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Nolichuck! TJ's Wild Frontier Adventure
TJ s just an ordinary fourteen year old kid with extraordinary problems at home and A broken up family from his parents bitter divorce, evil bullies almost every afternoon, failing grades, boring classes, snobby girls, mean teachers, cut from basketball tryouts, few friends. Life is rough for TJ Cockrell.
And then that mysterious little green book had to go and throw him into the past. And not just any past, but into the untamed forbidding forests of 1802 eastern Tennessee along with the savage Indians, wild beasts, bloodthirsty robbers, backwoods ruffians, and log cabin living! Yup, it s definitely not 2011 Knoxville anymore.
And he thought his present life was bad news! But TJ s adventures are only beginning. Along the way, he fights off killer beasts and bandits and braves, gains a world of confidence in himself, finds his first real love, and meets a fantastic frontier family who really has it together. When he returns to the present, he s a brand new person ready to defeat deadly robbers in his own home, beat the bullies at school, win the girl, gain friends, and make great grades. He even gets his family back together again. Sort of. In the end, the little green book is really cool. And TJ can t wait to go on another action-packed adventure into the perilous past!
And then that mysterious little green book had to go and throw him into the past. And not just any past, but into the untamed forbidding forests of 1802 eastern Tennessee along with the savage Indians, wild beasts, bloodthirsty robbers, backwoods ruffians, and log cabin living! Yup, it s definitely not 2011 Knoxville anymore.
And he thought his present life was bad news! But TJ s adventures are only beginning. Along the way, he fights off killer beasts and bandits and braves, gains a world of confidence in himself, finds his first real love, and meets a fantastic frontier family who really has it together. When he returns to the present, he s a brand new person ready to defeat deadly robbers in his own home, beat the bullies at school, win the girl, gain friends, and make great grades. He even gets his family back together again. Sort of. In the end, the little green book is really cool. And TJ can t wait to go on another action-packed adventure into the perilous past!
- GenresFantasy
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
5 people want to read
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May 18, 2013
Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/17/13: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
I have had this one on my review list for quite awhile, but I'm trying to knock these lingering ones out. I read this one over the past few days and while it certainly has merits - this was not the book for me.
The main character, TJ, is still reeling from his parents' divorce and trying to figure out how life is supposed to work now that his family has been drastically altered. I found that he was a realistic character, but I had trouble connecting with him. There was nothing that made me truly want to spend time with him. I doubt this will be the case for many younger males. I can see how TJ and his story will appeal to their adventurous nature. I do feel that the author was trying to call attention to some serious issues like bullying and divorce through TJ's life. While I appreciate authors who add commentary about social issues to their stories, I need an emotional attachment to the character to make a read compelling.
In addition, I found the writing to be fairly simplistic. There is a lot of telling rather than showing. I find these sorts of stories to be tedious. Again, this is something a much younger reader might not be bothered by at all. I had to struggle to finish this one because my mind kept wandering away from the plot. In the end, I did finish, but it took a lot of effort.
One thing I did enjoy about this novel was the history. I loved watching TJ learn to interact with an environment that was unlike his own. Keene's passion for history is apparent and as fellow history lover, I can appreciate that. I found the Tennessee frontier to be an intriguing place to set a novel. Furthermore, I did like how TJ gets transported to the past and how that aspect of the novel worked.
There is an audience out there who will love this novel, but sadly it wasn't one I enjoyed.
One Last Gripe: I am not a fan of the cover.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: The history
First Sentence: As she passed by in the crowded hallway, the tall blond-headed teen spotted his prey.
I have had this one on my review list for quite awhile, but I'm trying to knock these lingering ones out. I read this one over the past few days and while it certainly has merits - this was not the book for me.
The main character, TJ, is still reeling from his parents' divorce and trying to figure out how life is supposed to work now that his family has been drastically altered. I found that he was a realistic character, but I had trouble connecting with him. There was nothing that made me truly want to spend time with him. I doubt this will be the case for many younger males. I can see how TJ and his story will appeal to their adventurous nature. I do feel that the author was trying to call attention to some serious issues like bullying and divorce through TJ's life. While I appreciate authors who add commentary about social issues to their stories, I need an emotional attachment to the character to make a read compelling.
In addition, I found the writing to be fairly simplistic. There is a lot of telling rather than showing. I find these sorts of stories to be tedious. Again, this is something a much younger reader might not be bothered by at all. I had to struggle to finish this one because my mind kept wandering away from the plot. In the end, I did finish, but it took a lot of effort.
One thing I did enjoy about this novel was the history. I loved watching TJ learn to interact with an environment that was unlike his own. Keene's passion for history is apparent and as fellow history lover, I can appreciate that. I found the Tennessee frontier to be an intriguing place to set a novel. Furthermore, I did like how TJ gets transported to the past and how that aspect of the novel worked.
There is an audience out there who will love this novel, but sadly it wasn't one I enjoyed.
One Last Gripe: I am not a fan of the cover.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: The history
First Sentence: As she passed by in the crowded hallway, the tall blond-headed teen spotted his prey.
September 19, 2012
A fairly short, fun read.
Nolichuck follows a 14-year-old boy, named TJ, as he makes his way through a suddenly exciting life.
His life is not easy, not by a long shot. His parents have divorced/separated and it seems final, while his mother due to work moves to another state taking his sister, Natalie, with her, TJ's only confidante.
It is hard enough living with his dad, a decent man who unfortunately has found no common ground with him, but forced to live without his younger sister, the one person who knows exactly what he is going through and is far wiser than her age might suggest, is unthinkable.
More so when his life is hell at school. Apart from failing academically which has caused some of his teachers to be harsh on him, he has no athletic skills to speak of further segregating him from his peers.
He only has two friends, Robert and David, who of course try to defend him whenever he is bullied by Brent and his friends (which is quite often), but that is not enough for them to understand the extent of his misery, especially since one at least is on the athletic team and the other has a loving family.
What makes his situation even worse is not how he is ridiculed even by two nasty cheerleaders led by Melissa, but how he somehow has accepted his fate and cowers at ever chance he gets to make a difference. It is his passiveness and unwillingness to fight that makes you feel even more sorry for him. A man who has given up without a fight or before a fight, has already been defeated and it is sad to see at such a tender age.
One day returning home after school and having been bullied mercilessly twice in one day by Brent and his friends, he enters his father's study to entertain himself. His father is a famous historian who has penned two mighty successful books, so detailed that it made you wonder if he was there to witness what transpired in history.
While mindlessly trying the drawers, TJ finds open the one he never could open before. Drawn by curiosity he opens the green book he finds inside and is magically transported in the Tennessee of 1802.
Finding himself walking down a seemingly abandoned path, by sight and touch he realizes that he is wearing old time's clothes and everything seems to feel like 19th century reality to him.
Trying to remember whatever he can from his history lessons he tries to make his way through a lawless land where guns and greed rule.
By pure luck (or maybe not) he comes across Sam Robertson, a kind farmer who takes him under his wing and offers to take him to his farm when TJ introducing himself as "Jed" tells him he is an orphan.
The way back to Sam's farm is a long one and even not on the harsh road, but in the relative safety of the Inn of the area, TJ comes to term with the fact that no one is to be trusted, as thieves and gangs thrive on killing and exploiting the weakest.
Having money on him he is immediately a target, but when a gang ambushes them on the road they find another ally.
The truest journey for growth for Jed, though, starts when he reaches Sam's farm and forms relationships with his big family and sees how a poor family can be happier than a rich one with no communication.
Added bonus: He seems to be invincible,since he is shot at, stabbed but never gets wounded.
I really enjoyed this book and had fun following TJ in his adventure.
It was easy to sympathize with him, not only because by default his life was hard (broken home, failure in all areas and bullying at the same time?), but also because the author is quite good at creating evocative and powerful descriptions that made you feel for TJ but for other characters as well (even if TJ's trying to relive his love with Sarah with Samantha, was a little creepy and unfair to Samantha who should be thought of as her own person and not as a continuation of her ancestor).
The writing style was easy to follow and at instances it was almost poetic, although I did found the constant "vocalization" of TJ's thoughts slightly annoying at first, but I guess it made sense because it felt a bit more direct and the book in this way relates better to a younger audience. As I am a more adult reader, I had no need of hearing TJ say out loud what he thought, because the prose and the description was powerful enough. :)
And it was the same description and imagery that made the "battle" scenes and the action scenes all that more enjoyable. I liked how TJ made his way through the woods for survival or hunting and the way he connected to Sam's children especially Sarah.
It was heartwarming to read how Sam had fallen in love with a woman of a slightly higher class and the efforts he made to win her over, not just to win her but actually earn her, to deserve her.
A relationship based on such passion and respect could only lead to a honestly happy family, close-knit and loving and TJ has the opportunity to see that firsthand.
(Although I have to admit that imo TJ had a good dad, but expected a little too much from his father. I found the fact that his dad at least made an effort with the whole cooking a meal and trying to make conversation with his son, a lot more than a lot of people do with their children and the way TJ cut him off and though they had no common ground a little frustrating, but then again TJ is only fourteen so teens of that age rarely comprehend adults.
It was wonderful to read about all these situations and finally come to some universal truths and conclusions, like i.e:
- You don't have to be wealthy to have what you really need. All you need is people who love you and hard work.
- No matter the circumstances, you can always make a conscious CHOICE to be decent, honest and honorable, to choose not to steal, harm or manipulate anyone or anything, but rely solely on your own powers to pull through.
- You should never let anyone tell you what your worth is, what you can and cannot do. That knowledge and privilege is only for you.
- If you don't fight, there is no chance that your situation will improve ever.
- Your real friends are the ones who stand beside you and defend you when no one else does
As you can guess, I found the majority of the characters likable (apart from the bullies and the gangsters) and pretty real (well some of them actually were - historically speaking). I really enjoyed how the author has added some famous historical men in the book's context, even though as a Greek I have no real knowledge of the American History. But instead of wikipedia, I was lucky enough to have my dad, a real history buff, fill in some gaps,as he loves that historical period of America and many times as a child/teen heforced me :Psuggested I should watch some Westerns with him, although at the time, apart from the Saloon Belles, the gun duels and the close-ups of those trademark death glares from John Wayne to Clint Eastwood, I didn't understand much about the laws and rules and codes of honor of that time. It was quite refreshing to read a book that related to all that, more so because it really urged you to take notice of all the good you have going in your life right now and that you should let go of the foolish consumerism and general frivolity.
I think it is a book that anyone could and should enjoy, if not for the moral messages, then for the whole fun it brings and I would like to thank the author for giving me a chance to read his book for an honest review.
Nolichuck follows a 14-year-old boy, named TJ, as he makes his way through a suddenly exciting life.
His life is not easy, not by a long shot. His parents have divorced/separated and it seems final, while his mother due to work moves to another state taking his sister, Natalie, with her, TJ's only confidante.
It is hard enough living with his dad, a decent man who unfortunately has found no common ground with him, but forced to live without his younger sister, the one person who knows exactly what he is going through and is far wiser than her age might suggest, is unthinkable.
More so when his life is hell at school. Apart from failing academically which has caused some of his teachers to be harsh on him, he has no athletic skills to speak of further segregating him from his peers.
He only has two friends, Robert and David, who of course try to defend him whenever he is bullied by Brent and his friends (which is quite often), but that is not enough for them to understand the extent of his misery, especially since one at least is on the athletic team and the other has a loving family.
What makes his situation even worse is not how he is ridiculed even by two nasty cheerleaders led by Melissa, but how he somehow has accepted his fate and cowers at ever chance he gets to make a difference. It is his passiveness and unwillingness to fight that makes you feel even more sorry for him. A man who has given up without a fight or before a fight, has already been defeated and it is sad to see at such a tender age.
One day returning home after school and having been bullied mercilessly twice in one day by Brent and his friends, he enters his father's study to entertain himself. His father is a famous historian who has penned two mighty successful books, so detailed that it made you wonder if he was there to witness what transpired in history.
While mindlessly trying the drawers, TJ finds open the one he never could open before. Drawn by curiosity he opens the green book he finds inside and is magically transported in the Tennessee of 1802.
Finding himself walking down a seemingly abandoned path, by sight and touch he realizes that he is wearing old time's clothes and everything seems to feel like 19th century reality to him.
Trying to remember whatever he can from his history lessons he tries to make his way through a lawless land where guns and greed rule.
By pure luck (or maybe not) he comes across Sam Robertson, a kind farmer who takes him under his wing and offers to take him to his farm when TJ introducing himself as "Jed" tells him he is an orphan.
The way back to Sam's farm is a long one and even not on the harsh road, but in the relative safety of the Inn of the area, TJ comes to term with the fact that no one is to be trusted, as thieves and gangs thrive on killing and exploiting the weakest.
Having money on him he is immediately a target, but when a gang ambushes them on the road they find another ally.
The truest journey for growth for Jed, though, starts when he reaches Sam's farm and forms relationships with his big family and sees how a poor family can be happier than a rich one with no communication.
Added bonus: He seems to be invincible,since he is shot at, stabbed but never gets wounded.
I really enjoyed this book and had fun following TJ in his adventure.
It was easy to sympathize with him, not only because by default his life was hard (broken home, failure in all areas and bullying at the same time?), but also because the author is quite good at creating evocative and powerful descriptions that made you feel for TJ but for other characters as well (even if TJ's trying to relive his love with Sarah with Samantha, was a little creepy and unfair to Samantha who should be thought of as her own person and not as a continuation of her ancestor).
The writing style was easy to follow and at instances it was almost poetic, although I did found the constant "vocalization" of TJ's thoughts slightly annoying at first, but I guess it made sense because it felt a bit more direct and the book in this way relates better to a younger audience. As I am a more adult reader, I had no need of hearing TJ say out loud what he thought, because the prose and the description was powerful enough. :)
And it was the same description and imagery that made the "battle" scenes and the action scenes all that more enjoyable. I liked how TJ made his way through the woods for survival or hunting and the way he connected to Sam's children especially Sarah.
It was heartwarming to read how Sam had fallen in love with a woman of a slightly higher class and the efforts he made to win her over, not just to win her but actually earn her, to deserve her.
A relationship based on such passion and respect could only lead to a honestly happy family, close-knit and loving and TJ has the opportunity to see that firsthand.
(Although I have to admit that imo TJ had a good dad, but expected a little too much from his father. I found the fact that his dad at least made an effort with the whole cooking a meal and trying to make conversation with his son, a lot more than a lot of people do with their children and the way TJ cut him off and though they had no common ground a little frustrating, but then again TJ is only fourteen so teens of that age rarely comprehend adults.
It was wonderful to read about all these situations and finally come to some universal truths and conclusions, like i.e:
- You don't have to be wealthy to have what you really need. All you need is people who love you and hard work.
- No matter the circumstances, you can always make a conscious CHOICE to be decent, honest and honorable, to choose not to steal, harm or manipulate anyone or anything, but rely solely on your own powers to pull through.
- You should never let anyone tell you what your worth is, what you can and cannot do. That knowledge and privilege is only for you.
- If you don't fight, there is no chance that your situation will improve ever.
- Your real friends are the ones who stand beside you and defend you when no one else does
As you can guess, I found the majority of the characters likable (apart from the bullies and the gangsters) and pretty real (well some of them actually were - historically speaking). I really enjoyed how the author has added some famous historical men in the book's context, even though as a Greek I have no real knowledge of the American History. But instead of wikipedia, I was lucky enough to have my dad, a real history buff, fill in some gaps,as he loves that historical period of America and many times as a child/teen he
I think it is a book that anyone could and should enjoy, if not for the moral messages, then for the whole fun it brings and I would like to thank the author for giving me a chance to read his book for an honest review.
September 13, 2012
Yes, I am one of those adults who also enjoy reading books for all ages. Yes, it kinda comes with the territory as a book reviewer, but, also, I've found that writers who decide to write for the young take special care to ensure content appropriate to the age. It's a nice break to sit back and enjoy a story that is written to help young adults get interested in reading. In this case, it will undoubtedly also get them interested in history! I assure you that Nolichuck! will be read with just as much excitement and fun as Huckleberry Finn was for many of us and as Harry Potter is for many of today's youth, except with a little less magic and a lot more of traveling and learning about the world! Personally, I appreciate history being shared as opposed to the pure fantasy of magic--but that's my "adult" speaking about the "double-whammy" (reading and learning history) at the same time, as Jackson Keene has provided. Ahhh, to have my own green book...
The novel takes place both in the present and in the past via "time travel." So, the present issues of bullies, cliques at school, being "in", boring classes, teacher issues are all written from the point of view of today's youth through the character Thomas James (TJ) Cockrell, who is 14.
His family was recently split in half through divorce. His mother and sister relocated and he is living with his father who is a history college professor. His best friend and confidant had been his sister and he has withdrawn within himself greatly in the recent past.
He has only two friends in school and is constantly bullied or the brunt of jokes from the "in" girls. He can't seem to concentrate on his school work, especially history...
And he had a history test tomorrow!
TJ had come home from school, knowing that he had to really put in some hours to even pass the test, but he kept procrastinating by choosing to do other things. Finally, before really settling down, he roamed through the top floor and into his father's bedroom. He immediately was drawn to one thing--a locked drawer in his father's desk!
When his father had written two best-selling books and been promoted, it had also been the beginning of the end of his marriage. His wife knew that there was money now available to help with her relocation. His father had spent many hours working after the family had been split. And he had spent many hours at his desk, and began locking that particular drawer.
TJ figured it had papers about the divorce, but he couldn't understand what seemed to be to him "keeping secrets..." He had become so lonely, even at home, now, since his father was always working or doing research... Why was it so private that he couldn't talk to TJ about what he was doing?
But this time, the drawer was open!
As he thought, there were lots of papers there...but there was also a small green book...
And when he opened it, he felt a tingling feeling...and then...
He woke up on an old trail in the woods...
He was alone with not another person or place in sight! Lost in a wilderness. He looked down and his clothes were no longer his school clothes! These appeared to be hand-sewn, of a material that was rough and itchy! On his feet were pioneer shoepacks... He seemed to know things about his clothes and even his surroundings like he was being given information... But, for right now, he had to find somebody or some place and started walking...
I won't go into all that he met on what was to become TJ's greatest adventure; however, he did meet a man who immediately knew he needed help and befriended him, taking him home. TJ had quickly realized that he would have to "act" like he lived in that time and place so he told the man that his family had been killed.
Suddenly TJ was "living" history rather than having to study it! And what he learned changed him greatly! He met the family and took his place on a farm, where he had to help with the hard work necessary to keep them alive and clothed. He also learned about hunting for game and eating strange foods that had been grown or killed and fixed with herbs, etc., because there was no "fast foods" or pizza! He even met the young David Crockett before he was famous!
Living in a log cabin and then helping neighbors build a new home was one more thing he had experienced... But nothing had prepared him for the terrors of that time--especially from those that had chosen a criminal life of stealing and killing...
This is much more than a movie such as of Davy Crockett's life! This is the opportunity for all of us to move back in time and experience the lives of those who early moved to America, found land and worked that land to build a home and make a living. Would our young people of today change like TJ did by having all modern technology gone from their homes? You know it would! But more importantly, I think, Keene's book allows us to see the family of yesterdays living, working, and worshiping as once was the "norm" in America.
There will be much gained through the experiences found in the green book! We will learn, of course, about our past...but we will also have the the opportunity to see history as exciting! Although I loved the flashback into history, what happened when TJ returned was my favorite part--a surprising, perfect ending to a time travel adventure! I'm already looking forward to the next green book adventure and wondering where we'll find ourselves! Highly recommended, especially for history lovers of every age!
GABixlerReviews
The novel takes place both in the present and in the past via "time travel." So, the present issues of bullies, cliques at school, being "in", boring classes, teacher issues are all written from the point of view of today's youth through the character Thomas James (TJ) Cockrell, who is 14.
His family was recently split in half through divorce. His mother and sister relocated and he is living with his father who is a history college professor. His best friend and confidant had been his sister and he has withdrawn within himself greatly in the recent past.
He has only two friends in school and is constantly bullied or the brunt of jokes from the "in" girls. He can't seem to concentrate on his school work, especially history...
And he had a history test tomorrow!
TJ had come home from school, knowing that he had to really put in some hours to even pass the test, but he kept procrastinating by choosing to do other things. Finally, before really settling down, he roamed through the top floor and into his father's bedroom. He immediately was drawn to one thing--a locked drawer in his father's desk!
When his father had written two best-selling books and been promoted, it had also been the beginning of the end of his marriage. His wife knew that there was money now available to help with her relocation. His father had spent many hours working after the family had been split. And he had spent many hours at his desk, and began locking that particular drawer.
TJ figured it had papers about the divorce, but he couldn't understand what seemed to be to him "keeping secrets..." He had become so lonely, even at home, now, since his father was always working or doing research... Why was it so private that he couldn't talk to TJ about what he was doing?
But this time, the drawer was open!
As he thought, there were lots of papers there...but there was also a small green book...
And when he opened it, he felt a tingling feeling...and then...
He woke up on an old trail in the woods...
He was alone with not another person or place in sight! Lost in a wilderness. He looked down and his clothes were no longer his school clothes! These appeared to be hand-sewn, of a material that was rough and itchy! On his feet were pioneer shoepacks... He seemed to know things about his clothes and even his surroundings like he was being given information... But, for right now, he had to find somebody or some place and started walking...
I won't go into all that he met on what was to become TJ's greatest adventure; however, he did meet a man who immediately knew he needed help and befriended him, taking him home. TJ had quickly realized that he would have to "act" like he lived in that time and place so he told the man that his family had been killed.
Suddenly TJ was "living" history rather than having to study it! And what he learned changed him greatly! He met the family and took his place on a farm, where he had to help with the hard work necessary to keep them alive and clothed. He also learned about hunting for game and eating strange foods that had been grown or killed and fixed with herbs, etc., because there was no "fast foods" or pizza! He even met the young David Crockett before he was famous!
Living in a log cabin and then helping neighbors build a new home was one more thing he had experienced... But nothing had prepared him for the terrors of that time--especially from those that had chosen a criminal life of stealing and killing...
This is much more than a movie such as of Davy Crockett's life! This is the opportunity for all of us to move back in time and experience the lives of those who early moved to America, found land and worked that land to build a home and make a living. Would our young people of today change like TJ did by having all modern technology gone from their homes? You know it would! But more importantly, I think, Keene's book allows us to see the family of yesterdays living, working, and worshiping as once was the "norm" in America.
There will be much gained through the experiences found in the green book! We will learn, of course, about our past...but we will also have the the opportunity to see history as exciting! Although I loved the flashback into history, what happened when TJ returned was my favorite part--a surprising, perfect ending to a time travel adventure! I'm already looking forward to the next green book adventure and wondering where we'll find ourselves! Highly recommended, especially for history lovers of every age!
GABixlerReviews
August 15, 2012
I love reading books like this that have great meanings behind them. This one has one that is close to me, which is bullying. I like how the author takes a sensitive subject and writes it to where kids and adults can understand it and may relate. This book is not all about bullying. It's really a story about the evolution of TJ. He goes from being forgotten, picked on and having low self esteem to being confident and standing up for himself. TJ gets picked on and pushed around by some of the jocks at school. TJ is not a one to play sports but he isn't exactly a bookworm either. I think that he becomes an easy target because his home life isn't the best. Sure his family has money but his parents are divorced and his dad works long hours. He is at a time in his life when he needs his family especially his dad. Things changed the night he found the green book in his father's desk. Opening that book takes him from the present to 1802 frontier life. In this time TJ is now Jeb and he is a new person. Gone is the shy and timid boy from Knoxville and in his place is this confident and maturing teenager. The people he meets and the adventures that he goes on brings out a part of him that was lost.
TJ's relationship with his father is not the best. His dad Vern is engrossed in work and tends to forget his son. I don't think that it is on purpose but after his divorce maybe work was his only outlet. This could be a factor in TJ personality. His dad is a big history buff, even nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. TJ isn't into history that much, until the day he opened the green book. Being placed into frontier life allows him to see it in a different perceptive, thus giving his relationship with his dad a new lease.
While I enjoyed the book I was a little thrown off by the dialog that the adults have in the frontier part of the story. It is understood that they are uneducated but the grammar that is used to emphasis this is exhausting to read at times. I don't think it is necessary that every word in the sentence be that certain characters spoke had to written to emphasis that the character was uneducated. It caused bumps in the story instead of it being a smooth read.
Overall this is a great book to read especially if you love action and Westerns. Books like this one are a fun way to get kids to read because the characters and subject are easily relatable to them. There is action in this book but not overly violent nor is it in graphic detail. I think that the author did a wonderful job in conveying his story.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
TJ's relationship with his father is not the best. His dad Vern is engrossed in work and tends to forget his son. I don't think that it is on purpose but after his divorce maybe work was his only outlet. This could be a factor in TJ personality. His dad is a big history buff, even nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. TJ isn't into history that much, until the day he opened the green book. Being placed into frontier life allows him to see it in a different perceptive, thus giving his relationship with his dad a new lease.
While I enjoyed the book I was a little thrown off by the dialog that the adults have in the frontier part of the story. It is understood that they are uneducated but the grammar that is used to emphasis this is exhausting to read at times. I don't think it is necessary that every word in the sentence be that certain characters spoke had to written to emphasis that the character was uneducated. It caused bumps in the story instead of it being a smooth read.
Overall this is a great book to read especially if you love action and Westerns. Books like this one are a fun way to get kids to read because the characters and subject are easily relatable to them. There is action in this book but not overly violent nor is it in graphic detail. I think that the author did a wonderful job in conveying his story.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2012
Nolichuck
by
Jackson Keene
My " in a nutshell" summary...
TJ's life pretty much bites...he lives with his dad...his sister lives with his mom...the aftermath of a recent divorce. He is miserable at school...his grades are down and he's not on the basketball team with his closest friends. He is being bullied by a bigger kid and the "cool" girls make fun of him...his life is pretty much a mess. He misses his sister who lives with his mom in another state and his dad is distant.
My thoughts after reading this book...
OMG....I loved TJ. I was a teacher and was always on watch for these special sad kids who easily get lost. And next let me say...this is not my favorite kind of book but once I began reading it...it became a book that I truly enjoyed reading. TJ finds a blank green book in his dad's desk drawer and opens it...and finds himself dressed in rough handmade clothing and way back in time...wagons, farmers, rough men, wild animals...the American frontier!
Tennessee in the 1800's!
I am not going to go through all that happened while TJ was in the past...he met Sam...was taken into Sam's family...had unbelievable adventures...and discovered that he could not be hurt while in this back in time state. The author goes into amazing detail about what it was like to live in 1802...foods, farming, clothing, dining, sleeping, hunting...detail after detail of the struggle to survive...I loved this part of the story. The events that TJ endured while back in time...can you guess...help him to have a better present...when he suddenly wakes up at home on the floor of his dad's room and in the midst of strangers in his home! And finally...after other things happen...his dad explains the mystery of the little green book.
What I loved about this book...
I truly am a non history loving kind of person...just not my thing... but I loved reading about what life was like in 1802 Tennessee. I loved viewing it through TJ's eyes. It was a great lesson for me as a reader to understand that the events of the past shaped future events. Davy Crockett, Cherokee Jim...the bad boys of the Hanson Gang...truly exciting to read about.
What I didn't like...
Hmmm...I didn't really understand why or how this divorce resulted in separating a brother and a sister? How does that happen? It didn't seem that TJ had much contact with his mom...unless I totally missed something.
Final thoughts...
I believe this has the makings of a good historical time travel series for middle grade readers or any age reader. I enjoyed it and I know this author has plans for more adventures in this series.
That is a really good thing!
by
Jackson Keene
My " in a nutshell" summary...
TJ's life pretty much bites...he lives with his dad...his sister lives with his mom...the aftermath of a recent divorce. He is miserable at school...his grades are down and he's not on the basketball team with his closest friends. He is being bullied by a bigger kid and the "cool" girls make fun of him...his life is pretty much a mess. He misses his sister who lives with his mom in another state and his dad is distant.
My thoughts after reading this book...
OMG....I loved TJ. I was a teacher and was always on watch for these special sad kids who easily get lost. And next let me say...this is not my favorite kind of book but once I began reading it...it became a book that I truly enjoyed reading. TJ finds a blank green book in his dad's desk drawer and opens it...and finds himself dressed in rough handmade clothing and way back in time...wagons, farmers, rough men, wild animals...the American frontier!
Tennessee in the 1800's!
I am not going to go through all that happened while TJ was in the past...he met Sam...was taken into Sam's family...had unbelievable adventures...and discovered that he could not be hurt while in this back in time state. The author goes into amazing detail about what it was like to live in 1802...foods, farming, clothing, dining, sleeping, hunting...detail after detail of the struggle to survive...I loved this part of the story. The events that TJ endured while back in time...can you guess...help him to have a better present...when he suddenly wakes up at home on the floor of his dad's room and in the midst of strangers in his home! And finally...after other things happen...his dad explains the mystery of the little green book.
What I loved about this book...
I truly am a non history loving kind of person...just not my thing... but I loved reading about what life was like in 1802 Tennessee. I loved viewing it through TJ's eyes. It was a great lesson for me as a reader to understand that the events of the past shaped future events. Davy Crockett, Cherokee Jim...the bad boys of the Hanson Gang...truly exciting to read about.
What I didn't like...
Hmmm...I didn't really understand why or how this divorce resulted in separating a brother and a sister? How does that happen? It didn't seem that TJ had much contact with his mom...unless I totally missed something.
Final thoughts...
I believe this has the makings of a good historical time travel series for middle grade readers or any age reader. I enjoyed it and I know this author has plans for more adventures in this series.
That is a really good thing!
June 25, 2012
"Nolichuck! TJ's Wild Frontier Adventure" by Jackson Keene provides an interesting read that concurrently explores the issues that possibly emerge in the life of a young adolescent male in the 21st century and in the culture of early 19th century TN. The book starts rather rough by pouring many issues into the the life of TJ as he struggles to grow up in the 21st century. He is a frequent victim of bullies, fails academically, socially, and on the athletic field, and he reels from the recent divorce of his parents. Yet, while this appears rough, this is very real life for many adolescents and many of them could identify with the issues going on in TJ's life. This is why I find it satisfying that all the issues don't suddenly solve themselves at the conclusion of the novel. While his adventures in the past help him come to terms with himself and assist in resolving many of his personal conflicts, the storyline does not lead to perfection -- his parent's divorce remains a very present reality at the conclusion of the book. The adventures that TJ has through his time travelling adventures provide great entertainment and applicable education for those curious about the life of a pioneer family. These adventures also prove to form great character in TJ. Many of the traits within TJ are encouraged through his time travelling and they are traits that should be encouraged in the young males going through so much in our current society. While some of the language seems inappropriate for a book that might be read amongst adolescent males within a church setting, it adds realism that many youth deal with every day. Also, the direct message of Christ is largely absent from this book, but it is hinted at throughout that TJ and those he interacts with (particularily the Robertson family whom he meets in the past) benefit from the grace and love of Jesus Christ. I could see a youth ministry using this text in a book discussion group in order to enter into discussion about bullying, divorce, social awkwardness, relationships, and academic struggles.
September 9, 2012
This was a fairly unchartered foray for me. Nolichuck is a YA novel aimed at 11-16-year-olds, but it’s one that adults can enjoy too. At least, this adult did. It's more than just a story about a bullied 14-year-old—it's also a bit of a history lesson about nineteenth-century Tennessee frontier life.
TJ is a rather unhappy teenager: his parents are divorced, and his younger sister, Natalie, of whom he’s so very fond, lives with his mother, while he lives with his successful historian father. He’s lonely, hates everything about school, has few close friends, doesn’t have much luck with girls, and the school bully just about tops off his misery. One day he stumbles across an unlocked drawer (usually firmly locked) in his father’s desk. Curiosity gets the better of him: a locked drawer means there’s something important in it. He finds a green book. A very plain, very ordinary little book: ordinary that is, until he opens it up and finds himself transported into the past in frontier-land, where he spends four days. In that time, he not only makes friends, but his adventure brings him into contact with robbers, killers, and beasts he would normally see in a zoo. Most importantly, TJ finds himself gaining confidence and maturity. The sharpened mental reflexes and survival instincts he is gaining from his extraordinary experiences will, he knows, help him cope with the unhappy twenty-first-century existence when he returns…if he returns. How on earth is he going to get back?
The author is obviously interested in and knowledgeable about the era; the authentic dialogue of frontier-living folk was a nice touch. I would have loved to have been able to press a button to hear it as well as read it! The historical aspect was interesting and aptly woven into the story. It was easy to feel desperately sorry for TJ—bullying in schools is an unpleasant, sometimes tragic feature of modern life—but it was also satisfying to accompany him on his journey to an improved strength of character and assertiveness.
An entertaining and fun story.
TJ is a rather unhappy teenager: his parents are divorced, and his younger sister, Natalie, of whom he’s so very fond, lives with his mother, while he lives with his successful historian father. He’s lonely, hates everything about school, has few close friends, doesn’t have much luck with girls, and the school bully just about tops off his misery. One day he stumbles across an unlocked drawer (usually firmly locked) in his father’s desk. Curiosity gets the better of him: a locked drawer means there’s something important in it. He finds a green book. A very plain, very ordinary little book: ordinary that is, until he opens it up and finds himself transported into the past in frontier-land, where he spends four days. In that time, he not only makes friends, but his adventure brings him into contact with robbers, killers, and beasts he would normally see in a zoo. Most importantly, TJ finds himself gaining confidence and maturity. The sharpened mental reflexes and survival instincts he is gaining from his extraordinary experiences will, he knows, help him cope with the unhappy twenty-first-century existence when he returns…if he returns. How on earth is he going to get back?
The author is obviously interested in and knowledgeable about the era; the authentic dialogue of frontier-living folk was a nice touch. I would have loved to have been able to press a button to hear it as well as read it! The historical aspect was interesting and aptly woven into the story. It was easy to feel desperately sorry for TJ—bullying in schools is an unpleasant, sometimes tragic feature of modern life—but it was also satisfying to accompany him on his journey to an improved strength of character and assertiveness.
An entertaining and fun story.
May 30, 2019
Normally I'd write a more detailed review, especially when an author requests a review.
(Especially, or possibly despite of, getting numerous (read: constant) requests from the author for a review and explanation of my low rating.)
However I have tried and failed many times to write a proper review for this novel.
What I didn't like:
I feel like this floats between two genre/age groups. TJ thinks like a character from a MG novel would, yet at the same time the violence and language as well as his relationship with his crush are more YA. A novel that bridges the slight gap between MG and YA would be great, but I feel like Nolichuck fell a bit short.
I'm in my 20's and female, so some of my issues with TJ may be unfounded, I can't relate to teenage boy as well. I still felt like TJ was immature for his age. He DID grow as the novel progressed, I still felt frustrated with him.
I'm being nit picky here, but some of the writing felt... odd. Let me see if I can describe it. It's as if someone were describing him, but he is thinking that himself. It felt like parts of the book were written in first person, and some parts in third.
What I liked:
Time travel. I especially liked that it all took place in Tennessee. So many authors feel the need to make the story more exotic by placing it in a far away country. There is SO much history right here in the US, I enjoyed reading that.
The rules. The way he travels in time, and the rules that apply, are unique and I liked them. I've read so many time travel books, and watched Doctor Who far too much, but you never want to mess with the past. Bad things can happen. In Nolichuck however, it works a bit differently.
Overall, I wasn't thrilled with this book. However, there were some interesting ideas that I'd like to see expanded upon. I believe there is going to be a sequel, so maybe we'll see more of that in future books?
(Especially, or possibly despite of, getting numerous (read: constant) requests from the author for a review and explanation of my low rating.)
However I have tried and failed many times to write a proper review for this novel.
What I didn't like:
I feel like this floats between two genre/age groups. TJ thinks like a character from a MG novel would, yet at the same time the violence and language as well as his relationship with his crush are more YA. A novel that bridges the slight gap between MG and YA would be great, but I feel like Nolichuck fell a bit short.
I'm in my 20's and female, so some of my issues with TJ may be unfounded, I can't relate to teenage boy as well. I still felt like TJ was immature for his age. He DID grow as the novel progressed, I still felt frustrated with him.
I'm being nit picky here, but some of the writing felt... odd. Let me see if I can describe it. It's as if someone were describing him, but he is thinking that himself. It felt like parts of the book were written in first person, and some parts in third.
What I liked:
Time travel. I especially liked that it all took place in Tennessee. So many authors feel the need to make the story more exotic by placing it in a far away country. There is SO much history right here in the US, I enjoyed reading that.
The rules. The way he travels in time, and the rules that apply, are unique and I liked them. I've read so many time travel books, and watched Doctor Who far too much, but you never want to mess with the past. Bad things can happen. In Nolichuck however, it works a bit differently.
Overall, I wasn't thrilled with this book. However, there were some interesting ideas that I'd like to see expanded upon. I believe there is going to be a sequel, so maybe we'll see more of that in future books?
November 30, 2012
This is an excellent novel that is not only great historical fiction but actually has meaning. It seems like bullying has been a huge topic in America this year, and rightly so. It's a problem; an epidemic, if you will. It's not new but finally getting the attention it deserves so that hopefully we can change how children and adults treat each other. Ok...I'm coming down off of my soapbox now.
TJ, like many kids nowadays, is the unfortunate victim of parental divorce. His sister now lives far away with his mother, and TJ lives with his Pulitzer Prize nominated father. His father is distant and so engrossed in his work that, at times, it seems his father forgets that a child lives with him. TJ is having issues at school: he's being bullied, not doing well academically, isn't a social butterfly, and not successful in sports.
One day TJ sneaks into his father's office and locates a mysterious book inside his father's desk. When he opens the book up, as curious people do, TJ is instantly transported to a different land in a different time. Gone is the 21st Century and in it's place is Knoxville, TN circa 1802 - The pioneer days. In this time frame, TJ becomes Jeb and the boy with low self-esteem evolves into a more mature teenager with a heck of a lot more self-confidence. We learn a lot about 1802 Tennessee as Jackson Keene, the author, describes it in fantastic detail. And the adventures....oh boy, does TJ/Jeb get involved in some.
This is a book that pulls you in and keeps you engaged. It would be perfect for any middle grade child but is equally great for adults. The story line is consistent and the details that the author provides gives such good imagery that I thought I was actually in Tennessee. I love it when a book comes together like that. The historical aspect is expertly interwoven through the pages. This is a very fun, enjoyable read.
Review Copy Courtesy Of: The author, Jackson Keene, in exchange for an honest review.
TJ, like many kids nowadays, is the unfortunate victim of parental divorce. His sister now lives far away with his mother, and TJ lives with his Pulitzer Prize nominated father. His father is distant and so engrossed in his work that, at times, it seems his father forgets that a child lives with him. TJ is having issues at school: he's being bullied, not doing well academically, isn't a social butterfly, and not successful in sports.
One day TJ sneaks into his father's office and locates a mysterious book inside his father's desk. When he opens the book up, as curious people do, TJ is instantly transported to a different land in a different time. Gone is the 21st Century and in it's place is Knoxville, TN circa 1802 - The pioneer days. In this time frame, TJ becomes Jeb and the boy with low self-esteem evolves into a more mature teenager with a heck of a lot more self-confidence. We learn a lot about 1802 Tennessee as Jackson Keene, the author, describes it in fantastic detail. And the adventures....oh boy, does TJ/Jeb get involved in some.
This is a book that pulls you in and keeps you engaged. It would be perfect for any middle grade child but is equally great for adults. The story line is consistent and the details that the author provides gives such good imagery that I thought I was actually in Tennessee. I love it when a book comes together like that. The historical aspect is expertly interwoven through the pages. This is a very fun, enjoyable read.
Review Copy Courtesy Of: The author, Jackson Keene, in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2012
Brilliant and imaginative! I liked this book very much, definitely not something I read regularly but something greatly enjoyable and lovely....
TJ is a constantly bullied 14-year-old teenager . After his parents divorced, and he got separated from his beloved sister, his world ( and his grades!) began cashing down. But when one day, TJ finds a green book in the drawer that his father has always kept locked (except this time!) TJ is unaware that this book is going to send him on a life-altering adventure.
Thrust into the green book, TJ finds himself in good ol' Tennessee. Determined to survive, he finds a small town and makes new friends. Between doing chores, fighting enemies, and nicknaming himself Jed, he might still have the time to be with the girl that he really likes. There might be a happy ending, only if TJ swirls all the bumps in the road.
How will TJ survive in the old Tennessee, while he knows absolutely no one? Will he ever get back to his present life? And what will he learn from his wild frontier adventure? Find out when you read this beautifully-crafted, adventures novel, Nolichuck.
I liked this book a lot. It is not something I would normally read, since I am mostly a fan of Paranormal and Romance, but this was a pleasant addition to my reading list. It is a fairly quick read, almost 300 pages. The author's writing voice is lyrical and easy-to-follow. The author is very descriptive, down to the last detail. Which I found a little off sometimes, but so far so good.
Don't worry about my 4 rating, since not everything comes in a perfect package. There were some minor flaws, and although this book might not be my favorite series, I will surely be reading the sequel. I will be recommending it to anyone who is in for some sweet, magical time-travelling adventure.
TJ is a constantly bullied 14-year-old teenager . After his parents divorced, and he got separated from his beloved sister, his world ( and his grades!) began cashing down. But when one day, TJ finds a green book in the drawer that his father has always kept locked (except this time!) TJ is unaware that this book is going to send him on a life-altering adventure.
Thrust into the green book, TJ finds himself in good ol' Tennessee. Determined to survive, he finds a small town and makes new friends. Between doing chores, fighting enemies, and nicknaming himself Jed, he might still have the time to be with the girl that he really likes. There might be a happy ending, only if TJ swirls all the bumps in the road.
How will TJ survive in the old Tennessee, while he knows absolutely no one? Will he ever get back to his present life? And what will he learn from his wild frontier adventure? Find out when you read this beautifully-crafted, adventures novel, Nolichuck.
I liked this book a lot. It is not something I would normally read, since I am mostly a fan of Paranormal and Romance, but this was a pleasant addition to my reading list. It is a fairly quick read, almost 300 pages. The author's writing voice is lyrical and easy-to-follow. The author is very descriptive, down to the last detail. Which I found a little off sometimes, but so far so good.
Don't worry about my 4 rating, since not everything comes in a perfect package. There were some minor flaws, and although this book might not be my favorite series, I will surely be reading the sequel. I will be recommending it to anyone who is in for some sweet, magical time-travelling adventure.
June 30, 2012
Nolichuck is an interesting read about a lonely boy, TJ, going through the aftermath of his parents' divorce. He is often a victim of bullying in school, obtains undesirable grades and obviously not a popular guy in school. His sole confidant, his younger sister Natalie, was the only person he felt close to and often discussed anything and everything with her. Things changed when TJ found a green book in his father's desk, which was usually locked. That was the start of the greatest adventure of his lifetime...
What I like about the book is that it touches on many topics--parents' divorce, relationships, poor grades and bully. These are mostly relevant (especially the last two topics) in today's context. What made this book special is that it also involves a time travelling! How cool is that? I really enjoyed books that involves a little time travelling and this book does not disappoint. The only thing that I have against Nolichuck is the pacing. It seemed a little slow after the time travel incident, but that's probably because the author wishes to get the readers to be accustomed to the world in the past. In addition, this book also touches a little on religion, which is prevalent in the Robertson family so it will really appeal to those who enjoy reading a little about religion. However, Nolichuck do have a little element of surprise in it nearer to the end of the book which gives the time travelling incident a little closure. I'd love to read more about TJ's mom though. Even though I believed she played a major role because of the divorce resulting in the turmoil within TJ, the book did not discuss much about her.
Overall, Nolichuck is an enjoyable and exciting read which I believe will interest most young people.
What I like about the book is that it touches on many topics--parents' divorce, relationships, poor grades and bully. These are mostly relevant (especially the last two topics) in today's context. What made this book special is that it also involves a time travelling! How cool is that? I really enjoyed books that involves a little time travelling and this book does not disappoint. The only thing that I have against Nolichuck is the pacing. It seemed a little slow after the time travel incident, but that's probably because the author wishes to get the readers to be accustomed to the world in the past. In addition, this book also touches a little on religion, which is prevalent in the Robertson family so it will really appeal to those who enjoy reading a little about religion. However, Nolichuck do have a little element of surprise in it nearer to the end of the book which gives the time travelling incident a little closure. I'd love to read more about TJ's mom though. Even though I believed she played a major role because of the divorce resulting in the turmoil within TJ, the book did not discuss much about her.
Overall, Nolichuck is an enjoyable and exciting read which I believe will interest most young people.
August 27, 2012
My Thoughts-
The Good:
Time Travel -- This is (again) time travel. Like I have said before, time travel is amazing!
History -- I LOVE history. The battles, the politics, the people, and of course, the romance. This book was chock-full of amazing historical facts. Most of the story takes place in Tennessee, near the Nolichucky River.
Romance -- What I thought was amazing is how right when one of TJ's few ramances started, he found something very awesome when he got home. Very amusing in my opinion.
Life in the 19th Century -- The things that TJ had to do in the 1800's, served as a life lesson that he will NEVER forget. Hunting, murderous and lusty Indians, and of course the food. I thought it was very intriguing that it was safer to drink whiskey than water.
The Bad:
The Tavern Brawl -- I thought it wasn't very pleasing to have a man hurt like that, but that is just my opinion. I blame the circle of life. People get hurt (some worse than others) and some die. This is all I have to say for the bad.
Recommendation-
I only recommend this book to people who do not have weak stomachs or do not have a sense of adventure.
The Good:
Time Travel -- This is (again) time travel. Like I have said before, time travel is amazing!
History -- I LOVE history. The battles, the politics, the people, and of course, the romance. This book was chock-full of amazing historical facts. Most of the story takes place in Tennessee, near the Nolichucky River.
Romance -- What I thought was amazing is how right when one of TJ's few ramances started, he found something very awesome when he got home. Very amusing in my opinion.
Life in the 19th Century -- The things that TJ had to do in the 1800's, served as a life lesson that he will NEVER forget. Hunting, murderous and lusty Indians, and of course the food. I thought it was very intriguing that it was safer to drink whiskey than water.
The Bad:
The Tavern Brawl -- I thought it wasn't very pleasing to have a man hurt like that, but that is just my opinion. I blame the circle of life. People get hurt (some worse than others) and some die. This is all I have to say for the bad.
Recommendation-
I only recommend this book to people who do not have weak stomachs or do not have a sense of adventure.
July 29, 2012
TJ Cockrell is an average fourteen year-old boy. Still grieving from his parent's divorce and his young sister, Natalie, going to live with their mother, he struggles with classes at school - especially history, has little self-confidence which is compounded by the bullying he receives from the more popular students at his school.
When TJ discovers a mysterious green book in his father's normally locked desk drawer, his adventure begins. He finds himself back in the year 1802 and quickly has to blend in with the people of that time. His self-confidence is tested far beyond his expectations but he rises to the occasion.
TJ is a likeable character and the reader cheers when things go well and despair when things go badly.
Divorce and bullying are prevalent in today's society and this book portrays both sympathetically but realistically. This is an interesting read and teens, especially those who are in the same situation as TJ, will be able to relate to his situation.
I look forward to more from this author.
When TJ discovers a mysterious green book in his father's normally locked desk drawer, his adventure begins. He finds himself back in the year 1802 and quickly has to blend in with the people of that time. His self-confidence is tested far beyond his expectations but he rises to the occasion.
TJ is a likeable character and the reader cheers when things go well and despair when things go badly.
Divorce and bullying are prevalent in today's society and this book portrays both sympathetically but realistically. This is an interesting read and teens, especially those who are in the same situation as TJ, will be able to relate to his situation.
I look forward to more from this author.
August 16, 2012
actual rating is 3.5
I enjoyed this story and I felt a longing for TJ my daughter has also encountered bullying at school and I felt for him. He struggles daily with the divorce of his parents and the bully's at school. While at his father's desk which was normally locked. TJ found that it was left unlocked and his curiosity got the best of him and he found a mysterious green book in there. That is when his adventure begins. Jackson has written a very good book that will definitely appeal to the YA. He has created a well rounded character in TJ. His writing technique is smooth and unique. I enjoyed his writing style I just felt that parts of the book where a little slow and the pace was hard to pick back up at times but I do recommend this book to middle grade kids for I think they will enjoy this well rounded story.
I enjoyed this story and I felt a longing for TJ my daughter has also encountered bullying at school and I felt for him. He struggles daily with the divorce of his parents and the bully's at school. While at his father's desk which was normally locked. TJ found that it was left unlocked and his curiosity got the best of him and he found a mysterious green book in there. That is when his adventure begins. Jackson has written a very good book that will definitely appeal to the YA. He has created a well rounded character in TJ. His writing technique is smooth and unique. I enjoyed his writing style I just felt that parts of the book where a little slow and the pace was hard to pick back up at times but I do recommend this book to middle grade kids for I think they will enjoy this well rounded story.
July 21, 2012
“TJ’s just an ordinary fourteen-year-old kid with extraordinary problems at home and school…and then that mysterious little green book had to go and throw him into the past. And not just any past, but into the untamed forbidding forests of 1802 eastern Tennessee along with the savage Indians, wild beasts, bloodthirsty robbers, backwoods ruffians, and log cabin living!”
Mr. Keene’s novel is a refreshing twist on time travel – the main character is relatable and realistic, and struggles in high school like many kids his age. But his nosiness and boredom lead to an incredible discovery, a life-changing moment if you will, and the ending is just, well, too cool for words!
Mr. Keene’s novel is a refreshing twist on time travel – the main character is relatable and realistic, and struggles in high school like many kids his age. But his nosiness and boredom lead to an incredible discovery, a life-changing moment if you will, and the ending is just, well, too cool for words!
June 11, 2012
I found this to be a very good book! I especially enjoyed the way that the book took the many challanges that young people face today and showed them that even if they don't think they are able to meet the challanges they face, deep inside them they do have the strength to face any situation that comes their way.
I enjoyed the author's writing style, and I think that it will appeal to kids too. Most of all, I love the new found interest in history!
I enjoyed the author's writing style, and I think that it will appeal to kids too. Most of all, I love the new found interest in history!
February 1, 2016
I couldn't stand this book. There were so many editorial and spelling errors that I felt like I was constantly correcting the writing. Whatever happened to editors?
Plus, it was given to my by a youth ministry organization to review for use with my teens. But there was a lot of swearing, so much that I would never use this with teens, letting them think I thought this profane use of language was justified.
Plus, it was given to my by a youth ministry organization to review for use with my teens. But there was a lot of swearing, so much that I would never use this with teens, letting them think I thought this profane use of language was justified.
November 29, 2012
I've only managed to read past the first quarter of the book. The review was due last week but I felt I had to try reading it again, still neither the story nor the characters held my attention. Just to be clear, I didn't have any problem with the author's writing style, the story just didn't work for me.
February 24, 2013
This is a great book for middle school kids. Lots of information on the pioneers and habits of that era. It had a great pace, though there were a few things that were confusing at first.
The only thing keeping this from being a 4 star for me was there was a tad too much religion in it for me.
The only thing keeping this from being a 4 star for me was there was a tad too much religion in it for me.
November 18, 2012
REVIEW TO FOLLOW
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