What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that there is a lot of rather extreme
violence referred to, though not graphically described, and
many deaths by beheadings, throat stabbing, disembowelment,
sword, knife, gun, arrow, and explosion. In addition, names of
fast food restaurants, sodas, cars, and clothing labels
mentioned.
Families who read this book could discuss the dilemma of a kid who accidentally endangers others, and what responsibility he bears. What would you have done in the hero's situation? Why does he think so little of himself, and does that actually help him? Also families may be interested in reading up on the Arthurian legend.
Common Sense Media Review
There's been an interesting trend in kid's books in the last
few years towards stories that are the literary equivalent of
The Terminator movies -- well-made, cinematic, edgy,
violent, action / adventure / thrillers that are just pure,
ridiculous fun.
This book is one of those. Though well-written (the hallmark of this new breed, as opposed to the garbage that was being foisted on reluctant kid readers just a decade ago), it doesn't withstand literary, or even logical, scrutiny. But it doesn't matter because the story carries the reader along so rapidly, and with so much satisfaction and pleasure, that harping on its flaws seems positively curmudgeonly.
This ain't made for English class: it's made to remind young teen boys how much fun reading can be -- and it does so admirably.
From its terrific opening hook (see Quote From the Book below) to its obviously-this-is-going-to-be-a-series ending this has what many young readers are looking for: a mystery, a bit of fantasy, humor, nonstop action, violence edgy enough to be cool and bug your parents, a nice array of weapons, cars, and planes, and, of course, a likable orphaned loser for the protagonist.
Only at the climax does the author lose focus for an instant, making the resolution a bit fuzzy. Otherwise this is high-quality escapism -- let's hope more is on the way.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
