I was expecting a fun YA romp, but this is really for even younger readers. I don't read a lot of children's' books so I could be off in my expectations, but this is a far cry from the standards of something such as Narnia. There were too many typos and errors, which indicates the book needs better editing, but really that is minor compared to the other problems with this book. It needs improvement in pacing, in dialogue, in character development, and in plotting in general. This book is just way too silly. History and legends are twisted in the silliest way imaginable all for no apparent reason than to be as different and silly as possible. We're expected to accept crazy things with no adequate explanation at all, and characters who invent magical technologies out if nowhere without even an attempt to make it believable. This book is just plain silly, silly and unbelievable, and poorly written. The combination of those elements is what will kill any story. There's (eventually) some entertainment to be had, but simply put: I wasn't charmed. The kids aren't charming, the cast tilts way to the preposterous side of eccentric, progression never sheds a feel of manufacture, nor explanations a feel of engineering. Additionally, though it might just be cultural difference, I honestly have no idea who the intended audience is - it comes across as a children's book, requiring a young adult's education for familiarity with all the references (Stalin?), actually written for adults who want to be charmed by an overly violent children's adventure. Hopefully this matures with the next installment.
What do You think about The Time Hunters (2000)?
This is a cracking good read and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!!
—noir_0405
Great YA read. Very creative. Handed it over to my son to read next.
—mbbourque
Great book, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
—lindsayo
