Publication
Rotterdam Lemniscaat 1981
ISBN
9060690885 / 9789060690888
Language
Collection
Series
Description
Seventeen years after the king of Katoren dies, a boy aspires to win the crown and is tested with seven impossible tasks by six Ministers.
Subjects
User reviews
LibraryThing member mobius111
The young hero, Stach, encounters a number of societal evils (pollution, bureaucracy, medical malpractice, etc.). Each problem requires more insight, courage, and compassion from him. His journey not only takes him across the world of Katoren, but also brings him to a better understanding of people
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and places, and finally - it brings out his own inner resources. This is an excellent "Bildungsroman" - a story where the protagonist undergoes profound change. And to top it all off: the book is genuinely funny too! Caveat: a basic grasp of Dutch is a minimum requirement. (There's an English translation called: "How To Become King"). Some understanding of Dutch church culture during the 1800's, will also increase the reader's appreciation of the understated humor in one chapter. Finally: I particularly love how this book weaves the great issues of society in among the very intimate issues of personhood - in a way that is perfectly pitched for YA readers. A timeless book. Ages 10 to 110. Show Less
Awards
Gouden Griffel (Gouden — 1972)
Original publication date
1971-??-??