Author G.P. Taylor may be familiar to you. The motorcycle-riding Anglican minister is the author of several novels, the first of which was Shadowmancer, which reached #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list in 2004.
The Doppleganger Chronicles stars Erik Morrissey Ganger, and twins Sadie and Saskia Dopple, all residents of the Isambard Dunstan's School for Wayward Children. The Dopples and Ganger solved a mystery in book one, and a new and dangerous one has been revealed via a secret tunnel under the school, as they encounter thieves and killers in their search for the former school matron.
No less than three artists contributed to the illustrations in the book. There is seldom a page without some kind of picture. It takes a little while to get over the transitions between the "novel" pages and the "graphic novel" sections, but for kids who seldom gravitate toward books, this should hold their interest.
It's difficult to find books that boys enjoy, but main character Erik is likable and full of self-doubts. Saskia and Sadie are mischievous and plucky, always finding ways to get into trouble. My own boys enjoyed the book, and even my daughter devoured it (although she's above the middle grade age).
For more about G.P. Taylor, check out his official website, the Doppleganger Chronicles website (where you can watch the short book trailer), and his page where you can download the first chapter.
Note: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
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ReplyDeleteI have one of those reluctant readers in mi casa. The book sounds great, it would be for my 9 year old girl who's as smart as a whip, but still loves pictures and is "sooooo not into princess stuff anymore." Thanks for the review, I think we may go pick it up.
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I think it will be right up her alley. Anything to get them reading!
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