The 13 Clocks by James Thurber

[Diane]

The 13 Clocks by James Thurber
3/5 stars

I chose this book for a buddy read for my son and I this summer. The book was much more adult-like than I had expected. The plot was simple but the language is what makes this book unique. The characters have unusual names like Xingu, Zorn, and Golux. The author also likes to use made up names such as zatch and guggle. It is not a traditional story in that poems are used throughout. My son commented that you had to “pay careful attention” while reading this story. I enjoyed reading this entertaining story but it will not be made a classic in our house. I think the book belongs on the list due to its unique story telling style.

[Patrick]

****

No ordinary tale these 13 Clocks;
True, it has a princess and a dark Duke,
A prince faking minstrel – but a Golux?
Whether the ending is fair or a fluke,
Or its sical pages are full of whim;
Whether words are woven in void reverse
Or the plot’s cracks contain plenty of gim;
Read it yourself! – pardon my paltry verse.

[Kristel]

I read this in 2010. I loved the cover art from the hardback version. I borrowed it from the library but would love to own the hardback edition. A dark fantasy tale considered to be children's lit. Author known for word play.