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4.01 AVERAGE
4.01 AVERAGE
This is the third book by Roshani that I’ve read and I think it’s pretty safe to say that her writing and I just don’t get along, despite that though, I’m not going to dock my rating because that actually isn’t fair to the story. I knew going in that her writing wasn’t my thing.
So why did I read it? Because of the mythology!! Y’all, I loved the Hindu/Indian mythology in this. It was so much fun reading about a culture that I don’t know much about (I mean, truly what a treat) and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and see where it goes. I will say that the characters/writing were more on the side of younger middle grade and that took a minute to get used to and I think that added to my dislike of her writing style. She either writes very young or too old for the target age range (y’all can’t tell me Gilded Wolves wasn’t confusing- I have a neuroscience degree and still didn’t understand that magic system). It was such a fun throwback with the Heeleys though and that way that pop culture was in there but not overwhelmingly so was such a relief (I definitely feel like it’s common for books to be pop culture reference on top of pop culture reference). Aru very much annoyed me though, the constant lying and self importance was very off putting, and Mini annoyed me with the whole “this could kill me” thing. I really liked Boo though, give me more sassy mentor.
Like I said, I loved the introduction to Hindu/ Indian mythology and I am actually very excited to see where Aru and the others go and see how (if???) they defeat the Sleeper or if there is a happy ending for this family.
So why did I read it? Because of the mythology!! Y’all, I loved the Hindu/Indian mythology in this. It was so much fun reading about a culture that I don’t know much about (I mean, truly what a treat) and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and see where it goes. I will say that the characters/writing were more on the side of younger middle grade and that took a minute to get used to and I think that added to my dislike of her writing style. She either writes very young or too old for the target age range (y’all can’t tell me Gilded Wolves wasn’t confusing- I have a neuroscience degree and still didn’t understand that magic system). It was such a fun throwback with the Heeleys though and that way that pop culture was in there but not overwhelmingly so was such a relief (I definitely feel like it’s common for books to be pop culture reference on top of pop culture reference). Aru very much annoyed me though, the constant lying and self importance was very off putting, and Mini annoyed me with the whole “this could kill me” thing. I really liked Boo though, give me more sassy mentor.
Like I said, I loved the introduction to Hindu/ Indian mythology and I am actually very excited to see where Aru and the others go and see how (if???) they defeat the Sleeper or if there is a happy ending for this family.
I just couldn't get into this book. I couldn't connect to Aru or Mini at all, I couldn't connect to any of the characters. There isn't a lot of emotional depth to the characters or story and there isn't a whole lot of actual Hindu mythology. I've read a few books on Hindu mythology before and this seems grossly comical in comparison. I would have liked a lot more explanation on the gods and how things work because it's not something I'm familiar with.
The story feels kind of disconnected? Like they're just moving from once place to another while things happen to them? We really don't get to know any people or places at all, everything happens very fast.
Also I thought dharma was what you did in your current life and karma was from your past lives?
2/5
The story feels kind of disconnected? Like they're just moving from once place to another while things happen to them? We really don't get to know any people or places at all, everything happens very fast.
Also I thought dharma was what you did in your current life and karma was from your past lives?
2/5
Actual rating 3.5 stars
Aru Shah and the End of Time is the first Rick Riordan Presents book that I have read and I honestly throughly enjoyed it. I have read The Gilded wolves by Roshani Chokshi before and liked it so I knew I was going to enjoy this.
This book is definitely a middle grade based on the writing and pacing. Though I wish some things were elaborated more and I wish for more complexity on the writing, for the target audience I think that the writing style, pacing, and humor is perfect for them. I just think I missed the mark slightly because I am not the target audience.
However, I have read the Percy Jackson series and let me tell you that this book reminded me of the series with the humor, the adventure, the characters and just with how much fun I had reading. I am learning a lot about Indian mythology which I don't know much about and it is teaching me in such a fun way that I am enjoying learning it.
Yes I would recommend it for young children (middle school) and those who are interested in Indian mythology as well as those looking for a fun adventure story.
Aru Shah and the End of Time is the first Rick Riordan Presents book that I have read and I honestly throughly enjoyed it. I have read The Gilded wolves by Roshani Chokshi before and liked it so I knew I was going to enjoy this.
This book is definitely a middle grade based on the writing and pacing. Though I wish some things were elaborated more and I wish for more complexity on the writing, for the target audience I think that the writing style, pacing, and humor is perfect for them. I just think I missed the mark slightly because I am not the target audience.
However, I have read the Percy Jackson series and let me tell you that this book reminded me of the series with the humor, the adventure, the characters and just with how much fun I had reading. I am learning a lot about Indian mythology which I don't know much about and it is teaching me in such a fun way that I am enjoying learning it.
Yes I would recommend it for young children (middle school) and those who are interested in Indian mythology as well as those looking for a fun adventure story.
I enjoyed this modern-day reworking of Hindu tales, with girls as the latest reincarnations of the Pandeva brothers. Aru and Minnie are endearing and pretty well-fleshed out characters, although it would have been nice (despite the title) if Aru didn't have the lion's share of ideas. I also wish the ending had been shortened: the set-up for the next book was too long, diluting the thrill of the end of their quest. Finally, I worry that this series may not stand the test of time because of the pop culture references.
adventurous
inspiring
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:
No
This is a great start to a fantasy series that introduces kids to some of the Hindu gods. This is a great choice for kids who may not be ready for the Percy Jackson series.
3.5 hella jealous of the little brown girls that get to grow up with this one
I loved this book. I'm so glad I got it. Lately these mythology related stories have had me laughing so hard. This one was no exception. HILARIOUS!!! I was laughing through most of it. Can't wait to get to the next one!