Entries Categorized as 'Adventure'

Taran Wanderer

Our rating: ****

The tale of Taran’s search to find his identity. A quest that leads him once again to the Marshes the Morva and finally to the Mirror of Llunet. On his way, Taran passes through many dangers, the evil wizard Morda and a band of mercenaries, ultimately finding the knowledge of who he really is.

This book is very interesting. There’s not as much sword-swinging going on as in some of the other books in the Prydain Chronicles, but don’t be deterred by that! There are enemies, captures, escapes, an evil wizard…(audience gasps). Eilonwy is only mentioned in this book, good old Doli’s back, along with Fflewddur Flam and his huge wildcat, Llyan. To sum up, please read this one!

The Angel’s Command

Our rating: *****

Brain Jacques continues the saga of Castaways of the Flying Dutchman in this stirring sequel. Going back to three years after they escape from the Flying Dutchman, Ben and Ned end up in a Spanish city, and go back to sea with a pirate captain, who plans to reform when he gets back to his hometown. The adventure that follows includes fast-paced sea chases, shipwrecks, and a mysterious tribe of evildoers.

Even more hauntingly vivid than Castaways of the Flying Dutchman, this one is a favorite of mine. Portions are funny, and others are sad. A page turner, with a lot of edge of your seat action, The Angel’s Command should be read by all Redwall fans.

The Wildest Horse Race in the World

Our rating: ****½

When Uncle Marco, the umbrella man, arrives in the small town of Monticello with stories of the Palio, the great race held in Siena, Giorgio, a young boy, dreams of one day riding in that race. Life is difficult for him, and he struggles to keep his wish in sight. One day, he is chosen to care for a half-arabian mare that has been injured and he believes that this is the horse with which he can fulfill his dream.

I wasn’t expecting much, but this has to be one of the best Marguerite Henry’s that I’ve read. The plot is very interesting and the characters are well developed. I really enjoyed it. As a note, this was originally published under the title of Gaudenzia, Pride of the Palio. After I finished reading Wildest Horse Race, I worked my way through Inter-Library Loans to find Gaudenzia. Imagine my surprise on opening it and experiencing a major déjá vu!

The Door in the Wall

Our rating: ****

In this medieval story, young Robin falls ill and loses the power of moving both his legs. With his father in the army and his mother called to serve the queen, he is left alone with a few servants. Then, when the servants catch the Plague, Brother Luke comes and takes Robin to the hospice, where Robin learns useful skills, while at the same time learning patience. Sir Peter summons Robin to the castle, so Robin, Brother Luke and John-in-the-Wynd set out. After having several adventures, they arrive at the castle and Robin finds his “door in the wall” when the castle is besieged by a Welsh army.

Pretty good book! You can learn more about medieval times and also have adventure along the way!

Castaways of the Flying Dutchman

Our rating: *****

A boy, unable to speak since birth, while fleeing from his tormentors, hides onboard a ship, not knowing that it will sail at dawn. He is taken as a galley boy and for months is witness to the greed and cruelty of the entire crew. His only friend is a black labrador. At last, when the Flying Dutchman reaches the dreaded Cape Horn in the worst of midwinter, all of Captain Vanderdecken’s wickedness brings the curse of the Lord upon him and all aboard—dooming them to sail the waters of the world for eternity. But because of the boy and the dog’s innocence of heart, they are granted life, boundless youth, understanding, and the ability to communicate. They are destined to roam the world forever, giving aid and comfort wherever it’s needed. Ben and Ned set out on their eternal journey, and their travels lead them to Chapelvale, a small town in England whose very existence is at stake. There are clues to be solved, but time is running out.

Brian Jacques took an existing legend about “a ship that was doomed to sail the world forever” and made that the basis for this wonderful book. He gives new meaning to the legend and the emotional impact is unforgettable. It makes for a very fascinating story, and there’s also a good balance. I mean, despite the intensity of the first part, the majority of the book is about the village and the adventures there.
Written on the side between Redwall books,Castaways of the Flying Dutchman also has a sequel: The Angel’s Command. And more recently, a third book: Voyage of Slaves.