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Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend
“We are all given a space in life to fill, a roaring emptiness in time... and it’s how you choose to fill that void, that will determine the difference in becoming a man or a legend.”
That’s what my father said to me a few years ago before he walked out on Mom, Emily, and me. If I would have had any sense back then, I would have asked him exactly what that meant.
Instead, I’m out here learning it the hard way – dodging bullets and bombs while America is at war – my friends fighting back with all we have, while trying to keep these orphaned children safe and our dreams alive.
They call us The Risers. Well, okay... so we call ourselves “The Risers.” But either way, we’re out here doing everything we can just to survive and rise up from our nation’s ashes with honor, integrity, and justice.
Now, with smoky memories of a lost childhood, and the horrible, lingering, cardboard taste of MRE crackers (still left over from living in Dad’s bomb shelter), my mini army and me march forward, taking back what was once taken for granted.
But to be honest, I’m really just out here winging it. Wish me luck.
That’s what my father said to me a few years ago before he walked out on Mom, Emily, and me. If I would have had any sense back then, I would have asked him exactly what that meant.
Instead, I’m out here learning it the hard way – dodging bullets and bombs while America is at war – my friends fighting back with all we have, while trying to keep these orphaned children safe and our dreams alive.
They call us The Risers. Well, okay... so we call ourselves “The Risers.” But either way, we’re out here doing everything we can just to survive and rise up from our nation’s ashes with honor, integrity, and justice.
Now, with smoky memories of a lost childhood, and the horrible, lingering, cardboard taste of MRE crackers (still left over from living in Dad’s bomb shelter), my mini army and me march forward, taking back what was once taken for granted.
But to be honest, I’m really just out here winging it. Wish me luck.
- GenresMiddle Grade
164 pages, ebook
First published February 16, 2021
23 people want to read
About the author
Jacob Paul Patchen
10 books73 followersJacob Paul Patchen is a multi-award-winning author and poet of various genres and age groups. He writes children's, teen, young adult, and adult fiction. His books often reflect on real-life experiences, examine what makes us who we are, and instill goodness. For Jacob, every book has a purpose. Patchen earns his inspiration through experience, where he writes about the things that built him: Love, Family, War, and Learning things the hard way.
A former Marine and combat veteran, Jacob graduated from Muskingum University, where he studied Creative Writing. Jacob is a member of IPBA, MWSA, and has books published by TouchPoint Press, Black Rose Writing, and Adelaide Books. Currently, he continues to sharpen his craft while working at Muskingum University. Jacob’s most recent books include: Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend (TouchPoint Press, 2021), Words That Matter: Family Book 1 of 10 (TouchPoint Press, 2021), At Daddy’s Hands: Courage Knows No Age (4x award-winner, Black Rose Writing, 2019), Of Love and War (Adelaide Books, 2018).
Jacob considers his time as a United States Marine as a major turning point in his life. Deployed to Iraq as a Rifleman in 2005, Jacob learned quickly to appreciate and love the little things that life has to offer. With a deep understanding and admiration for having a purpose in life, Jacob decided to live his life in honor of those that never made it back home by following his dreams, getting the most out of life, and encouraging good intentions.
Patchen took his pen name from his grandfather, who was blessed with four amazing daughters but no son Jacob wanted to carry on the family name and honor his grandparents who were such a prominent pillar of love, support, and knowledge. Readers will see that the importance of this foundation is at the heart of Patchen’s writing. Jacob’s roots are buried is rural poetry, where he started writing, at the age of 12, about nature, love, and his own experiences using a confessional tone.
Jacob believes that his writing career began on the day that he decided to quit an oil and gas job in order to finish his first book, Life Lessons from Grandpa and His Chicken Coop. Jacob has worked in several job fields, including: excavating for his father’s company, evening manager at a bowling alley, bartender, youth case manager at a behavioral health facility, marketing, and has even started his own handyman business. But none has given him purpose and satisfaction quite like writing has.
He has been published in several literary journals, including New Millennium Writings, Into the Void Magazine, The Deadly Writers Patrol, and Lost Lake Folk Opera Magazine. He has also been selected as a finalist in many poetry competitions.
Books by Jacob Paul Patchen:
Poetry
Of Love and War (Adelaide Books, 2018)
We Fight. We Love. We Devour. (2021)
Fiction
4x Award-Winner: At Daddy’s Hands (YA Thriller/Suspense – Black Rose Writing, September 2019)
1st Place Award-Winner: Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend (Middle Grade Action/Adventure, 2021)
1st Place Award-Winner: No Pistol Tastes the Same (Adult Fiction, 2022)
Children’s
Words That Matter (10 book series, TouchPoint Press, 2021)
Creative Nonfiction
Life Lessons from Grandpa and His Chicken Coop (CreateSpace, 2015)
Talking S. H. I. T. (Social, Humorous and Inspirational Thoughts) (CreateSpace, 2017)
You can see more of Jacob at Jacobpaulpatchen.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
A former Marine and combat veteran, Jacob graduated from Muskingum University, where he studied Creative Writing. Jacob is a member of IPBA, MWSA, and has books published by TouchPoint Press, Black Rose Writing, and Adelaide Books. Currently, he continues to sharpen his craft while working at Muskingum University. Jacob’s most recent books include: Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend (TouchPoint Press, 2021), Words That Matter: Family Book 1 of 10 (TouchPoint Press, 2021), At Daddy’s Hands: Courage Knows No Age (4x award-winner, Black Rose Writing, 2019), Of Love and War (Adelaide Books, 2018).
Jacob considers his time as a United States Marine as a major turning point in his life. Deployed to Iraq as a Rifleman in 2005, Jacob learned quickly to appreciate and love the little things that life has to offer. With a deep understanding and admiration for having a purpose in life, Jacob decided to live his life in honor of those that never made it back home by following his dreams, getting the most out of life, and encouraging good intentions.
Patchen took his pen name from his grandfather, who was blessed with four amazing daughters but no son Jacob wanted to carry on the family name and honor his grandparents who were such a prominent pillar of love, support, and knowledge. Readers will see that the importance of this foundation is at the heart of Patchen’s writing. Jacob’s roots are buried is rural poetry, where he started writing, at the age of 12, about nature, love, and his own experiences using a confessional tone.
Jacob believes that his writing career began on the day that he decided to quit an oil and gas job in order to finish his first book, Life Lessons from Grandpa and His Chicken Coop. Jacob has worked in several job fields, including: excavating for his father’s company, evening manager at a bowling alley, bartender, youth case manager at a behavioral health facility, marketing, and has even started his own handyman business. But none has given him purpose and satisfaction quite like writing has.
He has been published in several literary journals, including New Millennium Writings, Into the Void Magazine, The Deadly Writers Patrol, and Lost Lake Folk Opera Magazine. He has also been selected as a finalist in many poetry competitions.
Books by Jacob Paul Patchen:
Poetry
Of Love and War (Adelaide Books, 2018)
We Fight. We Love. We Devour. (2021)
Fiction
4x Award-Winner: At Daddy’s Hands (YA Thriller/Suspense – Black Rose Writing, September 2019)
1st Place Award-Winner: Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend (Middle Grade Action/Adventure, 2021)
1st Place Award-Winner: No Pistol Tastes the Same (Adult Fiction, 2022)
Children’s
Words That Matter (10 book series, TouchPoint Press, 2021)
Creative Nonfiction
Life Lessons from Grandpa and His Chicken Coop (CreateSpace, 2015)
Talking S. H. I. T. (Social, Humorous and Inspirational Thoughts) (CreateSpace, 2017)
You can see more of Jacob at Jacobpaulpatchen.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 23, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
This is an incredibly strong and powerful story and the perfect book for young adults. The novel dives head first to James, a clearly terrified but brave twelve-year-old who has found himself fighting a war that he never saw coming across the United States of America. He wants nothing more than to go back to when life was normal, to a time before his Dad left the home where he was happy with him, his Mom and sister Emily.
His description of his war-torn country, after months in the bunker created by his Dad, dodging bullets and bombs, looking after the younger children, having lost their childhood to the war that they were fighting, you just want to reach out and make everything better for him, for them all. That’s how creative the writing is in this novel, you could picture it, see it, smell it, feel it. Such a good example of an exceptional read for young adults. It is artfully written and the emotional connection with James is wonderful.
There is no doubt that James, even from the beginning of this story, is an absolute legend. The description of children as young as six, being part of The Risers creates the suspense. I was desperate to find out what had happened in the United States for such young children to be fighting such a barbaric war. It’s truly horrifying what James had witnessed and you are behind him all the way.
The book is definitely a crossover novel with YA and adults in a similar way to The Hunger Games or The Divergent series. It is definitely compelling and hard to put down, the rich imagery definitely stands-out.
But it’s the relationship James has with his father which is totally heartfelt. Because that’s the day that changed everything for him and was probably what turned him into such a driven leader. He idolises his Dad and wanted to be like him, probably not appreciating that he was a carbon copy of him all along. An exceptional read that I would definitely recommend.
This is an incredibly strong and powerful story and the perfect book for young adults. The novel dives head first to James, a clearly terrified but brave twelve-year-old who has found himself fighting a war that he never saw coming across the United States of America. He wants nothing more than to go back to when life was normal, to a time before his Dad left the home where he was happy with him, his Mom and sister Emily.
His description of his war-torn country, after months in the bunker created by his Dad, dodging bullets and bombs, looking after the younger children, having lost their childhood to the war that they were fighting, you just want to reach out and make everything better for him, for them all. That’s how creative the writing is in this novel, you could picture it, see it, smell it, feel it. Such a good example of an exceptional read for young adults. It is artfully written and the emotional connection with James is wonderful.
There is no doubt that James, even from the beginning of this story, is an absolute legend. The description of children as young as six, being part of The Risers creates the suspense. I was desperate to find out what had happened in the United States for such young children to be fighting such a barbaric war. It’s truly horrifying what James had witnessed and you are behind him all the way.
The book is definitely a crossover novel with YA and adults in a similar way to The Hunger Games or The Divergent series. It is definitely compelling and hard to put down, the rich imagery definitely stands-out.
But it’s the relationship James has with his father which is totally heartfelt. Because that’s the day that changed everything for him and was probably what turned him into such a driven leader. He idolises his Dad and wanted to be like him, probably not appreciating that he was a carbon copy of him all along. An exceptional read that I would definitely recommend.
June 16, 2021
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
A somewhat interesting if unoriginal story. I’ve seen the concept before in other books with much better execution.
The structure was mostly annoying. The majority of the book comprised of flashbacks that were irritatingly interrupted again and again until I wanted the little kids to die just so the protagonist could tell his story without pause. Then the only impactful action occurred 3/4 through the book by which point the book had doomed itself by not leaving enough time to adequately resolve the conflict.
There was a noticeable lack of female characters. And the 2 that did exist spent the entirety of their time moping or crying due to or with their male significant other. I found it extremely odd that the older sister displayed zero qualities an older sister would have. Why was it that the protagonist, aka the younger brother, was the one in charge and she simply let him be? This was another odd aspect of the book. The protagonist seemed to be the leader simply for his ability to give rousing (and cliche) speeches that inspired bravery and large amounts of unrealism in the others.
There were a lot of touchy-feely moments. Now I’m all for genuine emotions, don’t get me wrong, but this was to such an extent that it came across as sickly sweet and cringe-inducing. There were far too many “a good man doing his manly duty” vibes and patriotic Americanism.
There were also some extremely odd and disturbing moments towards the end like when the protagonist objectified a naked woman and when his father laughed at him for freaking out over burnt human bodies. Like WHAT?! Not to mention the father was literally excited to be murdering people. The book wasn’t that bad until that point and that was an immediate turn off.
A somewhat interesting if unoriginal story. I’ve seen the concept before in other books with much better execution.
The structure was mostly annoying. The majority of the book comprised of flashbacks that were irritatingly interrupted again and again until I wanted the little kids to die just so the protagonist could tell his story without pause. Then the only impactful action occurred 3/4 through the book by which point the book had doomed itself by not leaving enough time to adequately resolve the conflict.
There was a noticeable lack of female characters. And the 2 that did exist spent the entirety of their time moping or crying due to or with their male significant other. I found it extremely odd that the older sister displayed zero qualities an older sister would have. Why was it that the protagonist, aka the younger brother, was the one in charge and she simply let him be? This was another odd aspect of the book. The protagonist seemed to be the leader simply for his ability to give rousing (and cliche) speeches that inspired bravery and large amounts of unrealism in the others.
There were a lot of touchy-feely moments. Now I’m all for genuine emotions, don’t get me wrong, but this was to such an extent that it came across as sickly sweet and cringe-inducing. There were far too many “a good man doing his manly duty” vibes and patriotic Americanism.
There were also some extremely odd and disturbing moments towards the end like when the protagonist objectified a naked woman and when his father laughed at him for freaking out over burnt human bodies. Like WHAT?! Not to mention the father was literally excited to be murdering people. The book wasn’t that bad until that point and that was an immediate turn off.
February 18, 2021
Reviewed by Maddie (age 13) for Reader Views Kids (02/2021)
“Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend” by Jacob Paul Patchen is an action-packed dystopian thriller about a group of kids trying to save war-torn America.
The story is narrated by thirteen-year-old James, who leads and protects a group of kids known as The Risers after the events of The Day leaves America in complete devastation with its people imprisoned or killed. The Risers believe the adults of the world are to blame for the war because of their politics and hate. Now it’s up to The Risers to restore America. With his mom dead, and a father that walked out on the family two years ago, James had to grow up fast and feels a special bond to the kids in his care. He wants to provide them with hope for the future, but how can a bunch of kids save America?
This story is so different from anything I’ve read lately and I really liked it because it almost feels like a story inside of a story. It starts out with James telling his story to the young kids of the Risers about what happened to him on The Day and alternates between his telling of the story taking us back in time, and the current events as they try to stay safe and fight the powers set on destroying America. It then explodes into an all-out battle to take back America and it’s non-stop action and intensity as the fighting comes to a head.
I like the way the story is written because the author knows how to keep the reader interested in the action and by going back and forth from telling his story to fighting the battle, James makes the reader feel like they are right there in the action. I couldn’t really tell what period of time the story is set in but it feels like a combination of things from the past and the future, which keeps it interesting.
My favorite character is James, of course. He acts like a tough guy but he’s actually very sensitive and has a big heart. He also has a great sense of humor and made me laugh a lot throughout the story. James is torn between missing his father and hating him for walking away from the family. But, he wants to live up to a lesson he learned from his father, “We are all given a space in life to fill…and it’s how you choose to fill that void, that will determine the difference in becoming a man or a legend.” He’s obsessed with becoming a legend even though he doesn’t think he’s a hero – but he is.
Overall, I think “Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend” by Jacob Paul Patchen is a great book for teens that like science fiction and apocalyptic stories with non-stop action and drama. The ending was unexpected – in a good way – I just wasn’t ready for the story to be over and hopefully there will be more to come. There is a lot of violence throughout the story so I’d say this book is for older teens and young adults.
“Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend” by Jacob Paul Patchen is an action-packed dystopian thriller about a group of kids trying to save war-torn America.
The story is narrated by thirteen-year-old James, who leads and protects a group of kids known as The Risers after the events of The Day leaves America in complete devastation with its people imprisoned or killed. The Risers believe the adults of the world are to blame for the war because of their politics and hate. Now it’s up to The Risers to restore America. With his mom dead, and a father that walked out on the family two years ago, James had to grow up fast and feels a special bond to the kids in his care. He wants to provide them with hope for the future, but how can a bunch of kids save America?
This story is so different from anything I’ve read lately and I really liked it because it almost feels like a story inside of a story. It starts out with James telling his story to the young kids of the Risers about what happened to him on The Day and alternates between his telling of the story taking us back in time, and the current events as they try to stay safe and fight the powers set on destroying America. It then explodes into an all-out battle to take back America and it’s non-stop action and intensity as the fighting comes to a head.
I like the way the story is written because the author knows how to keep the reader interested in the action and by going back and forth from telling his story to fighting the battle, James makes the reader feel like they are right there in the action. I couldn’t really tell what period of time the story is set in but it feels like a combination of things from the past and the future, which keeps it interesting.
My favorite character is James, of course. He acts like a tough guy but he’s actually very sensitive and has a big heart. He also has a great sense of humor and made me laugh a lot throughout the story. James is torn between missing his father and hating him for walking away from the family. But, he wants to live up to a lesson he learned from his father, “We are all given a space in life to fill…and it’s how you choose to fill that void, that will determine the difference in becoming a man or a legend.” He’s obsessed with becoming a legend even though he doesn’t think he’s a hero – but he is.
Overall, I think “Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend” by Jacob Paul Patchen is a great book for teens that like science fiction and apocalyptic stories with non-stop action and drama. The ending was unexpected – in a good way – I just wasn’t ready for the story to be over and hopefully there will be more to come. There is a lot of violence throughout the story so I’d say this book is for older teens and young adults.
February 20, 2021
Heart touching
James is a boy who becomes a legend by doing the right thing no matter what. Even if no one else believes it is right.
James is a boy who becomes a legend by doing the right thing no matter what. Even if no one else believes it is right.
May 17, 2021
Sheltered is a dystopian novel set in an alternate US which has been overrun by a terrorist organization, forcing the survivors, especially children, to run and hide for their lives. One survivor, James, recounts the early days of the attacks which left him alone, hiding out in his bunker, before forming a team of young resistance fighters known as The Risers.
Sheltered is not your average middle grade story. It's gritty, horrifying, and holds nothing back. You can find my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/shelt...
Sheltered is not your average middle grade story. It's gritty, horrifying, and holds nothing back. You can find my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/shelt...
March 28, 2021
It has been two years since what has come to be known as The Day, the moment when an attack on the United States rocked the country to its foundations. Thirteen-year-old James is the leader of The Risers, a rag-tag team of young people who survived the initial onslaught and its aftermath and are prepared to do whatever it takes to recover their nation and rise from the ashes of the decimation war has brought. Though it may seem unlikely, the unwavering spirit of these fledgling soldiers is the only chance they have to recover their home from those who stole it from them.
Written for a middle-grade audience, this is a story about what happens to young James when he is left alone as his nation is attacked from within. The son of a former Marine, James has learned survival techniques that he must rely upon if he has any hope of finding his family again. This story unfolds in two pieces: the first is told in the past tense, a kind of Storytime to raise the spirits of the young wards James and his cohort have taken in. Because it is a retelling, the reader learns how James became the leader of The Risers without fear for James’ life. However, the second part of the narrative takes place very much in the present tense, filled with tactical battle sequences to liberate the friends and family suffering in a nearby prison camp.
At once a story of survival, hope, and how one boy becomes a leader by striving to be better than his rivals, this is a compelling examination of what could happen in the aftermath of a widespread terror attack on the United States. The final sequence of the story is riveting, a detailed account of a tactical infiltration orchestrated by James and his companions. Similar to video games like Ghost Recon, in order to overcome a much greater, more highly trained force, James and The Risers must approach carefully to avoid capture or worse.
Written by a former Marine and combat veteran, this story encapsulates the realities of war from two distinct sides. Though there is limited character development outside of James himself, that is not really the focus of this story; rather, it is a tale that highlights the strengths of humans from all walks of life and what can happen when they work together. Middle grade readers with an interest in survival and teamwork will appreciate both the pacing of this story and its uplifting message.
Written for a middle-grade audience, this is a story about what happens to young James when he is left alone as his nation is attacked from within. The son of a former Marine, James has learned survival techniques that he must rely upon if he has any hope of finding his family again. This story unfolds in two pieces: the first is told in the past tense, a kind of Storytime to raise the spirits of the young wards James and his cohort have taken in. Because it is a retelling, the reader learns how James became the leader of The Risers without fear for James’ life. However, the second part of the narrative takes place very much in the present tense, filled with tactical battle sequences to liberate the friends and family suffering in a nearby prison camp.
At once a story of survival, hope, and how one boy becomes a leader by striving to be better than his rivals, this is a compelling examination of what could happen in the aftermath of a widespread terror attack on the United States. The final sequence of the story is riveting, a detailed account of a tactical infiltration orchestrated by James and his companions. Similar to video games like Ghost Recon, in order to overcome a much greater, more highly trained force, James and The Risers must approach carefully to avoid capture or worse.
Written by a former Marine and combat veteran, this story encapsulates the realities of war from two distinct sides. Though there is limited character development outside of James himself, that is not really the focus of this story; rather, it is a tale that highlights the strengths of humans from all walks of life and what can happen when they work together. Middle grade readers with an interest in survival and teamwork will appreciate both the pacing of this story and its uplifting message.
April 7, 2021
THERE WILL BE SOME SPOILERS UNDER THIS SECTION: i made a netgalley account the other day and saw this short novel there that u can just read without even requesting. it has 13 chapters plus epilogue, each chapter is short and told by james, this is a middle grade novel (i dont really read middle grade but i like survival,apocalyptic books and this was a short book so i decided to read it) it was easy and fast to read and follow, and i like james and his family and the kids. james is 13 if im not mistaken but he sounds older for his age, which is understandable by the fact that he had to grow up a bit fast during the war to survive and even before that he has strict parents (and his dad is a veteran,so he teaches james and emily survival stuff and scenarios and guns and hunting etc) it didnt bother me that james sounded older than he was. there were a few intense scenes in the book too and violent/killing/bloody scenes which is normal for this type of book since it deals with war and apocalypse/survival scenario.. but since its middle grade maybe if a kid reads this book its better if they have an adult reading with them. we also get to know why and how the war came to be and who are the terrorists.Overall i enjoyed this book and i would recommend it for people who like me like apocalypse/survival stories and are looking for somethin easy and fast to read. there will be SPOILERS UNDER THIS SECTION:
SPOILERS: james perpective alternating between present and past (he tells what happened to him on The day and after as a bed time story to the little kids he has saved and found). i like the alternating parts. and there was a walking dead reference which i liked too. it was sad when his dog keela dies protecting him from those men looting in his house, and when we find out that his mim died tryin to go back for him. i was relieved and happy that his sister emily and dan found him and then when we find his dad as one of the prisoners too, the epilogue makes it look like there could be a sequel.. when they release the prisoners in the camp and the conditions they lived in and the state they were in was a bit intense.. there were a few intense,sad and gruesome/bloody scenes (like when they are killin the terrorists and or terrorists killing them) or when keela dies etc..
SPOILERS: james perpective alternating between present and past (he tells what happened to him on The day and after as a bed time story to the little kids he has saved and found). i like the alternating parts. and there was a walking dead reference which i liked too. it was sad when his dog keela dies protecting him from those men looting in his house, and when we find out that his mim died tryin to go back for him. i was relieved and happy that his sister emily and dan found him and then when we find his dad as one of the prisoners too, the epilogue makes it look like there could be a sequel.. when they release the prisoners in the camp and the conditions they lived in and the state they were in was a bit intense.. there were a few intense,sad and gruesome/bloody scenes (like when they are killin the terrorists and or terrorists killing them) or when keela dies etc..
March 13, 2021
Book Review📚
SHELTERED
When A Boy Becomes A Legend
By: Jacob Paul Patchen @jacobpaulpatchen
My ratings: 4.8/5🌟
💥The story revolves around a 13 year old boy named James. He acts as if he's very strong and rough and tough, but on inside he's a sensible and quite generous.
💥James, "The Sheltered One", basically the leader of a little group of mini-soldiers. But, the truth is, they were just a bunch of camouflaged school kids, with dirty faces and dreary eyes.
James has also told about his parents.
💥His Dad was a former Marine Gunnery Sergeant. He did his twenty years in the infantry and then retired to the hills of eastern Ohio, a few miles down the road from where he grew up.
💥His Mom was beautiful and kind. She insisted that her bright blonde hair was "natural". Her sense of humor was rivaled by Dad's, which is probably why they made it as long as they did together. She had a huge heart and a thing for stray animals.
💥When James Dad left, life become difficult. A constant gray consumed the house. His Mom took it especially hard. He could hear her sobs through the walls at night. Yet, in the mornings, she tried to put on her happy face- covering up the tear masks on her cheeks with flour and sugar.
💥After sometime, the Emergency Broadcast System announced The Nuclear War. The terrorists of unknown origin launched a coordinated mass detonation of major infrastructure all over the eastern United States. An unknown number of nuclear power stations have been overrun, and an unknown amount of nuclear material has been seized by terrorists.
💥James life was full of ups and downs. Go and Grab your copies to find out where the story and his life headed, what impact The War bring on his life, how he tackled the situation. Did he fail or rise as a legend?
Riffle through this book and Unreveal all the mysteries...
💥The book cover and the title is apt to the storyline. The narration flows perfect. The writing style of the story is amazing and author has described the characters well.
Highly appreciable work by Sir @jacobpaulpatchen
Have fun🧚♀️
SHELTERED
When A Boy Becomes A Legend
By: Jacob Paul Patchen @jacobpaulpatchen
My ratings: 4.8/5🌟
💥The story revolves around a 13 year old boy named James. He acts as if he's very strong and rough and tough, but on inside he's a sensible and quite generous.
💥James, "The Sheltered One", basically the leader of a little group of mini-soldiers. But, the truth is, they were just a bunch of camouflaged school kids, with dirty faces and dreary eyes.
James has also told about his parents.
💥His Dad was a former Marine Gunnery Sergeant. He did his twenty years in the infantry and then retired to the hills of eastern Ohio, a few miles down the road from where he grew up.
💥His Mom was beautiful and kind. She insisted that her bright blonde hair was "natural". Her sense of humor was rivaled by Dad's, which is probably why they made it as long as they did together. She had a huge heart and a thing for stray animals.
💥When James Dad left, life become difficult. A constant gray consumed the house. His Mom took it especially hard. He could hear her sobs through the walls at night. Yet, in the mornings, she tried to put on her happy face- covering up the tear masks on her cheeks with flour and sugar.
💥After sometime, the Emergency Broadcast System announced The Nuclear War. The terrorists of unknown origin launched a coordinated mass detonation of major infrastructure all over the eastern United States. An unknown number of nuclear power stations have been overrun, and an unknown amount of nuclear material has been seized by terrorists.
💥James life was full of ups and downs. Go and Grab your copies to find out where the story and his life headed, what impact The War bring on his life, how he tackled the situation. Did he fail or rise as a legend?
Riffle through this book and Unreveal all the mysteries...
💥The book cover and the title is apt to the storyline. The narration flows perfect. The writing style of the story is amazing and author has described the characters well.
Highly appreciable work by Sir @jacobpaulpatchen
Have fun🧚♀️
March 28, 2021
"Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend" written by the author Jacob Paul Patchen is an action-packed dystopian thriller. Protagonist of the story is a 13 years old boy James. He is a leader of a group Risers that protects kids. According to Risers, due to the hate and cruelty of the adults, the war took place. The motive of the Risers is to bring their nation back together as one.
James' father walked out on his family two years ago. Sometimes he love his father whereas other times he hate it. One day he heard the Emergency Broadcast System saying that "an enemy attack is being launched against the United States. Take shelter immediately". It took him some time to realize that US is under attack.
James has survived to live to this day and he is telling story of the Day to the group. Grab a copy of this novel and find out how Risers will stay safe. Story is unique and captivating. Cover photo of the book is designed nicely showing a torn flag of a war torn country. Language of the book is lucid and pace is fine. I enjoyed reading this story that is full of action.
James' father walked out on his family two years ago. Sometimes he love his father whereas other times he hate it. One day he heard the Emergency Broadcast System saying that "an enemy attack is being launched against the United States. Take shelter immediately". It took him some time to realize that US is under attack.
James has survived to live to this day and he is telling story of the Day to the group. Grab a copy of this novel and find out how Risers will stay safe. Story is unique and captivating. Cover photo of the book is designed nicely showing a torn flag of a war torn country. Language of the book is lucid and pace is fine. I enjoyed reading this story that is full of action.
February 26, 2021
Sheltered has our main character, James, telling the story to other “risers” of what brought him here. The story was unique in that way. “We were all just victims of circumstance-lost souls in a lost world.” Kids who have survived and come through the worse are trying to make it through each day. The world has changed, and no one is safe right now.
If there was anything I didn’t like, it was that the dog dies. I am not a fan of trigger warnings at all, but some readers are incredibly sensitive to that, and I just don’t care for that happening in books, especially when you're not prepared for it. But I’m a huge fan of prepper books, especially ones where the prepping proves fruitful. James is a very real character, and he gets by the best way he can. Overall, this an enjoyable story with a lot to like.
If there was anything I didn’t like, it was that the dog dies. I am not a fan of trigger warnings at all, but some readers are incredibly sensitive to that, and I just don’t care for that happening in books, especially when you're not prepared for it. But I’m a huge fan of prepper books, especially ones where the prepping proves fruitful. James is a very real character, and he gets by the best way he can. Overall, this an enjoyable story with a lot to like.
February 8, 2021
Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen is the story that rallies your spirit and lifts your soul as the children left to defend our great country, step forward to fight. James is just twelve, but he has the makings of a leader as he tells his story to the orphans he oversees. His older sister, Emily, encourages him when he is doubtful and scared. There comes a point where their scrimmages are not enough. James has to put what his dad had taught him to a greater test, or die trying. The children and remnant adults still live have been smoldering in the ashes, with just a breath of faith and courage James ignites the flame of resistance that is felt across the oceans. James has found it is hard to win battles without behaving in the same evil that has destroyed his country; can he and the other Risers do it?
I have found Jacob Paul Patchen a gifted author. Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend starts out with James telling his story of The Day when America fell to an unknown enemy. James’ story is fascinating, but the plot quickly divides up as we hear about his survival alone and what it took for him to endure the hardships, then as a leader of a bunch of orphans. The author places you right along with James’ followers and you feel the love for your nation and the pride in becoming a legend that so few young folks would understand. This well-written novel has the suspense and action of a thriller, yet it leaves you hopeful when our children are put to the test.
Written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
I have found Jacob Paul Patchen a gifted author. Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend starts out with James telling his story of The Day when America fell to an unknown enemy. James’ story is fascinating, but the plot quickly divides up as we hear about his survival alone and what it took for him to endure the hardships, then as a leader of a bunch of orphans. The author places you right along with James’ followers and you feel the love for your nation and the pride in becoming a legend that so few young folks would understand. This well-written novel has the suspense and action of a thriller, yet it leaves you hopeful when our children are put to the test.
Written by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite.
March 5, 2021
Great adventure story that highlights courage in the face of disaster. Patchen's characters are realistic and his descriptions are incredible. The book is fast-paced and engaging, and I imagine it will ignite the imaginations of many a middle-grade kid.
April 18, 2021
Great read!
Being from Guernsey County, Ohio, this book is a great read to see a child step up and keep faith that humanity can be saved and stay alive in a world that has fallen to evil!
Being from Guernsey County, Ohio, this book is a great read to see a child step up and keep faith that humanity can be saved and stay alive in a world that has fallen to evil!
March 8, 2021
Reviewed from an ARC from NetGalley. I am always on the hunt for good MG dystopian fiction. It's a category that this age group is ready for, but little exists to satisfy their thirst. Sheltered premise sounded promising, but that is where my praise for this title ends.
This is mis-categorized as middle grade. The author notes that America's "enemies" have infiltrated the country from the inside, naming several countries by name, while providing no details about the source of the actual conflict. This creates the potential for MG readers to draw incorrect conclusions that these countries and their people are "bad." The author spends little to no time drawing a clear enough line between fiction and reality.
As far as the setting, there is no background given for the conflict other than several references to America's enemies and Americans themselves destroying the country from the inside. Part of the draw of any good dystopian story is a well-executed premise that distances itself from reality just enough to present as fiction while drawing on the realities of our world. It is not clear that creating such a world was ever attempted. There is little to no backstory, and I found my self asking "why is this happening" for the first half of the novel.
I am pretty liberal with what I will recommend to MG readers where content is concerned. The author continuously makes references inappropriate for this age group. A reference to sex, as well as multiple near-curses that read worse than if the author would have used a milder swear word.
The violence in the story is expected, given the context, but the author is also careless with its use in the story. In one chapter, the main character describes the extensive training his father gave him to help him survive, including firearms. However in another chapter, when James seeks safety in the family's fallout shelter, he quiet literally plays with bus as if they were toys. A boy who has been properly trained to operate a firearm would never do this, and it is a problematic scene in which to engage young readers.
James, the 12 year-old narrator, speaks as though he is an experienced soldier who has seen multiple tours of duty rather than a child who is learning to adapt to the changing world around him. He frequently gives inspirational speeches read like campy hoorah rants from a made-for-TV movie. In one scene. he pleads with his father to seek justice rather than vengeance, and in the next, he literally calls for spilling the blood of the enemy.
There are some lighthearted, and even funny, moments, but the tonal shifts are so drastic that they are ineffective.
The author is a veteran and I am grateful for his service to our country, but I would not recommend this title for middle grade libraries, classrooms, or readers.
This is mis-categorized as middle grade. The author notes that America's "enemies" have infiltrated the country from the inside, naming several countries by name, while providing no details about the source of the actual conflict. This creates the potential for MG readers to draw incorrect conclusions that these countries and their people are "bad." The author spends little to no time drawing a clear enough line between fiction and reality.
As far as the setting, there is no background given for the conflict other than several references to America's enemies and Americans themselves destroying the country from the inside. Part of the draw of any good dystopian story is a well-executed premise that distances itself from reality just enough to present as fiction while drawing on the realities of our world. It is not clear that creating such a world was ever attempted. There is little to no backstory, and I found my self asking "why is this happening" for the first half of the novel.
I am pretty liberal with what I will recommend to MG readers where content is concerned. The author continuously makes references inappropriate for this age group. A reference to sex, as well as multiple near-curses that read worse than if the author would have used a milder swear word.
The violence in the story is expected, given the context, but the author is also careless with its use in the story. In one chapter, the main character describes the extensive training his father gave him to help him survive, including firearms. However in another chapter, when James seeks safety in the family's fallout shelter, he quiet literally plays with bus as if they were toys. A boy who has been properly trained to operate a firearm would never do this, and it is a problematic scene in which to engage young readers.
James, the 12 year-old narrator, speaks as though he is an experienced soldier who has seen multiple tours of duty rather than a child who is learning to adapt to the changing world around him. He frequently gives inspirational speeches read like campy hoorah rants from a made-for-TV movie. In one scene. he pleads with his father to seek justice rather than vengeance, and in the next, he literally calls for spilling the blood of the enemy.
There are some lighthearted, and even funny, moments, but the tonal shifts are so drastic that they are ineffective.
The author is a veteran and I am grateful for his service to our country, but I would not recommend this title for middle grade libraries, classrooms, or readers.
January 28, 2022
2021 Best Indie Book Award Winner!
March 20, 2021
Great read! Captured my interest right away, and kept me engaged throughout the entire book. Great reminder we all have times in life where we are forced to choose between evil and good.
Note: I was given this as a free ebook in exchange for a honest review.
Note: I was given this as a free ebook in exchange for a honest review.
July 1, 2021
Jacob Graham's Sheltered takes on daunting subjects of grief and loss, self-identify, finding purpose, and the struggle to develop a sense of right and wrong against the backdrop of a country at war. He approaches these difficult subjects with a wit and honest grit that many middle school and YA adult readers will find refreshingly honest.
The story is told in flashback storytelling format through the eyes of James, the protagonist. He recounts the tense tale of a dystopian United States overrun by a terrorist organization. This has forced the survivors, mainly children, into hiding. James recounts the early days of the attacks which left him alone, hiding out in his bunker, and then meeting other young survivors who form a team of resistance fighters known as The Risers.
In Sheltered Jacob holds nothing back. It is gritty, horrifying, and refreshingly raw.
The story is told in flashback storytelling format through the eyes of James, the protagonist. He recounts the tense tale of a dystopian United States overrun by a terrorist organization. This has forced the survivors, mainly children, into hiding. James recounts the early days of the attacks which left him alone, hiding out in his bunker, and then meeting other young survivors who form a team of resistance fighters known as The Risers.
In Sheltered Jacob holds nothing back. It is gritty, horrifying, and refreshingly raw.
May 24, 2021
Thanks to the publisher for an e-ARC of this novel.
Reminiscent of Gregg Hurwitz's novel, The Rains, Sheltered follows a group of kids and teens who are trying to survive in the midst of a war like no other. I think this will be a popular YA title. It moved quickly, demonstrated empowered young adults, and had a lot of action.
Reminiscent of Gregg Hurwitz's novel, The Rains, Sheltered follows a group of kids and teens who are trying to survive in the midst of a war like no other. I think this will be a popular YA title. It moved quickly, demonstrated empowered young adults, and had a lot of action.
Read
June 20, 2021MWSA Review
James, a young teenager, finds himself alone in the world during a national insurrection led by home-grown anti-freedom terrorists and their juvenile ignorant recruits. James survives in a bunker built and stocked by his father, a former Marine. During many months of living off rations and hunting, James recalls all the lessons his father taught him. When insurgents come to sack his family home, he defends it and is forced to use his firearms. Eventually, he becomes a leader of a ragtag group of hurt and frightened children who call themselves The Risers. Their goal is to rise up, take back their country, and restore the freedoms they once enjoyed.
During his fight with the terrorists, James learns his sister has survived, as well as his father, who he thought had deserted the family. But Dad had been fighting the internal enemy in secret.
As the story comes to a climax, James defends the shattered school he and the other Risers call home, and together, they set out on a tactical plan to free prisoners (freedom-loving Americans who appreciate American beliefs and values) held in concentration camps by the internal enemy. In the process, he learns much about himself and even more about his father.
Ultimately, it is James who becomes the legend as he refuses to stoop to barbarism. He recognizes the trauma that years of being a warrior have inflicted on his father, and it is his father who recognizes his son’s innate leadership skills. James had been a sheltered child, but he now shelters other children and nurtures his beliefs during a time of crisis. In this timely tale of national turmoil, he evolves from a child caring about waging fake battles with Nerf ball guns to a reluctant defender of freedom using real bullets and armament.
As a cautionary tale that reflects the current state of tyranny at play in the United States, this dystopian novel is not just for teenagers or young adults. Nor is it only for male members of society. Women also play important warrior roles in taking back their country. Anyone who loves our country will appreciate what could happen, if we let it, and author Jacob Paul Patchen pretty much lets us see what that would be like.
Review by Patricia Walkow (June 2021)
James, a young teenager, finds himself alone in the world during a national insurrection led by home-grown anti-freedom terrorists and their juvenile ignorant recruits. James survives in a bunker built and stocked by his father, a former Marine. During many months of living off rations and hunting, James recalls all the lessons his father taught him. When insurgents come to sack his family home, he defends it and is forced to use his firearms. Eventually, he becomes a leader of a ragtag group of hurt and frightened children who call themselves The Risers. Their goal is to rise up, take back their country, and restore the freedoms they once enjoyed.
During his fight with the terrorists, James learns his sister has survived, as well as his father, who he thought had deserted the family. But Dad had been fighting the internal enemy in secret.
As the story comes to a climax, James defends the shattered school he and the other Risers call home, and together, they set out on a tactical plan to free prisoners (freedom-loving Americans who appreciate American beliefs and values) held in concentration camps by the internal enemy. In the process, he learns much about himself and even more about his father.
Ultimately, it is James who becomes the legend as he refuses to stoop to barbarism. He recognizes the trauma that years of being a warrior have inflicted on his father, and it is his father who recognizes his son’s innate leadership skills. James had been a sheltered child, but he now shelters other children and nurtures his beliefs during a time of crisis. In this timely tale of national turmoil, he evolves from a child caring about waging fake battles with Nerf ball guns to a reluctant defender of freedom using real bullets and armament.
As a cautionary tale that reflects the current state of tyranny at play in the United States, this dystopian novel is not just for teenagers or young adults. Nor is it only for male members of society. Women also play important warrior roles in taking back their country. Anyone who loves our country will appreciate what could happen, if we let it, and author Jacob Paul Patchen pretty much lets us see what that would be like.
Review by Patricia Walkow (June 2021)
December 23, 2021
The Most Uplifting Apocalyptic Tale Imaginable
As apocalyptic tales go, Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen manages to be tremendously upbeat and inspiring. Much of that has to do with James, the wonderfully engaging first-person narrator/protagonist. As with the elementary school children and teenagers who are part of his ragtag force, the reader learns quickly of James’s skill for gripping an audience: he is alternately amusing, then heartbreakingly sad.
Through James’ narrative voice, Patchen’s writing has a pulsing, rhythmic charge to it: “It was now what the night represented. A once beautiful and enchanting hour for the adventurers and youth, an electric and passionate time for young lovers after the setting of a summer sun, the mystery and curiosity in a young boy’s heart of what moves beyond the shadows past the breezing trees—was now tainted, torn, and tarnished. Our magical evening bliss had been turned into a nightmare, a horror story, a hellish mire infested with snakes and poison.”
The story-time meetings with the children carry the reader through two-thirds of the novel as James unfolds a tale marked by his time in the bunker, his encounters with scroungers, and his memorable experience hunting deer with bow and arrow. While much of what is revealed is stark and powerful – particularly the account given by his sister Emily and her boyfriend Dan – Patchen imbues this novel with so much kindness and humanity that the narrative possesses a disarming buoyancy.
While James possesses great tactical ability, his moral gravity in a horribly chaotic environment is what truly makes the novel compelling. As James explained, “We’re the ones that nobody counted on—the ones that weren’t supposed to make it this far.” Indeed, the thrilling final third of Sheltered will take the action, the stakes, and the character growth to new heights. That last section is filled with surprises and is marked by an abiding sense of purpose that the reader ultimately adopts as his own.
As James will say near the novel’s end, “We rise above it all, because we have to …Look, we have a space to fill.” Indeed, they do, and in a space that the readers delights in sharing with these inspiring characters.
As apocalyptic tales go, Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen manages to be tremendously upbeat and inspiring. Much of that has to do with James, the wonderfully engaging first-person narrator/protagonist. As with the elementary school children and teenagers who are part of his ragtag force, the reader learns quickly of James’s skill for gripping an audience: he is alternately amusing, then heartbreakingly sad.
Through James’ narrative voice, Patchen’s writing has a pulsing, rhythmic charge to it: “It was now what the night represented. A once beautiful and enchanting hour for the adventurers and youth, an electric and passionate time for young lovers after the setting of a summer sun, the mystery and curiosity in a young boy’s heart of what moves beyond the shadows past the breezing trees—was now tainted, torn, and tarnished. Our magical evening bliss had been turned into a nightmare, a horror story, a hellish mire infested with snakes and poison.”
The story-time meetings with the children carry the reader through two-thirds of the novel as James unfolds a tale marked by his time in the bunker, his encounters with scroungers, and his memorable experience hunting deer with bow and arrow. While much of what is revealed is stark and powerful – particularly the account given by his sister Emily and her boyfriend Dan – Patchen imbues this novel with so much kindness and humanity that the narrative possesses a disarming buoyancy.
While James possesses great tactical ability, his moral gravity in a horribly chaotic environment is what truly makes the novel compelling. As James explained, “We’re the ones that nobody counted on—the ones that weren’t supposed to make it this far.” Indeed, the thrilling final third of Sheltered will take the action, the stakes, and the character growth to new heights. That last section is filled with surprises and is marked by an abiding sense of purpose that the reader ultimately adopts as his own.
As James will say near the novel’s end, “We rise above it all, because we have to …Look, we have a space to fill.” Indeed, they do, and in a space that the readers delights in sharing with these inspiring characters.
October 26, 2021
Disclosure: Got this ebook for free as part of a early reviewers program. While I got this book for free I'm giving my honest opinion of it. Jacob Paul Patchen (the author) nor TouchPoint Press (the publisher) nor the company putting on the early reviewers program have any say in this review at all, and they didn't get a copy of this review before it went live.
This is a good book, which I could see a series or a movie from. The author provides enough detail allowing you to visually see the story. There are some points in the book that seemed to jump around, like they went from one place to another, but the author didn't say the journey took place.
There are a couple of small spelling and grammar errors in the book (like tied instead of tried).
If I could, I would have read the book in one seating. It's that good.
The pdf I got from the publisher however, the text size was very small. So small that I had to zoom in to least 140% to comfortably read the text. I did convert it to epub for easier reading on my ereader. I'm not sure if this was just a problem on my copy, but I hope it isn't a problem on copies that can be bought.
I have so many favourite quotes that I could probably fill this entire review with quotes, but I won't.
"We never saw it coming, because we were so comfortable looking the other way."
"Another useless piece of technology when things go dark"
"There’s no shame in feeling, son"
"Isn’t that how it all seems to work anymore? Isn’t that what Mom said politics has become? ‘Old white guys with money buying loyalties and moving pawns like a chessboard"
“Well, are you gonna just sit there and look stupid, or are you gonna shake my hand?”
This is a good book, which I could see a series or a movie from. The author provides enough detail allowing you to visually see the story. There are some points in the book that seemed to jump around, like they went from one place to another, but the author didn't say the journey took place.
There are a couple of small spelling and grammar errors in the book (like tied instead of tried).
If I could, I would have read the book in one seating. It's that good.
The pdf I got from the publisher however, the text size was very small. So small that I had to zoom in to least 140% to comfortably read the text. I did convert it to epub for easier reading on my ereader. I'm not sure if this was just a problem on my copy, but I hope it isn't a problem on copies that can be bought.
I have so many favourite quotes that I could probably fill this entire review with quotes, but I won't.
"We never saw it coming, because we were so comfortable looking the other way."
"Another useless piece of technology when things go dark"
"There’s no shame in feeling, son"
"Isn’t that how it all seems to work anymore? Isn’t that what Mom said politics has become? ‘Old white guys with money buying loyalties and moving pawns like a chessboard"
“Well, are you gonna just sit there and look stupid, or are you gonna shake my hand?”
August 26, 2022
When I was a wee bit younger, I recall watching a two-day miniseries event call "The Day After." Many of you may remember the furor caused by the teleplay, but what I recall most was the feeling I got after watching it when I wondered if my twelve-year-old self could handle such an attack.
Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen brought me back to those days. It helped that the protagonist was a twelve-year-old boy himself who was thrust into "Red Dawn" situation. The plot is relatively straightforward in this short YA dystopian book: America is attacked and the children form a group called "The Risers" to both survive and fight back.
Patchen does a great job putting me in the mindset of a twelve-year-old, to include language, specific points of view, and the emotions felt when his father walked out on the family. The boy is tough but sensitive, and I can see that a great deal of effort was put into his character development. Unfortunately, I was not engaged as much with the older sister or some of the side characters. Nevertheless, the writing and POV of James brought me back to those days wondering what if.
I would recommend this book to the target audience: YA readers in the range of 12 to 15, but I would also say those who are old enough to remember the fear we all felt in our childhood growing up under the threat of war might find this book pulling on a few strings. That's what makes a book good, and Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen is a good example of how to pull that off.
Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen brought me back to those days. It helped that the protagonist was a twelve-year-old boy himself who was thrust into "Red Dawn" situation. The plot is relatively straightforward in this short YA dystopian book: America is attacked and the children form a group called "The Risers" to both survive and fight back.
Patchen does a great job putting me in the mindset of a twelve-year-old, to include language, specific points of view, and the emotions felt when his father walked out on the family. The boy is tough but sensitive, and I can see that a great deal of effort was put into his character development. Unfortunately, I was not engaged as much with the older sister or some of the side characters. Nevertheless, the writing and POV of James brought me back to those days wondering what if.
I would recommend this book to the target audience: YA readers in the range of 12 to 15, but I would also say those who are old enough to remember the fear we all felt in our childhood growing up under the threat of war might find this book pulling on a few strings. That's what makes a book good, and Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen is a good example of how to pull that off.
May 12, 2022
An original story
What a remarkable story in Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen. I am a definite fan of this author! A very passionate and strong read. I enjoyed this story, as it had many plot layers, and the characters were dynamic, and had a lot of depth. Many had backstories that showed how they ended up where they are now. In just reading the first chapter, there is a line that stood out, and it almost defined the story, and how important life was to these orphans. "And for me, for us, our duty was to protect the innocent and to bring our nation back together as one, united by the damage from the hate and the cruelty of adults. ‘There’s a bond in misery, a brotherhood that comes from suffering together,’ my father used to say." It's a powerful read, and it shows, not tells, of this dystopian life, and what is needed to survive this war. James is a character who was almost forced to lead and take care of others, but he had that spirit, that innate power within him, even with his own demons, to take care of the orphans who relied on him. It all started when the missiles were aimed toward the United States. James had courage he didn't know he had. It is always an honor to read this author's books. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind! I hope to read more books by this author. Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
What a remarkable story in Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend by Jacob Paul Patchen. I am a definite fan of this author! A very passionate and strong read. I enjoyed this story, as it had many plot layers, and the characters were dynamic, and had a lot of depth. Many had backstories that showed how they ended up where they are now. In just reading the first chapter, there is a line that stood out, and it almost defined the story, and how important life was to these orphans. "And for me, for us, our duty was to protect the innocent and to bring our nation back together as one, united by the damage from the hate and the cruelty of adults. ‘There’s a bond in misery, a brotherhood that comes from suffering together,’ my father used to say." It's a powerful read, and it shows, not tells, of this dystopian life, and what is needed to survive this war. James is a character who was almost forced to lead and take care of others, but he had that spirit, that innate power within him, even with his own demons, to take care of the orphans who relied on him. It all started when the missiles were aimed toward the United States. James had courage he didn't know he had. It is always an honor to read this author's books. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind! I hope to read more books by this author. Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
May 15, 2021
Jacob Graham, writing as Jacob Paul Patchen, is an Ohio writer who earns his inspiration through experience. He's a wit and grit writer of the daunting subjects of good vs evil, virtue, wisdom, and war. Patchen is the author of several books in various genres, an award-winning poet, and combat veteran.
Sheltered is a dystopian novel set in an alternate US which has been overrun by a terrorist organization, forcing the survivors, especially children, to run and hide for their lives. One survivor, James, recounts the early days of the attacks which left him alone, hiding out in his bunker, before forming a team of young resistance fighters known as The Risers.
Sheltered is not your average middle grade story. It's gritty, horrifying, and holds nothing back. The flashback storytelling format helps to tell a tense tale of survival, and its protagonist, James, is a born leader with a strong moral compass that readers can look up to.
Grab a copy of this novel and find out how Risers will stay safe. Story is unique and captivating. Cover photo of the book is designed nicely showing a torn flag of a war torn country. Language of the book is lucid and pace is fine. I enjoyed reading this story that is full of action. I would recommend this book for young adult readers. It was a page turner from beginning to end.
Sheltered is a dystopian novel set in an alternate US which has been overrun by a terrorist organization, forcing the survivors, especially children, to run and hide for their lives. One survivor, James, recounts the early days of the attacks which left him alone, hiding out in his bunker, before forming a team of young resistance fighters known as The Risers.
Sheltered is not your average middle grade story. It's gritty, horrifying, and holds nothing back. The flashback storytelling format helps to tell a tense tale of survival, and its protagonist, James, is a born leader with a strong moral compass that readers can look up to.
Grab a copy of this novel and find out how Risers will stay safe. Story is unique and captivating. Cover photo of the book is designed nicely showing a torn flag of a war torn country. Language of the book is lucid and pace is fine. I enjoyed reading this story that is full of action. I would recommend this book for young adult readers. It was a page turner from beginning to end.
January 28, 2022
Overall, this is a solid book. After the first chapter I looked at Patchen’s bio because it read in many ways like literary fiction, especially the sentence structures and the types of descriptions. (He did, in fact, study creative writing). As such, this is a book you may enjoy the craft of, more than a plot-driven story that sucks you in. I didn’t mind the before/after structure (clearly, since I’ve used it as a writer…) but I felt that the plot relied on it too much for the tension. As such, I was left wanting more, perhaps from knowing the kid militia’s goals/conflict earlier on.
I think the themes are really important- trauma and coming-of-age, the delineation between civilians and military, parentification of youth, and more. They’re also not often explored in young adult literature.
There were definitely some elements that were too grotesque. While I appreciate the context of war and loss-of-innocence, certain things didn’t need to occur, like dogs dying on-page.
Overall, Patchen is clearly gifted with a unique voice who writes about important themes.
I think the themes are really important- trauma and coming-of-age, the delineation between civilians and military, parentification of youth, and more. They’re also not often explored in young adult literature.
There were definitely some elements that were too grotesque. While I appreciate the context of war and loss-of-innocence, certain things didn’t need to occur, like dogs dying on-page.
Overall, Patchen is clearly gifted with a unique voice who writes about important themes.
March 29, 2021
This book is a middlegrade novel, however I would say it leans a little more towards YA for the depth of emotion as well as the graphic description of war that the kids have to view as well as participate in. When you wake up in the morning to an alarm, you have no idea whatsoever that it will change your entire life! James is surviving day to day, upset that his father left, angry at his mom for her strict rules, and wondering why in they world his father made a bunker in the back yard for the family...just in case. But just in case of what?? On this fateful morning, James finds out what the 'just in case' will be. The destruction that has come upon his home is severe, and James has to figure out how to survive. In his survival mode, he finds others kids who are trying to learn to survive in their new world as well. Can James be the leader that he knows his dad would expect him to be?
*I received this book as an arc from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
*I received this book as an arc from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
April 21, 2022
I wasn't too sure how I would like this book when I first started it... Yes I may be a little judgmental at fist until I dug in... This book made a complete fool of my thoughts... This book is very enjoyable! Well written and amazing characters! One for the recommendation list!
March 28, 2021
Review held pending Maxy Award
August 4, 2021
Full review available at https://talesfromabsurdia.com/book-reviews/sheltered-when-a-boy-becomes-a-legend-review/
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Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend is a strange book. Not bad, nor particularly great.
It’s a coming-of-age novel(la) framed through the prism of an invasion of the United States. Sinister forces, including those from within, enable a country-wide shutdown, with only the major cities protected. This leaves James, his sister, and a handful of younger kids to protect their town.
It’s a potentially interesting idea, if a little cliché.
But there is a major issue with the book – much of the content isn’t suitable for its supposed target audience.
Bearing in mind, this is aimed at middle-grade kids, a dog is shot – its spasms of death detailed as the shooter proceeds to kick it repeatedly and rape is referenced on at least two occasions.
Which raises the question – who is Sheltered really for?
I’m not sure.
It falls into a problematic limbo where it’s too simplistic a read for the YA audience and too violent for the younger demographic. The subject matter is incredibly serious, so the reader expects a serious examination of the invasion. Why did it happen? What are the actual motives of these invaders? Are there any moral quandaries the characters face?
Sheltered offers little detail – bar graphic detail – which leaves the reader confused. Is this a middle-grade novel? Certainly not. Is it a YA novel? Not really, no. Is it for adult readers? No.
Sheltered is not without its merits, however.
There is a clear passion in the writing. Jacob Paul Patchen writes with genuine heart and honesty. The novel's focus on family and comradeship is touching, and there’s an authenticity to James and his father’s relationship.
But this unfortunately isn't enough. The plot is vague, the characters a little one-dimensional, and the novel's tone is way off of the audience it's written for.
With these factors in mind, I cannot in good faith recommend Sheltered.
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Sheltered: When a Boy Becomes a Legend is a strange book. Not bad, nor particularly great.
It’s a coming-of-age novel(la) framed through the prism of an invasion of the United States. Sinister forces, including those from within, enable a country-wide shutdown, with only the major cities protected. This leaves James, his sister, and a handful of younger kids to protect their town.
It’s a potentially interesting idea, if a little cliché.
But there is a major issue with the book – much of the content isn’t suitable for its supposed target audience.
Bearing in mind, this is aimed at middle-grade kids, a dog is shot – its spasms of death detailed as the shooter proceeds to kick it repeatedly and rape is referenced on at least two occasions.
Which raises the question – who is Sheltered really for?
I’m not sure.
It falls into a problematic limbo where it’s too simplistic a read for the YA audience and too violent for the younger demographic. The subject matter is incredibly serious, so the reader expects a serious examination of the invasion. Why did it happen? What are the actual motives of these invaders? Are there any moral quandaries the characters face?
Sheltered offers little detail – bar graphic detail – which leaves the reader confused. Is this a middle-grade novel? Certainly not. Is it a YA novel? Not really, no. Is it for adult readers? No.
Sheltered is not without its merits, however.
There is a clear passion in the writing. Jacob Paul Patchen writes with genuine heart and honesty. The novel's focus on family and comradeship is touching, and there’s an authenticity to James and his father’s relationship.
But this unfortunately isn't enough. The plot is vague, the characters a little one-dimensional, and the novel's tone is way off of the audience it's written for.
With these factors in mind, I cannot in good faith recommend Sheltered.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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