desperate to follow Christopher as he ventures back to the Archipelago and encounters more of the magical species that reside within.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Loveable characters:
Yes