Scan barcode
tiffani_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
gino1891's review against another edition
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Reminded me of Gravity Falls but slightly darker. Loved the friendship and comradery
annalisenak97's review against another edition
4.0
If you took Percy Jackson and Harry Potter and mushed them together with an anxiously attached child, you would get both this book and Arlo Finch. This wasn't incredibly fleshed out, but the bones of the story are solid and mysterious, and the way the natural world and the Long Woods fit together is so interesting. I think it will only get more fleshed out and in depth as the series continues!
cuppycups's review against another edition
reminder to self to listen to launch, accompanying podcast recorded during writing - publication ! nerd
jacobblank's review against another edition
4.0
A refreshingly inventive magical boy story that blends modern scouting ala Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts and mixes in demi-magic.
Arlo's family is experiencing separation and discusses those issues. The father had to flee the country and regularly Skypes in. »»spoiler: Near the end, the mother is dating a new man.«« The relationships are healthy and communicative but not always on screen.
Arlo, if I'm remembering correctly, seems to have a learning disability but has his own talents.
Some of the messages and teachable moments are things like persisting through challenges in learning, having confidence, supporting your friends, navigating group social dynamics when things get tricky, and navigating normal family issues.
Some parts may read a bit scarier to adults but kids will love it and it's nothing beyond Harry Potter 1-3 levels of fright.
There magic is really enjoyable to read and the system feels fresh and clearly thought out.
This would make a great series or movie and, be cause of the author's experience with screenwriting, that may become a reality.
Pick it up for you or a younger person in your life!!
Arlo's family is experiencing separation and discusses those issues. The father had to flee the country and regularly Skypes in. »»spoiler: Near the end, the mother is dating a new man.«« The relationships are healthy and communicative but not always on screen.
Arlo, if I'm remembering correctly, seems to have a learning disability but has his own talents.
Some of the messages and teachable moments are things like persisting through challenges in learning, having confidence, supporting your friends, navigating group social dynamics when things get tricky, and navigating normal family issues.
Some parts may read a bit scarier to adults but kids will love it and it's nothing beyond Harry Potter 1-3 levels of fright.
There magic is really enjoyable to read and the system feels fresh and clearly thought out.
This would make a great series or movie and, be cause of the author's experience with screenwriting, that may become a reality.
Pick it up for you or a younger person in your life!!
smbcoffee's review against another edition
3.0
It was fine… a little slow for me. Maybe it’s not mean to be stretched among 2 months??
rachel_readsalot's review against another edition
3.0
My kids loved it. But I thought it was a little typical. Still a good story and of course we will follow the story.
graggirl's review against another edition
5.0
This middle grade fiction novel was enjoyed by all the kids in my house ages 9-14. It tells the story of a petite boy who is not exceptionally smart, or brave, or charismatic. But within lies a hero waiting to rise up. The story includes folklore and magic. Set as a scout type journey the story discusses the true themes of bravery, loyalty, and truth. I have to admit I loved this book just as much as my kids.
katieproctorbooks's review against another edition
4.0
I really liked this one, it was so much fun! Arlo is a great character, the setting is awesome, and I love the magical world aspect. I listened to this one on audio and some of the “accents” were kind of strange, so I may continue the series on paper. This is a great fantasy MG for kiddos who love Harry Potter and Percy Jackson.
justjoel's review against another edition
2.0
I received my copy of this book via Goodreads giveaway, which has no bearing on my review.
I didn't really enjoy this, but my 12-year-old nephew did. To me, it was like what would happen if Harry Potter and Percy Jackson magically produced a son and enrolled him in a scouting program.
The world-building wasn't that great and there were many more unanswered questions than satisfying resolutions.
2 out of 5 stars.
I didn't really enjoy this, but my 12-year-old nephew did. To me, it was like what would happen if Harry Potter and Percy Jackson magically produced a son and enrolled him in a scouting program.
The world-building wasn't that great and there were many more unanswered questions than satisfying resolutions.
2 out of 5 stars.