A review by thecaptainsquarters
The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare

2.0

Ahoy there me mateys! This read is long overdue. Having loved other books by this author, I always wanted to read this book but never did. Then I read a post by me matey Jackie @ deathbysundoku back in October 2017. She be on the Great Newbery quest wherein she be reading all Newbery medal winners by January 2022 when the 100th Newbery Award happens! Worthy goal indeed. I meself had embarked on this journey many years ago before adverse winds and scads of other adventures sent me off course. So Jackie’s posts have rekindled me interest in finishing them all and so periodically I pick another one up.

I have to say that this one was not the best book in me view. This be a young adult historical fiction. The story follows eighteen year old Daniel bar Jamin of Israel. Daniel wants revenge on the Romans due to the death of his father. But he is torn between duty to his family and duty to the band of outlaws determined to wrest Israel from Rome’s control.

While I enjoy the characterization of Daniel and sympathized with him, it was the pacing of the plot that made this less than fun. This story takes place over many years and the action is slow. Most of the story involves Daniel’s inner struggles. I think the problem was that I, the reader, could see the path he should take and then had to hear all the silly reasons why he didn’t. I still thought Daniel was wonderful and was rooting for him.

It was also weird to read of Jesus as a side character who has conversations with Daniel and then saves the day. I didn’t mind the religion in the book outside of that quirk. I always enjoy readin’ about different perspectives and the book’s time frame with all the changes and upheaval in religion is fascinating. I do think this be the book’s strength.

I can see why it also won an award Hate not love be the message of the day. While I think that be a worthy sentiment, I just didn’t love the execution of it. I consider it just okay. No regrets about readin’ it though. I now want to reread the sign of the beaver. Arrrr!

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