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Here by Mistake: The Secret of the Niche
Brandon, Sarah, and Stephen have just begun their summer. Wondering how to pass the time, Brandon suggests they explore the treasures in the basement of his Aunt Faye's mansion. The dark basement holds a trove of gold coins, a knight's armor, a grizzly bear on a pedestal, and an elaborately decorated niche. This unusual furnishing draws the kids' attention, and before they realize what has happened, they've transported through the niche to New Orleans, 1965. Learning about the past has always fascinated this trio, but to actually live in 1965 and in a strange town? They need to find the niche to return home!
Between episodes of The Beverly Hillbillies, the kids plan their return-both to their hometown and to their millennium. Aware not to change anything that might affect the future, they pursue the niche while trying to avoid notice. Will they succeed? What if they see an opportunity to change the future for the better? Peril and promise await them on the path toward home.
Between episodes of The Beverly Hillbillies, the kids plan their return-both to their hometown and to their millennium. Aware not to change anything that might affect the future, they pursue the niche while trying to avoid notice. Will they succeed? What if they see an opportunity to change the future for the better? Peril and promise await them on the path toward home.
263 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 2013
2 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
About the author
David Ciferri
1 book5 followersI was born and raised in Poughkeepsie, New York and grew up with an active imagination and a passion for storytelling. My career as a clinical social worker allowed me to use storytelling to good effect, and I have tried to do the same in my debut novel, "Here By Mistake: The Secret of the Niche."
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 27, 2014
I won this through Goodreads First-Reads Giveaway.
I devoured this book! I could not put it down until I knew those kids were getting home safe.
Curiosity killed the cat but in this case, curiosity transports one young boy, his gf & best friend to 1965 New Orleans... & they have no idea how to get home to 2005 New York after they step through a time traveling portal that they found in the basement of Brandon's great aunt's basement...
It was fun seeing how people lived before so much technology took over their lives. I couldn't help but crack a smirk every time Stephan pointed out how "primitive" the 60s were.
I admit, I busted out laughing at Quint's excitement over receiving a television that showed color. Or when Brandon realized his clothes were styled after Jethro Clampett - that was really funny. Or Quint's reactiom to his future self spending $50,000 on a Japanese made car was hilarious.
I hated seeing the way Stephan was treated. I know that's how things were back then but it still makes me sad that anyone, real or fictional, should ever face ignorance of that magnitude. And as someone who has been called that slur by an ignorant rat - I was glad to see Stephen stand up for himself and he definitely handled his encounters with racism better then I would have. I think I may have responded like Brandon did & make the asshole eat his words, literally.
Also, I love that Brandon defended Jonesy... well technically he was defending Sarah (who was defending Jonsey). In the beginning I didn't like Jonsey much (I have a neighbor like him) but when I saw 10 year old Jonsey - I felt bad for judging him so harshly...
This really is such a good book! The story flows together beautifully and the characters are great. Brandon was arrogant and such a show off (like any hot shot teen) but he was also fiercely protective of his friends and I liked that. Stephen was such a sweet & polite little Fountain of Knowledge (kid knows practically everything!) & I liked Sarah. She was fierce!
I think what I liked most about this book was that it was fun! Even though there was this intense weight of whether they would get home or not - their adventure while trying was great! And I loved the ending - I really hope (ok Im begging!) that Brandon wins that bet & they use the niche again!! I can't wait to see where they go next!
This book gets 4 well earned Stars
"Im not into dirt and alligators. This place needs a McDonald's."
I devoured this book! I could not put it down until I knew those kids were getting home safe.
Curiosity killed the cat but in this case, curiosity transports one young boy, his gf & best friend to 1965 New Orleans... & they have no idea how to get home to 2005 New York after they step through a time traveling portal that they found in the basement of Brandon's great aunt's basement...
It was fun seeing how people lived before so much technology took over their lives. I couldn't help but crack a smirk every time Stephan pointed out how "primitive" the 60s were.
I admit, I busted out laughing at Quint's excitement over receiving a television that showed color. Or when Brandon realized his clothes were styled after Jethro Clampett - that was really funny. Or Quint's reactiom to his future self spending $50,000 on a Japanese made car was hilarious.
I hated seeing the way Stephan was treated. I know that's how things were back then but it still makes me sad that anyone, real or fictional, should ever face ignorance of that magnitude. And as someone who has been called that slur by an ignorant rat - I was glad to see Stephen stand up for himself and he definitely handled his encounters with racism better then I would have. I think I may have responded like Brandon did & make the asshole eat his words, literally.
Also, I love that Brandon defended Jonesy... well technically he was defending Sarah (who was defending Jonsey). In the beginning I didn't like Jonsey much (I have a neighbor like him) but when I saw 10 year old Jonsey - I felt bad for judging him so harshly...
This really is such a good book! The story flows together beautifully and the characters are great. Brandon was arrogant and such a show off (like any hot shot teen) but he was also fiercely protective of his friends and I liked that. Stephen was such a sweet & polite little Fountain of Knowledge (kid knows practically everything!) & I liked Sarah. She was fierce!
I think what I liked most about this book was that it was fun! Even though there was this intense weight of whether they would get home or not - their adventure while trying was great! And I loved the ending - I really hope (ok Im begging!) that Brandon wins that bet & they use the niche again!! I can't wait to see where they go next!
This book gets 4 well earned Stars
July 25, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads first reads giveaway, and I always hate to give a bad review because I probably couldn't write a book at all, much less a good one. However, Goodreads encourages reviews on giveaway books, so here it is.
I'll just be honest, I wasn't expecting much from this book, and it didn't deliver much. It tried to deal with such controversial issues *sarcasm* such as racism, and bullying, and the message I seemed to get out of it was: Bullying is bad, but most kids do it, so whatever.
Also, the motivations, emotions, and characters were extremely simplistic and one-dimensional, and there was some character contradiction. Brandon confesses that he has always wanted to see what life used to be like when his aunt was younger, yet despite this enthusiasm, he has never obtained one iota of information regarding this time period, on top of the fact that everyone/thing he sees is "stupid" or "dorky", and for a bit more contradiction, when he gets back home, all he wants to do is go back to this dorky stupidity.
Now for the most-used sentences in the book: "Brandon smirked." "Sarah smoothed her hand over his [Brandon's] cheek." "Aaaarrgh" ~ Brandon every time there's a mention of The Beverly Hillbillies "Sarah smoothed down Brandon's hair."
Also, Brandon has only three emotions: Angry, Disdainful, and "deciding it's time to relate to people instead of yelling at them." When he's disdainful he makes fun of everything that exists in the sixties, and when he's angry he either has violent impulses, or he storms away and storms back.
Basically, if you don't mind badly done cliche characters, predictable storylines, and repetitive dialogue/scenes, you might like this book. After all, the premise is interesting, and there plenty of popular books of equal or worse quality out there *cough* Twilight *cough*.... But otherwise I wouldn't recommend it.
(Wow, I feel like this is kind of brutal. I would just like to issue a formal apology to David Ciferri, for ripping apart and abusing his novel.... O.o)
I'll just be honest, I wasn't expecting much from this book, and it didn't deliver much. It tried to deal with such controversial issues *sarcasm* such as racism, and bullying, and the message I seemed to get out of it was: Bullying is bad, but most kids do it, so whatever.
Also, the motivations, emotions, and characters were extremely simplistic and one-dimensional, and there was some character contradiction. Brandon confesses that he has always wanted to see what life used to be like when his aunt was younger, yet despite this enthusiasm, he has never obtained one iota of information regarding this time period, on top of the fact that everyone/thing he sees is "stupid" or "dorky", and for a bit more contradiction, when he gets back home, all he wants to do is go back to this dorky stupidity.
Now for the most-used sentences in the book: "Brandon smirked." "Sarah smoothed her hand over his [Brandon's] cheek." "Aaaarrgh" ~ Brandon every time there's a mention of The Beverly Hillbillies "Sarah smoothed down Brandon's hair."
Also, Brandon has only three emotions: Angry, Disdainful, and "deciding it's time to relate to people instead of yelling at them." When he's disdainful he makes fun of everything that exists in the sixties, and when he's angry he either has violent impulses, or he storms away and storms back.
Basically, if you don't mind badly done cliche characters, predictable storylines, and repetitive dialogue/scenes, you might like this book. After all, the premise is interesting, and there plenty of popular books of equal or worse quality out there *cough* Twilight *cough*.... But otherwise I wouldn't recommend it.
(Wow, I feel like this is kind of brutal. I would just like to issue a formal apology to David Ciferri, for ripping apart and abusing his novel.... O.o)
January 14, 2015
While exploring his late great aunts basement, Brandon and his two friends stumble across a wish granting ornament that sends them back to the year 1965. Realizing their mistake, they seek out an older friend of the family to help them with their efforts to get back home.
This Science Fiction - Time Travel, Young adult, Coming of Age novel was a pleasure to read.
The teenagers are very likable. Their adventurous plight provided great learning opportunities for the characters and readers alike.
While this book was written with the Young Adult audience in mind, I feel that readers of all ages will enjoy the adventures inside.
January 6, 2014
Here by Mistake: David Ciferri
Entering the basement of an old mansion that belonged to his Aunt Faye was Brandon’s passion. Wanting to search through all that she left within the cluttered basement his goal. But, first Brandon had to obtain the keys to what he hoped was a room filled with treasures. Asking the one person that handled her finances to allow him into the basement was fruitless. Stating that everything within this room was boxed, catalogued and earmarked for someone or someplace. Most would go to a charity chosen by his Aunt and the rest would be dispersed according to her wishes. Had she wanted Brandon to see what she had accumulated over the years she might have placed a note about it in her will. But, Brandon along with his two friends Sarah and Stephen were determined to find a way. But, sneaking into the house after purloining the keys in a very clever manner, the three friends will find themselves entering a world they never knew existed except in history books and reliving some of the events as they are transported back in to the 1965, New Orleans.
Brandon is quite inquisitive and as they explored the basement of his aunt’s house they found many interesting things dating back to 1965 including a suit of armor, stuffed animals and first edition books. What would you do with a first edition of Gone with the Wind signed by the author? As the explored the stacks and the entire room they came across a small recess or niche in the wall. Along with Brandon came his friends Stephen and Sarah who at first were hesitant about even entering the house but their loyalty and friendship to Brandon won out as they come closer to the niche. Searching for something and wanting to live his dream, Brandon has photo in his hand from 1965 and as he approaches this niche something happens and the next thing they know they are all in Aunt Faye’s house in New Orleans. But, when Faye enters the house she has no idea who Brandon is and what happens next will amaze the reader as they begin their exploration of a time period that they have only read about. With Stephen as their resource for information their only concern is how will they get back home, will they find the niche and who will help them. Quinton is the man who was hired to handle his aunt’s finances in the past and the one person who told them they could not enter the house in the present. So, finding him and hoping they can convince him to help them find their way back will not be easy. Just how they did this is quite ingenious as Stephen’s backpack, his trademark that he always has with him has certain books that when Quinton saw the copyright and heard what Stephen had to say, finally believed that they were from the future. Sarah showed him her cell phone; Brandon was floored with the lack of remote controls, the poor pictures on the television and a newspaper article from the future that would explain a blackout that would occur in the past.
They are particularly fascinated by a decorated niche, which upon inspection suddenly transports them back in time to 1965, New Orleans. Hardnosed, impulsive and often speaks before he thinks, Brandon enters into a new world that takes him and his two friends on a journey they will never forget. Entering the Latin Quarter and meeting Quinton 40 years younger, the three friends learn the true meaning of friendship, loyalty, prejudice and distrust as three friends test more than just friendship trying to get back to 2005.
As the three time travelers convince Quinton in the past that Brandon knows him in the future we reenter a world where television programs provided more than must entertainment. Where the Beverly Hillbillies was a top rated show and VHI and MTV were just letters of the alphabet. Remote controls were not invented. Laptop computers and cell phones unheard of and three teens in dire need of finding the Niche in order to get home. But, when they enter Faye’s house in the past the niche is gone and trying to acclimate to where they are was not easy, as Stephen became the target of some tough teens, a nasty storeowner and at times Brandon’s thoughtless remarks.
Driving an Easel, Quinton leads the way to helping them find their way back home but not before warning them that the events in the past better not alter the ones in the future. As Brandon shoots his mouth off, gets in trouble with his friends and does not follow directions when told to stay put. Curiousity might do more than just kill a cat if he does not take heed to the warnings given.
The Edsel was an automobile marque that was planned, developed, and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company during the 1958, 1959, and 1960 model years. With the Edsel, Ford had expected to make significant inroads into the market share of both General Motors and Chrysler and close the gap between itself and GM in the domestic American automotive market. But contrary to Ford's internal plans and projections, the Edsel never gained popularity with contemporary American car buyers and sold poorly. The Ford Motor Company lost millions of dollars on the Edsel's development, manufacturing and marketing: Wikipedia: Imagine driving in one of these as the four set off to leave New Orleans for New York and hopefully backtrack to Aunt Faye’s house finding the niche and returning home. But, what will they find when they cross over? Will they find themselves older? Will anyone even realize they were missing?
While getting to know the time period each one of the young teens gets more of an insight into themselves, their fears and Brandon comes face to face with Reginald. Reginald or in the present in 2005, is really his nasty, overweight next door neighbor Jonesy a mean old man who is all alone and hates everyone. But, when faced with him in the past and seeing him being bullied by several teens, Brandon, Stephen and Sarah do more than just come to his aid. Learning the true meaning of friendship, realizing the differences they have might not matter, Brandon even helps Reginald realize he is far from a loser. But, as things happen within the novel the time travelers tend to change some events and what will happen if Reginald comes back with them? What will happen when Quinton realizes who and what he is in the future? With the help of the old Edsel and Reginald they make it back to the house, find the niche and hopefully return home. The history of the time period, the food, the television, the prices and the people they met, this is one experience that they might never forget.
Take a trip back to New Orleans; visit the Latin Quarter, Reginald and Quint as they were back then. Will they get back to the present? Will they ever find the Niche? Would they want to return to the past for more adventures? As Sarah plays peacemaker in between tears and worrying about her mom, Stephen plays historian and solid thinker, Brandon is rash, over zealous and often speaks before realizing what he says, this is one book you just might want to share with kids in school to understand the meaning of friendship, prejudice, understanding and trust.
What would happen if you enter a room, found a small recess within the wall, got sucked in and transported back in time 40 years and you lost your pathway to return? As Brandon, Sarah and Stephen meet Jonesy in the past, Quinton and many more their actions change many things in the present but are they for the good? “ To the Young Who Believe and Who Search: Speak the Dream and Breach the Boundary: Join these three teens as they use the niche to help them find whatever they are searching for. An ending that will surprise you and an author that created a novel that definitely requires more adventures for these three teens, more life lessons to be learned and more fun for readers to join them if they decide to return to: Back to the Past!
Here by Mistake: That Depends on who you ask? The food, the music, the sports, the television programs, no remotes, no cells, the technology of the present that they lacked in the future are all shared in this remarkably heartwarming and hilarious novel. But, honestly: Howard Johnsons and Beignets: Real nostalgia: Real Southern comfort treats:
Let’s give this book: FIVE TASTY BEIGNETS that our time travelers relished and ate while back in the past and one extra one for this reviewer in the present.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Entering the basement of an old mansion that belonged to his Aunt Faye was Brandon’s passion. Wanting to search through all that she left within the cluttered basement his goal. But, first Brandon had to obtain the keys to what he hoped was a room filled with treasures. Asking the one person that handled her finances to allow him into the basement was fruitless. Stating that everything within this room was boxed, catalogued and earmarked for someone or someplace. Most would go to a charity chosen by his Aunt and the rest would be dispersed according to her wishes. Had she wanted Brandon to see what she had accumulated over the years she might have placed a note about it in her will. But, Brandon along with his two friends Sarah and Stephen were determined to find a way. But, sneaking into the house after purloining the keys in a very clever manner, the three friends will find themselves entering a world they never knew existed except in history books and reliving some of the events as they are transported back in to the 1965, New Orleans.
Brandon is quite inquisitive and as they explored the basement of his aunt’s house they found many interesting things dating back to 1965 including a suit of armor, stuffed animals and first edition books. What would you do with a first edition of Gone with the Wind signed by the author? As the explored the stacks and the entire room they came across a small recess or niche in the wall. Along with Brandon came his friends Stephen and Sarah who at first were hesitant about even entering the house but their loyalty and friendship to Brandon won out as they come closer to the niche. Searching for something and wanting to live his dream, Brandon has photo in his hand from 1965 and as he approaches this niche something happens and the next thing they know they are all in Aunt Faye’s house in New Orleans. But, when Faye enters the house she has no idea who Brandon is and what happens next will amaze the reader as they begin their exploration of a time period that they have only read about. With Stephen as their resource for information their only concern is how will they get back home, will they find the niche and who will help them. Quinton is the man who was hired to handle his aunt’s finances in the past and the one person who told them they could not enter the house in the present. So, finding him and hoping they can convince him to help them find their way back will not be easy. Just how they did this is quite ingenious as Stephen’s backpack, his trademark that he always has with him has certain books that when Quinton saw the copyright and heard what Stephen had to say, finally believed that they were from the future. Sarah showed him her cell phone; Brandon was floored with the lack of remote controls, the poor pictures on the television and a newspaper article from the future that would explain a blackout that would occur in the past.
They are particularly fascinated by a decorated niche, which upon inspection suddenly transports them back in time to 1965, New Orleans. Hardnosed, impulsive and often speaks before he thinks, Brandon enters into a new world that takes him and his two friends on a journey they will never forget. Entering the Latin Quarter and meeting Quinton 40 years younger, the three friends learn the true meaning of friendship, loyalty, prejudice and distrust as three friends test more than just friendship trying to get back to 2005.
As the three time travelers convince Quinton in the past that Brandon knows him in the future we reenter a world where television programs provided more than must entertainment. Where the Beverly Hillbillies was a top rated show and VHI and MTV were just letters of the alphabet. Remote controls were not invented. Laptop computers and cell phones unheard of and three teens in dire need of finding the Niche in order to get home. But, when they enter Faye’s house in the past the niche is gone and trying to acclimate to where they are was not easy, as Stephen became the target of some tough teens, a nasty storeowner and at times Brandon’s thoughtless remarks.
Driving an Easel, Quinton leads the way to helping them find their way back home but not before warning them that the events in the past better not alter the ones in the future. As Brandon shoots his mouth off, gets in trouble with his friends and does not follow directions when told to stay put. Curiousity might do more than just kill a cat if he does not take heed to the warnings given.
The Edsel was an automobile marque that was planned, developed, and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company during the 1958, 1959, and 1960 model years. With the Edsel, Ford had expected to make significant inroads into the market share of both General Motors and Chrysler and close the gap between itself and GM in the domestic American automotive market. But contrary to Ford's internal plans and projections, the Edsel never gained popularity with contemporary American car buyers and sold poorly. The Ford Motor Company lost millions of dollars on the Edsel's development, manufacturing and marketing: Wikipedia: Imagine driving in one of these as the four set off to leave New Orleans for New York and hopefully backtrack to Aunt Faye’s house finding the niche and returning home. But, what will they find when they cross over? Will they find themselves older? Will anyone even realize they were missing?
While getting to know the time period each one of the young teens gets more of an insight into themselves, their fears and Brandon comes face to face with Reginald. Reginald or in the present in 2005, is really his nasty, overweight next door neighbor Jonesy a mean old man who is all alone and hates everyone. But, when faced with him in the past and seeing him being bullied by several teens, Brandon, Stephen and Sarah do more than just come to his aid. Learning the true meaning of friendship, realizing the differences they have might not matter, Brandon even helps Reginald realize he is far from a loser. But, as things happen within the novel the time travelers tend to change some events and what will happen if Reginald comes back with them? What will happen when Quinton realizes who and what he is in the future? With the help of the old Edsel and Reginald they make it back to the house, find the niche and hopefully return home. The history of the time period, the food, the television, the prices and the people they met, this is one experience that they might never forget.
Take a trip back to New Orleans; visit the Latin Quarter, Reginald and Quint as they were back then. Will they get back to the present? Will they ever find the Niche? Would they want to return to the past for more adventures? As Sarah plays peacemaker in between tears and worrying about her mom, Stephen plays historian and solid thinker, Brandon is rash, over zealous and often speaks before realizing what he says, this is one book you just might want to share with kids in school to understand the meaning of friendship, prejudice, understanding and trust.
What would happen if you enter a room, found a small recess within the wall, got sucked in and transported back in time 40 years and you lost your pathway to return? As Brandon, Sarah and Stephen meet Jonesy in the past, Quinton and many more their actions change many things in the present but are they for the good? “ To the Young Who Believe and Who Search: Speak the Dream and Breach the Boundary: Join these three teens as they use the niche to help them find whatever they are searching for. An ending that will surprise you and an author that created a novel that definitely requires more adventures for these three teens, more life lessons to be learned and more fun for readers to join them if they decide to return to: Back to the Past!
Here by Mistake: That Depends on who you ask? The food, the music, the sports, the television programs, no remotes, no cells, the technology of the present that they lacked in the future are all shared in this remarkably heartwarming and hilarious novel. But, honestly: Howard Johnsons and Beignets: Real nostalgia: Real Southern comfort treats:
Let’s give this book: FIVE TASTY BEIGNETS that our time travelers relished and ate while back in the past and one extra one for this reviewer in the present.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
December 25, 2014
*Free eBook in exchange for a honest review*
First reaction: Erhm, interesting. 14 year old male? He's acting slightly unrealistic. And was 2005 really still new to black people in school? Hey, I know racism is always there but what's with half a dozen African-American kids in this school in 2005??
After Reading
Oh, where to start.
Ok, let's start with the niche.
This thing...was never really explained. How did it work?? At times, it was like Ciferri was trying to portray maybe something mystical? But it never was clear cut why this niche could cause time travel. And in that way, this book failed as a time travel and sci-fi novel. The building behind this time travel was poorly done. The highest expert of rules for time travel in this book was a brief Back to the Future reference. AND, they show up in 1965 with t-shirts and the like, and NO ONE notices?? It's like they didn't run into anyone till they met Quint, and it was only later that they got different clothes.At least some strange looks at their attire? No?
The question, "Why?" was also never answered. Why were they sent back in time and why did the niche do that? What is the niche? What was the point? To learn about that time period? If that was the point, most of the book was about Sarah crying her eyes out, 'smoothing down' B's cheek (another issue that will be discussed), racial stuff concerning Stephen (setting also to be discussed), and cursing. Any book that has curses and stuff always lose points with me. More focus on the plot ahead.
Setting
Like I said in my first reaction, what's with the school thing in 2005? Maybe I need to be educated on what schools at that time were like (Because I was like, 6 then so..), but in New York City, one of the most diverse places, how can there only be half a dozen African American kids in the school? And what about Spanish and Asians and all others that New York is known for today? To me, that didn't ring true at all in this story.
The Characters
There was so many things with the Characters.
First, realistically, the only ones that seemed to actually breathe life was Quint and Stephen. And Reginald (I liked him:):). I didn't like the main character at all, and that was a problem since it focused on him. Brandon, was over-bearing. Hey, at least the annoying 14 year old who acts like a toddler part was kind of realistic,(although not all 14 year old males act this hyper). The reasons behind his actions weren't clearly explained, so at times I was like, "WHY YOU NO LISTEN??" I'm left with two reasons: He's just really dumb and stubborn, or had inner thoughts and personality traits the author didn't write about. The thing with characters is that you have to write them like they are real people, like you're just writing about a 14 year-old boy who's actually alive(AND that brings me to another thing about the book*). That way, real life/emotion enters your story.
Anddd. Sarah. Sarah, Sarah, Sarah. Why cry? Yes, it's ok to cry if that's the type of character the author wanted (side rant: why don't some authors include real emotion in scary situations? Characters are supposed to be human, humans cry and are scared.), but it always seemed to be written the same way: "Sarah cried. She sobbed, burying her head in her hands." Why couldn't it be, "Sarah struggled to hold back the tears that rose up inside her," or something with more descriptive writing?# She proved to be a crybaby with barely a defined personality who's only actions seemed to be serving as the motherly role in the group; always smoothing down hair, yelling when somethings wrong, and glaring when someone says something they shouldn't. While that would have been a very good character if there was more life (more natural movement) throughout the book, she was just slightly annoying. Plus, what's the relationship between her and Brandon? It was just really weird since you didn't see many natural best friend interactions with them that would lead up to and allow such affection: ("Why are you hugging her? That's weird.", "Did she just kiss and touch your cheek?! What kind of 'friends' are you?") Plus it was weird that a 14 year old boy would allow such things, given how Brandon was written. It didn't seem like they were that close before these things just randomly happened. It would have been a lot better if their relationship was written better (More figurative language!). Does that make sense? Granted, I thought Ciferri did a great job with movement (none of the "Wait, I thought they were standing over there, now their sitting in the house," moments or anything). But some of the actions just did not seem realistic. The angry outbursts seemed to come from nowhere; there was no realistic developing thoughts that led to more than half of the outbursts (there were so many!). In that way, the emotion came out really weird. Crying one time, shouting the next. Those actions weren't written in a cohesive way with the different kinds of characters. This person acted one way at one time, and then the next moment, they act very emotional. There was no transition between. I personally think there were too many angry things going on, and the apologizing annoyed me.
"Sorry"
Whenever someone apologized (which happened A LOT) it seemed to be the same words over and over. I could see how the author tried to characterize it, but some of the characters didn't breathe life anyways so their (many) apologies screamed uncomfortable (for the reader, in the bad way). Some emotional passages I skipped because it didn't seem real to me at all. Very awkward (in the bad way).
But overall, (is it bad to say nice attempt??) I did smile at a couple of parts... At least he's got good writing down, unlike other new authors, and it was readable. Characterization seems to always be hard, and #work can be made on creative and interesting language, (more figurative!!) but I'll look for his next book!
*Side issue with how the book was written. It's like Ciferri wanted a real-life book, but stuck a sorta-not-really sci-fi element into it (Above I already explained why I don't think this is a good sci-fi). He wanted time travel but didn't want the sci fi or the rules that comes along with it, and it made the book really weird. For example,
First reaction: Erhm, interesting. 14 year old male? He's acting slightly unrealistic. And was 2005 really still new to black people in school? Hey, I know racism is always there but what's with half a dozen African-American kids in this school in 2005??
After Reading
Oh, where to start.
Ok, let's start with the niche.
This thing...was never really explained. How did it work?? At times, it was like Ciferri was trying to portray maybe something mystical? But it never was clear cut why this niche could cause time travel. And in that way, this book failed as a time travel and sci-fi novel. The building behind this time travel was poorly done. The highest expert of rules for time travel in this book was a brief Back to the Future reference. AND, they show up in 1965 with t-shirts and the like, and NO ONE notices?? It's like they didn't run into anyone till they met Quint, and it was only later that they got different clothes.At least some strange looks at their attire? No?
The question, "Why?" was also never answered. Why were they sent back in time and why did the niche do that? What is the niche? What was the point? To learn about that time period? If that was the point, most of the book was about Sarah crying her eyes out, 'smoothing down' B's cheek (another issue that will be discussed), racial stuff concerning Stephen (setting also to be discussed), and cursing. Any book that has curses and stuff always lose points with me. More focus on the plot ahead.
Setting
Like I said in my first reaction, what's with the school thing in 2005? Maybe I need to be educated on what schools at that time were like (Because I was like, 6 then so..), but in New York City, one of the most diverse places, how can there only be half a dozen African American kids in the school? And what about Spanish and Asians and all others that New York is known for today? To me, that didn't ring true at all in this story.
The Characters
There was so many things with the Characters.
First, realistically, the only ones that seemed to actually breathe life was Quint and Stephen. And Reginald (I liked him:):). I didn't like the main character at all, and that was a problem since it focused on him. Brandon, was over-bearing. Hey, at least the annoying 14 year old who acts like a toddler part was kind of realistic,(although not all 14 year old males act this hyper). The reasons behind his actions weren't clearly explained, so at times I was like, "WHY YOU NO LISTEN??" I'm left with two reasons: He's just really dumb and stubborn, or had inner thoughts and personality traits the author didn't write about. The thing with characters is that you have to write them like they are real people, like you're just writing about a 14 year-old boy who's actually alive(AND that brings me to another thing about the book*). That way, real life/emotion enters your story.
Anddd. Sarah. Sarah, Sarah, Sarah. Why cry? Yes, it's ok to cry if that's the type of character the author wanted (side rant: why don't some authors include real emotion in scary situations? Characters are supposed to be human, humans cry and are scared.), but it always seemed to be written the same way: "Sarah cried. She sobbed, burying her head in her hands." Why couldn't it be, "Sarah struggled to hold back the tears that rose up inside her," or something with more descriptive writing?# She proved to be a crybaby with barely a defined personality who's only actions seemed to be serving as the motherly role in the group; always smoothing down hair, yelling when somethings wrong, and glaring when someone says something they shouldn't. While that would have been a very good character if there was more life (more natural movement) throughout the book, she was just slightly annoying. Plus, what's the relationship between her and Brandon? It was just really weird since you didn't see many natural best friend interactions with them that would lead up to and allow such affection: ("Why are you hugging her? That's weird.", "Did she just kiss and touch your cheek?! What kind of 'friends' are you?") Plus it was weird that a 14 year old boy would allow such things, given how Brandon was written. It didn't seem like they were that close before these things just randomly happened. It would have been a lot better if their relationship was written better (More figurative language!). Does that make sense? Granted, I thought Ciferri did a great job with movement (none of the "Wait, I thought they were standing over there, now their sitting in the house," moments or anything). But some of the actions just did not seem realistic. The angry outbursts seemed to come from nowhere; there was no realistic developing thoughts that led to more than half of the outbursts (there were so many!). In that way, the emotion came out really weird. Crying one time, shouting the next. Those actions weren't written in a cohesive way with the different kinds of characters. This person acted one way at one time, and then the next moment, they act very emotional. There was no transition between. I personally think there were too many angry things going on, and the apologizing annoyed me.
"Sorry"
Whenever someone apologized (which happened A LOT) it seemed to be the same words over and over. I could see how the author tried to characterize it, but some of the characters didn't breathe life anyways so their (many) apologies screamed uncomfortable (for the reader, in the bad way). Some emotional passages I skipped because it didn't seem real to me at all. Very awkward (in the bad way).
But overall, (is it bad to say nice attempt??) I did smile at a couple of parts... At least he's got good writing down, unlike other new authors, and it was readable. Characterization seems to always be hard, and #work can be made on creative and interesting language, (more figurative!!) but I'll look for his next book!
*Side issue with how the book was written. It's like Ciferri wanted a real-life book, but stuck a sorta-not-really sci-fi element into it (Above I already explained why I don't think this is a good sci-fi). He wanted time travel but didn't want the sci fi or the rules that comes along with it, and it made the book really weird. For example,
July 26, 2014
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for an honest review. Ok, business done. Let's talk about the book.
Here by Mistake: The Secret of the Niche was very entertaining. I had trouble putting it down. I was drawn in by the story of the time travel trip that the 3 teenagers took. I enjoyed their discovery of life in 1965 and laughed out loud at some of their observations. That said, some of those observations got on my nerves. I also found myself thinking "was that really invented in 1965? Or was it later? The opening of the book was set in 2005, so there was a 40-year difference that B, Stephen and Sarah were dealing with. Quint was a good guy all around - the ending of the book is one of the most enjoyable times. That's some of the things I loved. Now for the things that bothered me.
There were incidences of racism. That was a fact and was appropriate for the time, I think. My problem was that there weren't problems of that sort when I thought there should have been. I can't remember exactly how restaurants were when I was 9, but I know that, in other books that I have read, the 'colored' weren't welcomed in the front of restaurants. There's the famous lunch counter story, that illustrates what I'm talking about, but I'm not sure when that was. The point is that these events took place in the story, but it wasn't enough. It wasn't true to my memory of those times. Another thing was that they all made such a big deal about the TV remote, but no mention was made of the coffee pot that they had to use on the stove, rather than even a lowly Mr. Coffee. And the speed limits? Was that the same in 2005 as it was in '65? I just think I wanted more. More observations. More anomalies.
Please, don't get me wrong - I really liked the book (hence the 4-star rating)! And these things might not bother you like they did me. The story was good and the characters grew and acted appropriately. I liked that the things they did back in 1965 really did change their reality in 2005. The book is definitely worth the time it takes to read it, and if you're like me, you'll try to read it in one sitting. Night before last I was trying to read and kept falling asleep (hey, it was 5 in the morning!), but I didn't want to put it down. So, I would read a while and then wake up with the Nook pressed to my face, or have it bounce off my forehead. Here by Mistake was good. I hope my criticism doesn't keep anyone from enjoying this light, entertaining read that is deeper than it seems. You might do like I did a couple of times and say to yourself, "did we really treat people like that???" Definitely reach for this one. I'm on my way to look for any other books David Ciferri has written. I liked his voice, and I'm looking for more.
Here by Mistake: The Secret of the Niche was very entertaining. I had trouble putting it down. I was drawn in by the story of the time travel trip that the 3 teenagers took. I enjoyed their discovery of life in 1965 and laughed out loud at some of their observations. That said, some of those observations got on my nerves. I also found myself thinking "was that really invented in 1965? Or was it later? The opening of the book was set in 2005, so there was a 40-year difference that B, Stephen and Sarah were dealing with. Quint was a good guy all around - the ending of the book is one of the most enjoyable times. That's some of the things I loved. Now for the things that bothered me.
There were incidences of racism. That was a fact and was appropriate for the time, I think. My problem was that there weren't problems of that sort when I thought there should have been. I can't remember exactly how restaurants were when I was 9, but I know that, in other books that I have read, the 'colored' weren't welcomed in the front of restaurants. There's the famous lunch counter story, that illustrates what I'm talking about, but I'm not sure when that was. The point is that these events took place in the story, but it wasn't enough. It wasn't true to my memory of those times. Another thing was that they all made such a big deal about the TV remote, but no mention was made of the coffee pot that they had to use on the stove, rather than even a lowly Mr. Coffee. And the speed limits? Was that the same in 2005 as it was in '65? I just think I wanted more. More observations. More anomalies.
Please, don't get me wrong - I really liked the book (hence the 4-star rating)! And these things might not bother you like they did me. The story was good and the characters grew and acted appropriately. I liked that the things they did back in 1965 really did change their reality in 2005. The book is definitely worth the time it takes to read it, and if you're like me, you'll try to read it in one sitting. Night before last I was trying to read and kept falling asleep (hey, it was 5 in the morning!), but I didn't want to put it down. So, I would read a while and then wake up with the Nook pressed to my face, or have it bounce off my forehead. Here by Mistake was good. I hope my criticism doesn't keep anyone from enjoying this light, entertaining read that is deeper than it seems. You might do like I did a couple of times and say to yourself, "did we really treat people like that???" Definitely reach for this one. I'm on my way to look for any other books David Ciferri has written. I liked his voice, and I'm looking for more.
August 9, 2016
I won this through Goodreads First-Reads Giveaway. Thank you so much to Goodreads and the author for the opportunity to read this!
I really enjoyed this story. It’s written for the Young Adult audience but even us “older” readers would appreciate the engaging characters, antics and reminders of how much has changed since 1965. Brandon, Stephan and Sarah travel through a niche from 2005 New York to 1965 New Orleans. I imagine any teen would have the same funny reactions to the “primitive” aspects of the time as Stephan referred to it. Quint’s reaction to the changes in 2005 as he learns about them is equally entertaining. “I paid HOW MUCH for a car??”
My heart ached for Stephan as he faced the racism that existed during that time. The story handled racism, bullying, friendship and the impact our actions can have with an engaging and entertaining manner. I can hardly wait to find out if there will be additional adventures for these three.
On another note not related to how much I liked the story, I realize the author wanted to convey southern dialect and drawl but the way he went about it hurt my eyes and I’m from the south. I am surprised the editor didn’t change the way the dialog was written. Y’all was spelled and used correctly but the contractions are all wrong and made it difficult to read. Y’book? T’say? Y’said? Y’self? No, no, no! There are much better ways to convey southern dialect.
“Y’book quotes a wire service report—word for word— that’s in the paper today,” he said to Stephen. “Y’book had the report before the report was even written.”
….
“Y’all are on the level,” Quint said. “I’m nuts t’say it, but I believe y’all.”
…
“Y’said y’self it didn’t work when y’all tried it a second time,” Quint said with a shrug. “I think y’all need more help than I know how t’give.”
I really enjoyed this story. It’s written for the Young Adult audience but even us “older” readers would appreciate the engaging characters, antics and reminders of how much has changed since 1965. Brandon, Stephan and Sarah travel through a niche from 2005 New York to 1965 New Orleans. I imagine any teen would have the same funny reactions to the “primitive” aspects of the time as Stephan referred to it. Quint’s reaction to the changes in 2005 as he learns about them is equally entertaining. “I paid HOW MUCH for a car??”
My heart ached for Stephan as he faced the racism that existed during that time. The story handled racism, bullying, friendship and the impact our actions can have with an engaging and entertaining manner. I can hardly wait to find out if there will be additional adventures for these three.
On another note not related to how much I liked the story, I realize the author wanted to convey southern dialect and drawl but the way he went about it hurt my eyes and I’m from the south. I am surprised the editor didn’t change the way the dialog was written. Y’all was spelled and used correctly but the contractions are all wrong and made it difficult to read. Y’book? T’say? Y’said? Y’self? No, no, no! There are much better ways to convey southern dialect.
“Y’book quotes a wire service report—word for word— that’s in the paper today,” he said to Stephen. “Y’book had the report before the report was even written.”
….
“Y’all are on the level,” Quint said. “I’m nuts t’say it, but I believe y’all.”
…
“Y’said y’self it didn’t work when y’all tried it a second time,” Quint said with a shrug. “I think y’all need more help than I know how t’give.”
December 15, 2014
Brandon, Sarah and Stephen are ready for an adventure and Brandon had the perfect place to go, Aunt Faye's basement but they were not prepared for their accidental drop into 1965 from 2005.
What did I like? To start with I love time travel and this one was great. It was written for teens but let me tell you it is for teens up. I think what I enjoyed the most and what was different than other books that I've read is that there were three of them. They went back to a time that was really awesome and would be to their age group. The author was very careful following the time frame and in making the comparisons, the hair, TV remotes, prices of things, the problems with the racial unrest, TV programming, clothes and especially the cars.
What will you like? It is very apparent the amount of research that was put into this and the care taken to following those two time frames. I have not read anything before from this author but I really liked his style as it flowed so easily along with the incredible descriptions and very, very vivid details and his attention to those details.
I was very impressed with this book and was hooked from the very beginning and could not put the book down so I read it all in one sitting. There are so many things going on and the humor kept me laughing. The relationship between the kids is so refreshing. I really liked how they tried so hard to protect each other, but also be so grown up at the same time. The reaction between Quint and the kids was also very positive but the amazing part was between Brandon and his father.
The characters are unbelievable but yet so perfect. The author hit the nail squarely with each and everyone of them. I do believe there will be another book about our wonderful cast of characters as the book possibly indicated, it would be great if the author did follow up. I highly recommend this as a really great read.
What did I like? To start with I love time travel and this one was great. It was written for teens but let me tell you it is for teens up. I think what I enjoyed the most and what was different than other books that I've read is that there were three of them. They went back to a time that was really awesome and would be to their age group. The author was very careful following the time frame and in making the comparisons, the hair, TV remotes, prices of things, the problems with the racial unrest, TV programming, clothes and especially the cars.
What will you like? It is very apparent the amount of research that was put into this and the care taken to following those two time frames. I have not read anything before from this author but I really liked his style as it flowed so easily along with the incredible descriptions and very, very vivid details and his attention to those details.
I was very impressed with this book and was hooked from the very beginning and could not put the book down so I read it all in one sitting. There are so many things going on and the humor kept me laughing. The relationship between the kids is so refreshing. I really liked how they tried so hard to protect each other, but also be so grown up at the same time. The reaction between Quint and the kids was also very positive but the amazing part was between Brandon and his father.
The characters are unbelievable but yet so perfect. The author hit the nail squarely with each and everyone of them. I do believe there will be another book about our wonderful cast of characters as the book possibly indicated, it would be great if the author did follow up. I highly recommend this as a really great read.
January 25, 2015
This was a quick read about three teenagers from 2005 who end up in 1965 and have a hard time getting back to their own time. (The reason why it's showing as taking a week is because I started it on my ereader when I was waiting for an appointment, but didn't go back to it until after finishing several printed library books that I had at home. Otherwise it would have been only one or two days.)
I enjoyed it, but felt that some of the setting was simplistic. The three friends were a white boy, a white girl, and a black boy. There was one scene with a racist attack and a few mentions of the N word, but overall there didn't seem to be much surprise in 1965 about white kids having a black friend. They walked around New Orleans together, ate together in a Howard Johnson's in Virginia, and went to a carnival in Pennsylvania without any repercussions aside from one attack by other boys. I kept expecting Stephen to be told that he couldn't come into a store or a restaurant or to have someone tell Sarah that she was keeping bad company (if not just freaking out about a white girl having a black male friend).
Most of the comparisons between the two timeframes were comic: The Beverly Hillbillies was a popular TV show in the 1960s but the 21st century kids had never heard of it, the older teenager whom they team up with in 1965 is shocked to hear how much things cost in 2005, the Internet didn't exist in 1965 and neither did VCRs or DVDs.
The ultimate resolution was good. 3.5 stars.
I got a free copy of this from the author's website during a special offer in December which was posted in several groups on Goodreads.
I enjoyed it, but felt that some of the setting was simplistic. The three friends were a white boy, a white girl, and a black boy. There was one scene with a racist attack and a few mentions of the N word, but overall there didn't seem to be much surprise in 1965 about white kids having a black friend. They walked around New Orleans together, ate together in a Howard Johnson's in Virginia, and went to a carnival in Pennsylvania without any repercussions aside from one attack by other boys. I kept expecting Stephen to be told that he couldn't come into a store or a restaurant or to have someone tell Sarah that she was keeping bad company (if not just freaking out about a white girl having a black male friend).
Most of the comparisons between the two timeframes were comic: The Beverly Hillbillies was a popular TV show in the 1960s but the 21st century kids had never heard of it, the older teenager whom they team up with in 1965 is shocked to hear how much things cost in 2005, the Internet didn't exist in 1965 and neither did VCRs or DVDs.
The ultimate resolution was good. 3.5 stars.
I got a free copy of this from the author's website during a special offer in December which was posted in several groups on Goodreads.
August 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book deserves five stars when considering the intended audience, tweens (10 to 14 year olds). It has all the elements for a fun, quick, action filled story. Adding the element of time travel makes it that much better.
Three young kids Brandon (known as B), Sarah and Stephen find themselves in a quarry after accidentally transporting themselves to 1865 New Orleans through a niche. While there they face topics appropriate to that time such as racism and things kids today face, bullying. I appreciated the authenticity for that time period such as the descriptions of the clothes, cars, prices paid for items, and events. I enjoyed the interactions between the kids and Quentin (both young and older versions). I also found the discussion which took place regarding altering outcomes/events interesting. After all, most time travel books discuss repercussions when people interfere in situations or encounter known people from their past. The author does a good job helping the reader understand why the trio cannot immediately return to their time period and how they ended up in a different city from the one they initially entered the niche through. I am hoping B wins the Dr. Pepper in the end, because I would love to read more adventures from this trio traveling through the niche.
This book deserves five stars when considering the intended audience, tweens (10 to 14 year olds). It has all the elements for a fun, quick, action filled story. Adding the element of time travel makes it that much better.
Three young kids Brandon (known as B), Sarah and Stephen find themselves in a quarry after accidentally transporting themselves to 1865 New Orleans through a niche. While there they face topics appropriate to that time such as racism and things kids today face, bullying. I appreciated the authenticity for that time period such as the descriptions of the clothes, cars, prices paid for items, and events. I enjoyed the interactions between the kids and Quentin (both young and older versions). I also found the discussion which took place regarding altering outcomes/events interesting. After all, most time travel books discuss repercussions when people interfere in situations or encounter known people from their past. The author does a good job helping the reader understand why the trio cannot immediately return to their time period and how they ended up in a different city from the one they initially entered the niche through. I am hoping B wins the Dr. Pepper in the end, because I would love to read more adventures from this trio traveling through the niche.
September 7, 2014
On the whole this was a good book, the story had a really good idea behind it. I really liked the idea of a niche that can transport you to another time and place where you can experience the adventures of the era. But would have loved to have seen aunt Faye have a bigger part in the story especially with it being her niche that starts the whole adventure.
However I think the main issue with the story is the younger characters. They could have done with some development. Sarah spends most of the story in tears. Although she's only 14 and going through a tough time but a lot of the time it seems really unnecessary and unrealistic for a girl who is some what of a tom boy, hanging with the boys to be crying at the drop of a hat.
And unfortunately the lead character Brandon has a bit, ok actually a massive, anger issue. And I have an issue with Brandon's screaming and shouting at everyone all the time over absolutely nothing and just assuming that an apology will fix everything.
I think that the author had a great idea and I enjoyed the way the story developed. And I would happily pick up another book by this author. This story just needed a bit more development in my opinion.
I got this book free for an honest review!
However I think the main issue with the story is the younger characters. They could have done with some development. Sarah spends most of the story in tears. Although she's only 14 and going through a tough time but a lot of the time it seems really unnecessary and unrealistic for a girl who is some what of a tom boy, hanging with the boys to be crying at the drop of a hat.
And unfortunately the lead character Brandon has a bit, ok actually a massive, anger issue. And I have an issue with Brandon's screaming and shouting at everyone all the time over absolutely nothing and just assuming that an apology will fix everything.
I think that the author had a great idea and I enjoyed the way the story developed. And I would happily pick up another book by this author. This story just needed a bit more development in my opinion.
I got this book free for an honest review!
November 27, 2013
When three youths find themselves transported forty years in the past, can they find a way to get back?
Through the adventures that Brandon, Sarah and Stephen find themselves in, Here by Mistake explores what friendship and relationships mean. The story works through issues of bullying, racism, and violence. The story deals with how we are so prone to handing down judgments about people without knowing their full stories and walking a mile in their shoes. It is a story where the characters learn what it means to turn from self-directed interests to understanding others and sacrificing for them, about recognizing one's mistakes and the process of forgiveness.
I found the book to be an easy and engaging read. It is a light science fiction novel set in New York and New Orleans. I'd say that its intended audience is probably teens and young adults. As someone in his forties, I also found it enjoyable and the issues explored worth my time. I would suspect the same for other adults.
(This review is based on an advanced review copy supplied by the publisher through NetGalley.)
Through the adventures that Brandon, Sarah and Stephen find themselves in, Here by Mistake explores what friendship and relationships mean. The story works through issues of bullying, racism, and violence. The story deals with how we are so prone to handing down judgments about people without knowing their full stories and walking a mile in their shoes. It is a story where the characters learn what it means to turn from self-directed interests to understanding others and sacrificing for them, about recognizing one's mistakes and the process of forgiveness.
I found the book to be an easy and engaging read. It is a light science fiction novel set in New York and New Orleans. I'd say that its intended audience is probably teens and young adults. As someone in his forties, I also found it enjoyable and the issues explored worth my time. I would suspect the same for other adults.
(This review is based on an advanced review copy supplied by the publisher through NetGalley.)
December 10, 2013
Friends Brandon, Sarah, and Stephen have just started summer vacation and are ready for an adventure. Brandon has always wanted to explore the basement of his Aunt Faye’s mansion, certain that it is full of treasure. He convinces Sarah and Stephen to sneak into the house with him and sure enough the basement is full of antique wonders. They are particularly fascinated by a decorated niche, which upon inspection suddenly transports them back in time to 1965, New Orleans.
The three friends must now embark on an adventure much bigger than they had anticipated and find their way back to 2005. To make matters worse, they must avoid being notice and ensure they do nothing that could change the future.
Here By Mistake: The Secret of the Niche by David Ciferri is a highly entertaining time-travel novel, packed with action and adventure. Readers will be transported right along with the kids and see what life was like back in the 60s, all the while wondering if the trio will ever make it home!
The three friends must now embark on an adventure much bigger than they had anticipated and find their way back to 2005. To make matters worse, they must avoid being notice and ensure they do nothing that could change the future.
Here By Mistake: The Secret of the Niche by David Ciferri is a highly entertaining time-travel novel, packed with action and adventure. Readers will be transported right along with the kids and see what life was like back in the 60s, all the while wondering if the trio will ever make it home!
January 15, 2016
This is a perfect read for teens. I enjoyed David Ciferri's straight forward writing style and the life lessons sprinkled throughout the book. It was a little bit of a slow start, but once the story picked up I was very invested in the characters and the outcome of their actions. The ending was perfect, whether there is a book to follow or not.
The story centers around three teens, Brandon, Stephen, and Sarah, who find themselves 40 years in the past after accidentally falling through a niche. We follow them on their difficult journey to return home that will test their friendship as they learn about themselves and each other. They encounter issues such as racism and bullying, they learn the importance of trust and understanding, and they realize the impact a single choice or action can have not only on themselves, but others as well.
I won this book through a first reads giveaway on Goodreads. Thank you so much to Goodreads and the author for the opportunity to read this!
The story centers around three teens, Brandon, Stephen, and Sarah, who find themselves 40 years in the past after accidentally falling through a niche. We follow them on their difficult journey to return home that will test their friendship as they learn about themselves and each other. They encounter issues such as racism and bullying, they learn the importance of trust and understanding, and they realize the impact a single choice or action can have not only on themselves, but others as well.
I won this book through a first reads giveaway on Goodreads. Thank you so much to Goodreads and the author for the opportunity to read this!
September 2, 2014
I loved the concept of this book, but must say that I was a bit disappointed. The story itself is really fantastic - and I think Ciferri is an author to watch. I found the character development and some of their traits to be a bit hard to swallow.
Here by Mistake is about a trio of young teenagers who are accidently catapulted back in time. I wanted to like the kids - to emphasize with them. However, I found it really hard to like Brandon at all - he was forever treating his friends poorly and then apologizing for it. I couldn't understand why the rest of the group didn't just leave him behind.
I also struggled with some of the writing. For example one sentence I highlighted was 'Then Sarah turned around with her unmistakable look, which Brandon did not mistake.' It’s a bit redundant.
Despite my criticisms, I did enjoy this book and I will be reading whatever Ciferri writes next. His idea for a story was fantastic, and I think everything else will just get better.
I received this book somewhere for free (I can't remember where) for a review.
Here by Mistake is about a trio of young teenagers who are accidently catapulted back in time. I wanted to like the kids - to emphasize with them. However, I found it really hard to like Brandon at all - he was forever treating his friends poorly and then apologizing for it. I couldn't understand why the rest of the group didn't just leave him behind.
I also struggled with some of the writing. For example one sentence I highlighted was 'Then Sarah turned around with her unmistakable look, which Brandon did not mistake.' It’s a bit redundant.
Despite my criticisms, I did enjoy this book and I will be reading whatever Ciferri writes next. His idea for a story was fantastic, and I think everything else will just get better.
I received this book somewhere for free (I can't remember where) for a review.
February 20, 2014
**originally posted at Mean Old Library Teacher.
Time travel is just one of those things I'm a sucker for, and I'm glad this book delivers a good story along with it. This book has SOOOO much going for it. The story works in a perfect flow and the characters have a perfect depth. Everything about it is just about perfect in my book (which is pretty high praise for a debut novel).
Aside from the story itself, this book gives a unique view into the 1960s South. No color TV, few foreign cars (and a distinct belief they wouldn't be any good anyhow!), just the cost of living at that time. Stephen is a black teenager who just hasn't had to deal with the racial tensions (putting it lightly) that were present in the 1960s. Seeing him come to terms with how life really was for even a kid is tough.
Excellently written and engaging, I look forward to more from Ciferri.
Time travel is just one of those things I'm a sucker for, and I'm glad this book delivers a good story along with it. This book has SOOOO much going for it. The story works in a perfect flow and the characters have a perfect depth. Everything about it is just about perfect in my book (which is pretty high praise for a debut novel).
Aside from the story itself, this book gives a unique view into the 1960s South. No color TV, few foreign cars (and a distinct belief they wouldn't be any good anyhow!), just the cost of living at that time. Stephen is a black teenager who just hasn't had to deal with the racial tensions (putting it lightly) that were present in the 1960s. Seeing him come to terms with how life really was for even a kid is tough.
Excellently written and engaging, I look forward to more from Ciferri.
January 4, 2015
I started reading this book quite some time ago as a free ebook in exchange for a review. I reached about chapter 7 and then became too busy to continue it. However, it's not really my cup of tea. That being said, the reason it's not my cup of tea is simply because I feel it's geared toward a younger audience (elementary and high school). As a book for that age group, it's great! The characters are varied, and the story is intriguing and well-developed. The one thing that bugged me, and this is a stylistic thing, was how often characters used other characters' names when speaking to them. In real life, people don't do this. We already know who the person is talking to, so why would they use their name unless they're trying to get their attention? Other than that, I'd recommend this story for any school-age readers as a fun adventure story.
January 7, 2015
I'd like to thank the author for this copy I got, in exchange for an honest review.
I'm familiar with time travel stories and am quite fond of them. I didn't expect anything from this really so I'm neither disappointed nor ecstatic.
Unlike other time travel stories I've read, this one isn't really out of this world. Brandon, Sarah, and Stephen go back 40 years and were able to affect the future. Changes were brought on because they played a part in it. It's just me but I found their stubbornness annoying. Like they deliberately do it and it causes a shift in events. Sure there were a lot of differences between 1965 and 2005, significantly the prices of everything and modern technology.
The author made it seem like there's a sequel and I'd like to know if Brandon and company would try going back hundreds of years before, let's see how they'll handle that.
I'm familiar with time travel stories and am quite fond of them. I didn't expect anything from this really so I'm neither disappointed nor ecstatic.
Unlike other time travel stories I've read, this one isn't really out of this world. Brandon, Sarah, and Stephen go back 40 years and were able to affect the future. Changes were brought on because they played a part in it. It's just me but I found their stubbornness annoying. Like they deliberately do it and it causes a shift in events. Sure there were a lot of differences between 1965 and 2005, significantly the prices of everything and modern technology.
The author made it seem like there's a sequel and I'd like to know if Brandon and company would try going back hundreds of years before, let's see how they'll handle that.
April 6, 2015
I wish I could recommend this, because I love time travel stories. However, I only think readers who remember the mid-1960s fondly and have a strong sense of nostalgia will appreciate it. For other readers, it's got a too-heavy-handed sense of "Back when I was a kid, we had to walk 2 miles to school...in the snow...uphill." The characters need stronger development and a better connection with the age group intended for this story. I would think more sense of wonder (what little there is just comes out as "wow, that's neat," - there's no sense of the reader experiencing wonder), as well as humor and adventure. There are some good moments in the book, and it does pick up once they met Reginald Jones, although the lesson that Brandon learns about his neighbor is also a little heavy-handed, like a morality tale. There is some good potential, but this wasn't quite there yet.
June 8, 2014
I found the book to be an easy and engaging read. It is a light science fiction novel set in New York and New Orleans. I'd say that its intended audience is probably teens and young adults.
I thought the book was pretty easy to read and flowed well. It is set in New York and New Orleans and focuses on time travel. I found it pretty interesting despite the fact that its intended audience was probably more the teen and young adult age, and I am in my mid/late 20s.
The story focuses on different issues such as bullying, violence, and racism. Which are definitely thing that need to be addressed for younger audiences especially bullying at this time.
I obtained this book from GoodReads First Reads program.
I thought the book was pretty easy to read and flowed well. It is set in New York and New Orleans and focuses on time travel. I found it pretty interesting despite the fact that its intended audience was probably more the teen and young adult age, and I am in my mid/late 20s.
The story focuses on different issues such as bullying, violence, and racism. Which are definitely thing that need to be addressed for younger audiences especially bullying at this time.
I obtained this book from GoodReads First Reads program.
August 15, 2014
This is a well-written tale about three young teenagers who are accidentally transported from 2005 to 1965. Along the way, they learn about prejudice, bullying and the sometimes unexpected consequences of their actions. None of the kids (or the other characters) are angels – in fact, they each have very evident flaws. For example, the main character, Brandon, is headstrong, stubborn and has a penchant for disobeying authority – usually to his own chagrin. While the average adult might get a little bored with the story, it’s clearly meant to appeal to the tween set and I think kids in that age range will greatly enjoy it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
August 3, 2014
I read this book on a weekend away from home. I received a free copy of the ebook in return for a review.
Let me start by saying that this normally not the kind book I would pick. I like to read a book in which I can relate to the characters. Teenagers are not the right characters for me, although I did like the character of Quint.
All in all I certainly did not mind reading this book. It was a quick, fun and easy read. A little predictable at times, but nothing too bad.
I will certainly check out other of this writers books. Perhaps some more 'grown up' stories next time?
Let me start by saying that this normally not the kind book I would pick. I like to read a book in which I can relate to the characters. Teenagers are not the right characters for me, although I did like the character of Quint.
All in all I certainly did not mind reading this book. It was a quick, fun and easy read. A little predictable at times, but nothing too bad.
I will certainly check out other of this writers books. Perhaps some more 'grown up' stories next time?
August 6, 2014
I enjoyed this book ! Kept me interested throughout , even though I felt like the theme of time travel has been done before. I never saw it but reminds me of maybe Narnia , in terms of the "kids" traveling. I wasn't sure what to expect of this book when I got it but it ended up being a good book. I would recommend if you want something that provokes a little thought without having to be over analytical. It touched on various subjects which kept me entertained. I actually couldn't put it down once I started really getting into it.
December 18, 2014
Here by mistake by Ciferri is a clever time travel escapade involving three children. Brandon or B is the main instigator who steals the keys to his Auntie's place and all three fall through the niche to 1965. Now their adventures really start as they work on how they can return with the help of Quint whom B knows in 2005. B cannot help himself and ends up in all sorts of strife with Quint yelling at him as they'll attract the police. Two of their forays into the public do have positive consequences in 2005. But will B use the niche again that his aunt has bequeathed him?
April 1, 2014
I won this book through Goodreads Giveaway, thank you very much! I enjoyed the book, it was fun to read. I was anxious the whole time that the kids get home safely after time traveling through the niche! It was a fun read, geared to younger audience. I think kids will love it, find it fun to compare the 1960's to the present. It's amazing how much has changed since I was a kid! Loved the story line too of anti-bullying and being kind!
September 18, 2014
Got free on Amazon
Time travelling Y A book.It was alright,not really my cup of tea,but well written and a very good way of going back into previous time to see Aunt Dates cool stuff.Recommended.
Time travelling Y A book.It was alright,not really my cup of tea,but well written and a very good way of going back into previous time to see Aunt Dates cool stuff.Recommended.
December 15, 2014
This is a short novel and I enjoyed it greatly. The characters are engaging and very believeable. I look forward to reading more books like this.
February 12, 2014
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