couillac 's review for:

The Boundless by Kenneth Oppel

3.0

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Oppel's latest is a solid adventure story with a classic feel that's a perfect fit for middle schoolers. The world-building is effortless, blending folklore and fantasy with historical fiction, and the Boundless itself is such a fascinating and well-realized setting. As the classic boy character who has effectively run away to join the circus, Will is a realistic protagonist and relatable despite the historical setting, though perhaps a bit lacking in personality. Oppel is particularly skilled at creating suspense and a sense of breathless pursuit that moves this adventure forward quickly, drawing readers into Will's drive to survive. The circus and the train itself provide a rich and entertaining cast of secondary characters, but this is ultimately an adventure story and the focus remains squarely on Will, what he has, and who's after him. Fluidly written and action packed, it's a high-quality read for middle graders looking for plenty of excitement and a truly unique setting.