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Wild Song
An atmospheric historical romance for teens, which draws inspiration from Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'. Anna is living a lonely life on a small island with only her ageing father and his helper as company. When Rob washes ashore, Anna's world is turned upside down.
73 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2012
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April 4, 2013
Disclaimer: This review will contain spoilers.
You can also read mine, and MLE's reviews on our blog.
I got this book off of NetGalley for an honest review.
First off I wanted everyone to read the synopsis of this book from NetGalley.
Living in a creaking castle on a remote, windswept island off Scotland, Anna has never known anyone other than her father, his assistant and their two servants. She is kept away from books, pictures and other children by her father, a mathematical genius, who is slowly losing his mind. Then one wild stormy day a boy washes up on the shore, a boy who will change her whole world and make her question everything she has ever believed in. With her eyes opened to life outside of the island Anna soon realises that someone close to her is determined to destroy what is left of her father’s fragile sanity. Determined to protect him Anna faces her fears and, with the help of her new-found friend, breaks free from her isolation.
Okay now that we have gotten that out of the way, I want everyone to imaging where this book is going, and what do you think the ending will be? Because what I thought, and what I got were two very different things.
I want to point out a very misleading sentence.
Determined to protect him Anna faces her fears and, with the help of her new-found friend, breaks free from her isolation.
This had me picturing her breaking free of her father’s tyranny, leaving the island, and exploring the world.
Man, was I wrong.
It is nothing like that, this book felt like I only got the free teaser chapters of a much longer book. Which was really not that much of a big deal for me, because the book really wasn’t my cup of tea, but for those people that will enjoy this book it will be quite the let down.
The main character has lived on an isolated island her whole life, sheltered only learning what her seriously unstable father wants her to learn. Only the books left to her by somebody on the island, three guess on who that is, no really there is only three people that it could be, let her have some escape from said sheltered life.
So enter the new-found friend, a boy her age washes up on the shore of the island to the warm welcome of the fathers assistant Max trying to push him back in.
Same as before you get three guesses on who the bad guy in this story is, I’ll leave you to your speculations.
So Anna stops Max from pushing Rob back into the ocean, only to be forbade to see him while he heals. Yeah, forbidden to see him, we all know how well forbidding a teenage girl to do something works out, yup, you guessed it, she keeps sneaking in to see him.
So in talking to Rob she finds out that Max is trying to betray her father for money, and after she gets over calling Rob liar, because even though Anna saw Max trying to shove Rob back into the ocean he would never ever do such a thing. Anna decided to go to Max’s room to see if she can find any incriminating evidence, only to get caught red handed.
Yes, Anna is too stupid to live, because alone in a room with a guy willing to commit murder she doesn’t make an excuse, she confronts him.
After a letdown climax to the book Anna runs to tell her father everything, but when he doesn’t recognize her she decided to take matters in her own hands, and save her father herself.
This is where the book ends ladies and gentlemen, with Anna rowing to the main land, yeah not so much of a full novel, not one you’re going to pay seven bucks for anyway.
So, big surprise here, this book wasn’t for me.
You can also read mine, and MLE's reviews on our blog.
I got this book off of NetGalley for an honest review.
First off I wanted everyone to read the synopsis of this book from NetGalley.
Living in a creaking castle on a remote, windswept island off Scotland, Anna has never known anyone other than her father, his assistant and their two servants. She is kept away from books, pictures and other children by her father, a mathematical genius, who is slowly losing his mind. Then one wild stormy day a boy washes up on the shore, a boy who will change her whole world and make her question everything she has ever believed in. With her eyes opened to life outside of the island Anna soon realises that someone close to her is determined to destroy what is left of her father’s fragile sanity. Determined to protect him Anna faces her fears and, with the help of her new-found friend, breaks free from her isolation.
Okay now that we have gotten that out of the way, I want everyone to imaging where this book is going, and what do you think the ending will be? Because what I thought, and what I got were two very different things.
I want to point out a very misleading sentence.
Determined to protect him Anna faces her fears and, with the help of her new-found friend, breaks free from her isolation.
This had me picturing her breaking free of her father’s tyranny, leaving the island, and exploring the world.
Man, was I wrong.
It is nothing like that, this book felt like I only got the free teaser chapters of a much longer book. Which was really not that much of a big deal for me, because the book really wasn’t my cup of tea, but for those people that will enjoy this book it will be quite the let down.
The main character has lived on an isolated island her whole life, sheltered only learning what her seriously unstable father wants her to learn. Only the books left to her by somebody on the island, three guess on who that is, no really there is only three people that it could be, let her have some escape from said sheltered life.
So enter the new-found friend, a boy her age washes up on the shore of the island to the warm welcome of the fathers assistant Max trying to push him back in.
Same as before you get three guesses on who the bad guy in this story is, I’ll leave you to your speculations.
So Anna stops Max from pushing Rob back into the ocean, only to be forbade to see him while he heals. Yeah, forbidden to see him, we all know how well forbidding a teenage girl to do something works out, yup, you guessed it, she keeps sneaking in to see him.
So in talking to Rob she finds out that Max is trying to betray her father for money, and after she gets over calling Rob liar, because even though Anna saw Max trying to shove Rob back into the ocean he would never ever do such a thing. Anna decided to go to Max’s room to see if she can find any incriminating evidence, only to get caught red handed.
Yes, Anna is too stupid to live, because alone in a room with a guy willing to commit murder she doesn’t make an excuse, she confronts him.
After a letdown climax to the book Anna runs to tell her father everything, but when he doesn’t recognize her she decided to take matters in her own hands, and save her father herself.
This is where the book ends ladies and gentlemen, with Anna rowing to the main land, yeah not so much of a full novel, not one you’re going to pay seven bucks for anyway.
So, big surprise here, this book wasn’t for me.
May 29, 2012
I'm a huge fan of Jane Eagland's books and this one did not disappoint. I received a proof copy at work from the publishers and was excited to see that Jane Eagland had written a book for Barrington Stoke whose books are aimed at dyslexic readers and people who struggle with reading. It's aimed as a teen read and is based on a similar outline to the Tempest. With it being only 71 pages it was a quick read, but obviously it is designed for those that struggle and is published on cream paper to help dyslexic people and is written in a special dyslexia friendly font. What is also particularly good about this style of books is that the chapters are small and within the chapters there are short paragraphs. Which helps those that find reading a struggle to take a pause and take in what they have read without losing where they are.
*Spoiler Alert*
The story in general was very captivating and had me hooked from the start. The main character is a girl named Anna who lives on an island with her father who is a mathematics genius, his assistant max and two servants Biddy and Jasper who are married. Anna's father has become a recluse on the island and is obsessed with maths setting Anna work everyday. One day a boy turns up on the island following a storm. His leg is broken and Anna begs her father to let him stay, which he does, but doesn't like it and forbids Anna to see him. Anna and the boy Rob end up forming a friendship and he uncovers the truth about Anna's fathers assistant Max, which he informs Anna of before being sent back to the mainland. At first Anna thinks he is lying, as she has trusted Max all her life, but she finds a letter that confirms Rob was right and that Max is preparing to leave her and her father and has been stealing her fathers idea's all along. She threatens Max and tells him she is going to the police, but he tells her there is nothing she can do, as he will have taken the only boat off the island. She then decides she is going to go to the island before Max can, as her father cannot help, as he needs help himself. She gets down to the boat and finds Jasper has seen her and she thinks he is friends with Max as she has always found Jasper a little creepy because he is cross- eyed, it turns out all along that Jasper has been helping her, by buying her books whenever he went to the mainland, which she orginally thought were from Max and he tells Anna that he knows what Max has done and was waiting to stop him, himself. He tells Anna how to row the boat and where to find the police and that he will stay and keep an eye on Max. This is where the story ends with Anna rowing to the mainland to go to the police, she is also going to find help for her father and will then go and find Rob.
In a way it did feel at the end like it was hurriedly finished and this is why i gave it 4 stars not 5. I would have liked to have read what happened once Anna had found the police and whether she did actually meet up with Rob and get help for her father. This may have been because it is aimed at struggling readers and therefore the books are meant to be shorter, i'm not sure. I definitely think it's a good storyline which will hook the reader in and make them want to keep reading.
In working in books, dealing with schools & educational establishments, i have found the Barrington Stoke books have been very popular with their target audience particularly children from 8 years up to teenagers. This is because of how they are published and the format they are written in, but also because of the huge variety of titles that are now available and the fact that older children can read something that is aimed at not only their age level, but also at their reading level. Instead of being made to read something younger that they can't relate to and feel embarrassed about being seen with. A lot of Barrington Stoke titles now have covers that will appeal to older children, teenagers and even adults, so it doesn't look like their reading a younger book. I would thoroughly recommend these books to anyone that finds reading a struggle, as their is a lot of popular authors now writing books specifically for this target audience.
*Spoiler Alert*
The story in general was very captivating and had me hooked from the start. The main character is a girl named Anna who lives on an island with her father who is a mathematics genius, his assistant max and two servants Biddy and Jasper who are married. Anna's father has become a recluse on the island and is obsessed with maths setting Anna work everyday. One day a boy turns up on the island following a storm. His leg is broken and Anna begs her father to let him stay, which he does, but doesn't like it and forbids Anna to see him. Anna and the boy Rob end up forming a friendship and he uncovers the truth about Anna's fathers assistant Max, which he informs Anna of before being sent back to the mainland. At first Anna thinks he is lying, as she has trusted Max all her life, but she finds a letter that confirms Rob was right and that Max is preparing to leave her and her father and has been stealing her fathers idea's all along. She threatens Max and tells him she is going to the police, but he tells her there is nothing she can do, as he will have taken the only boat off the island. She then decides she is going to go to the island before Max can, as her father cannot help, as he needs help himself. She gets down to the boat and finds Jasper has seen her and she thinks he is friends with Max as she has always found Jasper a little creepy because he is cross- eyed, it turns out all along that Jasper has been helping her, by buying her books whenever he went to the mainland, which she orginally thought were from Max and he tells Anna that he knows what Max has done and was waiting to stop him, himself. He tells Anna how to row the boat and where to find the police and that he will stay and keep an eye on Max. This is where the story ends with Anna rowing to the mainland to go to the police, she is also going to find help for her father and will then go and find Rob.
In a way it did feel at the end like it was hurriedly finished and this is why i gave it 4 stars not 5. I would have liked to have read what happened once Anna had found the police and whether she did actually meet up with Rob and get help for her father. This may have been because it is aimed at struggling readers and therefore the books are meant to be shorter, i'm not sure. I definitely think it's a good storyline which will hook the reader in and make them want to keep reading.
In working in books, dealing with schools & educational establishments, i have found the Barrington Stoke books have been very popular with their target audience particularly children from 8 years up to teenagers. This is because of how they are published and the format they are written in, but also because of the huge variety of titles that are now available and the fact that older children can read something that is aimed at not only their age level, but also at their reading level. Instead of being made to read something younger that they can't relate to and feel embarrassed about being seen with. A lot of Barrington Stoke titles now have covers that will appeal to older children, teenagers and even adults, so it doesn't look like their reading a younger book. I would thoroughly recommend these books to anyone that finds reading a struggle, as their is a lot of popular authors now writing books specifically for this target audience.
March 26, 2013
More of my reviews can be found at YA Asylum.
I reviewed a complimentary e-book copy received from the publisher via NetGalley. I was told that the book is aimed at and suitable for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic teens. As a dyslexic, I found this very interesting.
FIRST IMPRESSION:
The start was interesting, I'm was curious about Anna and her situation.
THE PLOT:
It's fairly simplistic. There's a few twists but nothing jaw dropping or hard to see coming. I would say the weakest part of the book is the abrupt ending. I imagine this is a first in a series but even then I would have rather had a more certain ending.
A lot of plot points were resolved very quickly and suddenly. Sometimes the problem was introduced just a few pages before it was solved. It's a short story, so to some extent that was necessary. To others, I think it would have benefited to the story to give a few of the plot points another page or two to live.
THE CHARACTERS:
I sympathized with Anna a great deal and really wanted good things to happen for her. Her father was a mix and I wasn't certain what to make of him -- which is good, I think. It left me thinking about him and their situation.
Rob is the other major player in this book. He wasn't really developed but I was interested. I think, if this is a series, then I'd like to see if he is given more dimensions.
THE ROMANCE:
This isn't a heavy player, but there is some light exchange of feelings between Rob and Anna. I did feel it and would like to see it explored further in a future book. What developed between them was realistic and what I liked best about it is that it forced Anna to question how things were. If the world her father made her live in was right.
There was also some Max/Anna and that just creeped me out. I have issues with major age differences like that, but it was meant to be inappropriate and not something the readers want so that was achieved.
THE WRITING
This is where I really struggle with reviewing this book. I'm dyslexic (and rather proud of that fact, thank you) but I was lucky to have a lovely and wonderful mother that took a lot of time and effort to make sure I got all the help I needed with my dyslexia. I'm aware this doesn't happen for everyone and help tutor others that weren't help as early in life as I was. So I tried to read it from the point of view that I would have had as a struggling reader.
The word choices and simplistic sentence structure would suit a reluctant reader well. The length of the book really helps as well. I know some might think it's too short (and some plot points suffered because of the length and fell into place rather abruptly because of it) but length is key for a reluctant reader. I would have honestly picked this book just because of the length, back when reading wasn't my favorite thing. If it's too long it's too intimidating.
But there was an awful lot of telling and that's where I struggled. It was always "Anna felt -insert feeling-" "Anna thought -insert whatever she thought-" "Rob looked -insert emotion-". There was no showing. No leaving room for the reader to try and figure it out for themselves. There was no trust between writer and reader -- no allowance of the reader to take a leap from point A to point B. I've been thinking whether this is appropriate or not. I've decided it isn't.
Reluctant readers and dyslexic certainly doesn't translate to dumb readers. If you give them a show, they'll be able to take the leap to understand what it means. I'm not saying use bigger words or more complex sentences but it wouldn't have been that hard to switch a few of the tells to a show. Instead of "Rob looked excited" it could have been said like: "Rob sat up straight and a smile crossed his lips as his eyes landed on Anna" -- a simple show that express how Rob felt. It would, I believe, encourage the reader. It makes them feel more a part of the story and even a good about themselves when they realize later that they were right.
CONCLUSION:
I would recommend this to a reluctant reader. It would be an easy and quick reader and would help them build their confidence. I would have liked to see more trust in the reader's ability to make intuitive leaps, though.
I reviewed a complimentary e-book copy received from the publisher via NetGalley. I was told that the book is aimed at and suitable for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic teens. As a dyslexic, I found this very interesting.
FIRST IMPRESSION:
The start was interesting, I'm was curious about Anna and her situation.
THE PLOT:
It's fairly simplistic. There's a few twists but nothing jaw dropping or hard to see coming. I would say the weakest part of the book is the abrupt ending. I imagine this is a first in a series but even then I would have rather had a more certain ending.
A lot of plot points were resolved very quickly and suddenly. Sometimes the problem was introduced just a few pages before it was solved. It's a short story, so to some extent that was necessary. To others, I think it would have benefited to the story to give a few of the plot points another page or two to live.
THE CHARACTERS:
I sympathized with Anna a great deal and really wanted good things to happen for her. Her father was a mix and I wasn't certain what to make of him -- which is good, I think. It left me thinking about him and their situation.
Rob is the other major player in this book. He wasn't really developed but I was interested. I think, if this is a series, then I'd like to see if he is given more dimensions.
THE ROMANCE:
This isn't a heavy player, but there is some light exchange of feelings between Rob and Anna. I did feel it and would like to see it explored further in a future book. What developed between them was realistic and what I liked best about it is that it forced Anna to question how things were. If the world her father made her live in was right.
There was also some Max/Anna and that just creeped me out. I have issues with major age differences like that, but it was meant to be inappropriate and not something the readers want so that was achieved.
THE WRITING
This is where I really struggle with reviewing this book. I'm dyslexic (and rather proud of that fact, thank you) but I was lucky to have a lovely and wonderful mother that took a lot of time and effort to make sure I got all the help I needed with my dyslexia. I'm aware this doesn't happen for everyone and help tutor others that weren't help as early in life as I was. So I tried to read it from the point of view that I would have had as a struggling reader.
The word choices and simplistic sentence structure would suit a reluctant reader well. The length of the book really helps as well. I know some might think it's too short (and some plot points suffered because of the length and fell into place rather abruptly because of it) but length is key for a reluctant reader. I would have honestly picked this book just because of the length, back when reading wasn't my favorite thing. If it's too long it's too intimidating.
But there was an awful lot of telling and that's where I struggled. It was always "Anna felt -insert feeling-" "Anna thought -insert whatever she thought-" "Rob looked -insert emotion-". There was no showing. No leaving room for the reader to try and figure it out for themselves. There was no trust between writer and reader -- no allowance of the reader to take a leap from point A to point B. I've been thinking whether this is appropriate or not. I've decided it isn't.
Reluctant readers and dyslexic certainly doesn't translate to dumb readers. If you give them a show, they'll be able to take the leap to understand what it means. I'm not saying use bigger words or more complex sentences but it wouldn't have been that hard to switch a few of the tells to a show. Instead of "Rob looked excited" it could have been said like: "Rob sat up straight and a smile crossed his lips as his eyes landed on Anna" -- a simple show that express how Rob felt. It would, I believe, encourage the reader. It makes them feel more a part of the story and even a good about themselves when they realize later that they were right.
CONCLUSION:
I would recommend this to a reluctant reader. It would be an easy and quick reader and would help them build their confidence. I would have liked to see more trust in the reader's ability to make intuitive leaps, though.
March 28, 2013
Wild Song by Jane Eagland is a Young Adult book, written for dyslexic readers, as well as those who in general, struggle with reading. Based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, Wild Song tells the story of a girl who has lived an isolated life on an island with her reclusive, math-obsessed father. Anna’s social contact includes her father’s assistant, Max, the housekeeper Biddy and her husband, Jasper. When an injured young man washes ashore after surviving a shipwreck , Anna pleads with her father to allow him to stay until he is well enough to be rowed to the mainland. He agrees, providing she has no contact with him, which, of course, she cannot help but do, he is someone new, different and close to her age. When Rob discovers that Max has been stealing Anna’s father’s work, he is forced to leave the island. It becomes a race between Anna and Max, to see if she can stop his deceit and save her father’s work, and involves a huge and daring move on Anna’s part!
Jane Eagland has done a marvelous job of keeping the story short, yet intense, employing short paragraphs and chapters that move the action along very well! Anna's character was as likable as Max's was evil. The conclusion left room for discussion and the use of the reader’s imagination as to what may have happened next!
This ARC edition was provided by NetGalley and Stokes Books in exchange for my honest review. Publication Date: April 1, 2013.
Jane Eagland has done a marvelous job of keeping the story short, yet intense, employing short paragraphs and chapters that move the action along very well! Anna's character was as likable as Max's was evil. The conclusion left room for discussion and the use of the reader’s imagination as to what may have happened next!
This ARC edition was provided by NetGalley and Stokes Books in exchange for my honest review. Publication Date: April 1, 2013.
May 6, 2019
Anna bor med sin far, hans assistent och två tjänare på en ö utanför Skotlands kust.
Hon är uppvuxen på ön och är van vid sitt eget sällskap, men ibland längtar hon ut till världen utanför, en värld hon inte vet något om.
En dag spolas en pojke upp på stranden. Han är skadad och Anna ser till att han får stanna på slottet tills han återhämtats sig. Pojken heter Robert och de berättelser från världen utanför får Anna att längta efter att få se världen.
Men Roberts ankomst till ön får också mindre bra saker att komma upp till ytan. Hela Annas värld vänds upp och ner och hon kan inte längre vara passiv.
Hon är uppvuxen på ön och är van vid sitt eget sällskap, men ibland längtar hon ut till världen utanför, en värld hon inte vet något om.
En dag spolas en pojke upp på stranden. Han är skadad och Anna ser till att han får stanna på slottet tills han återhämtats sig. Pojken heter Robert och de berättelser från världen utanför får Anna att längta efter att få se världen.
Men Roberts ankomst till ön får också mindre bra saker att komma upp till ytan. Hela Annas värld vänds upp och ner och hon kan inte längre vara passiv.
March 24, 2013
Review of Wild Song by Jane Eagland
5 stars
I reviewed a complimentary e-book copy received from the publisher via NetGalley, in return for my provision of a fair and impartial review.
Most of us who have been readers and dedicated to reading for a long time are concerned about the apparent drop in reading at all, and in reading comprehension, over the last several decades. Kudos to publisher Stoke Books for addressing this need with books that are easily comprehensible and more, are appealing, for adolescent readers who read at less-than-grade-level. “Wild Song,” for example, has a protagonist who is an adolescent girl, growing up in an extraordinarily isolated, and lopsided, home environment. It is aimed toward a readership of adolescents operating at the level of third or fourth grade reading; yet readers older can enjoy it as well. Anna lives on an island off the coast of Scotland. She has never seen (to remember) anything else or anywhere else. She wants to study geography, but her researcher/inventor father insists on only maths. Anna wants to travel, to see the world, to meet new faces; yet she is afraid. She admires Max, her father’s assistant, until she begins to notice his strange behavior as Rob, a shipwreck victim, washes on to the island. Anna’s coming of age is near, as those in her environment change, and are revealed as they are, and she finds she must make decisions of extraordinary cost.
Below is a note from the publisher, Stoke Books, regarding “Wild Song” by Jane Eagland:
” Please note that Stoke Books are created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level.” http://www.stokebooks.com/
5 stars
I reviewed a complimentary e-book copy received from the publisher via NetGalley, in return for my provision of a fair and impartial review.
Most of us who have been readers and dedicated to reading for a long time are concerned about the apparent drop in reading at all, and in reading comprehension, over the last several decades. Kudos to publisher Stoke Books for addressing this need with books that are easily comprehensible and more, are appealing, for adolescent readers who read at less-than-grade-level. “Wild Song,” for example, has a protagonist who is an adolescent girl, growing up in an extraordinarily isolated, and lopsided, home environment. It is aimed toward a readership of adolescents operating at the level of third or fourth grade reading; yet readers older can enjoy it as well. Anna lives on an island off the coast of Scotland. She has never seen (to remember) anything else or anywhere else. She wants to study geography, but her researcher/inventor father insists on only maths. Anna wants to travel, to see the world, to meet new faces; yet she is afraid. She admires Max, her father’s assistant, until she begins to notice his strange behavior as Rob, a shipwreck victim, washes on to the island. Anna’s coming of age is near, as those in her environment change, and are revealed as they are, and she finds she must make decisions of extraordinary cost.
Below is a note from the publisher, Stoke Books, regarding “Wild Song” by Jane Eagland:
” Please note that Stoke Books are created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level.” http://www.stokebooks.com/
May 13, 2013
First of all, I would like to say that I do understand That this book is intended for dyslexic students/children at about a third grade reading level. I agree with that assessment. The material is easy reading, the language would be perfectly appropriate for the intended age group and the paragraph spacing and formatting is perfect for children that struggle with longer passages of text.
The story itself has a beautiful and somewhat haunting atmosphere. The young heroine finds herself in an impossible situation with an aging and ailing father who is extremely overprotective of her and wishes to keep her from life outside the island they inhabit. He guards her so closely that he refuses to even let her access books that describe life away from their home, although she gets them anyway.
The romance is sweet and does not come to much, so parents don't have to worry about their child reading something that is too emotionally advanced for them. I liked the interaction between the main character and Rob.
While the writing was age appropriate and the over all story that was emerging was entertaining and piqued my interest, the ending was a somewhat disappointing. I did not feel that much of anything was resolved, and I felt that the book was setting up to be a series, but cannot find any indication that this is true. I don't see anything anywhere that says "watch for book two coming soon" or anything else.
I found many parts of this book enjoyable, and think that kids age 10-14 would more than likely enjoy it, even with the end not resolving all of the issues raised in the story. My hope, is that there will be another book to follow soon.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher, Stoke Books.
The story itself has a beautiful and somewhat haunting atmosphere. The young heroine finds herself in an impossible situation with an aging and ailing father who is extremely overprotective of her and wishes to keep her from life outside the island they inhabit. He guards her so closely that he refuses to even let her access books that describe life away from their home, although she gets them anyway.
The romance is sweet and does not come to much, so parents don't have to worry about their child reading something that is too emotionally advanced for them. I liked the interaction between the main character and Rob.
While the writing was age appropriate and the over all story that was emerging was entertaining and piqued my interest, the ending was a somewhat disappointing. I did not feel that much of anything was resolved, and I felt that the book was setting up to be a series, but cannot find any indication that this is true. I don't see anything anywhere that says "watch for book two coming soon" or anything else.
I found many parts of this book enjoyable, and think that kids age 10-14 would more than likely enjoy it, even with the end not resolving all of the issues raised in the story. My hope, is that there will be another book to follow soon.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher, Stoke Books.
May 7, 2012
I won a copy of this in a competition, I didn't actually know anything about it and didn't expect it when it arrived. I was totally surprised. It's very small at only 73 pages and the print is fairly big - I then found out it was designed for dyslexic and reluctant/beginner readers which made sense.
I don't have a problem with that format and think these books are great for getting people into reading, it opens a door for them, anything to encourage reading is fine by me.
The storyline is very simple and moves very quickly, I actually liked it, offered a break, a breeze through. I didn't have to use my brain.
Anna lives on a secluded island with her dad, his assistant, a maid and her husband. Anna has never met anyone else and yearns for adventure. She longs to see the world and meet other people, but at teh same time she is scared, her father keeps her there for 'safety', is the world really that bad.
As it says in the synopsis, you can tell it was inspired by The Tempest and I did enjoy it, however it doesn't actually go anywhere. The book just ends. She finds out a secret, decides she has to do something and then the book just ends! No conclusion, no big ending, no solution. It just stops.
I understand these books are a certain length specifically, but to me it felt like someone had said - 'no, it's too long, too many pages, just print the first 70 and delete the rest'.
I need an ending, this just leaves you in limbo. Which left me feeling very disappointed.
A really easy read with a good story idea but it goes nowhere fast.
I don't have a problem with that format and think these books are great for getting people into reading, it opens a door for them, anything to encourage reading is fine by me.
The storyline is very simple and moves very quickly, I actually liked it, offered a break, a breeze through. I didn't have to use my brain.
Anna lives on a secluded island with her dad, his assistant, a maid and her husband. Anna has never met anyone else and yearns for adventure. She longs to see the world and meet other people, but at teh same time she is scared, her father keeps her there for 'safety', is the world really that bad.
As it says in the synopsis, you can tell it was inspired by The Tempest and I did enjoy it, however it doesn't actually go anywhere. The book just ends. She finds out a secret, decides she has to do something and then the book just ends! No conclusion, no big ending, no solution. It just stops.
I understand these books are a certain length specifically, but to me it felt like someone had said - 'no, it's too long, too many pages, just print the first 70 and delete the rest'.
I need an ending, this just leaves you in limbo. Which left me feeling very disappointed.
A really easy read with a good story idea but it goes nowhere fast.
May 28, 2013
I decided to read this book as my cousin recommended it to me as she thought it was a good book.
This covers "A Book Recommended By A Member Of Your Family" on the bingo board. This was interesting because it helps me to read books that my family members enjoy and helps me to discus with them the low points and high points of the book.
My favourite quote from this book is "I don't want to upset you. But I'm worried about you. And your father. I think you should keep an eye on Max. You shouldn't trust him." This quote from the book is my favourite because it shows how much Rob cared even though he didn't know Anna that well and its shows how Max has been with Anna's family for years and plans to betray them and ignoring everything they have done for him.
Something I learnt from this book is that you should always work towards your goals and work hard to achieve them.
A character or setting in this book that was interesting to me was Anna. She was an interesting character because she rowed by herself to a country that she has never been to, to save her father and had belief in her self that she was not going to let max ruin her fathers hard work and leave without getting caught.
This covers "A Book Recommended By A Member Of Your Family" on the bingo board. This was interesting because it helps me to read books that my family members enjoy and helps me to discus with them the low points and high points of the book.
My favourite quote from this book is "I don't want to upset you. But I'm worried about you. And your father. I think you should keep an eye on Max. You shouldn't trust him." This quote from the book is my favourite because it shows how much Rob cared even though he didn't know Anna that well and its shows how Max has been with Anna's family for years and plans to betray them and ignoring everything they have done for him.
Something I learnt from this book is that you should always work towards your goals and work hard to achieve them.
A character or setting in this book that was interesting to me was Anna. She was an interesting character because she rowed by herself to a country that she has never been to, to save her father and had belief in her self that she was not going to let max ruin her fathers hard work and leave without getting caught.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2013
I thought this book was very good quite like the Tempest by Shakespeare (the play we're studying in class)there is a island and a girls father is a math wizard who always bugs his daughter to be amazing at maths like him she also has no knowledge of the outside world but somebody is bringing her books so she can acknowledge what it's like until one day a boy washes ashore on the island and she is forbidden to see him but that's what she ignores and continues seeing him and one day the boy who washed ashore saw the servant communicating with somebody who he's in business with to sell the girls fathers inventions to. So the girl sails off to the mainland to save his fathers inventions and tell the police.
What I thought about this book (my likes/dislikes and feelings):
This book was amazing as I've mentioned above this book is very like the tempest by Shakespeare I have read a book like this before pale that was awful but I really liked this book my only complaint is that it was left on a cliff-hanger too soon I would have liked to know what happened when a girl with no knowledge of the real world went to the real world.
What I thought about this book (my likes/dislikes and feelings):
This book was amazing as I've mentioned above this book is very like the tempest by Shakespeare I have read a book like this before pale that was awful but I really liked this book my only complaint is that it was left on a cliff-hanger too soon I would have liked to know what happened when a girl with no knowledge of the real world went to the real world.
September 11, 2013
It is a short story about Anna who is living outside of the city,on an island with a few people. Ultimately, Anna wants freedom and tries to find courage. The story, at a glance, reminded me of The Tempest by Shakespeare. But there is more math than magic involved. I think the story is well written, in the sense that one could imagine the deserted island that can possibly seem like home and a prison. The character growth are short but drastic because of the circumstances (which you will have to find out yourself!). One would definitely enjoy this short story that leaves one's vivid imagination for sequel for the story.
Though, at the moment, there isn't a sequel one can always make one in their mind:)
Though, at the moment, there isn't a sequel one can always make one in their mind:)
not-in-this-life
April 4, 2013The last book I read for dyslexic readers did not end up well. I'm definitely not touching this one.
May 6, 2017
Anna lives on a secluded island with only a few people for company. There is her eccentric and sick father, Lord Grey, his assistant, Max, the housekeeper and gardener. That's it! Until one day, there was an accident off the coast of the island and a boy, Rob, floated to the shores. He is brought to a cottage where he is nursed back to health. During his recovery, Anna and Rob get to know each other and talk about many things. One topic being the birds on the island.
"Those ones with the black heads and the long tails. They have such grace. And there's something about their call. I love it.
I can see why. They're so free, aren't they? And that wild song. it makes you shiver." Anna felt a rush of joy. No one else had ever said that. Rob thought just the same as she did."
The ending to this book is obscure, to say the least. But I feel like it a parents and child read this book together, there are several topics of discussion to be found here. When an author chooses to leave topics open, then it makes for a nice learning discussion to happen with children.
By reading this book, I discovered a publishing company that was not formerly aware of. Barrington Stoke produces book for dyslexics and reluctant readers. Their books are published on cream paper, are shorter in length, use a dyslexic font, and tend to have shorter chapters with markers in between so that the reader can pause and find their place.
Overall, I wish more people knew about the existence of these books. This particular book is designed for 13+ and it only 71 pages in length. It was high interest and the story moved quickly. I was sucked into the story of Anna and Rob. Rob was a set of fresh eyes and helped Anna figure out who is making bad choices on the island. I certainly recommend this book to girls who are dyslexic or a reluctant reader. It can be enjoyed by other girls as well.
Content: clean
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
"Those ones with the black heads and the long tails. They have such grace. And there's something about their call. I love it.
I can see why. They're so free, aren't they? And that wild song. it makes you shiver." Anna felt a rush of joy. No one else had ever said that. Rob thought just the same as she did."
The ending to this book is obscure, to say the least. But I feel like it a parents and child read this book together, there are several topics of discussion to be found here. When an author chooses to leave topics open, then it makes for a nice learning discussion to happen with children.
By reading this book, I discovered a publishing company that was not formerly aware of. Barrington Stoke produces book for dyslexics and reluctant readers. Their books are published on cream paper, are shorter in length, use a dyslexic font, and tend to have shorter chapters with markers in between so that the reader can pause and find their place.
Overall, I wish more people knew about the existence of these books. This particular book is designed for 13+ and it only 71 pages in length. It was high interest and the story moved quickly. I was sucked into the story of Anna and Rob. Rob was a set of fresh eyes and helped Anna figure out who is making bad choices on the island. I certainly recommend this book to girls who are dyslexic or a reluctant reader. It can be enjoyed by other girls as well.
Content: clean
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2019
A new addition to the Barrington Stoke section of our school library. I love the tinted paper, the dyslexia-friendly font and the atmosphere created by introducing Anna, a young teenager who has been living on a remote island accompanied only be her father, his assistant Max and a few servants. Nobody visits the island and only the servants leave to pick up supplies. Anna's father tells her that the outside world is a strange and dangerous place. When a strange boy is washed up on the shore, everything she knows about her world is challenged.
What is here is excellent. Unfortunately, the book ends just as the story really gets going which makes this feel like a sneak preview or teaser for a longer book. It would be great to use it as a prompt for creative writing as your pupils could continue the story, but for those just reading it, the open ending will probably cause some annoyance.
What is here is excellent. Unfortunately, the book ends just as the story really gets going which makes this feel like a sneak preview or teaser for a longer book. It would be great to use it as a prompt for creative writing as your pupils could continue the story, but for those just reading it, the open ending will probably cause some annoyance.
April 24, 2018
Sweet short tale very suitable for young teenagers.
March 29, 2021
En kort men läsvärd saga som är mycket intressant.
May 23, 2022
It just stopped....horrible ending. Looked to see if there was a sequel,, but can't find one.
August 29, 2013
Okay, so let me give you this information first. From the Netgalley page for the book, information about the publisher.
Please note that Stoke Books are created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level.
So, I totally get that. Really, I do. We are not talking about a traditional teen reader here. We are targeting a reader who has reading difficulties and is not going to read at what is considered appropriate level for this age. I commend this publisher for targeting the dyslexia community because they are way underserved when it comes to reading materials.
However, while this was a great idea in theory, the execution felt a little lacking to me. The story took me about 20 mins to read. Granted, I do not have dyslexia and read at much above a 3rd grade reading level. But even a struggling reader will be able to see that there were some holes in the way the story was written.
A well executed short story, novelette, novella, or novel needs a beginning, a middle and an end. There needs to be conflict, but there also needs to be a resolution. The conflict was great. It was a universal theme in a way. But there was no resolution. We are left hanging with no answers and even more questions. What happened to Rob? Is Jasper really on Anna's side? And is her father really that afraid of the outside world that he curls up in a ball and cowers when things go wrong?
I think this would have made a good beginning of a story, but to me, it just felt like half of it was missing and I feel like it needed something more. The writing is very juvenile, but when you are talking about teenagers that have a 3rd grade reading level, that is to be expected, so I am not faulting on that. As this was an eARC, I am also not commenting on the editing, and hopefully the editing issues in this were addressed prior to final publication. I have not seen the finished copy, so I cannot really say.
I found Anna likable, if somewhat sheltered and unaware of the world around her. I was slightly disturbed in the beginning by her infatuation with the MUCH older man, and that particular part of the plot made me uncomfortable, as did the much older man's declarations toward her. However, we are never told how old Anna is, so maybe I am way off.
I am rating the book as I am because I just felt like it was not enough to stand on it's own. I feel like I needed something more.
Please note that Stoke Books are created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level.
So, I totally get that. Really, I do. We are not talking about a traditional teen reader here. We are targeting a reader who has reading difficulties and is not going to read at what is considered appropriate level for this age. I commend this publisher for targeting the dyslexia community because they are way underserved when it comes to reading materials.
However, while this was a great idea in theory, the execution felt a little lacking to me. The story took me about 20 mins to read. Granted, I do not have dyslexia and read at much above a 3rd grade reading level. But even a struggling reader will be able to see that there were some holes in the way the story was written.
A well executed short story, novelette, novella, or novel needs a beginning, a middle and an end. There needs to be conflict, but there also needs to be a resolution. The conflict was great. It was a universal theme in a way. But there was no resolution. We are left hanging with no answers and even more questions. What happened to Rob? Is Jasper really on Anna's side? And is her father really that afraid of the outside world that he curls up in a ball and cowers when things go wrong?
I think this would have made a good beginning of a story, but to me, it just felt like half of it was missing and I feel like it needed something more. The writing is very juvenile, but when you are talking about teenagers that have a 3rd grade reading level, that is to be expected, so I am not faulting on that. As this was an eARC, I am also not commenting on the editing, and hopefully the editing issues in this were addressed prior to final publication. I have not seen the finished copy, so I cannot really say.
I found Anna likable, if somewhat sheltered and unaware of the world around her. I was slightly disturbed in the beginning by her infatuation with the MUCH older man, and that particular part of the plot made me uncomfortable, as did the much older man's declarations toward her. However, we are never told how old Anna is, so maybe I am way off.
I am rating the book as I am because I just felt like it was not enough to stand on it's own. I feel like I needed something more.
October 8, 2013
This story was specialized for low reading level, but it also felt like the story wasn't fully developed. Still, I did really enjoy it.
Anna lived her entire life in a mansion on an isolated island. Living with her father and three other souls, as a cook and such, she never met anyone of her age and always lonely by herself. Until one stormy night, a boy is washed to the island.
Plot:
The plot was nice and light, but it really reminded me a book I've read earlier this year, and despised it. Anyhow, I gave this book a shot.
I love how there's build up in the story. An introduction, the change, the process... but no ending. Seriously, this book has such an open ending that you feel like there's part two.
News break: there's no part two.
Writing:
The story's reading level was for third graders, but it wasn't horrible or too bland. I actually think it was perfect for this level, except it could use a bit of more poetic here and there.
Romance:
I enjoyed to see the romance unfold in a really cute fashion! How they started meeting each other and asking about each others life. They became friends, had ups and downs, had their moments and in the end, promised to see each other once again.
What I loved about the romance in this book is that unlike in some young adult books, sometimes the two main characters fall in love instantly, no real feelings, just loving each other for looks. This book gave the love to develop and made the reader feel it.
Characters:
Unfortunately, I didn't feel anything for the minor characters. I kind of felt as if only Anna and Rob were the only one well developed.
Overall:
I liked the story itself and surprisingly, enjoyed the simple writing. I only felt that the end was too much open and there's still a lot to tell.
3 STARS
Liked:
-Anna & Rob
-Romance
-Writing
-Story build up
Disliked:
-Open ending
-Not feeling for the minor characters
Anna lived her entire life in a mansion on an isolated island. Living with her father and three other souls, as a cook and such, she never met anyone of her age and always lonely by herself. Until one stormy night, a boy is washed to the island.
Plot:
The plot was nice and light, but it really reminded me a book I've read earlier this year, and despised it. Anyhow, I gave this book a shot.
I love how there's build up in the story. An introduction, the change, the process... but no ending. Seriously, this book has such an open ending that you feel like there's part two.
News break: there's no part two.
Writing:
The story's reading level was for third graders, but it wasn't horrible or too bland. I actually think it was perfect for this level, except it could use a bit of more poetic here and there.
Romance:
I enjoyed to see the romance unfold in a really cute fashion! How they started meeting each other and asking about each others life. They became friends, had ups and downs, had their moments and in the end, promised to see each other once again.
What I loved about the romance in this book is that unlike in some young adult books, sometimes the two main characters fall in love instantly, no real feelings, just loving each other for looks. This book gave the love to develop and made the reader feel it.
Characters:
Unfortunately, I didn't feel anything for the minor characters. I kind of felt as if only Anna and Rob were the only one well developed.
Overall:
I liked the story itself and surprisingly, enjoyed the simple writing. I only felt that the end was too much open and there's still a lot to tell.
3 STARS
Liked:
-Anna & Rob
-Romance
-Writing
-Story build up
Disliked:
-Open ending
-Not feeling for the minor characters
May 23, 2013
I really appreciate what Stoke Books is doing. They are putting together high-interest stories for struggling readers. Being a teacher that works with lower level readers in a middle school setting, I can advocate for this need!
It's very important to grab the reader's attention from the first page. It's even more vital when that reader typically does not like to read (or want to read). Wild Song starts off with action, which is a great hook. While it is certainly geared towards female readers, it could also work for students interested in Shakespeare. Wild Song was a loose retelling of The Tempest.
The plot and characters are pretty straight forward. There isn't a lot of depth or character building. That may bother some readers, but if you keep it in context of the intended audience, then it makes sense. Struggling readers do not have the stamina for pages upon pages of descriptive writing and character building.
I have to say that Wild Song is not my favorite Stoke Book so far, but it wasn't bad. I think it will have a limited appeal because of the setting and characters. Boys will probably not run to this one, but I can picture several of my female readers enjoying it
It's very important to grab the reader's attention from the first page. It's even more vital when that reader typically does not like to read (or want to read). Wild Song starts off with action, which is a great hook. While it is certainly geared towards female readers, it could also work for students interested in Shakespeare. Wild Song was a loose retelling of The Tempest.
The plot and characters are pretty straight forward. There isn't a lot of depth or character building. That may bother some readers, but if you keep it in context of the intended audience, then it makes sense. Struggling readers do not have the stamina for pages upon pages of descriptive writing and character building.
I have to say that Wild Song is not my favorite Stoke Book so far, but it wasn't bad. I think it will have a limited appeal because of the setting and characters. Boys will probably not run to this one, but I can picture several of my female readers enjoying it
June 20, 2013
4 stars
Ebook ARC given by Netgalley for an honest review
Per the publisher "This book is created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level."
This book is less then 100 pages, and pretty simplistic in both language and style, which makes it perfect for the purpose it was made for. I have several dyslexic people in my family and if they had been able to read this kind of book as a child it may have made a lot of difference in both their ability and desire to read later as an adult.
I think it is wonderful that this type of book exists. I applaud the publisher and everyone else for making them possible and available to those who need them.
I give the idea 5 stars but the book itself 4 stars as the ending is a bit of a let down. Unless this is the first book in a series then the ending is abrupt and leaves way to much unanswered. It stops right as it is getting good, which will leave a lot of readers frustrated. But other then that this is a good book to help problem readers hon their skills over their Summer break or any other time.
Ebook ARC given by Netgalley for an honest review
Per the publisher "This book is created specifically for reluctant or dyslexic readers. The books are short and action-packed with compelling narratives. This book is aimed at kids aged 13 and up with a 3rd grade reading level."
This book is less then 100 pages, and pretty simplistic in both language and style, which makes it perfect for the purpose it was made for. I have several dyslexic people in my family and if they had been able to read this kind of book as a child it may have made a lot of difference in both their ability and desire to read later as an adult.
I think it is wonderful that this type of book exists. I applaud the publisher and everyone else for making them possible and available to those who need them.
I give the idea 5 stars but the book itself 4 stars as the ending is a bit of a let down. Unless this is the first book in a series then the ending is abrupt and leaves way to much unanswered. It stops right as it is getting good, which will leave a lot of readers frustrated. But other then that this is a good book to help problem readers hon their skills over their Summer break or any other time.
August 26, 2013
I received an ebook ARC of this novel via Netgalley.
This is the description given by the publisher, "This terrifically taut and short novel is targeted for reluctant/struggling readers or kids with dyslexia. The interest level is aged 13 and up, while it is at a 3rd grade reading level."
I have included the above quote so that what I say here makes sense. The novel was definitely short at 100 pages. The novel does read with its basic sentences and light plot as if written for a younger age group. That was one of the reasons why I had trouble with the characters' ages (around 16 & up). It felt strange reading that the main character was in love with two different people because of the writing style.
As for plot, it is really, really basic. I was left, at the end of the story feeling a little let down. I hope that a second book is written to finish out the story.
Would I recommend this book for its target audience? The answer is yes.
This is the description given by the publisher, "This terrifically taut and short novel is targeted for reluctant/struggling readers or kids with dyslexia. The interest level is aged 13 and up, while it is at a 3rd grade reading level."
I have included the above quote so that what I say here makes sense. The novel was definitely short at 100 pages. The novel does read with its basic sentences and light plot as if written for a younger age group. That was one of the reasons why I had trouble with the characters' ages (around 16 & up). It felt strange reading that the main character was in love with two different people because of the writing style.
As for plot, it is really, really basic. I was left, at the end of the story feeling a little let down. I hope that a second book is written to finish out the story.
Would I recommend this book for its target audience? The answer is yes.
October 22, 2013
I read this story in electronic form from NetGalley. This story has interesting dialogue that drives the story along, but I feel that Anna's father needs further development. The reader needs a little more information about him before he descended into the madness that drives him. I am also troubled by the reactions that Anna has toward Max--several times she seems to be in his thrall and experiences emotions that are deeper than just a crush. This magnetic "pull" that he seems to hold over Anna is unsettling--particularly because Anna seems clueless about his evil nature. As astute as she seems in other areas of her life, she really should be aware of his menacing attitude. Finally, the story ends too abruptly. This story has great potential, but attention needs extended to character development and a more satisfying resolution.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2013
Oh goodie shortie for a change and very
3rd grader hahahaha For a Change .
Ok I said that for two times well I want to escape this new adult that was hot for the market nowadays .
They say this was what a retelling of a classic novel well I'm not very fond of the american literature but I knew who is shakespeare :) screw that
The cover simple yet beautiful . The storyline unlike the other books that I read that sometimes I can predict what will happen but this it change I dunno what im reading because I know it's my fault
I'm not a kind of reader that reads the whole description because sometimes the description says so much .
I like to be surprised hahahaha
And this surprise me so much
Till the end .
3rd grader hahahaha For a Change .
Ok I said that for two times well I want to escape this new adult that was hot for the market nowadays .
They say this was what a retelling of a classic novel well I'm not very fond of the american literature but I knew who is shakespeare :) screw that
The cover simple yet beautiful . The storyline unlike the other books that I read that sometimes I can predict what will happen but this it change I dunno what im reading because I know it's my fault
I'm not a kind of reader that reads the whole description because sometimes the description says so much .
I like to be surprised hahahaha
And this surprise me so much
Till the end .
May 5, 2013
An engaging read that really captures the imagination!
This was a fast paced, fun, and entertaining read. I really enjoyed the characters and highly recommend it to younger readers. There was also a bit of mystery surrounding the boy and I thought that it was really well done and interesting.
Their is a lot of adventure and even a bit of mischief mixed into this short story and I had a great time getting to know more about Anna and seeing her finally coming alive. Anna is a very relate-able character which is nice because it helps readers to really be able to imagine themselves as her. She longs for adventure like many of us have or still do and I liked seeing how things played out for her.
This is the perfect story for those reluctant readers out there and a fun read for all!
This was a fast paced, fun, and entertaining read. I really enjoyed the characters and highly recommend it to younger readers. There was also a bit of mystery surrounding the boy and I thought that it was really well done and interesting.
Their is a lot of adventure and even a bit of mischief mixed into this short story and I had a great time getting to know more about Anna and seeing her finally coming alive. Anna is a very relate-able character which is nice because it helps readers to really be able to imagine themselves as her. She longs for adventure like many of us have or still do and I liked seeing how things played out for her.
This is the perfect story for those reluctant readers out there and a fun read for all!
April 22, 2013
Thanks to netgalley.com and Stoke Books for allowing me access to this title.
Based on the description, I was originally intrigued and hoped to find a quick, but satisfying read. I was highly disappointed. The main character seemed flighty to me. She went back and forth between wanting to obey her father and breaking his main rules every chance she got.
And then there was the ending. I know this was supposed to be a book for reluctant or struggling readers,so therefore on the shorter side, but what happened to the rest of the story? To me it just stopped in the middle. I really can't see this appealing to anyone who wants a complete story in one book. Absolutely nothing was resolved.
Based on the description, I was originally intrigued and hoped to find a quick, but satisfying read. I was highly disappointed. The main character seemed flighty to me. She went back and forth between wanting to obey her father and breaking his main rules every chance she got.
And then there was the ending. I know this was supposed to be a book for reluctant or struggling readers,so therefore on the shorter side, but what happened to the rest of the story? To me it just stopped in the middle. I really can't see this appealing to anyone who wants a complete story in one book. Absolutely nothing was resolved.
April 30, 2013
I had to take into the equation that this book meant for dyslexic readers, so it is suppose to from a kind that isn't too long ( before this I thought that I missed the all story and got only a teaser, because of part of the abrupt ending).
I also think that younger than age 13 can read it, as the it is a very light romance, and the language is simple ( sometimes too simple, if it wasn't feeding the readers with description of the feelings of the characters the reader, could use more imagination to see them all by himself )
I hope that reluctant readers will caught into the story and will want to read the next books.
I also think that younger than age 13 can read it, as the it is a very light romance, and the language is simple ( sometimes too simple, if it wasn't feeding the readers with description of the feelings of the characters the reader, could use more imagination to see them all by himself )
I hope that reluctant readers will caught into the story and will want to read the next books.
March 29, 2013
Since this book was for reluctant older readers and teens with dyslexia, I tried very hard to see it through the eyes of someone who struggles with reading. I felt that the story was too simplistic. Just because someone doesn't read well does not mean that they must have flat characters and a predictable plot. I do not think that I would recommend this book to a reluctant reader because I felt the material was "dumbed down." This would work for an advanced reader in early elementary school.
April 22, 2013
Retelling de La tempesta di Shakespeare, Wild song è scritto per invogliare ragazzi poco interessati alla lettura o con problemi di dislessia: rapidissimo da leggere, composto da frasi e capitoli brevi, non vanta un particolare approfondimento dei personaggi o una trama complessa: ma proprio per questo credo che sia più accessibile ai non lettori di testi più ostici.
La lingua è inoltre, per quanto semplice, curata, e l'ambientazione incuriosisce e affascina.
La lingua è inoltre, per quanto semplice, curata, e l'ambientazione incuriosisce e affascina.
July 5, 2013
NetGalley:
There was something about this short story and the ending. I feel that the author, Jane Eagland, has a strong voice and I wouldn't have minded reading a longer book by her. I like a good mystery but this one was too predictable. The books ending did not wrap the book up, which was a disappointment.
There was something about this short story and the ending. I feel that the author, Jane Eagland, has a strong voice and I wouldn't have minded reading a longer book by her. I like a good mystery but this one was too predictable. The books ending did not wrap the book up, which was a disappointment.
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