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corncobwebs's review against another edition
He knew that the best way to do something dangerous was to do it right away, so he rushed around the corner.
whitneyt's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
fast-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
4.5
vanislandcircus's review against another edition
4.0
ARC provided by @hmhkids
Magic, mystery, adventure, and an endearing friendships! Gloom Town has them all!
This is the first book that I have ever read by Ronald L. Smith and I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish.
I loved the strength of Rory’s character and I feel that will resonate with so many kids today. His Mother is struggling to to make ends meet while working two jobs. Rory takes it upon himself to seek employment to help his Mother make rent.
When Rory is hired by Mr. Foxglove at Foxglove Manor, this is where the gloom of Gloom Town takes it twist!
It is up to Rory and his best friend Izzy (a fiery, fierce and loyal best friend) to save Gloom Town from what lurks in the shadows of its gloom!
This book is now released if you want to go on an adventure with Rory, Izzy and gang!
Magic, mystery, adventure, and an endearing friendships! Gloom Town has them all!
This is the first book that I have ever read by Ronald L. Smith and I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish.
I loved the strength of Rory’s character and I feel that will resonate with so many kids today. His Mother is struggling to to make ends meet while working two jobs. Rory takes it upon himself to seek employment to help his Mother make rent.
When Rory is hired by Mr. Foxglove at Foxglove Manor, this is where the gloom of Gloom Town takes it twist!
It is up to Rory and his best friend Izzy (a fiery, fierce and loyal best friend) to save Gloom Town from what lurks in the shadows of its gloom!
This book is now released if you want to go on an adventure with Rory, Izzy and gang!
mrs_eileen's review against another edition
4.0
Gloom Town is the story of Rory who gets hired at a estate surrounded in mystery and maybe even a little evil. While his best friend Izzy helps him figure out what is really going on behind the red door they don't realize there are bigger issues at hand. This story reminded me of The Night Gardener. One of the things I enjoyed most is that after the mystery is solved the story doesn't end. Without looking at the cover I wouldn't have known Rory was African American. The story mentions his skin being dark but for some reason it still didn't click. If I could change anything it would be the discussion of his race and make it more up front. Children ages 10 and up will enjoy this book.
kaylaowens0701's review against another edition
4.0
Gloom Town by Ronald L Smith was a pleasantly creepy read! I loved the story of Rory and his feisty best friend Izzy as they end up on a dangerous adventure in their small seaside town of Gloom. Friendship, family, mythology, and magic make this a must read for 10-12 year olds and anyone else who loves a good story.
michellenet's review against another edition
3.0
I read Gloom Town out loud to my kids so it took a bit to get through. My rating is 2⭐️ based on my personal enjoyment but I understand it’s geared for a much younger audience.
My 7 year old son gave it 3 ⭐️ and my 10 year old daughter gave it 4⭐️.
My 7 year old son gave it 3 ⭐️ and my 10 year old daughter gave it 4⭐️.
aprildiamond's review against another edition
4.0
The vibes were impeccable, the main characters were believable and fun, and the mystery pulled me in.
I think the book could have benefited from being a bit longer. The climax was pretty short, and everything that came after needed to be extended as well to not feel rushed.
But overall this was a solid read! I have no idea why this particular book's rating is so low compared to other books that I feel are at the same level, so I'd say this definitely deserves to be closer to 4 stars.
I think the book could have benefited from being a bit longer. The climax was pretty short, and everything that came after needed to be extended as well to not feel rushed.
But overall this was a solid read! I have no idea why this particular book's rating is so low compared to other books that I feel are at the same level, so I'd say this definitely deserves to be closer to 4 stars.
frecklefacegirl's review against another edition
4.0
Finally!!! A middle school "scary book" that's actually scary! Just the right amount. Loved it!
totally_not_a_felon's review against another edition
5.0
I thought this book was quite good. the plot was super interesting and I liked the authors writing style. my main dislikes were that the pacing felt weird, a lot slower at the beginning then very fast at the end, and I would have liked to have more background info because I found one of the best parts of this book was the side character but their backstory left a lot to wonder about. the book was around 300 pages and I really wish more went into the backstory/worldbuilding. overall I thought this was a great book that kept me interested.
tbhonest_uk's review against another edition
5.0
Magical, slightly dark and mysterious but a very suspenseful and intriguing read that keeps you turning the pages.