What do you think?
Rate this book
The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood
When Constance and Ernest Gatsby introduce their younger brother, George, to the humiliation of their school’s Ritual—in which the bullies shove them into a shower in the girls’ locker room—they are mysteriously hurtled back in time to medieval England.
The Sheriff of Nottingham’s soldiers are about to capture the young Robin Hood. The Gatsbys foil the evil Sheriff’s plan, but George is captured instead and dragged away to Nottingham Castle’s dungeon.
Will Robin Hood be the hero legends say and help free George…or has history lied to us? Come along on a journey filled with castles, villains, nighttime adventures, and really stinky situations.
The Sheriff of Nottingham’s soldiers are about to capture the young Robin Hood. The Gatsbys foil the evil Sheriff’s plan, but George is captured instead and dragged away to Nottingham Castle’s dungeon.
Will Robin Hood be the hero legends say and help free George…or has history lied to us? Come along on a journey filled with castles, villains, nighttime adventures, and really stinky situations.
130 pages, Paperback
Published October 8, 2018
7 people want to read
About the author
Brian Michaud
4 books27 followersBrian Michaud is the author of The Tales of Gaspar series which begins with The Road to Nyn and The Ring of Carnac.
Look for the first two books in his new historical fiction series, The Adventures of the Gatsby Kids, in the fall of 2018 with the releases of The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood and The Gatsby Kids Meet the Queen of the Nile.
To learn more visit bgmichaud.com.
Look for the first two books in his new historical fiction series, The Adventures of the Gatsby Kids, in the fall of 2018 with the releases of The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood and The Gatsby Kids Meet the Queen of the Nile.
To learn more visit bgmichaud.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 1, 2019
This is a thoroughly entertaining book for kids aged 8 and upwards. The three Gatsby siblings are all a bit geeky and end up being the victims of a bullies at their school. On the first day of the new school year, which is also George, the youngest Gatsby's, first day, the siblings are driven into a locker room shower by bullies and when the water is turned on they are transported back in time to Sherwood Forest, near Nottingham in the United Kingdom, during the period when Prince John ruled while King Richard was fighting abroad.
The siblings come across Robin Loxley who is on the run from two henchmen of the Sheriff of Nottingham, the man who was responsible for Robin's father's death. The siblings need to intervene to ensure that history is not changed and Robin goes on to become Robin Hood and lead his gang of merry men in Sherwood Forest. While attempting to help Robin escape from the two thugs, the siblings are separated. Will their attempt to save history end up being the cause of it changing and Robin not fulfilling his destiny? You'll have to read the book to find out.
The writing is light hearted and the story is told with a great modern twist which will appeal to the modern child. I enjoyed the detail in the book relating to life in medieval England which I am sure would be an eye opener for most modern children. I think this is a book my sons would have loved when they were a bit younger.
The siblings come across Robin Loxley who is on the run from two henchmen of the Sheriff of Nottingham, the man who was responsible for Robin's father's death. The siblings need to intervene to ensure that history is not changed and Robin goes on to become Robin Hood and lead his gang of merry men in Sherwood Forest. While attempting to help Robin escape from the two thugs, the siblings are separated. Will their attempt to save history end up being the cause of it changing and Robin not fulfilling his destiny? You'll have to read the book to find out.
The writing is light hearted and the story is told with a great modern twist which will appeal to the modern child. I enjoyed the detail in the book relating to life in medieval England which I am sure would be an eye opener for most modern children. I think this is a book my sons would have loved when they were a bit younger.
November 20, 2018
I have been a great fan of Robin Hood ever since I watched the old BBC show Robin of Sherwood (Those songs by Clannad still ring in my ears). Of course that was a fantasy representation of the tale what with all the magic and mythology dragged in.
The Gatsby kids meet a more believable version of Robin Loxsley.
First - the cover. I really liked the silhouettes. That style continued into the artwork inside.
Next, let's take a look at the three kids themselves. They are all Geeks - Constance is studious and loves to read, Ernest is an inventor and George loves Star Wars (no irony in that, I am sure!). Most of the story is narrated by the eldest, Constance. There are a few chapters by George so that we hear of his capture and escape from him. Therefore, I think the reader doesn't get to know the middle kid, Ernest, as well as the other two, and that left me feeling like I was missing something.
They meet Robin at the beginning of his adventure when he is escaping from Nottingham and is making his way to join the outlaws of Sherwood forest. So, Robin is a teenager too, but older than them. He is a good impersonator and has some good ideas that get them out of tough spots. One can imagine him growing up to be the famous character we know.
The ancient coin that brought them to medieval England also helps them to understand Middle English when it is spoken. (Reminded me of the TARDIS, to be honest!) It was a good device, but my only issue was that the 'Middle English' was not different enough for me! Just adding a 'eth' to verbs and 'anon' off and on didn't quite satisfy me. I understand that this is meant for middle grade readers, but I think that could have been explored more.
I loved the hint of more to come - Who is the Queen of Dayton?
My favourite part, hands down, were all the Star Wars references.
In case you have not already guessed - I am something of a Geek myself :-)
The Gatsby kids meet a more believable version of Robin Loxsley.
First - the cover. I really liked the silhouettes. That style continued into the artwork inside.
Next, let's take a look at the three kids themselves. They are all Geeks - Constance is studious and loves to read, Ernest is an inventor and George loves Star Wars (no irony in that, I am sure!). Most of the story is narrated by the eldest, Constance. There are a few chapters by George so that we hear of his capture and escape from him. Therefore, I think the reader doesn't get to know the middle kid, Ernest, as well as the other two, and that left me feeling like I was missing something.
They meet Robin at the beginning of his adventure when he is escaping from Nottingham and is making his way to join the outlaws of Sherwood forest. So, Robin is a teenager too, but older than them. He is a good impersonator and has some good ideas that get them out of tough spots. One can imagine him growing up to be the famous character we know.
The ancient coin that brought them to medieval England also helps them to understand Middle English when it is spoken. (Reminded me of the TARDIS, to be honest!) It was a good device, but my only issue was that the 'Middle English' was not different enough for me! Just adding a 'eth' to verbs and 'anon' off and on didn't quite satisfy me. I understand that this is meant for middle grade readers, but I think that could have been explored more.
I loved the hint of more to come - Who is the Queen of Dayton?
My favourite part, hands down, were all the Star Wars references.
In case you have not already guessed - I am something of a Geek myself :-)
March 23, 2019
I found this a very easy read, and one I found myself immersed in from page one. It's a mixture of modern day and legend. The legend of Robin Hood, to be precise. The story itself was well paced, and enjoyable.
The story revolves around the Gatsby kids, Constance, Ernest and George. An encounter with the school bullies lead to some extraordinary events that see them going back to the year 1200 where they meet the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, and that's where the fun ensues. I won't go into it as I don't want to spoil it for you. But I can honestly say that if you read it, you'd love it. It's a story for all ages, and the ending leaves it wide open for a sequel. It has some nifty illustrations as well.
The story revolves around the Gatsby kids, Constance, Ernest and George. An encounter with the school bullies lead to some extraordinary events that see them going back to the year 1200 where they meet the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, and that's where the fun ensues. I won't go into it as I don't want to spoil it for you. But I can honestly say that if you read it, you'd love it. It's a story for all ages, and the ending leaves it wide open for a sequel. It has some nifty illustrations as well.
December 15, 2018
The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood is a fantasy children’s book set at Belmont Junior High of Dayton, Ohio. Constance the protagonist, and her brothers, George and Ernest, are new to a school where bullying seems to be an acceptable norm. Yet, as the reader continues to travel on this journey, they will find, all is not what it seems. What starts out as a ritual initiated by a classmate and his cohorts, may be a journey of enlightenment or perhaps, something else. As the ritual and a personal artifact, position the siblings to step into the world of Nottingham, green fields and forests surround them and they encounter a glimpse of Sherwood. This glimpse peaks their curiosity and they are compelled to return in order to right the wrongs of history. The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood is very engaging. The characters are interesting and the storyline is entertaining. Elements of humor spark laughter and tickle the soul as the children become focused on a fantasy expedition. The grade level is certainly junior high and it speaks nicely to the imagination!
February 23, 2019
Look, as an approaching-middle-aged dude, I’m not this book’s target audience, but I enjoyed it a heck of a lot anyway. The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood tells the story of three siblings with normal, troubled childhoods, who, with a wink to C.S. Lewis, are transported to another world through the shower at their school. Except maybe it’s not quite another world, but a myth from our world’s past—in this case, that of Robin Hood. A neat twist is that it’s not quite the Robin Hood we all know, but a younger version, which makes him more relatable to both the characters and the aforementioned target audience.
The book is well-written, and moves at a good pace, so even at novella length, a lot happens. Even with a distracting smartphone nearby, I can see kids delightfully devouring this book and the rest of the series.
Michaud includes references at the end for further reading on the historical aspects. It’s a small touch, but the added promise of education and message of integrity makes this a no-brainer for parents looking for a wholesome gift.
The book is well-written, and moves at a good pace, so even at novella length, a lot happens. Even with a distracting smartphone nearby, I can see kids delightfully devouring this book and the rest of the series.
Michaud includes references at the end for further reading on the historical aspects. It’s a small touch, but the added promise of education and message of integrity makes this a no-brainer for parents looking for a wholesome gift.
June 26, 2019
The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood is a middle-grade adventure and I really ended up loving this book! I liked the characters, clever writing and story so much I bought a paperback copy for my son. My son is 8, but I think it's on his reading level, it will be a good summer read for him.
This book kind of has the vibe of The Magic Tree House. Three siblings go back in time on accident and mess something up so they must go back and save the day, namely, Robin of Loxley. I love how the story unfolds and they help the hero and the hero helps them. I keep thinking the kids in this story are younger than they are in the book, but it doesn't take away from great characters.
In the back of the book, the author asks Is Robin of Loxley real and gives his two cents on that answer. He also sites some of the sources he used to write the book, which is great for younger readers who may have never seen a book sited before. This gives them a chance to understand how research is done.
I think this is a great book for late elementary school children who like adventure books like The Magic Tree House.
This book kind of has the vibe of The Magic Tree House. Three siblings go back in time on accident and mess something up so they must go back and save the day, namely, Robin of Loxley. I love how the story unfolds and they help the hero and the hero helps them. I keep thinking the kids in this story are younger than they are in the book, but it doesn't take away from great characters.
In the back of the book, the author asks Is Robin of Loxley real and gives his two cents on that answer. He also sites some of the sources he used to write the book, which is great for younger readers who may have never seen a book sited before. This gives them a chance to understand how research is done.
I think this is a great book for late elementary school children who like adventure books like The Magic Tree House.
July 13, 2019
THE GATSBY KIDS AND THE OUTLAW OF SHERWOOD is Book #1 in The Adventures of the Gatsby Kids Series by Brian Michaud. The 15,000-word Middle Grade (MG) novellette centers on Gatsby siblings Constance, Ernest, and George, on youngest George's first day of junior high school. As the school bullies subject the Gatsbys to their "Ritual," the three find themselves magically transported to medieval Sherwood Forest.
The writing is very clean, indicating either a layered revision process or expert editing. The illustrations sprinkled within are also quite cute. Recommended for middle school or junior high school kids who like a little historical fiction with their adventure stories.
The writing is very clean, indicating either a layered revision process or expert editing. The illustrations sprinkled within are also quite cute. Recommended for middle school or junior high school kids who like a little historical fiction with their adventure stories.
August 15, 2019
The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood by Brian G Michaud is the first book in a series of novels featuring Constance, Ernest and George Gatsby. In this novel, bullied at school, the “nerdy” children discover a portal which allows them to travel through time. An object from the time they travel to - in this case a coin from around the year 1200 in the collection of their archaeologist father - helps them to understand the people of medieval England. Aimed at children of around eight to eleven years of age, the novel offers an entertaining introduction to the historical period it portrays.
In The Outlaw of Sherwood the children meet up with a young Robin Hood and there follows an inevitable adventure in which they must outwit the Sheriff of Nottingham and his men. There is an amusing scene where the youngest Gatsby, George, meets Little John, only to find that he is an ordinary sized boy like himself. The author bravely confronts the language problem by explaining that the coin in their possession permits the children to speak and understand the Middle English of the period. This works as long as long as the children are together. When they are separated, the dialogue attempts to imitate the Middle English of the period with sometimes laugh-out-loud results – Robin Hood’s (in reference to bubble gum) “There be’est strange goo stuck in the lock.” The most obvious anachronism is where George watches farmers at work, among other things “digging up potatoes.” This would have been at least 300 years before potatoes were introduced to Europe from the New World. That aside, the novel is lively and good fun; the three Gatsby kids are good company, sure to appeal to their target audience.
In The Outlaw of Sherwood the children meet up with a young Robin Hood and there follows an inevitable adventure in which they must outwit the Sheriff of Nottingham and his men. There is an amusing scene where the youngest Gatsby, George, meets Little John, only to find that he is an ordinary sized boy like himself. The author bravely confronts the language problem by explaining that the coin in their possession permits the children to speak and understand the Middle English of the period. This works as long as long as the children are together. When they are separated, the dialogue attempts to imitate the Middle English of the period with sometimes laugh-out-loud results – Robin Hood’s (in reference to bubble gum) “There be’est strange goo stuck in the lock.” The most obvious anachronism is where George watches farmers at work, among other things “digging up potatoes.” This would have been at least 300 years before potatoes were introduced to Europe from the New World. That aside, the novel is lively and good fun; the three Gatsby kids are good company, sure to appeal to their target audience.
March 14, 2019
This is the first book in a series of time traveling adventures. Three Gatsby siblings, the youngest in the 6th grade, are targets of some pretty extreme bullying at school. As a retired teacher, it horrifies me that anything so obvious could be happening but I'm sure it does somewhere. The three kids stick together but seem to be resigned to the horrific treatment they receive from older violent students. However, they show great courage, pluck, and ingenuity when they travel back in time.
The author has come up with a unique way of having a having the kids go back to the 13th century. Here they must rescue Robin Hood before he has joined the merry-men.
The story is fairly gentle and without gore. It suits children aged seven and up although some might find the vocabulary bit of a struggle.
The story comes to a conclusion but the school bullying is not resolved. I suspect there will be more time travel and this will help the children overcome the challenges at school.
The best part of this book and the most enjoyable is the humor. The children are hilarious, especially the youngest. Kids will laugh out loud at their banter and behavior.
The author has come up with a unique way of having a having the kids go back to the 13th century. Here they must rescue Robin Hood before he has joined the merry-men.
The story is fairly gentle and without gore. It suits children aged seven and up although some might find the vocabulary bit of a struggle.
The story comes to a conclusion but the school bullying is not resolved. I suspect there will be more time travel and this will help the children overcome the challenges at school.
The best part of this book and the most enjoyable is the humor. The children are hilarious, especially the youngest. Kids will laugh out loud at their banter and behavior.
July 15, 2019
The Gatsby Kids and the Outlaw of Sherwood (The Adventures of the Gatsby Kids Book 1) [Kindle Unlimited] — Brian Michaud (18 chapters) June 12, 2019
Three siblings, the nerds of the school, encounter bullies, and find themselves traveled back in time inadvertently into the story of Robin Hood to solve a mystery and right a wrong.
This was a very fast read (for an older adult,) but delightfully fun too! For the intended audience, the story will draw kids in and hook them to the last page. For a time-traveling fantasy, the story is short enough not to bore the most restless kids, and will keep them interested in following the series due to the hook at the end of the book. This series is on Kindle Unlimited, a bonus for parents who subscribe to the service.
The only disappointment I have is with the very ending. I’m not sure how the ending will resolve in the next book, which sounds like it doesn’t go back to the Robin Hood story. Maybe that’s the hook in the story? We shall see, since I am now hooked too!
Four stars.
Three siblings, the nerds of the school, encounter bullies, and find themselves traveled back in time inadvertently into the story of Robin Hood to solve a mystery and right a wrong.
This was a very fast read (for an older adult,) but delightfully fun too! For the intended audience, the story will draw kids in and hook them to the last page. For a time-traveling fantasy, the story is short enough not to bore the most restless kids, and will keep them interested in following the series due to the hook at the end of the book. This series is on Kindle Unlimited, a bonus for parents who subscribe to the service.
The only disappointment I have is with the very ending. I’m not sure how the ending will resolve in the next book, which sounds like it doesn’t go back to the Robin Hood story. Maybe that’s the hook in the story? We shall see, since I am now hooked too!
Four stars.
October 8, 2018
This is my own book, so my opinion is obviously biased.
Come on a journey through time with the Constance, Ernest, and George Gatsby as they meet famous historical/legendary figures when they were young. In this first adventure, they encounter the young Robin Hood as he is about to be captured by the Sheriff of Nottingham's soldiers. The Gatsbys foil the evil Sheriff’s plan, but George is captured instead and dragged away to Nottingham Castle’s dungeon.
Come on a journey through time with the Constance, Ernest, and George Gatsby as they meet famous historical/legendary figures when they were young. In this first adventure, they encounter the young Robin Hood as he is about to be captured by the Sheriff of Nottingham's soldiers. The Gatsbys foil the evil Sheriff’s plan, but George is captured instead and dragged away to Nottingham Castle’s dungeon.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews