Professor Gargoyle (Tales from Lovecraft Middle School, #1) by Charles Gilman

Jan 20, 2013 Katy rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: anyone

Recommended to Katy by: Amazon Vine

Shelves: galley-for-review, vine-book

Book Info: Genre: Fantasy
Reading Level: Middle Grade (10 on up)
Recommended for: Readers of all ages who enjoy a MG fantasy adventure story, especially with Lovecraftian overtones

Disclosure: I received a free review copy of this book from the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an honest review.

From the Back of the Book: Strange things are happening at Lovecraft Middle School. Rats are leaping from lockers. Students are disappearing. The school library is a labyrinth of secret corridors. And th...more

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Sep 06, 2012 Traci rated it 4 of 5 stars

Cute book! Had an ARC in the staff lounge at our Main branch, and as I had to work there today and had forgotten to bring any of the FOUR books I had started at home, I picked this up.

Robert Arthur is a victim of redistricting; all his friends will go to Franklin Middle School on the north side of town. Robert must attend Lovecraft Middle School on the south side of town. He knows no one there, no one at all - except Glenn Torkells, the bully who has tormented him since he started his academic c...more

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Feb 12, 2013 Krista (CubicleBlindness Reviews) rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book took me back to reading stories like The Witches by Roald Dahl. It was a little twisted, dark and amazingly fun and imaginative.

Robert is in an area of town that has been re-districted, and now he has to attend the new school, Lovecraft Middle School. He's pretty shy and once he gets to school we can see that he is bullied. That's right, how lucky is he to have his bully reassigned to the new school as well.

His teachers and the whole feeling of his new school feel off, and he's never...more

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Apr 25, 2013 Robert Kent rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: middle-grade-ninja-reviews

Do you like the scary books, Esteemed Reader? You know I do, which is why a scary book is two to three times as likely to be our Book of the Week. When I'm shopping for book, I'm two to three times as likely to buy a scary one and as a kid I was five to six times more likely. As you know, my favorite middle grade book of all time is Roald Dahl's The Witches.

If younger me had discovered the extraordinary Professor Gargoyle, I have no doubt I would've torn through the entire series of Tales From...more

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Apr 10, 2013 Annette M Guerriero Nishimoto rated it 4 of 5 stars

Today's review is on Professor Gargoyle (Tales from Lovecraft Middle School)

Being as all of my life I have always been my Gothic self, I can definitely say that I wish that this book was around when I was a youngster.

There is nothing that I do not like about this book. From the amazing front cover to the rat infested back, Professor Gargoyle is an awesome tale filled with adventure, excitement, and paranormal activity.

Starting at a new school is never easy, especially when you realize that none...more

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Apr 06, 2013 Ana Mardoll rated it 4 of 5 stars

Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1: Professor Gargoyle / 1594745919

"Tales from Lovecraft Middle School" is a new YA series I've stumbled into; the books are set in a world much like our own, with the minor difference that no one has ever heard of H.P. Lovecraft, and Cthulhu and Shoggoths and whatnot all exist and are rapidly crawling out of the woodwork at the local brand-new middle school. And our everyman YA protagonist Robert Arthur is stuck in the middle between the adults-who-don't-know...more Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1: Professor Gargoyle / 1594745919

"Tales from Lovecraft Middle School" is a new YA series I've stumbled into; the books are set in a world much like our own, with the minor difference that no one has ever heard of H.P. Lovecraft, and Cthulhu and Shoggoths and whatnot all exist and are rapidly crawling out of the woodwork at the local brand-new middle school. And our everyman YA protagonist Robert Arthur is stuck in the middle between the adults-who-don't-know and the monsters-who-do.

I love Lovecraftian stories and am always down for a new exploration of the mythos, but I will admit upfront that these books are a little disappointing in the execution of the themes. For me, at least, it's not really enough to slap demons and tentacle-monsters into a book for it to be Lovecraftian; if there's not soul-crushing foreboding and a descent into a horrified lonely mind-breaking nightmarish existence, then it's just not the same. And "Tales from Lovecraft Middle School" doesn't really delve into existential angst or soul-striping fear, probably because the targeted YA audience needs to be able to sleep at night. I get that, and I think the series is fine as a "Lovecraftverse, but not Lovecraftian feel", but if you are coming to the series for that, be aware you're probably not going to get it.

Once I got over my initial disappointment that the tone wasn't quite what I'd hoped for going in, I was pleased to find that this book is still solidly good. It reminds me a lot of the Percy Jackson series, but with Lovecraftian monsters instead of Ancient Greek Mythology ones, which I think we can all agree is a positive thing. The writing is solid, the action moves at a good clip, I never felt like the narrative got bogged down in any place, and the characterization is really well-developed. I think I liked the characterization the most, actually; Robert Arthur is an everyman, but avoids coming off as bland, and his girlfriend and sidekick are both surprisingly well realized. I was also pleased to note that while at least one twist is telegraphed reasonably far in advance for the genre-savvy reader, a final twist is justified nicely enough that it felt very natural indeed. So kudos for that.

Overall, this opening to the series is well-written and fast-paced and I enjoyed it thoroughly once I adjusted my expectations for the content. This probably won't curl your toes in fear, but if you like mythological YA school series, this one can scratch a somewhat edgier itch.

~ Ana Mardoll(less)

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Mar 24, 2013 Louise at Readers Confession rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: MG.Parents who want to introduce their child to light fantasy and an eerie setting.

Shelves: books-i-own, cool-covers, charles-gilman, 5-stars, books-with-illustrations, middle-grade, supernatural, other-cool-creatures, quirk

I have to talk about the design of this book. Firstly the front cover is a hologram which drew me in, the cover tells you what kind of story lies in the pages ahead and I loved that. The typography and extras used throughout the cover are awesome. Inside is equally stunning from the paper quality to the luxurious end papers to the fascinating emblem, that makes you want to dive in and find out what it all means. I have the second book, The Slither Sisters and it's presented the same way. These b...more I have to talk about the design of this book. Firstly the front cover is a hologram which drew me in, the cover tells you what kind of story lies in the pages ahead and I loved that. The typography and extras used throughout the cover are awesome. Inside is equally stunning from the paper quality to the luxurious end papers to the fascinating emblem, that makes you want to dive in and find out what it all means. I have the second book, The Slither Sisters and it's presented the same way. These books have monstrous shelf appeal, they're dying to be read by adults and children alike.

Who is Katrina Ortiz? And what does she have to with Tillinghast Mansion from 1983? Is there a connection between Lovecraft Middle School and the freaky secrets of the mansion? Who would've thought your only friends would be a two headed rat and a ghost?!

It all started with a strange book that Robert found in a hidden room in the schools library. Somehow the strange words in this books open portals and bring forth monsters with tentacles, horns and much more!

Robert Arthur is starting at a new school. He doesn't know anyone at Lovercraft Middle School until he comes face to face with Glenn Torkells. Glenn has bullied Robert for years, taking his money for dweebtax and calling him names. Robert is not happy to see Glenn to say the least so, when a giant squid-like creature throws his tentacles out of Roberts locker and attacks Glenn.. the result, the two become best friends.

I don't want to say anymore about the plot, I don't want to spoil the story..you'll just have to pick up your own copy and find out!

The story has a lot of mystery, and it's packed with action, adventure and cool illustrations. The story has short chapters and flows at a nice even pace.

This was a great start to a new series, and I can't wait to dive into the second book, The Slither Sisters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes adventure and a few light scares.

Fans of House of Anubis, Harry Potter and Goosebumps will love it!(less)

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Mar 09, 2013 Damaskcat rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Professor Gargoyle of the title is a teacher at Lovecraft Middle School in Dunwich on the East coast of the US. It is a new school and has been built from recycled materials and has solar panels for generating electricity. It is an environmentally friendly building and everything is state of the art. Naturally Robert Arthur is nervous about starting a new school and his heart sinks when he realises his old enemy Glenn Torkells is a pupil too.

Robert soon wonders what sort of school he has com...more

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Feb 11, 2013 Viv rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: children-s-books

I thoroughly enjoyed this first book of the series; I anticipated it to be a hit among 3-4 graders. Children interested in fantasy/classic horror book will find this one satisfying. This is a series that will promote itself as long as you have the cover of the book facing out. Just the design of the lenticular portrait cover alone is enough to get children in the library wanting to put their hands on it.

I think for children who read through Harry Potter series may find the story a bit too "pred...more

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Feb 03, 2013 Allison Campbell rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-copies

This is Book One in Tales From Lovecraft Middle School, and it is an auspicious beginning! Lovecraft fans will be delighted to have this bridge to ease their children into the world of classic horror. While less complex than Harry Potter, Lovecraft Middle School offers plenty of interest for the middle-grade reader. Robert Arthur will attend Lovecraft Middle School, a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, while his friends attend a different school, so he's naturally apprehensive. On his first d...more This is Book One in Tales From Lovecraft Middle School, and it is an auspicious beginning! Lovecraft fans will be delighted to have this bridge to ease their children into the world of classic horror. While less complex than Harry Potter, Lovecraft Middle School offers plenty of interest for the middle-grade reader. Robert Arthur will attend Lovecraft Middle School, a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, while his friends attend a different school, so he's naturally apprehensive. On his first day, the only person he knows there is Glenn Torkells, the bully who has extracted a Dweeb Tax from Robert for years. He does meet a girl named Karina who seems a promising friend, but things become very strange when rats leap from student lockers on the very first day and Robert gets literally lost in the library, winding up in a strange, moth-ball-scented room from another century.

While the Harry Potter books take place over the course of a school year, the first Lovecraft Middle School book spans just three weeks, long enough for Robert and his unlikely sidekicks to learn that things are not as they seem at the school (made from recycled materials - but recycled from WHAT?) and to set up neatly the second installment, THE SLITHER SISTERS. I found this book to be great fun. The lenticular portrait of Professor Goyle that shifts to reveal his horns is inspired (my ARC also included the lenticular portrait from THE SLITHER SISTERS to use as a bookmark, and this one looks just as fun). Robert is likable and relatable, and his curiosity and fear are both warranted. I liked Karina quite a bit, and Glenn turns out to be more complex than Robert had thought.

I would say this is easier reading than Harry Potter, which may make it a good choice for reluctant readers. Fantasy and horror readers will also find much to like in the creepy halls of Lovecraft Middle School. Have a copy of Lovecraft's stories handy for more advanced readers - they'll enjoy the references even more having read some of the original material.

Source disclosure: I received a review copy of this title from the publisher.
(less)

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Oct 28, 2012 Audrey rated it 4 of 5 stars

This first installment of the new Tales from Lovecraft Middle School series is marketed as a book for "middle-grade" readers, aged 10 and up. Fans of R.S. Stine's Goosebumps series are said to be in for a treat with this re-imagining of H.P. Lovecraft's twisted science fiction creations.

Lovecraft Middle School is a state-of-the-art school in Massachusetts, complete with touch screen security built into the lockers. The green-certified school has an impressive list of attributes. This futuristic...more This first installment of the new Tales from Lovecraft Middle School series is marketed as a book for "middle-grade" readers, aged 10 and up. Fans of R.S. Stine's Goosebumps series are said to be in for a treat with this re-imagining of H.P. Lovecraft's twisted science fiction creations.

Lovecraft Middle School is a state-of-the-art school in Massachusetts, complete with touch screen security built into the lockers. The green-certified school has an impressive list of attributes. This futuristic school is the talk of the town, and was built upon abandoned farmland that once gave refuge to countless animals... and perhaps something more sinister.

Thanks to a bit of redistricting, seventh-grader transfer Robert Arthur is one of Lovecraft's newest, and loneliest, students. Readers follow on Robert's heels as he witnesses a number of mysterious, creepy happenings and tries to avoid his bully (perhaps the most terrible beast of them all!).

Robert is not your average wimpy kid. His curiosity leads him into trouble with rats that bite, huge spiders, and a vortex in the library. Rather than sit around watching TV, Robert eagerly seeks adventures with his unnerving companions, be they rodents or teenage girls.

Knowledge, the acquisition and wielding of it, is the name of the game in Professor Gargoyle. Robert is challenged to see more than what meets the eye, and his curiosity leads him toward information that will help him save the school from dark forces that threaten. Students begin to disappear, and while parents don't suspect foul play, Robert steps forward as a leader ready to take a stand for what's right.

What pleased me about this book is Gilman's suggestion that not all new things are good. Lovecraft Middle School was built upon old farm land, which was a refuge for all sorts of critters. The book's young hero uneasily observes the "newness" Lovecraft. His modern school drastically differs from the realm he discovers - far older, stranger and more dangerous than the school. The teachers encourage students to be thoughtful of what came before them, and how their actions affect those around them - for better and for worse.

Cuthulu is not a cuddly character, and I don't think Lovecraft meant for young children to enter his world without guidance. This simplified version of Lovecraft's imaginative science fiction realm is a quick read likely to hook young readers long enough to sell plenty of these eye-catching novels.

Read my full review at my children's literature blog, Kiddie Lit-er: http://kiddieliter.blogspot.com/2012/...(less)

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Oct 26, 2012 Dan rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was pleasantly surprised by this little book. I suppose it’s a bit Harry Potter-esque but for younger readers. Robert starts at Lovecraft Middle School, a brand new state of the art facility but much to his dismay the bully from his old school is there too. As if Robert’s life wasn’t hard enough already he has to deal with all sorts of strange occurrences from a hidden attic in the library to a two-headed rat and a teacher who is especially horrible.

There are two elements to this book really....more

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Oct 15, 2012 Jeff rated it 5 of 5 stars

I know I would have loved this book as a 10-year-old, because I love it now, as a supposed adult!

Robert Arthur attends his new school -- Lovecraft Middle School -- where strange things are afoot. He gets lost in the huge library and ends up in a mysterious attic that nobody else seems to know about. He meets an equally mysterious girl, Karina Ortiz and also finds a two-headed rat, whom he adopts as a pet (and whom the creepy science teacher, Professor Garfield Goyle, has a strong interest in).

An...more

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Oct 06, 2012 Chibineko rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: children-s-book, lovecraft

The idea of writing any Lovecraft themes into fiction for younger kids kind of intrigues me because it's such an interesting challenge. Thanks to the standards set years ago by Stine's Goosebumps series, publishers are fairly aware that younger children are not only willing to read books where the endings might be ambiguous and the horror is more than just someone in a rubber mask ala Scooby Doo. No worries parents, the horror in here is still fairly squeaky clean and there's no blood or gore he...more The idea of writing any Lovecraft themes into fiction for younger kids kind of intrigues me because it's such an interesting challenge. Thanks to the standards set years ago by Stine's Goosebumps series, publishers are fairly aware that younger children are not only willing to read books where the endings might be ambiguous and the horror is more than just someone in a rubber mask ala Scooby Doo. No worries parents, the horror in here is still fairly squeaky clean and there's no blood or gore here at all, so if you're worried about that then don't be. It's not that type of book.

One thing to remember if you're going to be one of the adult readers drawn into this by the flashy cover and the word "Lovecraft" stamped on the middle is that this is ultimately a children's book for readers in the . The plot here is more developed than the chapter books, but this is written for those readers who aren't quite ready for the Harry Potter sized tomes but want more than what Magic Treehouse has to offer. Adult readers will be bored silly, but then we're not the target audience for books like this and plot/character development on this level is par for the course when it comes to the middle readers like this. I wouldn't really include this in this review except that the whole reason I picked the book up was because of the exact reasons I listed above and I know there will be others like me.

Now story-wise, there's a pretty good tale here and I'm surprised at how developed everything is for a book of this nature. A lot of tween/pre-tween books tend to lean towards having fairly light plots that are rather blunt and straight forward to the point of being able to be summed up in 2-3 sentences. You're not going to find J.K. Rowling-esque intricacy here, but I was pretty impressed at the groundwork set up in this volume and some of the twists I found here. It's the sort of thing that I know my Goosebump reading nephew would undoubtedly love, especially since you have "smarter than your average rat" two-headed rodents, tentacles threatening to overpower unsuspecting schoolkids, and sinister teachers. It's very much the type of escapist read that young readers will want and I know that it's something I would've adored when I was younger. The characters are decent here, although I have to admit that I was more taken with Pip and Squeak than with many of the various human characters in the book.

Now the only thing that keeps me from really giving it five stars is that at times this book suffers from "middle book-itis". The story here wants to be more, but feels like it's occasionally smoothed over or made more easy to digest in an attempt to keep it from possibly being too challenging for its target audience. I can understand that to a point and appreciate why it's being done, but it does sort of feel a teensy bit bland at times- especially when you hold it against stuff like the big mansion reveal and the hamster scene. I'm trying not to be spoilerish by mentioning these, but when you get to these scenes you'll understand why these stand out so much in comparison to some of the water treading portions. In the end though, it's no biggie for the younger readers and many will either be completely willing to overlook this fact or they won't bother noticing it in the first place- they'll be too captivated by the story.

Overall? Definitely something to get for kids who love Goosebumps. Gilman might not be Stine, but he puts a lot of love and attention into this book overall.(less)

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Sep 27, 2012 Ramie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: amazon-vine, fantasy, ya

Okay so nowadays when you get a book targeted at younger readers you never know what you will get. Especially not a book with a demon on the cover and our main character being redistricted to Lovecraft Middle School. Parents buying for younger readers need not worry, this is one of those books where I actually don't feel the need for warnings. There is a bully, but one who isn't actually violent, using gummy candy as his weapon of choice, and oh yeah he learns a lesson.

The story is fairly short...more Okay so nowadays when you get a book targeted at younger readers you never know what you will get. Especially not a book with a demon on the cover and our main character being redistricted to Lovecraft Middle School. Parents buying for younger readers need not worry, this is one of those books where I actually don't feel the need for warnings. There is a bully, but one who isn't actually violent, using gummy candy as his weapon of choice, and oh yeah he learns a lesson.

The story is fairly short and simple - Robert has been redistricted. Not an easy thing to face in Jr. High. Sure everyone else is excited about going to a brand spanking new school, complete with the biggest library you can imagine, a huge pool, fancy schmancy LED boards to display announcements on, all of the tools and supplies a school could need or want. Still, for Robert it's hell on earth as none of his friends have ended up at this new school. The only familiar face is Glenn (his bully). The one student who is nice to him, a girl named Karina, well... Robert is rude to her upon first meeting her, leaving him to think he's blown his only shot a friend. Robert isn't given much time to dwell on the missed opportunities though as Lovecraft Middle School is no ordinary school. There are rooms that don't seem to actually exist, teachers that don't seem to be human, double headed rats, missing students, tentacles in lockers, and now that he is thinking about it why isn't Karina in any classes?

A fast read that actually wraps up maybe a little too quickly and neatly, otherwise almost perfect. There's a preview for book 2 at the end of the book, which looks to be just as fun. Yes, I realize fun may seem like an odd word to use given the cover, the overall theme, the categories this ends up listed in, etc. but as I said this is a book for younger readers and while it is a horror / paranormal type book, it is kept a bit light (and in my eyes rather fun) because of that. I can't actually see it scaring anyone unless you read it to the very very very young kiddies. (less)

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Sep 25, 2012 Nikki-ann rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: received-for-review

I cannot fail to mention how nicely packaged this book is. This small hardback book’s cover features a lenticular portrait of Professor Gargoyle, enabling the reader to see the teacher morph into a monster before their very eyes! I believe each book in the series will feature a different character. I don’t think I’ve seen this idea used for book covers before, but it’s a creative idea and I suspect it will attract the younger readers. In fact, I’ve spent a fair amount of time moving the cover ba...more I cannot fail to mention how nicely packaged this book is. This small hardback book’s cover features a lenticular portrait of Professor Gargoyle, enabling the reader to see the teacher morph into a monster before their very eyes! I believe each book in the series will feature a different character. I don’t think I’ve seen this idea used for book covers before, but it’s a creative idea and I suspect it will attract the younger readers. In fact, I’ve spent a fair amount of time moving the cover back and forth watching the character transform and I’m in my thirties! Eerily, the Professor’s eyes seem to follow you……. The cover isn’t the only creative feature of this book – Illustrator Eugene Smith has provided some excellent grayscale illustrations which are dotted throughout the book and the paper is a nice white, quality stock.

The name ‘Lovecraft’ may be familiar to some readers… Lovecraft Middle School is in fact named after the American horror writer H. P. Lovecraft, of whom the author is a fan. Gilman is in good company with authors such as R. L. Stine and Stephen King also having been influenced by H. P. Lovecraft.

At just over 165 pages, Professor Gargoyle can easily be read in one or two sittings and will keep young readers gripped. I read the book in one go and at one point I was positively racing through the pages to find out what happened next. I have no doubt that this book will easily hold a ten year old’s attention, while readers of my age may well find themselves transported back to their youth with this fun and exciting, thrilling novel.

Full of twists and turns (not unlike the library itself in Lovecraft Middle School), I think Professor Gargoyle is an excellent read for pre-teens and teens (and even adults), boys and girls. It’s fun, creepy and exciting, and readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment, The Slither Sisters (due out in January 2013, so not long to wait!). Professor Gargoyle sets the scene for what’s looking to be a promising series.

Recommended!(less)

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Sep 18, 2012 Krissi Bryant rated it 5 of 5 stars

(I was given the chance to read this book thanks for Charles Gilman, and posting it on Librarything.com)
I absolutely loved this book and could not put it down! Basically Robert is put into a new school with no friends(Lovecraft middle school) the only person he knows is Glenn. A boy who has been bullying him for SO long(how fun right?)The first day of school there are rats in all of the students lockers, but no holes to show how they got in there. He is dreading his days at school until one day...more

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Sep 10, 2012 Karen Yingling rated it 2 of 5 stars

Robert isn't thrilled that he is redistricted to the brand new Lovecraft Middle School, especially when his arch nemesis Glenn also ends up there. While the building is state-of-the-art, there are some weird things in it, like giant rats infesting the lockers and a spooky, cobweb filled attic near the library where Robert finds a two headed rat that he calls Pip and Squeak. When Professor Goyle, his science teacher, finds out that Robert has the rat, Robert starts to wonder what is going on in t...more

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Sep 13, 2012 Heather Boustead rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: dtb, contemporary, mystery, fantasy, young-adult

Professor Gargoyle
Tales From Lovecraft Middle School Book One
By Charles Gilman

Robert Arthur’s neighborhood has been redistricted so now Robert will be starting middle school at the new state of the art school Lovecraft Middle School. To add to his misfortune of starting a new school the one person he recognizes from elementary is his long time bully, Glenn, having to deal with Glenn after so many years may not be so bad, but when a cute girl comes up asks if you are ok, well for a teenage boy li...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Hollowspine rated it 3 of 5 stars

Lovecraft Middle School is a state of the art school, complete with flat screens and digital chalkboards. All the books in the library are new and the lockers open with a code. The school is completely green with solar panels on the roof and was built with recycled materials.

Perfect for any child, right? Too bad about the disappearances though. Ever since the school opened children have been disappearing, but that doesn't have to do with the rats that leaped out of the new lockers on the first d...more

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May 10, 2013 Mike (the Paladin) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, ya-fantasy

So Robert Arthurt is caught up in redistricting and sent to Lovecraft Middle School. None of his friends are transferred there with him....well other than the bully who's been the bane of Robert's life all through school, of course. Robert isn't happy about being sent to a Middle School other than the one where all his friends are going... But that could be the least of the problems involved in attending Lovecraft Middle School.

Oh yeah.

When kids start to vanish and two headed rats try to commun...more

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Mar 15, 2013 Lacey rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was lucky enough to be sent this book as well as the sequel The Slither Sisters for review by Quirk.
Firstly, I was immediately drawn to the front cover. I was actually quite amazed that I had never seen a book with a holographic cover like this before and I think for the audience this book is aimed at (middle aged children) it was a good call. I can just imagine all the kids faces lighting up as they reach for this book :)
I myself am 18 so I went into the book with an open mind.
At one point i...more

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Sep 20, 2012 Megan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: owned, arc-s, children-s-lit, fantasy, horror

When a new state-of-the-art middle school is built in the little town of Dunwich, everyone is excited, except for Robert Arthur who gets redistricted there away from his friends. From the first day of school, there is always something weird going on. Rats in lockers, creepy teachers, disappearing students, and strange vortexes are just a normal part of the day at Lovecraft Middle School. After a scary encounter with his science teacher, Professor Goyle, Robert is on a mission to unlock the many...more When a new state-of-the-art middle school is built in the little town of Dunwich, everyone is excited, except for Robert Arthur who gets redistricted there away from his friends. From the first day of school, there is always something weird going on. Rats in lockers, creepy teachers, disappearing students, and strange vortexes are just a normal part of the day at Lovecraft Middle School. After a scary encounter with his science teacher, Professor Goyle, Robert is on a mission to unlock the many secrets of his new school and find out just what is up!

Before I get into my review of the content, I want to talk about the book itself. I love the creepy lenticular cover! It is what hooked me on giving this book a try. If you scare easily, you definitely don't want it staring out at you, eyes moving as you walk past. I also found the binding to be strong and sturdy, which I think is good for kids who will inevitably be rough with their belongings. The pages are of a thicker stock, the illustrations are beautifully done, and I love the pattern that was chosen for the inside covers and flyleaf. This is a beautifully packaged book, and I couldn't help but want to bring that up for potential readers who also enjoy the actual look and feel of their books! Now on to the content!

Even though I'm not the target audience, I found Professor Gargoyle to be great fun! While I felt that the book took awhile to really get into the meat of the story, once it did the pace was quick and exciting! By the end I didn't want the book to be over, and since I'm 26 I was slightly embarrassed that now I really want to read the next book in the series! The series is a nod to H.P. Lovecraft's work, but I felt that the book was very reminiscent to R.L. Stine's Goosebumps series, and had the same quirky vibe as Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar. In fact, I think that the reason I enjoyed this book so much is because it tapped into my nostalgia of growing up as a child in the 90s with so many fun books like this to read (and I read lots of them!).

While not perfect, I found this book to be fun, entertaining, quirky and funny! I can see kids really enjoying this series the way I enjoyed Goosebumps and Fear Street. I'd definitely recommend it to children who enjoy scary stories and mysteries, or to adults like myself that want the feel of nostalgia without having to read the same books over and over! I have high hopes for this series, and because of that, I give Professor Gargoyle four stars!(less)

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Mar 13, 2013 Kayleigh Marie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own, children-s-fiction

Originally posted on my BLOG here: http://turningpages90.wordpress.com/2...

Robert Arthur is starting Lovecraft Middle School – a new state of the art facility. But strange and creepy things are happening, the science teacher is acting oddly, there are secret passages in the library and there are rats everywhere! As Robert explores with his new friends he realises that Lovecraft Middle School is not all as it seems!

This is a middle grade book, but I decided to go ahead and read it for 3 reasons....more

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Nov 14, 2012 Ed Dexter rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: horror, fantasy, ya

Robert Arthur is the new kid in Lovecraft Middle School and before he knows it, he's on his way to discovering not much is what it seems to be at his new school.

No doubt like a lot of other readers, I was drawn to this book by the title's mention of Lovecraft. You wouldn't necessarily expect to find references to the Cthulhu Mythos in a book aimed at such a young audience but there are a few to be found. The younger audience won't have any reference what's likely to be their first encounter with...more

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Sep 14, 2012 Cassie-la rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads

REVIEW ALSO ON: http://bibliomantics.com/2012/09/14/w...

Lovecraft Middle School is Quirk Books first foray into middle grade school literature and from the awesome lenticular cover to Eugene Smith’s gorgeous illustrations, the publisher gives us an uber rad/modern version of Goosebumps. Nostalgia high! It’s not quite on par with their young adult series Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children but it’s fun for what it is. A good read for a younger audience. That being said, it might be too si...more REVIEW ALSO ON: http://bibliomantics.com/2012/09/14/w...

Lovecraft Middle School is Quirk Books first foray into middle grade school literature and from the awesome lenticular cover to Eugene Smith’s gorgeous illustrations, the publisher gives us an uber rad/modern version of Goosebumps. Nostalgia high! It’s not quite on par with their young adult series Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children but it’s fun for what it is. A good read for a younger audience. That being said, it might be too simple and quick for older readers. But they will appreciate the touches of Lovecraft more.

Fans won’t have to wait long for the sequel, because Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #2: The Slither Sisters comes out in January! That title is far too close to Scissor Sisters for my adult brain. I really must stop putting my adult mindset onto children’s books. But it won’t stop me from exploring tentacle use and latent homosexual feelings later on in this post. You’ve been pre-warned.

Robert Arthur, a boy cursed with having a super lame name, becomes the new kid at school after he and lifelong bully Glenn Torkells (okay, that might be a worse name) are sent to the new Lovecraft Middle School. Which shouldn’t be so bad considering it boasts a swimming pool, digital chalkboards (WHAT DOES THAT MEAN!?!), computerized lockers and is made mostly of recycled (possibly haunted) materials. Bonus: it has the coolest name for a school in the history of ever- right behind the non-fictional Transylvania University. Although it’s the worst name ever if you want to hide your nefarious plans there.

Warning, if you go to your school’s ribbon cutting and they 1. cut a green ribbon, 2. an ominous thunderclap sounds or 3. there is a flood of rats that attack students, you should probably have reservations about where your parents tax dollars are going. Other warning signs include stumbling upon attics that aren’t in blueprints, people speaking gibberish, and your worst enemy ending up in a tentacle rape related situation. Maybe I’m reading into this too much?

Things are especially bad for poor Robert, who has awful shoes with no laces- KICKS! according to the illustrations- and his only friends are a mysterious sassy girl named Karina Ortiz and a two headed rat who he names Pip and Squeak. WORST NAMES EVER! Sadly, his new science teacher Professor Garfield Goyle (so many unfortunate names in this book) seems intent on capturing his only two-headed friends. Note to parents everywhere: if your last name is Goyle, do not name your poor son Garfield! In fact, just never name any of your children Garfield. Or Randy Giles.

Finally, there’s Robert’s perpetual bully Glenn- he of the worst name- who is too busy imposing nerd taxes on his peer to try to come up with a more creative nickname than Nerdbert. It’s probably his latent homosexual tendencies for Robert peeking through that cause all this bullying. Or the fact that he’s rebelling against his last name being Torkells. In all seriousness though, I think I’m on the right track with this homosexual tendencies thing. Particularly because Robert helps him escape from a seemingly unwanted tentacle attack, hinting that Glenn’s repressing his love of all things phallic. Trust me, later he wishes he had let the tentacles take him. I AM ON THE RIGHT TRACK HERE.

Throughout the novel, there is the pervading sense that literature is incredibly important. BECAUSE IT IS! Putting aside the fact that it’s a novel for children about a school inspired by horror author H.P. Lovecraft and there are enough Cthulhu references to shake a stick at, the main character and one of the only redeemable teachers loves the written word. Robert uses his imagination to escape his hum-drum life because who doesn’t want super powers and magical abilities- only to find himself in a fictional situation. And his English teacher, the pastel sweater-vest wearing Mr. Loomis instills in his students a love of literature. The enormous state of the art library does help with the feelings of book love. Although not the evilly mysterious portal in the attic.

I really hope future books focus more on the Lovecraft elements of the novel. It’s easy to see how the basic plot revolves around ideas of Cthulhu and the Elder Gods but it would be great to see more fun little references. Besides use of R’lyehian and an overabundance of tentacles of course. The kids reading the series might not completely understand what’s going on, but maybe it will lead them into exploring the works of Mr. H.P. himself. Which will probably lead to nightmares. And bed wetting? Perfect!(less)

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Apr 11, 2013 Brad rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review is spoiler free.

Fun and creepy, Professor Gargoyle is a mad, morbid, and hilarious tale! This book will delight readers of all ages.

This novel is such a fast-read. I will admit that the exposition of the book is pretty slow, simply because it's setting up the characters, the background, and Lovecraft Middle School itself. But after awhile, the story began to flow seamlessly, and I really connected to Professor Gargoyle. Middle grade is always a fun and enduring genre; this one was...more

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Feb 27, 2013 R. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013

Non-canonical (?) intro to the Cthulhu Mythos* and its environs (Dunwich) - perfect fluffy yog-sothothery for yr inner latchkey kid.

But, warning, the lenticular professor-into-demon morph cover is Grade-A nightmare fuel.

Wasn't too keen on the message that if you're bullied you should just put up with that shit because, one day, your locker will become an interdimensional portal of outer madness that, on threat of tentacular horrordeath, convinces the bully to see and repent of the error of his...more

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Mar 26, 2013 Tim Lewis added it

Premise: Robert Arthur is at a new school, Lovecraft Middle School, where he struggles with the same things every middle school student does: new classes, homework, meeting new people, bullies, teachers, and…monsters.

As he makes friends with the most unlikely of characters, Robert soon learns that his new school holds some old secrets that might help explain some of the strange things that are happening to him. Some of his new friends might also have some secrets of their own to help reveal some...more Premise: Robert Arthur is at a new school, Lovecraft Middle School, where he struggles with the same things every middle school student does: new classes, homework, meeting new people, bullies, teachers, and…monsters.

As he makes friends with the most unlikely of characters, Robert soon learns that his new school holds some old secrets that might help explain some of the strange things that are happening to him. Some of his new friends might also have some secrets of their own to help reveal some of the school’s mysteries. What funereal things and monstrous creatures will Robert encounter at Lovecraft Middle School as he uncovers its secrets?

Themes: The problem of bullying is confronted right from the beginning as Robert enters his new school, yet still must deal with Glenn Torkells, the kid who has been bullying him for years. But when they both encounter the same strange occurrence together, their relationship might end up changing because of it.

Making new friends is always difficult, but seemingly more difficult when kids enter a new school. When another student goes out of their way to befriend another, it can be alarming, yet relieving in spite of their own quirks. Karina Ortiz does this for Robert as she talks to Robert when no one else does.

Living in a single-parent family can also be a struggle, especially when it is time for parent-teacher conferences and your mother works to support the family. When interactions between the parent and child are limited, those precious moments can mean a lot to both the parent and the child.

Pros: The cover has the cool factor of having a moving image showing the transformation of Professor Gargoyle. The story is fun and easy to read, especially as an introduction to the H.P. Lovecraft mythos, but also as a fast-paced action story for middle school kids. This first book manages to introduce some horror elements without being too scary. In fact, it is more humorous than anything, taking on common middle school problems with an element of peril. The action is pretty good and light enough for the intended younger audience. I think most H.P. Lovecraft fans will especially enjoy this more modern and lighthearted spin on his work. Did I mention the cover is cool?

Cons: Probably the most disturbing thing about Professor Gargoyle is the cover itself. While the cool moving image on the cover shows some depth to the namesake character, the demonic image will probably be a deterrent to parents letting their kids read this book, and for the younger end of the recommended age I think it is rightfully so. And on top of this, the cover is a terrible spoiler for the character. While the history behind the school is minimally explained in general terms, I assume more will be revealed in later books.

Recommendations: Professor Gargoyle is not only a good introduction to this series but also to the mythos created by H.P. Lovecraft. The neat cover alone was intriguing enough to pull me in, and what I found was a fun introduction of a mysterious new series where nothing is as it seems and danger can be averted through teamwork and ingenuity. With the demonic elements I would recommend that kids are a little older before reading Professor Gargoyle, and with some parental guidance. Don’t let the scary image on the cover keep you from giving it a shot, though I doubt that will be a problem for fans of the horror master. In this first book, just like Lovecraft Middle School itself, Gilman has created something new out of something old with Professor Gargoyle.(less)

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Feb 02, 2013 Jennifer Rayment rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Good Stuff

Fast paced - storyline would keep even the most reluctant reader engaged and not wanting to put book down
Twisted and funny (Alot of Whedon type humour)
Kids act like kids their age should (well except for the paranormal stuff)
Many of the adult characters are realistic and not idiots (yes I know its a pet peeve)
Really how many of us at one time didn't think their teachers were evil (I'm still pretty sure Mr Turcok was)
Robert is a likeable character and many will understand his...more

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Professor Gargoyle (Tales from Lovecraft Middle School #1)

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