Status
Available
Call number
Series
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Collections
Publication
Alfred a Knopf (2011), Hardcover, 400 pages
Description
Kate, Michael, and Emma have passed from one orphanage to another in the ten years since their parents disappeared to protect them, but now they learn that they have special powers, a prophesied quest to find a magical book, and a fearsome enemy.
Media reviews
User reviews
LibraryThing member kraaivrouw
Urk. How to explain what I think about this book without sounding too snotty.
While the writer of this children's book has an MFA in Creative Writing, most of his prior experience is in the production of shows like The OC, Gilmore Girls, and Gossip Girls. His past experience shows as it moves along
It's being touted as the next Harry Potter and it's just not, although it may take hold depending on its publicity campaign.
It's not a bad book by any means, but it's not particularly special either. I really liked silly obnoxious kids (who behaved mostly like kids). To me there's something about the perfect precocious darlings that are in many books that makes me want to barf. These kids read like they were written by someone who has actually parented real kids. I also liked the idea of a magic book that takes you places because that's what books do - great concept.
I really hated the language. The book has a pseudo-British storytelling feel to its writing, but its set in the US (even the magical places are set up as US places). I found this element really jarring - language and setting should make sense together. Lastly, the book is terribly derivative of many other (and much better) children's books. There's nothing new here and somewhere around two-thirds of the way in I just didn't care enough to finish.
While the writer of this children's book has an MFA in Creative Writing, most of his prior experience is in the production of shows like The OC, Gilmore Girls, and Gossip Girls. His past experience shows as it moves along
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its predictable (and filmmable) path.It's being touted as the next Harry Potter and it's just not, although it may take hold depending on its publicity campaign.
It's not a bad book by any means, but it's not particularly special either. I really liked silly obnoxious kids (who behaved mostly like kids). To me there's something about the perfect precocious darlings that are in many books that makes me want to barf. These kids read like they were written by someone who has actually parented real kids. I also liked the idea of a magic book that takes you places because that's what books do - great concept.
I really hated the language. The book has a pseudo-British storytelling feel to its writing, but its set in the US (even the magical places are set up as US places). I found this element really jarring - language and setting should make sense together. Lastly, the book is terribly derivative of many other (and much better) children's books. There's nothing new here and somewhere around two-thirds of the way in I just didn't care enough to finish.
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LibraryThing member GreatImaginations
I'm not feeling very inspired to write this review. I don't know if it's because I'm just not in the mood, or because the book failed to inspire me. Here's the thing though. I don't have a lot of criticisms, but it just didn't do a whole lot for me. One of the things I look for most in books that I
The Emerald Atlas was well written however. I did really enjoy the story and the creativity behind the writing. I really enjoyed the scenes with the dwarves. It's a children's book so I don't expect the characterizations to get very deep, but I actually felt fairly connected to the characters here. Emma was my favorite by far and I enjoyed her relationship and attachment to Gabriel.
I don't usually "do" time-travel books. I had no idea this was a time-travel book before I started it. Had I known, I probably wouldn't have read it, but I still enjoyed it. I just thought that certain parts of the book were unnecessarily confusing. And if it was confusing for me as an adult, imagine how it would be for a child. Not to mention, I have a hard time suspending disbelief for time-travel plots. But that's not the author's fault. It's just a personal preference for me.
The action was great and a lot happened. I thought the book was well-paced, but the one thing I didn't care for was the voice. And I've been noticing this in a lot of middle-grade books lately. Why do the authors feel the need to talk down to their readers? Just like a lot of others this one was written with an air of "I'm much more intelligent than you, so listen to what I have to say." I really find that to be annoying. I'm sure most children wouldn't even notice it, but I do. A lot. I never felt that way with Harry Potter. Not with Fablehaven either. Just because one is a child, they do not need to be talked down to. I really dislike that and it makes a book less enjoyable for me.
I did like the action though, the setting was kind of cool, and I like where the series is going. So I will probably read the next book. It was better than most middle-grade books I have read lately. I guess I am just looking for more. It didn't wow me enough. Hopefully that will happen with the next book.
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am reading is something, anything in the writing that evokes an emotion in me. That didn't really happen here. I read for pure enjoyment; I read to get completely lost in the story. The Emerald Atlas was well written however. I did really enjoy the story and the creativity behind the writing. I really enjoyed the scenes with the dwarves. It's a children's book so I don't expect the characterizations to get very deep, but I actually felt fairly connected to the characters here. Emma was my favorite by far and I enjoyed her relationship and attachment to Gabriel.
I don't usually "do" time-travel books. I had no idea this was a time-travel book before I started it. Had I known, I probably wouldn't have read it, but I still enjoyed it. I just thought that certain parts of the book were unnecessarily confusing. And if it was confusing for me as an adult, imagine how it would be for a child. Not to mention, I have a hard time suspending disbelief for time-travel plots. But that's not the author's fault. It's just a personal preference for me.
The action was great and a lot happened. I thought the book was well-paced, but the one thing I didn't care for was the voice. And I've been noticing this in a lot of middle-grade books lately. Why do the authors feel the need to talk down to their readers? Just like a lot of others this one was written with an air of "I'm much more intelligent than you, so listen to what I have to say." I really find that to be annoying. I'm sure most children wouldn't even notice it, but I do. A lot. I never felt that way with Harry Potter. Not with Fablehaven either. Just because one is a child, they do not need to be talked down to. I really dislike that and it makes a book less enjoyable for me.
I did like the action though, the setting was kind of cool, and I like where the series is going. So I will probably read the next book. It was better than most middle-grade books I have read lately. I guess I am just looking for more. It didn't wow me enough. Hopefully that will happen with the next book.
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LibraryThing member tututhefirst
I don't read many YA books, but this one may help change my reading habits. The first of three planned for the series, it definitely got my attention. As the story opens, Kate-aged 4, Michael-aged 2, and baby Emma are summarily handed off ON CHRISTMAS EVE by their parents to the "forces of
It takes a bit for the action to kick in, but when it does, this one is a tweenie's delight. Using the magic book, they travel through time (back and forth, back and forth) and find dwarves, elves, magicians, wizards, evil Countesses, witches, hidden treasures, and become involved in adventure chases that make Indiana Jones look like a wimp. There are enough bad guys to wipe out the planet (and they almost do), and enough good guys to hopefully help the kids save the day, find their parents and get back to a normal life. As with most stories of this ilk, the biggest problem is often the difficulty of distinguishing the good guys from the bad. The well-plotted page turner keeps the reader willing to stay up late reading 'just one more chapter.'
The ending is sufficiently satisfying but certainly leaves the reader anxiously waiting for the next volume
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merciless darkness." Kate's mother whispers to her not to forget that they will return for them, and makes her promise to take care of her siblings. For ten years, the children are shuttled from one bad orphanage to even worse ones, each caretaker nastier than the previous one, and never getting any closer to finding out where their parents were, or why they were in this predicament. They didn't even know their last name, and were given the surname "P." Things are looking very bleak.......until they find the enchanted atlas.It takes a bit for the action to kick in, but when it does, this one is a tweenie's delight. Using the magic book, they travel through time (back and forth, back and forth) and find dwarves, elves, magicians, wizards, evil Countesses, witches, hidden treasures, and become involved in adventure chases that make Indiana Jones look like a wimp. There are enough bad guys to wipe out the planet (and they almost do), and enough good guys to hopefully help the kids save the day, find their parents and get back to a normal life. As with most stories of this ilk, the biggest problem is often the difficulty of distinguishing the good guys from the bad. The well-plotted page turner keeps the reader willing to stay up late reading 'just one more chapter.'
The ending is sufficiently satisfying but certainly leaves the reader anxiously waiting for the next volume
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LibraryThing member chinquapin
In this first book of a planned trilogy, three children, who may or may not be orphans, are left growing up in a series of bleak and horrible orphanages, until they are sent to live in a mysterious orphanage in Cambridge Falls which turns out to be a mansion in an isolated village on a mountain,
There are many hair-raising and exciting encounters and magic, and the book leaves you wanting to read the next in the series, I found it to be an enjoyable middle-grades fantasy book, but not really exceptional or earth-shattering either.
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and they are the only children there. It doesn't take much exploring for the children to find a portal through space and time and they are drawn into an adventure where they must save all the children of the village from an evil countess. There are many hair-raising and exciting encounters and magic, and the book leaves you wanting to read the next in the series, I found it to be an enjoyable middle-grades fantasy book, but not really exceptional or earth-shattering either.
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LibraryThing member jfoster_sf
Great first book. You'll get hooked from the first chapter....I really just loved it!
LibraryThing member ShawnRasmussen17
I really liked this book. It was pretty funny and a fun adventure to read about. I'd recommend this to fans of the Harry Potter series and The Chronicles of Narnia. The characters were likable and the story was pretty exciting.
LibraryThing member tipsister
The Emerald Atlas, by John Stephens, is a bit of fantasy and adventure with a large dose of reality. Kate, Michael, and Emma are siblings who were taken from their parents one Christmas Eve and begin a life of moving from orphanage to orphanage. Kate, the eldest is the one with the memories of her
When they end up in Cambridge Falls at an orphanage where they are the only children, strange things begin to happen. They find a book that takes them back in time and their adventure really gets going at that point. They find an evil witch, a kind wizard, an army of odd zombie like creatures, and some kind people who are willing to help them.
I did enjoy the story. The first one hundred pages or so were a bit slow going as the stage was set for the adventure. There were moments where I doubted I would have much good to say about it, but that didn't last. Once the children went back in time, the story became fun and quite intriguing. It was interesting to try to figure out the what and the why of things, how time travel worked, the history of the book, and the secret to why the children were taken from loving parents. The character were wonderful. King Hamish's tantrums made me laugh and the bravery of Gabriel nearly had me in tears. I feel that Mr. Stephens wrote a rich, interesting book and I look forward to the future sequels.
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parents and knows that they loved her very much. She and her siblings continue the hope that somehow their parents will find them or come back for them. When they end up in Cambridge Falls at an orphanage where they are the only children, strange things begin to happen. They find a book that takes them back in time and their adventure really gets going at that point. They find an evil witch, a kind wizard, an army of odd zombie like creatures, and some kind people who are willing to help them.
I did enjoy the story. The first one hundred pages or so were a bit slow going as the stage was set for the adventure. There were moments where I doubted I would have much good to say about it, but that didn't last. Once the children went back in time, the story became fun and quite intriguing. It was interesting to try to figure out the what and the why of things, how time travel worked, the history of the book, and the secret to why the children were taken from loving parents. The character were wonderful. King Hamish's tantrums made me laugh and the bravery of Gabriel nearly had me in tears. I feel that Mr. Stephens wrote a rich, interesting book and I look forward to the future sequels.
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LibraryThing member ShaEliPar
The Emerald Atlas is a middle grade fantasy novel that had me absolutely captivated by its story and characters. Although the very beginning reminded me a bit of Harry Potter, that comparison quickly faded into a remarkable adventure of its own, with brave young characters, hidden secrets and an
Kate, Michael and Emma are wonderful young protagonists because although they've been shuffled around all their lives, they haven't become jaded and instead hold on to belief that their parents love them and will one day return for them. This also gives them a uniquely tight bond, that although at times is tested, never breaks! All three also have very different personalities, Kate is the level headed one, who's brave & determined. While Michael is more of an introvert, good with facts & strategies and Emma is stubborn & impulsive.
The novel's pacing is really wonderful because although at times it moves quickly and multiple things are going on at once, it never become confusing nor did it feel rushed. I really enjoyed all the humor in the novel, since it came off very natural, especially between the siblings. Also the story got a bit dark at times, so it was a nice balance to that.
The fantasy world the children find themselves transported to, is described in such detail it feels as though I could just stubble upon it while wondering through the woods. I loved how it was beautiful yet surrounded by a feeling of dread.
The story is filled with loads of supporting characters, both good and bad (some familiar creatures, some not) that really help move the plot forward. I especially liked Gabriel since he was like a mash up of Aragorn from Lord of the Rings and Hagrid from Harry Potter. He also develops a very unique father/daughter bond with Emma that really helps develop her character and is rather important to the plot.
I loved the explanation of "The Book of Beginnings" and without spoiling anything I will just say that I wish the book had been used more. It's really hard to elaborate further, but hopefully when you read the novel for yourself you'll understand what I mean. My only other complaint is that of all three siblings the least amount of time as spent with Michael. Michale spends much of the novel alongside Kate, who is the focus of the novel, but doesn't get his own side adventure like Emma does. So while the two girls get loads to do, Michael is kept a little in the background.
Since this is the first in a trilogy, I was very pleased that this is actually explained in the novel, instead of coming to the end of the book and having it be left as some giant cliffhanger or trying to force a trilogy out of a story without much substance. Instead as the novel closes, we are left with the knowledge that the story will continue but the mystery of where it will take the children and how the plot will continue to play out.
Author John Stephen easily blends familiar fantasy elements into his own unique action packed adventure, filled with humor, suspense and three unforgettable characters. Recommended to fans of Harry Potter, C.S. Lewis, or Lemony Snicket, The Emerald Atlas is one adventure you shouldn't miss!
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action packed plot.Kate, Michael and Emma are wonderful young protagonists because although they've been shuffled around all their lives, they haven't become jaded and instead hold on to belief that their parents love them and will one day return for them. This also gives them a uniquely tight bond, that although at times is tested, never breaks! All three also have very different personalities, Kate is the level headed one, who's brave & determined. While Michael is more of an introvert, good with facts & strategies and Emma is stubborn & impulsive.
The novel's pacing is really wonderful because although at times it moves quickly and multiple things are going on at once, it never become confusing nor did it feel rushed. I really enjoyed all the humor in the novel, since it came off very natural, especially between the siblings. Also the story got a bit dark at times, so it was a nice balance to that.
The fantasy world the children find themselves transported to, is described in such detail it feels as though I could just stubble upon it while wondering through the woods. I loved how it was beautiful yet surrounded by a feeling of dread.
The story is filled with loads of supporting characters, both good and bad (some familiar creatures, some not) that really help move the plot forward. I especially liked Gabriel since he was like a mash up of Aragorn from Lord of the Rings and Hagrid from Harry Potter. He also develops a very unique father/daughter bond with Emma that really helps develop her character and is rather important to the plot.
I loved the explanation of "The Book of Beginnings" and without spoiling anything I will just say that I wish the book had been used more. It's really hard to elaborate further, but hopefully when you read the novel for yourself you'll understand what I mean. My only other complaint is that of all three siblings the least amount of time as spent with Michael. Michale spends much of the novel alongside Kate, who is the focus of the novel, but doesn't get his own side adventure like Emma does. So while the two girls get loads to do, Michael is kept a little in the background.
Since this is the first in a trilogy, I was very pleased that this is actually explained in the novel, instead of coming to the end of the book and having it be left as some giant cliffhanger or trying to force a trilogy out of a story without much substance. Instead as the novel closes, we are left with the knowledge that the story will continue but the mystery of where it will take the children and how the plot will continue to play out.
Author John Stephen easily blends familiar fantasy elements into his own unique action packed adventure, filled with humor, suspense and three unforgettable characters. Recommended to fans of Harry Potter, C.S. Lewis, or Lemony Snicket, The Emerald Atlas is one adventure you shouldn't miss!
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LibraryThing member krau0098
I got a copy of this book through the Amazon Vine program. It immediately caught my eye and the premise sounded wonderful. This is the first book in what will be a trilogy which each book focusing on a different sibling and a different Book of Beginning.
Kate, Emma, and Michael are orphans who have
As Stephens states himself he is a long time fan of Lord of the Rings and of the Chronicles of Narnia and that definitely shows in this book. You have the trio of siblings sent off to save a different world; but in this case it is the same world at a past time. Some of the baddies in this book have a feeling similar to the baddies in the Lord of the Rings. The way the whole adventures ties in with the fate of the world also has a bit of a Lord of the Rings feeling to it.
The siblings have very distinct personalities and a lot of depth to them. The characters surrounding them are equal in depth and very intriguing. You have Dr. Pym, who channels that whole old wise wizard vibe and Gabriel, who has the whole noble sort of ranger/warrior thing going on. At times the characters are a bit stereotypical, but not in a bad way. These characters greeted me to the story like warm friends that I have fond memories of, but never really got to know all that well until now.
The plot is very well done. Like any good fantasy you have a simpler plot that gets resolved in this book and then a broader plot that spans the series. There is no horrible cliffhanger, Stephens doesn't need to do that to make you want more. The broader plot in general is enough to make me really want to read the next book. The plot is both immediate and far-reaching and I love that all that range is covered. The story has a very epic feel to it at times, but never gets too complex or too impersonal. The writing style is easy to read, has wonderful action scenes, is hard to put down, and it filled with excellent description that really pull the reader in.
You might ask but how does the time travel fit in with fantasy? The answer is very well in this case. Stephens pulls it off seamlessly and even takes time to have Dr. Pym explain how all the crazy traveling back and forth was reconciled with real history etc.
Overall just an absolutely wonderful middle grade fantasy. I highly recommend this book to all fantasy fans. It is appropriate for a middle grade, or even slightly younger audience as far as content is concerned. This is one of those special middle grade fantasies that adults will enjoy too; it assumes that kids can handle a well thought out and complex plot (which of course they can!) Fans of Harry Potter, the Chronicles of Narnia, His Dark Materials, Lord of the Rings, Percy and the Olympians, and Fablehaven will find a lot here to love. I cannot wait to read the next book and see what happens next!
Kate, Emma, and Michael are orphans who have
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been shipping from one orphange to another for the last ten years or so. Well, technically they don't think they are really orphans because they know that their parents had to give them up and hide them for some reason. When they are placed in a strange orphange in Cambridge Falls they find a strange green book in one of the rooms there. The book sends them somewhere else when they place a picture in it. It sends them back in time to camrbide Falls under the rule of an evil witch. With dwarves and wizards at their side it is up to these three kids to save Cambridge Falls from becoming the wasteland it is in the present time.As Stephens states himself he is a long time fan of Lord of the Rings and of the Chronicles of Narnia and that definitely shows in this book. You have the trio of siblings sent off to save a different world; but in this case it is the same world at a past time. Some of the baddies in this book have a feeling similar to the baddies in the Lord of the Rings. The way the whole adventures ties in with the fate of the world also has a bit of a Lord of the Rings feeling to it.
The siblings have very distinct personalities and a lot of depth to them. The characters surrounding them are equal in depth and very intriguing. You have Dr. Pym, who channels that whole old wise wizard vibe and Gabriel, who has the whole noble sort of ranger/warrior thing going on. At times the characters are a bit stereotypical, but not in a bad way. These characters greeted me to the story like warm friends that I have fond memories of, but never really got to know all that well until now.
The plot is very well done. Like any good fantasy you have a simpler plot that gets resolved in this book and then a broader plot that spans the series. There is no horrible cliffhanger, Stephens doesn't need to do that to make you want more. The broader plot in general is enough to make me really want to read the next book. The plot is both immediate and far-reaching and I love that all that range is covered. The story has a very epic feel to it at times, but never gets too complex or too impersonal. The writing style is easy to read, has wonderful action scenes, is hard to put down, and it filled with excellent description that really pull the reader in.
You might ask but how does the time travel fit in with fantasy? The answer is very well in this case. Stephens pulls it off seamlessly and even takes time to have Dr. Pym explain how all the crazy traveling back and forth was reconciled with real history etc.
Overall just an absolutely wonderful middle grade fantasy. I highly recommend this book to all fantasy fans. It is appropriate for a middle grade, or even slightly younger audience as far as content is concerned. This is one of those special middle grade fantasies that adults will enjoy too; it assumes that kids can handle a well thought out and complex plot (which of course they can!) Fans of Harry Potter, the Chronicles of Narnia, His Dark Materials, Lord of the Rings, Percy and the Olympians, and Fablehaven will find a lot here to love. I cannot wait to read the next book and see what happens next!
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LibraryThing member mt256
This is one of those books that sucks you in from the first paragraph. There is quite a bit of mystery to it that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The story is centered around three orphans, Kate, Michael and Emma. Their parents gave them up for adoption at a very young age. You don't know why
I really like this book. The characters are great although some of the characters reminded me of others. For instance, Granny reminded my a little bit of Yoda and the secretary reminded me of Gollum from Lord of the Rings. It's not that they were exact copies but there was something about their characters that brought these others to mind. This did not take away from the story at all. This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to see what happens next. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters.
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but you know that it's for their own good. The children grow up in several different orphanages over the years. I really liked the children's characters. They each have their own distinct personalities that add charm into this story. Kate is the eldest. She's a leader but she's still young with lots of insecurities. Michael is the middle child. He's bookish with a fascination for dwarfs that boarders on obsession. Emma is the youngest and the girl has gumption. I think she's my favorite of the three. Emma is a brave and tough cookie but at times you see her vulnerabilities come through. I love the dialog between the three children. Several times I laughed out loud because of it. John Stephens captured the art of sibling rivalry perfectly. The children are placed in a new orphanage where they are the only children. This is where the adventure begins. They are led through a time traveling journey full of magic and impossibilities. Along the way they find friendship and make enemies. They unlock secrets that have been forgotten and awaken mystical forces. The children find out that they are more important than they could ever imagine. I like how John Stephens slowly unravels the children's personalities. He shows you their strengths and weaknesses that help to form them. He pulls back their layers as the children are tested in all sorts of ways. I really like this book. The characters are great although some of the characters reminded me of others. For instance, Granny reminded my a little bit of Yoda and the secretary reminded me of Gollum from Lord of the Rings. It's not that they were exact copies but there was something about their characters that brought these others to mind. This did not take away from the story at all. This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to see what happens next. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters.
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LibraryThing member PattyLouise
The Emerald Atlas
By
John Stephens
Orphans…what is it about feisty orphans with a quest? And there are three of them…siblings…Michael, Kate and Emma…and they are smart, brave and adventurous!!!
I loved this book…I could not bear to put it down. It was fun and thrilling and evoked much
Kate, Michael and Emma have been removed from their parents for unknown reasons early on in the story. Kate, the eldest, is the only one who even remembers her mother and the promise she made to her mother. That promise was that she would always take care of her brother and sister. Kate takes her responsibility seriously as the siblings are shuffled from orphanage to orphanage and finally deemed “unadoptable”.
Their last placement is where all of the action really begins to develop. Things begin to happen to Kate that seem to have no explanation. She and her siblings are able to go back and forth in time. Creatures are after them because they all hold a power over a series of books. They have many friends helping them and watching over them as they encounter evil after evil after evil. Michael is obsessed with dwarves and dwarves are definitely in this story, Emma is sort of a doer and not a thinker…and Kate just feels responsible for everyone. There is a Mr. Pym, a wizard of the highest order, who looks out for them and appears in the past as well as in the future. Gabriel is a mighty giant of a man who will fight to the death to restore goodness in this world and who becomes a fierce protector of Emma. Captain Robbie, who later becomes King Robbie, is also a fierce warrior and protector and much to the delight of Michael…a real live dwarf.
This book is full of characters that you adore and that you hate. There are Screechers…who seem to be the worst of all things evil until you encounter other creatures that are even worse!!!
This would make a wonderful family read out loud book. It is thrilling and exciting. I found the pace to be fast. I was never bored. I read this book much too fast because I needed to know what happened almost before it happened…my bad.
I am almost certain this book is the first of a trilogy…hurray!!!
By
John Stephens
Orphans…what is it about feisty orphans with a quest? And there are three of them…siblings…Michael, Kate and Emma…and they are smart, brave and adventurous!!!
I loved this book…I could not bear to put it down. It was fun and thrilling and evoked much
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anticipation and excitement for me…the reader.Kate, Michael and Emma have been removed from their parents for unknown reasons early on in the story. Kate, the eldest, is the only one who even remembers her mother and the promise she made to her mother. That promise was that she would always take care of her brother and sister. Kate takes her responsibility seriously as the siblings are shuffled from orphanage to orphanage and finally deemed “unadoptable”.
Their last placement is where all of the action really begins to develop. Things begin to happen to Kate that seem to have no explanation. She and her siblings are able to go back and forth in time. Creatures are after them because they all hold a power over a series of books. They have many friends helping them and watching over them as they encounter evil after evil after evil. Michael is obsessed with dwarves and dwarves are definitely in this story, Emma is sort of a doer and not a thinker…and Kate just feels responsible for everyone. There is a Mr. Pym, a wizard of the highest order, who looks out for them and appears in the past as well as in the future. Gabriel is a mighty giant of a man who will fight to the death to restore goodness in this world and who becomes a fierce protector of Emma. Captain Robbie, who later becomes King Robbie, is also a fierce warrior and protector and much to the delight of Michael…a real live dwarf.
This book is full of characters that you adore and that you hate. There are Screechers…who seem to be the worst of all things evil until you encounter other creatures that are even worse!!!
This would make a wonderful family read out loud book. It is thrilling and exciting. I found the pace to be fast. I was never bored. I read this book much too fast because I needed to know what happened almost before it happened…my bad.
I am almost certain this book is the first of a trilogy…hurray!!!
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LibraryThing member msjessicamae
I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I opened this book. I was excited because I felt there was a good vibe from it but was also concerned that it would feel too similar to other books. Although there were moments when I thought “hey this reminds me of…” it only happened early on in the
The Emerald Atlas was about the adventure three siblings mistakenly fall into. I loved the relationship between the three siblings, they had one of those “I can beat you up because we are related but if someone else tries, they will have to go through me first.” Kate is the oldest and steps into the parental role after they lose their parents. Michael is the cute nerdy kid who has knowledge that turns out to come in handy for the kids. Emma is the youngest of the three and I love her as the comic relief. She is cute and spunky and I couldn’t help but laugh at some of her remarks.
When I started the book, I was instantly excited and obsessed with it. My hopes were high but as the story progressed I found the energy that it opened with had died off and I started to become uninterested but just as I was becoming concerned, the story leveled out and the remainder was a constant pleasure. This is the first book in a series and I am excited to see what comes next.
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book. If there were moments later on that should have triggered that reaction I didn’t notice it because I was too wrapped up in the story. The Emerald Atlas was about the adventure three siblings mistakenly fall into. I loved the relationship between the three siblings, they had one of those “I can beat you up because we are related but if someone else tries, they will have to go through me first.” Kate is the oldest and steps into the parental role after they lose their parents. Michael is the cute nerdy kid who has knowledge that turns out to come in handy for the kids. Emma is the youngest of the three and I love her as the comic relief. She is cute and spunky and I couldn’t help but laugh at some of her remarks.
When I started the book, I was instantly excited and obsessed with it. My hopes were high but as the story progressed I found the energy that it opened with had died off and I started to become uninterested but just as I was becoming concerned, the story leveled out and the remainder was a constant pleasure. This is the first book in a series and I am excited to see what comes next.
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LibraryThing member LiteraryLinda
This book of fantasy is a lot of fun, has some scary parts, shows the love of family, and has lots of interesting creatures. The book is well written and the language is just right for the nine-to-twelve tween set. The characters are fully developed and you can just picture how they look in your
There were a few times when it isn’t clear who the countess is, since she is referred to by different words. Also, it wasn’t always clear whether a part was set in the future or the past.
Those who enjoy the Harry Potter books, will enjoy this book as well. It will be hard to wait for the next book of the trilogy. Although I am nowhere near being a tween, I did enjoy the story; and I look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
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head. In most chapters, more than one event takes place so there is a lot of action and the reader can keep up with what’s happening to the many characters of the story. It is entertaining with various characters’ interactions. There are parts that are alarming and make the three children fear for their lives as well as others’ lives. Among other things, you will find kids, parents, magic, dwarves, wizards, wolves, a maze, a vault, and most importantly a magic book. Three children are taken from their parents. After some time in several orphanages, they are sent by train and boat to their final orphanage. While exploring the huge old house, they discover an item that transports them to the beginning of their adventures.There were a few times when it isn’t clear who the countess is, since she is referred to by different words. Also, it wasn’t always clear whether a part was set in the future or the past.
Those who enjoy the Harry Potter books, will enjoy this book as well. It will be hard to wait for the next book of the trilogy. Although I am nowhere near being a tween, I did enjoy the story; and I look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
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LibraryThing member Sophira
Enjoyable, especially for readers from 12 years onwards. Three siblings heroically work with and against witch, wizard, dwarves and other fantasy creatures back and forwards through time. Two more still to be written to comprise "The Books of Beginning" trilogy. I look forward to reading them!
LibraryThing member asomers
Although I was initially thrown off by the setting of this book ( it just realy seemed like it should take place in England, not the US), I found I could not put it down. The characters are engaging and the plot kept me on the edge of my seat. This is one of those books where you don't want to turn
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the last page because even though it is obvious there is going to be another book in the series, you know you are going to have to wait a while to get it. Show Less
LibraryThing member kaipakartik
One thing is for sure. Definitely not the next Harry Potter. All the characters sound the same.
LibraryThing member slanger89
I loved this book. It was very fun, adventurous, and filled with magical elements which keep you want to keep reaidng until the book is finished. Three children, Kate, Emma, and Michael, are the lovable main characters who unwittingly embark on an adventure filled with time travel, humor,
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discovery, and many memorable characters. This book is the first of what is supposed to be a trilogy. I am very excited for the next book and can't wait to see how this story will progress. Show Less
LibraryThing member JessicaLiegel
This book was amazing! It has everything I want in a book. Great characters, plot, and story-telling. I loved all the different personalities of the three main characters. Even though it's geared towards younger readers, I think any age group would enjoy it, as I did. This was such a fun, witty,
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and magical read! Show Less
LibraryThing member Allie64
Really enjoyed this ones, except for the fact I will have to wait for the next book to come out next year!!! LOL....
I love the time travel aspect and can't wait to really understand how it all came to be how the kids have these 'special' talents...
I love the time travel aspect and can't wait to really understand how it all came to be how the kids have these 'special' talents...
LibraryThing member yoyogod
My feelings on this book are somewhat mixed. On the one hand, I enjoyed reading the book. The plot was reasonably exciting and fairly fast paced once it got moving. The premise was bit shaky in spots; in ancient times wizards made three super powerful magical books, any one of which could grant
The main problem with the book is the language. I've read plenty of books written for teens and even children. For many of them, I wouldn't know they were written for younger people if it didn't say so in the book. This is not one of those books. This is one of those books where the language is dumbed down, sometimes to an almost condescending level.
This isn't a bad book, but it's not all that great either. I might be tempted to pick up the rest of the series, but the author really needs to learn not to talk down to his readers.
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near god-like powers, but somehow their city was destroyed by Alexander the Great, and the books were lost. I know if I had those three books, it would take a lot more than Alexander the Great to stop me.The main problem with the book is the language. I've read plenty of books written for teens and even children. For many of them, I wouldn't know they were written for younger people if it didn't say so in the book. This is not one of those books. This is one of those books where the language is dumbed down, sometimes to an almost condescending level.
This isn't a bad book, but it's not all that great either. I might be tempted to pick up the rest of the series, but the author really needs to learn not to talk down to his readers.
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LibraryThing member alidevnz
I thought this book was brilliant. I have given it five stars here, because I can't add 4.5. My only criticism - the very American use of "Gotta" and "Gonna" all through the text. If "proper" english had been used, I feel it would be more enduring. Even so, I will be recommending this whole
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heartedly to readers who loved Harry Potter. Show Less
LibraryThing member phh333
Definitely a Harry Potter read alike. The audio version is even read by Jim Dale of the Harry Potter audio books. Three siblings are shuffled from orphanage to orphanage. Their latest orphanage only has three children in it - them. The children have adventure after adventure as they interact with a
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magical book found in a secret room in the latest orphanage. This is the first book in the Books of Beginning series. Can't wait for the next book. Show Less
LibraryThing member lilibrarian
Kate, Michael and Emma's parents abandon them when they are small. Their mother's last request of Kate is to look after her younger siblings. But how is she to do that when they are moved from orphanage to orphanage, each worse than the last. Until they end up with Dr. Pym - in whose house they
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find a magical book that enables them to travel back to troubled times and lets them learn some of their own history. Show Less
LibraryThing member KarenBall
There were once three books of magic... the Books of Beginning. Two did indeed vanish. The third was smuggled out of the city by a very clever, very attractive young wizard... who made a pact with the dwarf king to hide it. Kate, Michael and Emma were spirited away from their parents in the night
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ten years ago when they were very little. Bounced from orphanage to orphanage over the years, they finally land in Cambridge Falls, a remote town near the Canadian border where they discover they are the only children in this last-chance place. In the huge house where they are staying, they discover a hidden room far below the basement, with a mysterious green book. Thinking it might be some kind of scrapbook, they place a photograph on a page, and they find themselves transported to the past when the photo was taken, when things in the little town were far different and far more dangerous. Magic, monsters, time travel, dwarves, witches and wizards... this action-packed story has them all! Lots of humor, especially from feisty Emma, who says what she thinks and is always ready for a fight. First in a planned series, this was really enjoyable fantasy. Grade 6 and up. Show Less
LibraryThing member Ms.Elkins
Engaging fantasy about three siblings who are find a magical book that allows them to move through time.
Awards
Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee — Middle Grade — 2014)
Massachusetts Children's Book Award (Honor — 2013)
Georgia Children's Book Award (Finalist — Grades 6-8 — 2014)
Utah Beehive Book Award (Nominee — Children's Fiction — 2013)
Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — 2013)
Oregon Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — 2014)
Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing (Nominee — 2012)
Truman Readers Award (Nominee — 2014)
Volunteer State Book Award (Nominee — Middle School — 2014)
Maud Hart Lovelace Award (Nominee — 2014)
The Best Children's Books of the Year (Nine to Twelve — 2012)
Texas Lone Star Reading List (2012)
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best: Kids (Fiction for Older Readers — 2011)
Language
Original publication date
2011-04-05
ISBN
0375868704 / 9780375868702
Local notes
Three orphaned children have to find three magic books while discovering the secrets of their history. Of course, they also have to defeat an evil and devastating foe.
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