I recently learned of a new author, H.W. Cumming, who was on tour with his debut novel for youngsters. I wasn’t able to participate in Cumming’s tour for the book, but I did have a chance to read the book and would like to share my thoughts on it with you.
The story is geared to be read by pre-teens. However, younger children’s attention will be captivated by the story if read to them as it also entertains those doing the reading. In addition, there are a number of beautiful drawings to enhance the story.
Life in Galray has been calm and peaceful for many years under the strong leadership of the King. To ensure the peace, the King is hoping to sign a treaty with the dragons where all can live in harmony.
The King’s three sons – twins Horace and George, along with older brother Ingle – are playing chess one night when a terrible, mysterious storm settles over the kingdom. The trio rush to the tower to see what is happening only to discover many buildings in the kingdom being destroyed by fire. They also feel a presence nearby, but see no one.
The next day they learn there was a strange substance on the rooftops that caused the fires. Their father sends them and Roland, the teenage son of a neighboring King, on a journey to find out what caused the storm and the fires.
In their search for the truth behind the mysterious storm, they uncover a plot to harm their way of live. The three brothers – ages 15 and 17 – are forced to grow up quickly in order to save their kingdom.
Cumming crafts an intriguing tale while also incorporating valuable life lessons. He combines the bonding of brothers with issues faced as we grow older, along with challenges of trust and betrayal, while blending in bits of humor. The characters are likable and the story flows quickly.
THE ADVENTURES OF HORACE, GEORGE AND INGLE is a magical tale that readers of all ages will find entertaining. The story concludes, but an opening is left for hopefully more adventures by these young men.
The Adventures of Horace, George and Ingle: The Rise of the Black Knight by H.W. Cumming., FriesenPress, @2014, ISBN: 978-1460238462, Paperback, 144 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks for stopping by today. Do you enjoy visiting the era of knights and dragons? What was your favorite magical tale from childhood?
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I would've enjoyed that book as a kid.
ReplyDeleteFavorite magical tale? Probably the Narnia books. At the time I didn't understand the faith behind the books, but it did plant a seed.
Alex, I hate to admit I have never read the Narnia books, but enjoyed the movies and can see why it planted a seed.
DeleteMason - Thanks for sharing this. As I think I've mentioned before here, I am in awe of authors who create the kinds of stories that make young people want to pick up a book and read. All credit to them!
ReplyDeleteMargot, I so agree with you on that statement.
Deletethe cover gives out an impression of a comedy genre.... but I'm guessing it is not...
ReplyDeleteDez, it is and it isn't. There is some comedy included and it's not that dark of a story.
DeleteLove the cover of this, might have to pick it up for myself!
ReplyDeletePamela, it's a charming book I think you'll enjoy.
DeleteI am always glad to hear of a new author. Thank you. I loved, and love, stories about dragons. Knights? Not as much. I was very often on the dragon's side.
ReplyDeleteElephant's Child, I think someone put this dragon up to being bad. Dragons are awesome most of the time.
DeleteThis DOES sound like a good book.
ReplyDeleteTeresa, it definitely is. Good for all ages.
DeleteSounds like a cute story.
ReplyDeleteAnn
If there's even one dragon in a story, I'm all over it. I've always found both the European and the Chinese dragons fascinating.
ReplyDelete