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A review by ruth_rb
The Borribles Go for Broke by Michael de Larrabeiti
adventurous
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
I rate this 4.5/5.
Personally, I think this book is slightly more enjoyable than the first and makes The Borribles better in retrospect. The world feels more fleshed-out, the characters are deepened and feel more distinct, there are some great twists and reveals, and the ending is more joyful. Seeing the consequences of the first book play out was very engaging, and the theming was just as strong as it was in the first. As a character, Spiff was a particular standout.
On the other hand, I found the new adult characters lacking. Inspector Sussworth and Sergeant Hanks weren't very intimidating as villains—especially compared to Dewdrop and the Rumbles—and I felt like Ben solved some of the Borribles issues too easily. This took a bit of the tension out of some scenes. Also, like the first book, Sydney and Charlotte are still the only female characters (though I guess I could count the lady at the RSPCA, who I believe was nameless), which is so odd given we've met over twenty characters now. Having such a huge gender disparity takes me out of the book at times.
This was a great sequel and I strongly recommend it if you enjoyed the first book.
Personally, I think this book is slightly more enjoyable than the first and makes The Borribles better in retrospect. The world feels more fleshed-out, the characters are deepened and feel more distinct, there are some great twists and reveals, and the ending is more joyful. Seeing the consequences of the first book play out was very engaging, and the theming was just as strong as it was in the first. As a character, Spiff was a particular standout.
On the other hand, I found the new adult characters lacking. Inspector Sussworth and Sergeant Hanks weren't very intimidating as villains—especially compared to Dewdrop and the Rumbles—and I felt like Ben solved some of the Borribles issues too easily. This took a bit of the tension out of some scenes. Also, like the first book, Sydney and Charlotte are still the only female characters (though I guess I could count the lady at the RSPCA, who I believe was nameless), which is so odd given we've met over twenty characters now. Having such a huge gender disparity takes me out of the book at times.
This was a great sequel and I strongly recommend it if you enjoyed the first book.