What do you think?
Thief of Colours
A mysterious greyness has descended on Whitehaven, Something has happened to the colour. Rumours start flying around all over the place. Is something wrong with the sun? Is it because of the chemicals the farmers are using? Mrs Rafferty announces that God is punishing the island because of all the sinful things that people are doing. Everybody has a theory, but nobody knows anything. Nobody except Margie and Henry. A terrifying adventure begins when Margie and Henry are led to an old mine shaft. What is the significance of the stone? Who is the thief of colours and can he be stopped?
- GenresMiddle Grade
158 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 1995
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 3, 2025
I did decide to DNF this book at 36%. This was at the scene of the kids trying to look up a woman’s dress. I think it was completely unnecessary for the plot and there were other ways to reveal the villains. I like the concept of the book but I felt like some of the scenes and innuendos were not appropriate for the target audience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying me with an advanced reader copy of Thief of Colours.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying me with an advanced reader copy of Thief of Colours.
January 1, 2025
This was a quick and easy read - the plot is relatively simple to follow, and I found all the characters engaging (be it Henry, Margie and Elliott, our protagonists, or Mr Purvis, Jennifer and Dulcie, our villains). All of their personalities are conveyed with confidence, and the author certainly doesn't fall into the trap of telling instead of showing - on that front, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I also enjoyed that the book explores the emotional and societal fallout of all the colours vanishing. Of course the island folk are going to fall into a depression - everything is totally grey! Even the selling of colour, and the fact that kids at the school are judged on how much they can afford is an interesting take. Reminds me of certain dystopias like, for some inexplicable reason, the Lorax where everyone is buying bottled air due to the pollution.
There are moments where the author touches on more serious topics, such as Margie's family arguments, or Henry's father's guilt at his son vanishing overnight. Whilst I'm glad these aren't shied from, there doesn't appear to be a real sense of closure on either of these topics - Henry's father barely appears, and though Margie's sister's wedding ends up being a success, there isn't any scene in which characters speak to each other about these problems. Of course, families do have their arguments in real life, and they aren't always resolved, however in a children's book I'd expect there to be at least an attempt at talking things out.
My one major issue with this book is that some of the content just isn't suitable for children. There is no way I'd take this book into my classroom on account of some of the language - the words dick, bastard and pervert are all used, and good lord, I do not want to be explaining the last one to a child. Sure, kids may have heard all these words before, but they have no place in children's literature. Replace them with "rats", or just say "he said a word Henry had heard before and been told never to use", you know?
Also, there is never anything explicit between Mr Purvis and Jennifer, however the way that he views and thinks about her (especially that scene where his hand is on her leg under the table?) is certainly not PG. Yes, I think the actual innuendo would go over a child's head, but I'm also not convinced most children would have the media literacy to understand that his amourous advances are bad. This one may be my tastes, to be fair, but I'd be hesistant to read certain passages of this to a kid.
The tl;dr: Solid premise, entertaining cast, good plot with a focus on mental/emotional health, let down by some of the content being unsuitable for children's literature. 2.5/5 stars.
I also enjoyed that the book explores the emotional and societal fallout of all the colours vanishing. Of course the island folk are going to fall into a depression - everything is totally grey! Even the selling of colour, and the fact that kids at the school are judged on how much they can afford is an interesting take. Reminds me of certain dystopias like, for some inexplicable reason, the Lorax where everyone is buying bottled air due to the pollution.
There are moments where the author touches on more serious topics, such as Margie's family arguments, or Henry's father's guilt at his son vanishing overnight. Whilst I'm glad these aren't shied from, there doesn't appear to be a real sense of closure on either of these topics - Henry's father barely appears, and though Margie's sister's wedding ends up being a success, there isn't any scene in which characters speak to each other about these problems. Of course, families do have their arguments in real life, and they aren't always resolved, however in a children's book I'd expect there to be at least an attempt at talking things out.
My one major issue with this book is that some of the content just isn't suitable for children. There is no way I'd take this book into my classroom on account of some of the language - the words dick, bastard and pervert are all used, and good lord, I do not want to be explaining the last one to a child. Sure, kids may have heard all these words before, but they have no place in children's literature. Replace them with "rats", or just say "he said a word Henry had heard before and been told never to use", you know?
Also, there is never anything explicit between Mr Purvis and Jennifer, however the way that he views and thinks about her (especially that scene where his hand is on her leg under the table?) is certainly not PG. Yes, I think the actual innuendo would go over a child's head, but I'm also not convinced most children would have the media literacy to understand that his amourous advances are bad. This one may be my tastes, to be fair, but I'd be hesistant to read certain passages of this to a kid.
The tl;dr: Solid premise, entertaining cast, good plot with a focus on mental/emotional health, let down by some of the content being unsuitable for children's literature. 2.5/5 stars.
March 6, 2025
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.5 of 5
In the village of Whitehaven, a strange plague has settled over the town - all the color is disappearing. Whitehaven is becoming a listless grey.
Because no one knows why, thoughts and rumors run rampant through the town. It's because of chemicals in farmer's pesticides. It's a problem with the sun. It's a punishment from God. The guesses go on and on, but no one really knows.
Until Margie and Henry believe they've found the thief.
But being kids, nobody takes them seriously, especially since they are accusing someone in a position of importance in the town. There's only one thing to do then ... they follow the thief to his lair and find a cave exploding with color.
I really love a children's book that encourages creativity. A town that loses color! It's a brilliant (pun somewhat intended) concept.
Beyond the concept, the book falls a little bit flat. It's very direct with little to no subplot, although there are a few family scenes. Those scenes left me slightly uncomfortable because of their lack of resolution. (I know, family issues rarely come to a neat end, but this is a book in which a resolution COULD be had.)
While it's a book for young readers and our protagonists are youngsters, the book goes slightly overboard with making everyone else stupid.
There is some light swearing, which doesn't bother me here. I'm slightly more concerned about the sexual overtones which don't seem to be appropriate - especially for the target audience.
This is a quick read. It's mostly fun and there's not a lot of deep thinking needed here. It's not a book I'd be quick to recommend but I'd be happy to engage in conversation with any youngster who chooses to read the book, to see what they thought.
It appears the book was first published in 1995 by a traditional publisher and is now being reissued as self-published. I mention it only in case the book sounds familiar - you may have already read it.
Looking for a good book? Thief of Colours by Stephen Sinclair is a very creative concept but may not be as eciting as you hope for your middle grade reader.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
In the village of Whitehaven, a strange plague has settled over the town - all the color is disappearing. Whitehaven is becoming a listless grey.
Because no one knows why, thoughts and rumors run rampant through the town. It's because of chemicals in farmer's pesticides. It's a problem with the sun. It's a punishment from God. The guesses go on and on, but no one really knows.
Until Margie and Henry believe they've found the thief.
But being kids, nobody takes them seriously, especially since they are accusing someone in a position of importance in the town. There's only one thing to do then ... they follow the thief to his lair and find a cave exploding with color.
I really love a children's book that encourages creativity. A town that loses color! It's a brilliant (pun somewhat intended) concept.
Beyond the concept, the book falls a little bit flat. It's very direct with little to no subplot, although there are a few family scenes. Those scenes left me slightly uncomfortable because of their lack of resolution. (I know, family issues rarely come to a neat end, but this is a book in which a resolution COULD be had.)
While it's a book for young readers and our protagonists are youngsters, the book goes slightly overboard with making everyone else stupid.
There is some light swearing, which doesn't bother me here. I'm slightly more concerned about the sexual overtones which don't seem to be appropriate - especially for the target audience.
This is a quick read. It's mostly fun and there's not a lot of deep thinking needed here. It's not a book I'd be quick to recommend but I'd be happy to engage in conversation with any youngster who chooses to read the book, to see what they thought.
It appears the book was first published in 1995 by a traditional publisher and is now being reissued as self-published. I mention it only in case the book sounds familiar - you may have already read it.
Looking for a good book? Thief of Colours by Stephen Sinclair is a very creative concept but may not be as eciting as you hope for your middle grade reader.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2025
What worked:
The author takes the time to accentuate colors in the early chapters, contrasting with what happens later. The mayor’s secretaries are superficial characters and prideful of their colorful fingernails, dresses, and shoes. Later, they’re angry and alarmed when all colors on the island appear faded and dull. Citizens notice the difference but life dismally goes on. However, they eventually realize it’s affecting their businesses and they want something done. The upcoming changes aren’t what they expect and a pseudo caste system is created.
It's unexpected to learn the whole conflict is initiated by one man. Embarrassment and hurt feelings combine to transform a public servant into the plot’s protagonist. He’s easily manipulated and greed becomes a motivating factor. The conflict is easy to follow but a stone found in an abandoned mine is the real mystery. Where did it come from and how does it work? It’s found in one of the mine shafts so did a worker discover it years ago? The solution to the plot will come from understanding the eerie stone and finding a way to reverse its effects.
Margie and Henry are the main characters but Margie is most interesting. She’s stubborn, opinionated, impulsive, and sometimes bossy but Henry still considers her his best friend. She’s upset that her sister is getting married even though Henry reminds her that she likes the fiancée. She’s dreading being part of the wedding party and she’s furious when she sees the dress she’s expected to wear. It leads to one more argument in her family to go along with the constant quarreling between her mom and sister. Her family problems create a subplot that develops connections with the island’s loss of color.
What didn’t work as well:
The protagonist and his helpers are adults and there may be some subtly inappropriate scenes for younger readers. It’s nothing too bad but it’s not necessary in a book for younger readers.
The final verdict:
This book must be a reprint of one originally published in 1995. The absence of color on the island is a novel idea and Margie and Henry are delightful characters. The plot is easy to follow and readers can predict where it’s headed but there are mild surprises in the end. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.
The author takes the time to accentuate colors in the early chapters, contrasting with what happens later. The mayor’s secretaries are superficial characters and prideful of their colorful fingernails, dresses, and shoes. Later, they’re angry and alarmed when all colors on the island appear faded and dull. Citizens notice the difference but life dismally goes on. However, they eventually realize it’s affecting their businesses and they want something done. The upcoming changes aren’t what they expect and a pseudo caste system is created.
It's unexpected to learn the whole conflict is initiated by one man. Embarrassment and hurt feelings combine to transform a public servant into the plot’s protagonist. He’s easily manipulated and greed becomes a motivating factor. The conflict is easy to follow but a stone found in an abandoned mine is the real mystery. Where did it come from and how does it work? It’s found in one of the mine shafts so did a worker discover it years ago? The solution to the plot will come from understanding the eerie stone and finding a way to reverse its effects.
Margie and Henry are the main characters but Margie is most interesting. She’s stubborn, opinionated, impulsive, and sometimes bossy but Henry still considers her his best friend. She’s upset that her sister is getting married even though Henry reminds her that she likes the fiancée. She’s dreading being part of the wedding party and she’s furious when she sees the dress she’s expected to wear. It leads to one more argument in her family to go along with the constant quarreling between her mom and sister. Her family problems create a subplot that develops connections with the island’s loss of color.
What didn’t work as well:
The protagonist and his helpers are adults and there may be some subtly inappropriate scenes for younger readers. It’s nothing too bad but it’s not necessary in a book for younger readers.
The final verdict:
This book must be a reprint of one originally published in 1995. The absence of color on the island is a novel idea and Margie and Henry are delightful characters. The plot is easy to follow and readers can predict where it’s headed but there are mild surprises in the end. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.
January 16, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC of this book :)
When the color drains from Whitehaven, no one knows the true cause, but everyone has suspicions. The drab white, black, and gray tones lead to widespread depression and irritation among the population. When a mysterious shop opens advertising the sale of color, three children seek the truth behind the shop and its proprietors. This was a fun, engaging story, fueled by its entertaining and well-written characters. 3 stars to Stephen Sinclair's Thief of Colours.
On a side note, this is one of those books that I would hesitate to hand to the intended audience (elementary to middle grade, I believe). Mild swears are used throughout the book, and two adult characters (Mr. Purvis and Jennifer) have a strange relationship. This includes a scene of touching/holding knees under a table and other innuendoes...which is kinda weird for a kid's book, no??
When the color drains from Whitehaven, no one knows the true cause, but everyone has suspicions. The drab white, black, and gray tones lead to widespread depression and irritation among the population. When a mysterious shop opens advertising the sale of color, three children seek the truth behind the shop and its proprietors. This was a fun, engaging story, fueled by its entertaining and well-written characters. 3 stars to Stephen Sinclair's Thief of Colours.
On a side note, this is one of those books that I would hesitate to hand to the intended audience (elementary to middle grade, I believe). Mild swears are used throughout the book, and two adult characters (Mr. Purvis and Jennifer) have a strange relationship. This includes a scene of touching/holding knees under a table and other innuendoes...which is kinda weird for a kid's book, no??
January 11, 2025
I received an electronic ARC from Spineless Press through NetGalley.
Though I appreciate dry humor and this style of writing, I was disappointed in the delivery for this story. The characters are interesting and amusing; the plot is intriguing. However, the wayt he story unfolds feels forced at times. The villains are bumbling, and the three children (heroes) are definitely troubled. Family situations are alluded to but only shown in brief segments which adds to the overall lack of flow. No resolutions are offered so readers get to decide for themselves if family problems are resolved or not. I'm not a fan of some of the adult interactions and innuendoes as they tip beyond humor for effect.
Though I appreciate dry humor and this style of writing, I was disappointed in the delivery for this story. The characters are interesting and amusing; the plot is intriguing. However, the wayt he story unfolds feels forced at times. The villains are bumbling, and the three children (heroes) are definitely troubled. Family situations are alluded to but only shown in brief segments which adds to the overall lack of flow. No resolutions are offered so readers get to decide for themselves if family problems are resolved or not. I'm not a fan of some of the adult interactions and innuendoes as they tip beyond humor for effect.
February 10, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. I felt like this book was a bit hard to get into. The colors have disappeared making everything drab looking and unappealing. Henry, Margie and Elliot come together to figure out what happened to the colors. I liked Henry but I felt Margie was a bit annnoying and Elliot was a bit whiny.The bad guys could be a bit intense. I felt this book might be suited for older kids.
December 30, 2024
Imagine all the colour being drained from everything and then having to buy it back at huge expense. Imagine the heroes being 3 children, but no-one listens to them. That's exactly what happens in this story. I thoroughly enjoyed this story; it was dark and full of suspense.
January 19, 2025
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC!
January 25, 2026
Interesting story and I really liked the pictures. This is hard to talk about because, while it's interesting, it's hard to tell who it's meant for.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this
January 27, 2025
Probably not a book for its intended audience. I can see where the author is coming from in this meant to be children’s book that is fun in a ‘Goonies’ type way. But the villains description’s have just too much adult in them. Which is a pity because the imaginative story has much to enjoy in it. Thank you to Spineless Press and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
January 9, 2025
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the original concept of this tale. After reading, I felt older kids (teens and adults) would enjoy Thief of Colours more than the age range this is aimed for (I think older elementary, younger middle schoolers?). There is some language and taking the Lord's name in vain. There is also a couple of sexual innuendos and one or two words that I as a high schooler had never even seen.
The British terms throughout the book were a tad confusing but a little research and context clues cleared it up.
Stephen Sinclair did a great job writing a novel! I oftentimes find screenwriters turned novelists' writing to be clunky and too action-packed with little description but Sinclair did an excellent job.
Thanks to NetGalley and Spineless Press for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest, and unbiased thoughts.
I really enjoyed the original concept of this tale. After reading, I felt older kids (teens and adults) would enjoy Thief of Colours more than the age range this is aimed for (I think older elementary, younger middle schoolers?). There is some language and taking the Lord's name in vain. There is also a couple of sexual innuendos and one or two words that I as a high schooler had never even seen.
The British terms throughout the book were a tad confusing but a little research and context clues cleared it up.
Stephen Sinclair did a great job writing a novel! I oftentimes find screenwriters turned novelists' writing to be clunky and too action-packed with little description but Sinclair did an excellent job.
Thanks to NetGalley and Spineless Press for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest, and unbiased thoughts.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews