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A review by jlewis
Stig of the Dump by Clive King
adventurous
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
This book was a school staple in my childhood, although I don’t think I ever read it, which is why I wanted to remedy that deficiency. It didn’t do a great deal for me, sadly. I liked the idea, but it leaves a lot of unanswered questions. Why is a single “cave man” still surviving today? Why does no one know about him? How do we understand his ability to exist across different time zones?
It is a bit dated in many ways - the children’s party and the attitude to fox hunting stand out. And, of course, the freedom Barney has to explore and play in the local area, not to mention carrying a box of matches! The best bit is the time slip into the Stone Age period and erecting standing stones. It reminded me a little of The Dark is Rising.
I don’t think the book would have grabbed my attention much more as a child. I read voraciously and still enjoy a range of children’s books, including some that I have read for the first time as an adult. But I’m glad I’ve finally read it, as now I don’t need to wonder any more if I have missed out!
It is a bit dated in many ways - the children’s party and the attitude to fox hunting stand out. And, of course, the freedom Barney has to explore and play in the local area, not to mention carrying a box of matches! The best bit is the time slip into the Stone Age period and erecting standing stones. It reminded me a little of The Dark is Rising.
I don’t think the book would have grabbed my attention much more as a child. I read voraciously and still enjoy a range of children’s books, including some that I have read for the first time as an adult. But I’m glad I’ve finally read it, as now I don’t need to wonder any more if I have missed out!