Life in a small town can be pretty boring when everyone avoids you like the plague. But after their father unwittingly sends them to stay with an aunt who’s away on holiday, the Hardscrabble children take off on an adventure that begins in the seedy streets of London and ends in a peculiar sea village where, according to legend, a monstrous half-beast boy roams the woods. . .
In this wickedly dark, unusual, and compelling novel, Ellen Potter masterfully tells the tale of one deliciously strange family and a secret that changes everything.
My Review:
The Kneebone Boy is about acceptance. Potter creates an engaging story filled with adventure while unraveling the story of a traumatic event. It wasn’t depressing, nor did Potter create an imaginary world for the children. They simply go on a journey that allows them to discover the truth.
This book was not predictable. Even though there were hints throughout the novel, I didn’t pick up on them until they were pointed out by Max. I had to reread sections to see the subtle foreshadowing.
As the story progressed, I kept looking back at the cover. The children looked exactly as described by the author. Chapter 6 introduces Chester the cat. Look at him carefully. There is also the dilapidated building in the background as well as the mysterious person in the tree. What a fantastic cover.
AND there is a castle folly with a secret passage. Potter finds fantasy and adventure in everyday life. There is a reasonable explanation to every mystical occurrence. I like that. Not all children’s books must be purely realistic or purely fantastical. The Kneebone Boy was a perfect blend of the two.
The Bottom Line:
If you are looking for light read, this is not for you. This quirky, thought provoking book will stay with readers long after the ending. Don’t give up on it; it is definitely worth the read. Did I mention the folly? 4/5
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