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The Unmapped Chronicles #1
Casper Tock and the Everdark Wings
From bestselling author Abi Elphinstone comes a wondrous new series about four secret unmapped kingdoms hidden in our own world!
Casper Tock hates risks and is allergic to adventures. So it comes as a nasty shock to him one day when he hides from bullies in an ancient grandfather clock—and ends up finding an entire world inside.
Casper discovers that this sky kingdom of Rumblestar is one of the four Unmapped Kingdoms in charge of controlling the weather in Casper’s own world. What’s more, Casper is now stuck in Rumblestar, and the only person there who doesn’t think he’s a demon spy is a strange girl named Utterly, who hates rules and is allergic to behaving.
All Casper wants is to find his way home, but Rumblestar is in trouble. An evil harpy called Morg is trying to steal the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms. And if these kingdoms fall, Casper’s world will be destroyed as well.
And so, together with Utterly and her miniature dragon, Arlo, Casper embarks on a quest full of cloud giants, storm ogres, and drizzle hags. Can he, Utterly, and Arlo—the unlikeliest of heroes—save both their worlds from the clutches of Morg?
Casper Tock hates risks and is allergic to adventures. So it comes as a nasty shock to him one day when he hides from bullies in an ancient grandfather clock—and ends up finding an entire world inside.
Casper discovers that this sky kingdom of Rumblestar is one of the four Unmapped Kingdoms in charge of controlling the weather in Casper’s own world. What’s more, Casper is now stuck in Rumblestar, and the only person there who doesn’t think he’s a demon spy is a strange girl named Utterly, who hates rules and is allergic to behaving.
All Casper wants is to find his way home, but Rumblestar is in trouble. An evil harpy called Morg is trying to steal the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms. And if these kingdoms fall, Casper’s world will be destroyed as well.
And so, together with Utterly and her miniature dragon, Arlo, Casper embarks on a quest full of cloud giants, storm ogres, and drizzle hags. Can he, Utterly, and Arlo—the unlikeliest of heroes—save both their worlds from the clutches of Morg?
384 pages, Hardcover
First published January 7, 2020
About the author
Abi Elphinstone
36 books417 followersAbi Elphinstone grew up in Scotland where she spent most of her childhood building dens, hiding in tree houses and running wild across highland glens. After being coaxed out of her tree house, she studied English at Bristol University and then worked as a teacher.
THE DREAMSNATCHER is her debut novel for 8-12 years (published by Simon & Schuster in 2015). THE SHADOW KEEPER is her second children's book (published by Simon & Schuster in 2016).
When she's not writing, Abi volunteers for Beanstalk, teaches creative writing workshops in schools and travels the world looking for her next story. Her latest adventure involved living with the Kazakh Eagle Hunters in Mongolia…
THE DREAMSNATCHER is her debut novel for 8-12 years (published by Simon & Schuster in 2015). THE SHADOW KEEPER is her second children's book (published by Simon & Schuster in 2016).
When she's not writing, Abi volunteers for Beanstalk, teaches creative writing workshops in schools and travels the world looking for her next story. Her latest adventure involved living with the Kazakh Eagle Hunters in Mongolia…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
July 20, 2022
4,5 Sterne, aufgerundet auf 5
Ein sehr spannender Auftakt, so dass man gespannt sein darf auf den zweiten Band und das nächste Abenteuer.
In diesem ersten Band geht es um zwei Kinder, einen Jungen und ein Mädchen, die sehr unterschiedlich sind und auch aus zwei unterschiedlichen Welten kommen. Doch gemeinsam müssen sie ein spannendes Abenteuer bestehen und über sich hinauswachsen.
Es war spannend, auch humorvoll zum Teil, abenteuerlich und sehr unterhaltsam. Und es war vor allem sehr fantasievoll.
Einfach ein richtig schönes Kinderbuch!
Ein sehr spannender Auftakt, so dass man gespannt sein darf auf den zweiten Band und das nächste Abenteuer.
In diesem ersten Band geht es um zwei Kinder, einen Jungen und ein Mädchen, die sehr unterschiedlich sind und auch aus zwei unterschiedlichen Welten kommen. Doch gemeinsam müssen sie ein spannendes Abenteuer bestehen und über sich hinauswachsen.
Es war spannend, auch humorvoll zum Teil, abenteuerlich und sehr unterhaltsam. Und es war vor allem sehr fantasievoll.
Einfach ein richtig schönes Kinderbuch!
March 13, 2020
This surpasses Roald Dahl-esque imagination in every way!
Rumblestar is the first book in the Unmapped Chronicles, essentially about a young boy called Casper Tock who stumbles into the sky kingdom of Rumblestar. From then, we follow his adventure as he meets a girl called Utterly Thankless, who is utterly brilliant to be honest - I love her fire and the way she becomes friends with Casper. And Casper himself, oh, what a cinnamon roll! I was rooting for him from the very first page and you will just absolutely love him - oh I was so proud of him by the end of this.
The entire plot was interesting as we traverse this new world, watching the characters learn important life lessons and developing so beautifully throughout. Oh, I felt just that little bit braver after finishing this myself. Another fantastic middle grade adventure to add to the recommendations list.
Rumblestar is the first book in the Unmapped Chronicles, essentially about a young boy called Casper Tock who stumbles into the sky kingdom of Rumblestar. From then, we follow his adventure as he meets a girl called Utterly Thankless, who is utterly brilliant to be honest - I love her fire and the way she becomes friends with Casper. And Casper himself, oh, what a cinnamon roll! I was rooting for him from the very first page and you will just absolutely love him - oh I was so proud of him by the end of this.
The entire plot was interesting as we traverse this new world, watching the characters learn important life lessons and developing so beautifully throughout. Oh, I felt just that little bit braver after finishing this myself. Another fantastic middle grade adventure to add to the recommendations list.
February 14, 2023
Actual rating 4.5/5 stars.
Casper Tock's world is defined by timetables and to do lists. Class bullies feature into these and he has devised a series of careful strategies for avoiding them. One day, these strategies fail him and, with no other place left to hide, he finds himself inside an ancient grandfather clock whilst looking for escape. He believes those he fears remain outside but quickly finds out that a new world has been opened, with much inside it to fear, as well.
Utterly Thankless belongs to this new world of sky dragons, pocket dragons, and an inexplicable plethora of other beings. She is Casper's opposite in every way and yet the unlikely duo must work together to save both of their worlds from the evil clutches of those who would destroy them. Along the way, and without ever realising it, they learn and overcome much about themselves, as well.
I have recently been in the mood to devour a series of whimsical and fantastical middle grade stories, and this provided me with everything I had been looking for. Adventure is thrust upon this unlikely hero and heroine, and they overcome the series of trials set to challenge them as well as overcoming more internalised hardships in the process. The amalgamation of the two made this read as fun and quirky as it was heartfelt and profound.
The plot continued to excite and intrigue me at every stage. This was a novel entirely filled with dreadful foes to overcome, daredevil tasks to complete, and difficult challenges to puzzle out. These, combined with the sassy and timid lovable duo, quickly proved as appealing for adult readers as the far younger age range this is aimed towards. The wit was pretty spot on, as well!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Abi Elphinstone, and the publisher, Simon & Schuster, for this opportunity.
Casper Tock's world is defined by timetables and to do lists. Class bullies feature into these and he has devised a series of careful strategies for avoiding them. One day, these strategies fail him and, with no other place left to hide, he finds himself inside an ancient grandfather clock whilst looking for escape. He believes those he fears remain outside but quickly finds out that a new world has been opened, with much inside it to fear, as well.
Utterly Thankless belongs to this new world of sky dragons, pocket dragons, and an inexplicable plethora of other beings. She is Casper's opposite in every way and yet the unlikely duo must work together to save both of their worlds from the evil clutches of those who would destroy them. Along the way, and without ever realising it, they learn and overcome much about themselves, as well.
I have recently been in the mood to devour a series of whimsical and fantastical middle grade stories, and this provided me with everything I had been looking for. Adventure is thrust upon this unlikely hero and heroine, and they overcome the series of trials set to challenge them as well as overcoming more internalised hardships in the process. The amalgamation of the two made this read as fun and quirky as it was heartfelt and profound.
The plot continued to excite and intrigue me at every stage. This was a novel entirely filled with dreadful foes to overcome, daredevil tasks to complete, and difficult challenges to puzzle out. These, combined with the sassy and timid lovable duo, quickly proved as appealing for adult readers as the far younger age range this is aimed towards. The wit was pretty spot on, as well!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Abi Elphinstone, and the publisher, Simon & Schuster, for this opportunity.
June 20, 2021
"And as both Utterly and Casper's whispers tiptoed out into the night and were lost in the trails of stardust, Utterly turned to Casper."- Chapter 22, Rumblestar
4.75
Fantasy is my favorite genre. And when I read a favorite genre, the book usually makes it to my favorite shelf. This one was no exception. I loved it but like any literary piece, it had a few flaws.
Plot
Casper Tock is a normal boy who lives in a small, cozy turret at Little Wallops boarding school. His life is filled with To-Do lists and timetables. Most of his time is taken up by avoiding the school bullies, Candida and Leopold, and hiding in Lost Property baskets.
"Casper liked to keep a tidy bedroom, an organized mind, and a tight schedule. That way, fewer things went wrong and there was less chance - or so he thought - of wandering into the clutches of the school bullies Candida Cashmere-Jumps and Leopold Splattercash."
But then, one afternoon, he climbs into a grandfather clock and finds himself inside a tree. Then he goes to save the world. I make it sound boring, but in reality, it's interesting. He meets drizzle hags, snow trolls, Storm Ogres, and sun scamps. However, the plot had really serious understanding issues.
I had to re-read parts to understand it.
"'But if the Ogres gave the griffins the Shatterblast then surely the Midnights would be able to come here because they're working together?'
Utterly nodded. 'Something about this doesn't add up...'"
But that was cleared up later between a series of 'CHOMPS'.
Writing
I found that I flawlessly read the book without any problems. Usually, it's dense language. But I never had to double-take.
There was nothing special about the writing, but it always captured the mood perfectly.
"'You break our enchantments,' Hortensia spat, 'you wake us up and then you expect us to simply send you on your way with the information you require?'"
The world
The world made sense and the names of the places threw me for a loop. Smoking Chimneys, Dapplemere, Shiverbark. Get my point?
Characters
Casper
Casper's personality is more or less described by now. I really liked the character development. At the start, he was all about To-Do lists and timetables. In the end, he had more friends and a way better life. Did I forget to mention Candida and Leopold made sure to ruin any kind of friendship he had?
Utterly
Utterly, in the beginning, was always trying to make people proud. But inside, she was really broken.
"
And that's just who I am now, on the outside anyway: The Bottler-in-training who can't behave. Because at least that me lives up to the recklessness my parents' expect of me!"
She's forever in a grump until after their adventure. I can't find the quote I want. If I do, I'll put it here.
Rating
As I said before, every literary piece has a few flaws. And those flaws cut down 0.25. But it made it to my favorite's shelf with a whopping 4.75 stars.
Overview
I think I ranted out pretty much everything. I would recommend it for Fantasy lovers up to the age of 16.
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Review format: Bhavya
June 25, 2019
This was smashing fun and great to see Abi just let all her imaginings pour out onto the page. Don't let this make you think the book is unwieldly under the pressure of too much fantasy - it really isn't. Elphinstone knows exactly what she is doing here and children are going to love the sheer magnitude of the world that she has created here.
May 29, 2019
Simply breathtakingly delightful! There is nothing better than a new book from Abi Elphinstone but there is extra reason to celebrate when you know it's the beginning of a magical new series, and it didn't disappoint. Casper, friend Utterly Thankless and dragon Arlo team up on an enchanting adventure full of mayhem with a positive message about stepping outside your comfort zone, the power of friendship and how the good must fight against evildoers for the sake of humanity. Elphinstone is undoubtedly one of the best middle-grade writers around at the moment and this is such a compelling and wonderfully immersive read.
The world of Rumblestar is rich, vivid and mesmerising but there are dangers lurking just out of sight. Casper and Utterly are both engaging characters who forge a friendship despite being like chalk and cheese. Each is courageous and loyal and I found them both likeable and believable. There are words of wisdom interspersed throughout about a variety of different topics to provide food for thought for young readers. With magical creatures, plenty of excitement and adventure, humour, twisty surprises, quirky characters, dangerous situations and richly imagined landscapes, what more could you wish for in a fantasy novel? Many thanks to Simon & Schuster UK Children's for an ARC.
The world of Rumblestar is rich, vivid and mesmerising but there are dangers lurking just out of sight. Casper and Utterly are both engaging characters who forge a friendship despite being like chalk and cheese. Each is courageous and loyal and I found them both likeable and believable. There are words of wisdom interspersed throughout about a variety of different topics to provide food for thought for young readers. With magical creatures, plenty of excitement and adventure, humour, twisty surprises, quirky characters, dangerous situations and richly imagined landscapes, what more could you wish for in a fantasy novel? Many thanks to Simon & Schuster UK Children's for an ARC.
March 13, 2020
My son and I very much enjoyed the premise of this book. It was a wonderful surprise to read about the unique system of magic right from the start. Even the middle continued to keep us engaged. But towards the end, the pace started to lag and we struggled to get through. The final pages brought the the spark back and we hope to see more of them in books to come.
November 24, 2021
Arlo, the drizzlehags and Bristlebeard were the only good things about this book. kind of forgettable.
October 11, 2021
"People rarely snap and scowl because of others but rather because there is a storm raging inside them. [...] and though it's hard to be friends with stormgulpers, they're the ones who need friends most."
This book is a beautiful, sweet journey about friendship, fears, inner strength and what it really means to be brave.
The magic in this is utterly adorable. My favorite must have been the "just-in-case", which is a suitcase fro adventurous situations with special abilities. The little gimmicks of how the people in the Unmapped Kingdoms speak are lollipop-cuteness alert. One of my most loved serious talks must have been when they explained how friendship changes you. How it changes the shape of your heart, because friendship is a sticky thing, it will never leave you quiet the same.
I really enjoyed the world building in this, although I was missing a map. I'd have loved a colorful little map in the front of the book to have a visualization of what route our heroes traveled upon.
This book deals with some serious topics, like inner fears and how we cope with them, the absence of friendship and how loss controls our inner storms. It does all that in a very context related and child appropriate, light way. This book made me cry two or three times, because I deeply felt some of the things being said.
So although I really liked all of that, here's the reason I deducted a star:
I did not enjoy the descriptions. The dialogues are amazing. But the descriptions felt a little too... far away from the character? Too impersonal? It was as if I didn't get to see much of it through his point of view, but through a narrator who floated over the events, far away in safety, and wasn't involved. I wanted more emotions in these descriptions, more confusion. Tell me only the things the character actually sees, smells, fears. And make it known to me how he perceives these things. The descriptions seemed always in the same tone and I couldn't connect them to any emotions. So whenever we had a fight scene or an attack or a dangerous situation, I couldn't quite feel that.
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April 4, 2019
'I . . . I'm not ready for an adventure,' Casper replied. 'I'm not even wearing shoes!'
Chaos and courage collide in this rich and vividly drawn world. Packed with humour and friendship, sprinkled with whimsy and fairy tale, and the most adorable miniature tail-chasing dragon. Abi Elphinstone's imagination is pure sorcery. With a particular liking and flair for magical objects and fantastical names (such as Whoopsy Ditherlot), no one conjures breath-taking adventure quite like this author.
Chaos and courage collide in this rich and vividly drawn world. Packed with humour and friendship, sprinkled with whimsy and fairy tale, and the most adorable miniature tail-chasing dragon. Abi Elphinstone's imagination is pure sorcery. With a particular liking and flair for magical objects and fantastical names (such as Whoopsy Ditherlot), no one conjures breath-taking adventure quite like this author.
March 10, 2019
If I could give this more than 5 stars, I absolutely would! This is just incredible. There are some roaring adventures, friendships and magic in here. Reading this book brought me such joy. Some incredibly powerful messages about friendship and sadness in here. Loved the links to Everdark too! I can’t wait to see what comes next!
September 8, 2020
My 1st book for The Touch of Whimsy readathon-prompt to read a book set in another world. I finished this last night, & I LOVED this book so much. I have a few books by this author, & I want to now devour them all! This world was AMAZING! These characters were AMAZING! The names of people, places, & things was AMAZING! Casper, Utterly, & Arlo all have my entire heart & soul. I loved each of them. I felt so bad for Casper in the start of the book. Having to live in fear from bullies who thought money makes a person, & who were also, honestly racist it seemed to me. I was so mad I wanted to beat those kids parents up!!😆😆 I loved seeing Caspers growth throughout the book. He thought there always needed to be a plan, everything needed serious thought beforehand, & not be dangerous. He thought everything worth knowing were in textbooks. He learned from his friends & their adventure, some of the best things worth knowing weren’t taught in school..but courage, friendship, bravery, & loyalty were most worth knowing. Utterly was an angry, hurt girl w/a chip on her shoulder in the form of grief, & had something to prove. She was feisty, brave, smart, strong, & worth more/loved more than she realized. She was a storm of amazigness. Arlo was a overly sensitive dragon lol which made him all the more adorable. He was brave, & soooo smart. When he purred for Casper, I thought I was going to cry from the cuteness & emotion of it all! They all helped each other in different ways. They needed each other. They made each other better. & isn’t that what the best of friendships do? I’m so glad they found each other. They went on the most amazing adventure together trying to save both their worlds. They saw amazing things, & other side characters. I LOVED Zip!!Everything/one was described so amazing! I could see this beautiful place vividly. I’m starting the 2nd book tonight. The cover is absolutely GORGEOUS!! 😍😍 I highly recommend! 💜💜
Synopsis: Casper Tock hates risks and is allergic to adventures. So it comes as a nasty shock to him one day when he hides from bullies in an ancient grandfather clock--and ends up finding an entire world inside.
Casper discovers that this sky kingdom of Rumblestar is one of the four Unmapped Kingdoms in charge of controlling the weather in Casper's own world. What's more, Casper is now stuck in Rumblestar, and the only person there who doesn't think he's a demon spy is a strange girl named Utterly, who hates rules and is allergic to behaving.
All Casper wants is to find his way home, but Rumblestar is in trouble. An evil harpy called Morg is trying to steal the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms. And if these kingdoms fall, Casper's world will be destroyed as well.
And so, together with Utterly and her miniature dragon, Arlo, Casper embarks on a quest full of cloud giants, storm ogres, and drizzle hags. Can he, Utterly, and Arlo--the unlikeliest of heroes--save both their worlds from the clutches of Morg?
Synopsis: Casper Tock hates risks and is allergic to adventures. So it comes as a nasty shock to him one day when he hides from bullies in an ancient grandfather clock--and ends up finding an entire world inside.
Casper discovers that this sky kingdom of Rumblestar is one of the four Unmapped Kingdoms in charge of controlling the weather in Casper's own world. What's more, Casper is now stuck in Rumblestar, and the only person there who doesn't think he's a demon spy is a strange girl named Utterly, who hates rules and is allergic to behaving.
All Casper wants is to find his way home, but Rumblestar is in trouble. An evil harpy called Morg is trying to steal the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms. And if these kingdoms fall, Casper's world will be destroyed as well.
And so, together with Utterly and her miniature dragon, Arlo, Casper embarks on a quest full of cloud giants, storm ogres, and drizzle hags. Can he, Utterly, and Arlo--the unlikeliest of heroes--save both their worlds from the clutches of Morg?
August 27, 2020
Good-book-goosebumps for Rumblestar!
Whenever I'm looking for a truly exciting and fun adventure story, I will always turn to childhood favourites or the newer selection of middle-grade books released in the last 5 years or so because the level of talent amongst the authors writing for this demographic is mind-boggling! This is my first Abi Elphinstone book and it did not disappoint, in fact I think it sky-soared (wink-wink) itself into being one of my favourite reads of the year so far. The vastness of Elphinstone's imagination is painted across these pages in a multicoloured composition of delight, wonder, peril, wholesomeness and comfort.
The main character in Rumblestar, Casper Tock is an extremely sensible and risk averse 11-year-old boy. He is lonely, has grown up a bit too fast and is the victim of some cruel bullies at school. Not only that but his town, the rest of England and seemingly the entire world, are under threat of being destroyed by some vicious and unprecedented storms. When all hope seems lost Casper happens upon an artefact that propels him into Rumblestar where he is summarily arrested by Utterly Thankless, a wild, independent, risk-taker. Utterly and Casper are chalk and cheese but over the course of their adventure, along with Utterly's pet dragon Arlo, they discover the true meaning of bravery and friendship.
Casper, Utterly and Arlo were such a great team. The characterisation was incredibly vivid; I immediately knew who each of them were and I was fully invested in the success of their adventure. I adored the focus on the friendship between Casper and Utterly, especially as they each desperately didn't want to be lonely anymore. The sections where Elphinstone wrote about the small hidden lonely part of Casper's heart, made me tear up! Lonely children will always capture my heart because I tend to feel very protective of them - Casper and Utterly were no different.
The audiobook narration is performed by Nicky Diss, who has a lot of experience voicing children's/middle grade books and what a wonderful performance it was. The tone was consistently spot-on and the voice acting was perfect for the type of story being told; I couldn't imagine it being performed by anyone else. When I read on in this series, I'm definitely going to continue with the audiobooks because there is something very comforting and nostalgic about having someone else read a children's book to you and even more so when the voice acting is top-notch!
A wonderful start to a series that captured my imagination from the very first line. I am looking forward to Jungledrop!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for the review copy.
Whenever I'm looking for a truly exciting and fun adventure story, I will always turn to childhood favourites or the newer selection of middle-grade books released in the last 5 years or so because the level of talent amongst the authors writing for this demographic is mind-boggling! This is my first Abi Elphinstone book and it did not disappoint, in fact I think it sky-soared (wink-wink) itself into being one of my favourite reads of the year so far. The vastness of Elphinstone's imagination is painted across these pages in a multicoloured composition of delight, wonder, peril, wholesomeness and comfort.
The main character in Rumblestar, Casper Tock is an extremely sensible and risk averse 11-year-old boy. He is lonely, has grown up a bit too fast and is the victim of some cruel bullies at school. Not only that but his town, the rest of England and seemingly the entire world, are under threat of being destroyed by some vicious and unprecedented storms. When all hope seems lost Casper happens upon an artefact that propels him into Rumblestar where he is summarily arrested by Utterly Thankless, a wild, independent, risk-taker. Utterly and Casper are chalk and cheese but over the course of their adventure, along with Utterly's pet dragon Arlo, they discover the true meaning of bravery and friendship.
Casper, Utterly and Arlo were such a great team. The characterisation was incredibly vivid; I immediately knew who each of them were and I was fully invested in the success of their adventure. I adored the focus on the friendship between Casper and Utterly, especially as they each desperately didn't want to be lonely anymore. The sections where Elphinstone wrote about the small hidden lonely part of Casper's heart, made me tear up! Lonely children will always capture my heart because I tend to feel very protective of them - Casper and Utterly were no different.
The audiobook narration is performed by Nicky Diss, who has a lot of experience voicing children's/middle grade books and what a wonderful performance it was. The tone was consistently spot-on and the voice acting was perfect for the type of story being told; I couldn't imagine it being performed by anyone else. When I read on in this series, I'm definitely going to continue with the audiobooks because there is something very comforting and nostalgic about having someone else read a children's book to you and even more so when the voice acting is top-notch!
A wonderful start to a series that captured my imagination from the very first line. I am looking forward to Jungledrop!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for the review copy.
March 14, 2020
Thank you to Libro.fm for my free review copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
I ADORED this first book in a new MG fantasy series. I'd highly recommend the audiobook version, the narration was extremely well done. I'd recommend this for MG readers of all ages, and especially those who like quirky characters, lots of world-building, and big themes on friendship.
I ADORED this first book in a new MG fantasy series. I'd highly recommend the audiobook version, the narration was extremely well done. I'd recommend this for MG readers of all ages, and especially those who like quirky characters, lots of world-building, and big themes on friendship.
August 25, 2020
a very cute story of what happen when you force a "rules are to be followed like a straight line" guy with a "you only live once" girl to go on an adventure to save the world.
friendships are made, lots of crazy ups and down and of course the sweet "good always wins in the end"
friendships are made, lots of crazy ups and down and of course the sweet "good always wins in the end"
November 10, 2019
This was brilliant. Abi Elphinstone has done it again and created amazing characters, an incredibly detailed world and a wonderful story about finding your courage and opening your heart to others. Simply wonderful.
August 10, 2022
A VERY solid 4.5 ⭐️
So glad the kids I used to nanny made me read this!
So glad the kids I used to nanny made me read this!
June 29, 2019
Rumblestar is a clever, funny, adventurous, story brimming with imagination. Throughout the story Abi wowed me with her creations, from her characters to her amazing world-building. Her storytelling completely captures you and transports you to Rumblestar and the Unmapped Kingdom. There were so many parts that made me laugh, marvel at a creation (like the just-in-case), or just soak up Abi's words. Rumblestar would make a great read aloud for ages 9+ as I can just imagine kids getting completely lost in the story and losing track of time.
Casper Tock is a boy who lives his life by lists and timetables. He hides in the Lost Property Box to get away from school bullies Candida and Leopold. Sometimes adventure can come to those who are the least prepared for it and so Casper finds himself transported to a magical kingdom and thrown into adventure. Casper finds himself in the Unmapped Kingdom, a world that uses marvels to create the weather for our world, or The Faraway as they know it. Rumblestar is in danger though. An evil harpy called Morg has been banished from the Unmapped Kingdom but has found a way to send her followers, the Midnights, in to Rumblestar to upset the balance and create havoc. The havoc they create flows in to The Faraway, with the weather going haywire and creating huge hurricanes and tornadoes. It is up to Casper, a girl named Utterly Thankless and a mini dragon called Arlo to save both the Unmapped Kingdom and The Faraway. Along the way they'll meet Drizzle Hags, Snow Trolls and a very helpful hot air balloon.
Rumblestar is perfect for fans of Jessica Townsend's Nevermoor series, Cornelia Funke or anyone who loves a magical adventure story. I can't recommend this highly enough!
Casper Tock is a boy who lives his life by lists and timetables. He hides in the Lost Property Box to get away from school bullies Candida and Leopold. Sometimes adventure can come to those who are the least prepared for it and so Casper finds himself transported to a magical kingdom and thrown into adventure. Casper finds himself in the Unmapped Kingdom, a world that uses marvels to create the weather for our world, or The Faraway as they know it. Rumblestar is in danger though. An evil harpy called Morg has been banished from the Unmapped Kingdom but has found a way to send her followers, the Midnights, in to Rumblestar to upset the balance and create havoc. The havoc they create flows in to The Faraway, with the weather going haywire and creating huge hurricanes and tornadoes. It is up to Casper, a girl named Utterly Thankless and a mini dragon called Arlo to save both the Unmapped Kingdom and The Faraway. Along the way they'll meet Drizzle Hags, Snow Trolls and a very helpful hot air balloon.
Rumblestar is perfect for fans of Jessica Townsend's Nevermoor series, Cornelia Funke or anyone who loves a magical adventure story. I can't recommend this highly enough!
May 26, 2020
[Thank you to Simon Kids for the gifted copy.]
I absolutely loved this story. It was a nice getaway from reality. With all of these storms that we know as climate change, imagine if they were actually caused by something much more sinister and magical.
Imagine a world up in the sky, unseen by our own eyes. In a place called the Unmapped Kingdom, there's a whole magical world responsible for our weather.
I am not going to rehash the synopsis. I am only going to say that I am a new fan of this series.
My 6th grade teacher always loved when I added food into my stories. I get it now. I am the same way, too. Here, canoes have suitcases that can provide you with whatever you need, including pizza and breadsticks. Hot air balloons can not only fly themselves, but can whip up some burgers and milkshakes. Exploding gobstoppers??? WHAT???
This story is just filled with so much adventure (and good food), I enjoyed every single second of it. I usually read 3-5 books at a time. I put all of them to the side when I started this, because I could not put this book down. I was captured from the very beginning and could not wait to see how this story would end. And boy, did the ending surprise me. The author left us with a little clue as to how the next book will begin (which I believe is scheduled to come out in August).
Perhaps, it is even a clue as to how Casper Tock (a human) was able to make it to the Unmapped Kingdoms from the Faraway (aka Earth).
If you love YA/middle grade books, I highly recommend this one. If you're looking for a new adventure for your kids to read, this is a book they will love. I know I loved this and plan to keep on reading more books by Abi Elphinstone. This one is a keeper.
I absolutely loved this story. It was a nice getaway from reality. With all of these storms that we know as climate change, imagine if they were actually caused by something much more sinister and magical.
Imagine a world up in the sky, unseen by our own eyes. In a place called the Unmapped Kingdom, there's a whole magical world responsible for our weather.
I am not going to rehash the synopsis. I am only going to say that I am a new fan of this series.
My 6th grade teacher always loved when I added food into my stories. I get it now. I am the same way, too. Here, canoes have suitcases that can provide you with whatever you need, including pizza and breadsticks. Hot air balloons can not only fly themselves, but can whip up some burgers and milkshakes. Exploding gobstoppers??? WHAT???
This story is just filled with so much adventure (and good food), I enjoyed every single second of it. I usually read 3-5 books at a time. I put all of them to the side when I started this, because I could not put this book down. I was captured from the very beginning and could not wait to see how this story would end. And boy, did the ending surprise me. The author left us with a little clue as to how the next book will begin (which I believe is scheduled to come out in August).
Perhaps, it is even a clue as to how Casper Tock (a human) was able to make it to the Unmapped Kingdoms from the Faraway (aka Earth).
If you love YA/middle grade books, I highly recommend this one. If you're looking for a new adventure for your kids to read, this is a book they will love. I know I loved this and plan to keep on reading more books by Abi Elphinstone. This one is a keeper.
February 22, 2020
I cannot express how breathtaking Abi Elphinstone's writing is. Her stories have so much heart and such powerful messages in them and have always made me cry. I say always, i've only read two but I am absolutely hooked.
I listened to the audiobook of Rumblestar and the narrator is so perfect and effortlessly brings the stories and the characters to life. I simply adore this book. It has such a powerful message about friendship and finding courage and bravery in the face of hardship. Abi's characters are always so real; they have problems and they can be mean but they are so alive. She is honestly one of the best middle-grade writers I have ever read. This story is beautiful and I fell so in love with Utterly, Casper, and Arlo. What a fabulous team they are. With an amazing array of side characters; including trolls who enjoy sudoku, knitting, and vegan sundays over savagery.
Abi effortlessly links humour into this story and there were so many moments I couldn't help but laugh out loud. She had me crying by the end though, little Casper grew so much in this book and he was just a wonder.
If you love magic and adventures, then you will definitely love this book. Highly highly recommend. Cannot wait for more adventures in the Unmapped Kingdoms.
I listened to the audiobook of Rumblestar and the narrator is so perfect and effortlessly brings the stories and the characters to life. I simply adore this book. It has such a powerful message about friendship and finding courage and bravery in the face of hardship. Abi's characters are always so real; they have problems and they can be mean but they are so alive. She is honestly one of the best middle-grade writers I have ever read. This story is beautiful and I fell so in love with Utterly, Casper, and Arlo. What a fabulous team they are. With an amazing array of side characters; including trolls who enjoy sudoku, knitting, and vegan sundays over savagery.
Abi effortlessly links humour into this story and there were so many moments I couldn't help but laugh out loud. She had me crying by the end though, little Casper grew so much in this book and he was just a wonder.
If you love magic and adventures, then you will definitely love this book. Highly highly recommend. Cannot wait for more adventures in the Unmapped Kingdoms.
September 11, 2020
The story: Bullied, OCD Casper finds new courage when he's sucked into the Unmapped spaces, where the evil harpy Morg is determined to destroy all the magic in the five kingdoms (which is already having terrible consequences in the Faraway, including Casper's home in England). Together with bottler-in-training Utterly Thankless, Casper follows the clues, outwits the griffin-like Midnights--servants of Morg--and proves there's a lot more to him than meets the eye.
June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (death of a sibling, guilt and its consequences) PG; overall rating PG. Best for grades 4-6.
Liz's comments: Meh. This was a serviceable fantasy, but not the best I've read. Definitely better for younger readers--the 11-year-old main characters may get older and a little more sophisticated over the course of the series, but for now they're a little too "grade school" for the average MS fantasy reader. Give MS kids Holly Black's "Magisterium" series, or Taran Matharu's "Summoners" instead.
June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence PG; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic & the occult PG; GLBT content G; adult themes (death of a sibling, guilt and its consequences) PG; overall rating PG. Best for grades 4-6.
Liz's comments: Meh. This was a serviceable fantasy, but not the best I've read. Definitely better for younger readers--the 11-year-old main characters may get older and a little more sophisticated over the course of the series, but for now they're a little too "grade school" for the average MS fantasy reader. Give MS kids Holly Black's "Magisterium" series, or Taran Matharu's "Summoners" instead.
April 8, 2019
A novella prequel, Everdark, was written for World Book Day, and perhaps I’d have gotten on a bit better with Rumblestar if I’d read that first. My problems, though, weren’t with confusing plot or unfamiliar characters. Rather the opposite: it sort of felt as though I’d read this story before. Or parts of it in different places. There’s a weedy, wimpy boy; a tough, wisecracking girl; a magical kingdom; an untrustworthy authority figure; an adventure through the very conveniently discrete segments of said kingdom; and some emotional development. It’s all fine as far as it goes, but the emotional development, in particular, is very signposted. And it can’t be good that my favourite part (the drizzle hags, if you’re wondering) felt like they’d have been better if Terry Pratchett had written them…
May 3, 2019
A fabulous, big-hearted adventure that introduces readers to the magical world of Rumblestar. Casper is a wonderfully uncertain hero, and I didn't want this story to end. Perfect for reading out loud! (8+)
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. If you use it in any marketing material, online or anywhere on a published book without asking permission from me first, I will ask you to remove that use immediately. Thank you!*
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. If you use it in any marketing material, online or anywhere on a published book without asking permission from me first, I will ask you to remove that use immediately. Thank you!*
August 7, 2019
Giving up on this one due to the random word generator being over used from the first page up to page 200 where my mind just couldn't take any more.
June 11, 2019
Rumblestar is a fun magical middle grade adventure with fantastical creatures, a daring quest and brave young heroes. It’s also the first in the Unmapped Kingdoms series by Abi Elphinstone. I loved this book and it was also my first Abi Elphinstone. I can say that I definitely wasn’t disappointed. The world was very imaginative and I liked learning about Rumblestar and the Unmapped Kingdoms.
I liked Casper Tock, a 11-year-old boy who finds himself in Rumblestar after hiding in a grandfather clock from a bully. It was sad to see how bullying had caused him to become allergic to adventure and friendship. I found it to be relatable at times and was definitely wanting him to find friends. I also liked that he was a person of colour since representation is important in all genres. Abi Elphinstone’s wonderful story telling showed how Casper’s quest caused him to become braver, and not rely on timetables and to do lists.
Utterly Thankless was also a fantastic character. I liked how she was the opposite to Casper, adventurous and allergic to timetables. Though at the same time also didn’t have any friends, except for a miniature dragon called Arlo. I liked how Abi Elphinstone showed Utterly dealing with grief and slowly coming to terms with it throughout her quest with Casper. I also liked how their relationship slowly deveRumblestar is a fun magical middle grade adventure with fantastical creatures, a daring quest and brave young heroes. It’s also the first in the Unmapped Kingdoms series by Abi Elphinstone. I loved this book and it was also my first Abi Elphinstone. I can say that I definitely wasn’t disappointed. The world was very imaginative and I liked learning about Rumblestar and the Unmapped Kingdoms.
I liked Casper Tock, a 11-year-old boy who finds himself in Rumblestar after hiding in a grandfather clock from a bully. It was sad to see how bullying had caused him to become allergic to adventure and friendship. I found it to be relatable at times and was definitely wanting him to find friends. I also liked that he was a person of colour since representation is important in all genres. Abi Elphinstone’s wonderful story telling showed how Casper’s quest caused him to become braver, and not rely on timetables and to do lists.
Utterly Thankless was also a fantastic character. I liked how she was the opposite to Casper, adventurous and allergic to timetables. Though at the same time also didn’t have any friends, except for a miniature dragon called Arlo. I liked how Abi Elphinstone showed Utterly dealing with grief and slowly coming to terms with it throughout her quest with Casper. I also liked how their relationship slowly developed over the book, from Utterly arresting Casper, to acquaintances and finally friendship.
I loved the world of Rumblestar. It was very imaginative and magical, a world that I would love to visit. It was full of magical unique creatures from the Lofty Husks (wizards who are in charge of the kingdom), cloud giants, storm ogres and drizzle hags to my personal favourite the snow trolls who used to fight but are now vegans and study self-care. The Midnights (followers to the evil harpy Morg) were also unique and quite scary. I loved the origin story of the Unmapped Kingdoms and can’t wait to read more.
Over all I loved this story. Kids will definitely love this fun magical adventure.
loped over the book, from Utterly arresting Casper, to acquaintances and finally friendship.
I loved the world of Rumblestar. It was very imaginative and magical, a world that I would love to visit. It was full of magical unique creatures from the Lofty Husks (wizards who are in charge of the kingdom), cloud giants, storm ogres and drizzle hags to my personal favourite the snow trolls who used to fight but are now vegans and study self-care. The Midnights (followers to the evil harpy Morg) were also unique and quite scary. I loved the origin story of the Unmapped Kingdoms and can’t wait to read more.
Over all I loved this story. Kids will definitely love this fun magical adventure.
Thanks for Simon & Schuster Australia for sending me a copy in exchange of a honest review
I liked Casper Tock, a 11-year-old boy who finds himself in Rumblestar after hiding in a grandfather clock from a bully. It was sad to see how bullying had caused him to become allergic to adventure and friendship. I found it to be relatable at times and was definitely wanting him to find friends. I also liked that he was a person of colour since representation is important in all genres. Abi Elphinstone’s wonderful story telling showed how Casper’s quest caused him to become braver, and not rely on timetables and to do lists.
Utterly Thankless was also a fantastic character. I liked how she was the opposite to Casper, adventurous and allergic to timetables. Though at the same time also didn’t have any friends, except for a miniature dragon called Arlo. I liked how Abi Elphinstone showed Utterly dealing with grief and slowly coming to terms with it throughout her quest with Casper. I also liked how their relationship slowly deveRumblestar is a fun magical middle grade adventure with fantastical creatures, a daring quest and brave young heroes. It’s also the first in the Unmapped Kingdoms series by Abi Elphinstone. I loved this book and it was also my first Abi Elphinstone. I can say that I definitely wasn’t disappointed. The world was very imaginative and I liked learning about Rumblestar and the Unmapped Kingdoms.
I liked Casper Tock, a 11-year-old boy who finds himself in Rumblestar after hiding in a grandfather clock from a bully. It was sad to see how bullying had caused him to become allergic to adventure and friendship. I found it to be relatable at times and was definitely wanting him to find friends. I also liked that he was a person of colour since representation is important in all genres. Abi Elphinstone’s wonderful story telling showed how Casper’s quest caused him to become braver, and not rely on timetables and to do lists.
Utterly Thankless was also a fantastic character. I liked how she was the opposite to Casper, adventurous and allergic to timetables. Though at the same time also didn’t have any friends, except for a miniature dragon called Arlo. I liked how Abi Elphinstone showed Utterly dealing with grief and slowly coming to terms with it throughout her quest with Casper. I also liked how their relationship slowly developed over the book, from Utterly arresting Casper, to acquaintances and finally friendship.
I loved the world of Rumblestar. It was very imaginative and magical, a world that I would love to visit. It was full of magical unique creatures from the Lofty Husks (wizards who are in charge of the kingdom), cloud giants, storm ogres and drizzle hags to my personal favourite the snow trolls who used to fight but are now vegans and study self-care. The Midnights (followers to the evil harpy Morg) were also unique and quite scary. I loved the origin story of the Unmapped Kingdoms and can’t wait to read more.
Over all I loved this story. Kids will definitely love this fun magical adventure.
loped over the book, from Utterly arresting Casper, to acquaintances and finally friendship.
I loved the world of Rumblestar. It was very imaginative and magical, a world that I would love to visit. It was full of magical unique creatures from the Lofty Husks (wizards who are in charge of the kingdom), cloud giants, storm ogres and drizzle hags to my personal favourite the snow trolls who used to fight but are now vegans and study self-care. The Midnights (followers to the evil harpy Morg) were also unique and quite scary. I loved the origin story of the Unmapped Kingdoms and can’t wait to read more.
Over all I loved this story. Kids will definitely love this fun magical adventure.
Thanks for Simon & Schuster Australia for sending me a copy in exchange of a honest review
April 30, 2020
There are these particular books that give you this high. That special feeling like something is falling into place, clicking. It glues you to the page, makes you reckless in wanting to finish it. You know you should write that report, that essay, finish that task and your supervisor/teacher/boss is looming just over there but you would still sneek a peak, no matter the tongue lashing you would get if discovered. It’s a high that I – all of us probably – constantly chase. “Rumblestar” was such a book for me.
While I felt that the little prequel “Everdark” needed some more focus and brainpower to read, Rumblestar seemed perfectly rounded. It read a little like the author had found a place in her own story and was perfectly happy giving her reader the grand tour. And what a tour it was.
The world building was nothing sheer of amazing. While I got a glimpse of everything in Everdark, this book unfolded all its magic and mysteries before me and lets you discover the most amazing things left and right and above and below you. It felt like I could taste the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms and I felt a yearning of being able to visit and explore it myself. Drizzlehags, cloudgiants and snowgoblins are just a few of the amazing creatures to meet. And don’t even get me started on the (miniature) dragons because then we will be here all week.
However, no matter how magical, amazing and mindboggling the worldbuilding is, this book would probably only half as fun without the characters.
Casper Tock, just a regular boy in an English bording school, would never even consider doing anthing that is not properly planned and scheduled and all the (more than) appropriate safety meassures have been taken. Since I also rather plan things than going headfirst into the unknown, I felt an instant connection to him.
He is a cautious and worried boy, constantly bullied and alone. When he accidentally stumbles into Rumblestar with all its magic and danger and chaos, he is less than thrilled. It was fun to see the story from Casper’s perspective and see him grow and mature and learn things about himself and about others. While we don’t see much from the perspective of the other most important character – a headstrong girl from Rumblestar named Utterly Thankless – I still liked witnessing her arc and how Utterly herself changed through this adventure these two (and Utterly’s miniature dragon Arlo) have to go through.
The book not only lets you live through an amazing magical adventure, it also deals with issues like loneliness, bullying, grief and high expectations (from others and yourself). Sometimes the hardships those children have to face on their endeavors are their own personal demons and insecurities and while this is often not very cloaked or wrapped to make it a little less obvious, I still liked to see how they were dealing with all of it.
At the end of the book I felt more than a little sad that it was over. I cannot wait to venture back into the Unmapped Kingdoms and into Jungledrop and Crackledawn and Everdark. I want another look, more magic, I want to see more amazing creatures and spells and inventions like I’ve got a whiff of in Rumblestar. There is so much more to discover. Also, Rumblestar has dragons. Did I mention the dragons?
While I felt that the little prequel “Everdark” needed some more focus and brainpower to read, Rumblestar seemed perfectly rounded. It read a little like the author had found a place in her own story and was perfectly happy giving her reader the grand tour. And what a tour it was.
The world building was nothing sheer of amazing. While I got a glimpse of everything in Everdark, this book unfolded all its magic and mysteries before me and lets you discover the most amazing things left and right and above and below you. It felt like I could taste the magic of the Unmapped Kingdoms and I felt a yearning of being able to visit and explore it myself. Drizzlehags, cloudgiants and snowgoblins are just a few of the amazing creatures to meet. And don’t even get me started on the (miniature) dragons because then we will be here all week.
However, no matter how magical, amazing and mindboggling the worldbuilding is, this book would probably only half as fun without the characters.
Casper Tock, just a regular boy in an English bording school, would never even consider doing anthing that is not properly planned and scheduled and all the (more than) appropriate safety meassures have been taken. Since I also rather plan things than going headfirst into the unknown, I felt an instant connection to him.
He is a cautious and worried boy, constantly bullied and alone. When he accidentally stumbles into Rumblestar with all its magic and danger and chaos, he is less than thrilled. It was fun to see the story from Casper’s perspective and see him grow and mature and learn things about himself and about others. While we don’t see much from the perspective of the other most important character – a headstrong girl from Rumblestar named Utterly Thankless – I still liked witnessing her arc and how Utterly herself changed through this adventure these two (and Utterly’s miniature dragon Arlo) have to go through.
The book not only lets you live through an amazing magical adventure, it also deals with issues like loneliness, bullying, grief and high expectations (from others and yourself). Sometimes the hardships those children have to face on their endeavors are their own personal demons and insecurities and while this is often not very cloaked or wrapped to make it a little less obvious, I still liked to see how they were dealing with all of it.
At the end of the book I felt more than a little sad that it was over. I cannot wait to venture back into the Unmapped Kingdoms and into Jungledrop and Crackledawn and Everdark. I want another look, more magic, I want to see more amazing creatures and spells and inventions like I’ve got a whiff of in Rumblestar. There is so much more to discover. Also, Rumblestar has dragons. Did I mention the dragons?
March 18, 2022
Klappentext
Caspar hasst Abenteuer. Am liebsten sitzt er in der Schulbibliothek und liest. Doch als er sich eines Tages vor den beiden Klassenfieslingen in der alten Standuhr versteckt, geschieht das Unglaubliche: Er findet sich in einem hohlen Baum wieder und vor ihm steht ein Mädchen mit Sommersprossen, die wie Sterne aussehen. Sie heißt Wilda Undank und bringt ihn unverzüglich vor die Zauberer von Wolkenstern. Damit nicht genug. Caspar muss die Rätsel der Nieselhexen lösen, den unheimlichen Nachtlingen entkommen und die böse Harpyie Morg besiegen. Ob ihm Wilda und Minidrache Arlo dabei helfen?
Cover und Schreibstil
Was für ein schönes und farblich so interessant gestaltes Cover welches mich direkt angesprochen hat. Die detaillierte Titelbild ist wirklich ein Hingucker und passt einfach nur perfekt zur Geschichte, es zeigt Wilda und Caspar mit dem kleinen Arlo in einem Land jenseits von unserem.
Der Schreibstil ist echt angenehm zu lesen und man kommt schnell in die Geschichte rein. Er ist perfekt für Kinder geeignet ob zum Vorlesen oder auch für ältere Kinder zum Selber lesen.
Fazit und Inhalt
Ein so spannendes Abenteuer welches einfach nur ein Highlight für mich und meine Nichte die Bücher verschlingt war. Sie liebt, Gott sei Dank, genauso sehr Fantasiegeschichten wie ich. Ich habe es zuerst gelesen und dann sie. Sie konnte es auch nicht aus der Hand legen, ich habe nur 2 Abende gebraucht. Sie hat glaube ich auch nicht viel länger gebraucht. Ich verrate hier nicht zu viel, keine Angst nur so viel. Es ist zum Glück nicht der letzte Band und wir können uns auf mehr freuen. Denn wir lieben Wilda, endlich mal eine Heldin die alles ist was Mädchen sein dürfen. Ich habe es wirklich sehr geliebt und mich gefreut, dass meine kleine genau das vorlebt bekommt. Dann war da noch Caspar auch ihn fand ich einfach nur liebevoll gestaltet und so toll. Er zeigt das Jungs auch schwach sein dürfen, bzw was wir als Schwäche auslegen. Denn es ist eine Stärke seine Gewohnheiten über Bort zu werfen. Er ist ein toller Jung, genauso wie er ist. Ich finde die Autorin mit ihrer Welt so toll, sie hat mich in eine Wetterwelt entführt mit kleinen, schlauen Drachen und bösen Harpyie. Ich bin, wie ihr sicher bemerkt, restlos begeistert von so einer tollen Welt und kann das Buch wirklich empfehlen egal ob groß oder klein.
Ich danke Netgallery für das Rezi Exemplar welches meine Meinung nicht beeinflusst hat.
Caspar hasst Abenteuer. Am liebsten sitzt er in der Schulbibliothek und liest. Doch als er sich eines Tages vor den beiden Klassenfieslingen in der alten Standuhr versteckt, geschieht das Unglaubliche: Er findet sich in einem hohlen Baum wieder und vor ihm steht ein Mädchen mit Sommersprossen, die wie Sterne aussehen. Sie heißt Wilda Undank und bringt ihn unverzüglich vor die Zauberer von Wolkenstern. Damit nicht genug. Caspar muss die Rätsel der Nieselhexen lösen, den unheimlichen Nachtlingen entkommen und die böse Harpyie Morg besiegen. Ob ihm Wilda und Minidrache Arlo dabei helfen?
Cover und Schreibstil
Was für ein schönes und farblich so interessant gestaltes Cover welches mich direkt angesprochen hat. Die detaillierte Titelbild ist wirklich ein Hingucker und passt einfach nur perfekt zur Geschichte, es zeigt Wilda und Caspar mit dem kleinen Arlo in einem Land jenseits von unserem.
Der Schreibstil ist echt angenehm zu lesen und man kommt schnell in die Geschichte rein. Er ist perfekt für Kinder geeignet ob zum Vorlesen oder auch für ältere Kinder zum Selber lesen.
Fazit und Inhalt
Ein so spannendes Abenteuer welches einfach nur ein Highlight für mich und meine Nichte die Bücher verschlingt war. Sie liebt, Gott sei Dank, genauso sehr Fantasiegeschichten wie ich. Ich habe es zuerst gelesen und dann sie. Sie konnte es auch nicht aus der Hand legen, ich habe nur 2 Abende gebraucht. Sie hat glaube ich auch nicht viel länger gebraucht. Ich verrate hier nicht zu viel, keine Angst nur so viel. Es ist zum Glück nicht der letzte Band und wir können uns auf mehr freuen. Denn wir lieben Wilda, endlich mal eine Heldin die alles ist was Mädchen sein dürfen. Ich habe es wirklich sehr geliebt und mich gefreut, dass meine kleine genau das vorlebt bekommt. Dann war da noch Caspar auch ihn fand ich einfach nur liebevoll gestaltet und so toll. Er zeigt das Jungs auch schwach sein dürfen, bzw was wir als Schwäche auslegen. Denn es ist eine Stärke seine Gewohnheiten über Bort zu werfen. Er ist ein toller Jung, genauso wie er ist. Ich finde die Autorin mit ihrer Welt so toll, sie hat mich in eine Wetterwelt entführt mit kleinen, schlauen Drachen und bösen Harpyie. Ich bin, wie ihr sicher bemerkt, restlos begeistert von so einer tollen Welt und kann das Buch wirklich empfehlen egal ob groß oder klein.
Ich danke Netgallery für das Rezi Exemplar welches meine Meinung nicht beeinflusst hat.
May 28, 2019
Review can also be found at Snow White Hates Apples.
Actual rating: 3.5 Stars
Thank you so much Pansing for sending me the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! Abi Elphinstone’s Rumblestar will be available at all good bookstores.
It seems as if I'm in the midst of creating a pattern for myself (once is chance, twice is coincidence and all that) because although I don't dislike Middle Grade fiction, I don't actively seek books of that genre to read yet I somehow still pick them up and end up nicely surprised.
Abi Elphinstone's Rumblestar reminds me a lot of Thomas Taylor's Malamander. They're both Middle Grade fiction and they have similar characters—cowardly boys who get pushed out of their comfort zones by tough and selfish girls (I can see where they're coming from but unfortunately, I can't bring myself to like them), adults who aren't trustworthy and magical creatures. They also have predictable plots and typical themes, which is expected from Middle Grade fiction, but unlike Malamander , Rumblestar isn't as well-written.
This is because there is a lot more telling than showing in Rumblestar and while it does help to show character development, it's not one that's powerful and has the ability to make the reader empathize. This type of narrative also makes the story boring. I was very tempted to skip through a lot of parts just so I could get to the next plot point, but didn't because Elphinestone weaves very rich visual imagery (and thus, a richly imagined world) into her narrative and I couldn't get enough of that.
Moreover, some transitions between points of view within a chapter aren't smooth. Perhaps this is only me being particular about things, but the story is written in third person omniscient and switching between, for instance, Casper's mind to Utterly's when it's still Casper's scene/chapter provides a jarring effect and it also breaks the moment.
As I'm reading the ARC of this book, I noticed that there is a few errors present (such as the misspelling of a character's name). Hopefully, this gets corrected in the published edition.
Everything considered, Rumblestar is a better than average read, hence why I was nicely surprised by how much I liked it despite the certain aforementioned aspects. I think that had I not read Malamander first, I would maybe enjoy Rumblestar more.
Actual rating: 3.5 Stars
Thank you so much Pansing for sending me the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! Abi Elphinstone’s Rumblestar will be available at all good bookstores.
It seems as if I'm in the midst of creating a pattern for myself (once is chance, twice is coincidence and all that) because although I don't dislike Middle Grade fiction, I don't actively seek books of that genre to read yet I somehow still pick them up and end up nicely surprised.
Abi Elphinstone's Rumblestar reminds me a lot of Thomas Taylor's Malamander. They're both Middle Grade fiction and they have similar characters—cowardly boys who get pushed out of their comfort zones by tough and selfish girls (I can see where they're coming from but unfortunately, I can't bring myself to like them), adults who aren't trustworthy and magical creatures. They also have predictable plots and typical themes, which is expected from Middle Grade fiction, but unlike Malamander , Rumblestar isn't as well-written.
This is because there is a lot more telling than showing in Rumblestar and while it does help to show character development, it's not one that's powerful and has the ability to make the reader empathize. This type of narrative also makes the story boring. I was very tempted to skip through a lot of parts just so I could get to the next plot point, but didn't because Elphinestone weaves very rich visual imagery (and thus, a richly imagined world) into her narrative and I couldn't get enough of that.
Moreover, some transitions between points of view within a chapter aren't smooth. Perhaps this is only me being particular about things, but the story is written in third person omniscient and switching between, for instance, Casper's mind to Utterly's when it's still Casper's scene/chapter provides a jarring effect and it also breaks the moment.
As I'm reading the ARC of this book, I noticed that there is a few errors present (such as the misspelling of a character's name). Hopefully, this gets corrected in the published edition.
Everything considered, Rumblestar is a better than average read, hence why I was nicely surprised by how much I liked it despite the certain aforementioned aspects. I think that had I not read Malamander first, I would maybe enjoy Rumblestar more.
February 28, 2023
ENGLISH VERSION BELOW
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Dieses Kinderbuch hat eine meiner liebsten Ausgangssituationen ever. Caspar hasst Abenteuer, er erstellt gerne Listen, er hat es gerne ruhig, er mag Ordnung. In der Schule wird er leider gemobbt und als er sich vor den Klassenfieslingen in einer Standuhr versteckt, wird er in eine andere Welt katapultiert. Dort trifft er auf das Mädchen Wilda. Diese ist das genaue Gegenteil von ihm. Wilda ist chaotisch, will auf Abenteuer gehen, möchte die Welt retten. In Caspar sieht sie nun den, der ihr dabei helfen soll. Caspar mag aber weder Abenteuer, noch will er ein Held sein. Er hat jedoch wenig Wahl, als Wilda zu begleiten, denn immerhin will er ja wieder nach Hause.
Die beiden müssen diverse Abenteuer bestehen, um ein großes Rätsel zu lösen, kleine Geheimnisse aufzudecken und schlussendlich eben doch die Welt zu retten.
Wilda hat übrigens einen kleinen Haustierdrachen.
Die Dynamik zwischen diesen beiden Figuren hat mir besonders gut gefallen. Caspar hab ich mein Herz geschlossen, Wilda würde ich auf Abenteuer begleiten.
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This children's book has one of my favourite starting situations ever. Caspar hates adventures, he likes to make lists, he likes it quiet, he likes order. Unfortunately, he is bullied at school and when he hides from the class bullies in a grandfather clock, he is catapulted into another world. There he meets the girl Wilda. She is the exact opposite of him. Wilda is chaotic, wants to go on adventures, wants to save the world. She sees Caspar as the one who is supposed to help her. But Caspar neither likes adventures nor wants to be a hero. But he has little choice but to accompany Wilda, because after all he wants to go home again.
The two of them have to go on various adventures to solve a big mystery, uncover little secrets and, in the end, save the world after all.
Wilda has a small pet dragon by the way.
I particularly liked the dynamic between these two characters. I have taken Caspar to my heart, and I would accompany Wilda on adventures.
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Dieses Kinderbuch hat eine meiner liebsten Ausgangssituationen ever. Caspar hasst Abenteuer, er erstellt gerne Listen, er hat es gerne ruhig, er mag Ordnung. In der Schule wird er leider gemobbt und als er sich vor den Klassenfieslingen in einer Standuhr versteckt, wird er in eine andere Welt katapultiert. Dort trifft er auf das Mädchen Wilda. Diese ist das genaue Gegenteil von ihm. Wilda ist chaotisch, will auf Abenteuer gehen, möchte die Welt retten. In Caspar sieht sie nun den, der ihr dabei helfen soll. Caspar mag aber weder Abenteuer, noch will er ein Held sein. Er hat jedoch wenig Wahl, als Wilda zu begleiten, denn immerhin will er ja wieder nach Hause.
Die beiden müssen diverse Abenteuer bestehen, um ein großes Rätsel zu lösen, kleine Geheimnisse aufzudecken und schlussendlich eben doch die Welt zu retten.
Wilda hat übrigens einen kleinen Haustierdrachen.
Die Dynamik zwischen diesen beiden Figuren hat mir besonders gut gefallen. Caspar hab ich mein Herz geschlossen, Wilda würde ich auf Abenteuer begleiten.
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This children's book has one of my favourite starting situations ever. Caspar hates adventures, he likes to make lists, he likes it quiet, he likes order. Unfortunately, he is bullied at school and when he hides from the class bullies in a grandfather clock, he is catapulted into another world. There he meets the girl Wilda. She is the exact opposite of him. Wilda is chaotic, wants to go on adventures, wants to save the world. She sees Caspar as the one who is supposed to help her. But Caspar neither likes adventures nor wants to be a hero. But he has little choice but to accompany Wilda, because after all he wants to go home again.
The two of them have to go on various adventures to solve a big mystery, uncover little secrets and, in the end, save the world after all.
Wilda has a small pet dragon by the way.
I particularly liked the dynamic between these two characters. I have taken Caspar to my heart, and I would accompany Wilda on adventures.
September 30, 2020
The time it took me to listen to this on audio is, in no way, a sign of my feelings about the book. I am pretty new to using audiobooks and find certain conditions/settings make it easier for me to follow the story when I don’t have the physical text in front of me.
This is a great adventure, with characters that you can’t help but admire, want to succeed and which made me feel a lot braver just reading about them. Eleven year old Casper likes routine and his life is led by his timetables. Unfortunately, these timetables mostly consist of helping him to avoid the school bullies determined to make his life awful.
One day Casper finds himself hiding in a clock to escape them, and is transported to a magical world. Rumblestar is a strange place, full of whimsy, but the characters he meets as he tries to prevent the evil taking over the world. From Arlo the dragon to his first proper friend, Utterly Thankless, these characters were full of life.
There was a great blend of fear and humour, and our character’s journey was inspirational. Huge thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for letting me listen to this prior to publication.
This is a great adventure, with characters that you can’t help but admire, want to succeed and which made me feel a lot braver just reading about them. Eleven year old Casper likes routine and his life is led by his timetables. Unfortunately, these timetables mostly consist of helping him to avoid the school bullies determined to make his life awful.
One day Casper finds himself hiding in a clock to escape them, and is transported to a magical world. Rumblestar is a strange place, full of whimsy, but the characters he meets as he tries to prevent the evil taking over the world. From Arlo the dragon to his first proper friend, Utterly Thankless, these characters were full of life.
There was a great blend of fear and humour, and our character’s journey was inspirational. Huge thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for letting me listen to this prior to publication.
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