The Book of the King

The Wormling #1

by Jerry B. Jenkins, Chris Fabry

“Nothing special” is the best way to describe Owen Reeder—at least that's what he's been told all his life. When a stranger visits his father's bookstore, Owen's ordinary life spirals out of control and right into a world he didn't even know existed. Owen believes the only gift he possesses is his ability to devour books, but he is about to be forced into a battle that will affect two his and the unknown world of the Lowlands. Perfect for readers ages 10 to 14 who enjoy a fast-paced story packed with action, fantasy, and humor.

Genres: Fantasy, Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Childrens

Paperback

First published February 1, 2003

About the author

Jerry Bruce Jenkins is an American novelist and biographer. He is best known as the writer of the Left Behind series of books for Tim LaHaye and The Chosen novels to accompany his son Dallas's TV series. Jenkins has written more than 200 books, including mysteries, historical fiction, biblical fiction, cop thrillers, international spy thrillers, and children's adventures, as well as nonfiction. His works usually feature Christians as protagonists. In 2005, Jenkins and LaHaye ranked 9th in Amazon.com's 10th Anniversary list of Hall of Fame authors based on books sold at Amazon.com during its first 10 years. Jenkins now teaches writers to become authors here at his website. He and his wife Dianna have three sons and eight grandchildren.

Reviews

[Morgan *~devourer of words~* · Rating 2 out of 5]

If The Book of the King hadn't been written in a strange mix of second and third person, I might have enjoyed it more. As it stands, though, the constant breaks in the narrative for the narrator to speak directly to the reader, or worse, tell the reader what they should be thinking, were just obnoxious.

You're not supposed to tell the reader what they should be thinking, or feeling, in a second person narrative. All the narrator accomplished by telling me that I would love Owen was to make me go out of my way to not like Owen.

The book also constantly reminds you that it's Christian fantasy, stopping just short of beating you over the head with the fact. There's an entire passage where the narrator stops the story - seriously, freezes the current scene playing out - just to bring up the story of Jesus and the blind man. Just in case you forgot that you were reading a CHRISTIAN fantasy story.

Christian fantasy can be done well. This book just didn't manage to pull it off.

I'm still trying to figure out what the scene with Rollie (the music kid at school) was all about. He was never mentioned before that scene, or again afterwards. He just showed up out of nowhere, with no introduction, and then vanished back into the great Character Void. What was the point, Rollie???

There was also a scene near the beginning of the book, the introduction to the Dragon's servant, that just left a bad taste in my mouth. That could have been me just reading too much into the description of a villain, but it was deeply unsettling that I was able to read it, and think, "This sounds like [insert offensive stereotype here]".

Otherwise, this is a decent kid's book. It just didn't really work for me.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

I happened upon this book while looking for another series for my 8 year old who loved the Percy Jackson series. Our wonderful librarian looked to see what would be recommended and found this series by Jerry B Jenkins. Being a fantasy lover myself, the synopsis intrigued me so when my son wasn't very interested in this book I decided to read it myself. It's actually a fine representative of the juvenile fantasy genre, but it just didn't work for me. When trying to analyze precisely why it didn't work, I've decided that it was the point of view. The author wrote this with a third person omniscient viewpoint but he included many, many asides to the reader. For whatever reason, that was a put off for me. I felt like it stole a lot of wonder and flow from the story. I don't plan to read the rest of this series.

[TW · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book… for 10+ kids. *winks* But, I mean, gosh it was really good.
Jerry B. Jenkins (Chris Fabry too) wrote it and, ohmygosh, he is one of my favorite authors ever. (read the Left Behind >The Kids< reviews…)
When I read the first chapter I was intrigued. The second chapter, yep, still straining my eyes to finish. Chapter three went a little towards the boring edge for me… So I started to read a bunch of other things.
Then I joined the GTW Book Club that goes on in the GTW Email Loop, and the first month (February) we had to read a fantasy book. So I decided to finish what I had started: The Book of the King.
AND I DO NOT REGRET IT FOR A MOMENT!!! If you start to get bored with The Book of the King DO NOT STOP READING IT!!!! Whatever you do, do NOT stop!!! Keep reading to the end. And then run to the library or Amazon for book 2 (I have to get it soon!)
The Book of the King is pure genius, I tell you. Absolutely brilliant. Any Christian 10+ year old that hasn’t read this book is SO missing out. GO BUY IT PEOPLES!!!
I love how Jenkins and Fabry did the POV (Point Of View) in this book. I love it. =) It’s kind of second person and kind of third person. For the first two chapters the author or narrator keeps saying, “We’ll get to Owen soon, but….” And then it jumps into a third person kind of POV. I love it.
So, all that to say if you are above ten, and have NOT read this book, boy, are you missing out on something good.
(and for the record, Chris Fabry is an excellent writer also who helped write the later books of Left Behind >The Kids< which I will always be recommending =) Go get ‘em! *Both series*)

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was the best or one of the best books I have read.

[Abby Burrus]

It has been a long time since I read this series... I remember it as being strange but also intriguing and fun, and I want to reread it again. Now that I'm older, I think I'd understand it better.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPLENDID!!!!! I was hooked on this book right from the first sentence. I of course already knew Jerry B. Jenkins is a fabulous author, but I didn't expect this. The only young adult book I've read by him is Left Behind: The Kids part 1, and I wasn't super super crazy about it. But this right here was just RIGHT up my alley. Love it!! It's about this lonely teenager who spends all his time reading (gee, wonder why I love it??) and suddenly strange things begin to happen to him and he's brought a powerful Book by a mysterious man. The Book leads him on a journey of course, and the whole story is just masterfully written, leaving you guessing at what happens next. Definitely, definitely, definitely reading the rest of the series.

[Jaci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Es un libro muy interesante.
No lograba entender ciertas cosas debido a que está narrado en el presente. Aún asi me gusto mucho, contiene muchas aventuras que te hacen estar al tanto del libro.
No puedo esperar para empezar a leer el segundo libro " La espada del Lombricero"

[R.J. Rodda]

I accept that some people like this series. However this is the verdict in my house. My 12 year old read the first book, started the second and stopped. He is a terrific reader and has enjoyed another book written by Jenkins, plus he really likes other fantasy novels. Not this one. He gave up part-way through the second book.

My 8 year old daughter, also a very good reader, started book one and gave up part-way though because of the style. I read out-loud this first book and she listened. She doesn’t want to listen to the second book.

My ten year old son, who tends to read graphic novels, is the only one who likes this and wants me to read this out-loud to him. I do so because I bought the five book set for Christmas and I want someone to have read it to justify my purchase - we live in a country with a limited English library (that has been closed for a long time due to COVID) and where the range of books in English is very narrow and the postal system poor.

I think my ten year old likes all of intrusive telling in this because it scaffolds the text making it much easier to understand what’s going on. Not only is the action that is about to happen described but also the meaning of that action.

For example: Owen is about to be hit by bullies and he is very frightened. The narrator then says, “In much the same way, what happened next with Owen was not for the sake of vengeance, nor was it to bring Owen or any other creature glory that is due to only one. Rather it was meant to show Owen he was not alone. Because you have graced us with your reading attention for this long and because we can, allow us to lift the curtain on the invisible world as Gordan’s fist accelerated towards Owen’s jaw. It was inches before bloody contact when everything stopped”.

After this it describes an invisible being literally stopping time and dealing with the bullies.

I find such writing baffling and infuriating but it does seem to be helpful for my boy who does often find it harder than my other two to make inferences from the text. Do note though that he is listening to me read this out-loud, not reading it himself.

I also object to the way something invisible rescues Owen when he is in peril. This to me is crossing some kind of line authors shouldn’t cross. Yes God is real. Yes there are angels. But if we have some kind of angel rescuing our protagonist frequently when they are about to die or be hurt, it makes a mockery of both the peril and the realities of being human. Especially as Owen is not even asking God for help.

Two things I did like. What a cool idea that reading is Owen’s superpower, that he needs to read to achieve his mission! This is the best thing about this book.

And finally there are some sentences here that are just great sentences. Jenkins and Fabry are successful writers for a reason. They tried a different style of writing here. I can understand that trying a new approach is creatively appealing. I just don’t think it works for everyone.

It is possible this series gets better. I’m only part-way through the second book. I’d strongly recommend you read a bit first to make sure you like the style before purchasing the whole set like I did.

[Tirzah · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up to 3

I am on a quest to read the books that have been on my to-read shelf for a year or more. Because of its duration on my shelf, I don't remember where I heard of The Book of King. I am glad I tried it, though I am considering not finishing the series. While neither the plot nor writing is bad, the symbolism is too over-the-top for my liking. I do enjoy Christian allegories, but this one felt like it was trying too hard to push the message in the reader's face. So, it all comes down to personal taste. Those who are seeking Christian fantasy for young readers may want to give this one a read and judge for themselves.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great first book to a Christian middle grade series. I can't wait to read the rest of the books.

Owen is a normal child, or so he thinks. He is destined for bigger and greater things. When a stranger comes to his father's bookshop and delivers to him a strange book with a prophetic message, Owen must face evils he never imagined.

I really loved the faith content in this book.

[Edge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this quite a bit ago but I didn’t get to read any of the other books because they weren’t on KU and now we don’t KU so I really have no way of getting them! 😭 I loved this book so much! I want to see what happens to Owen and Connie! I love Connie. 🤭 maybe it’s cause I tend to be like her…? 😶‍🌫️

[Noah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Book of the King was very well written. I started to enjoy it after the first couple of chapters but it got even better near the end! My favourite character was of course Owen. It was a really good book and I look forward to reading the next one...

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Book of the King" is a middle grade/juvenile Christian fantasy novel. The authors would occasionally say things like, "...sulfurous breath--which means..." for words I think most middle schoolers would know, yet they also sometimes used words that some adults might not know with the meaning only implied by context.

The story was also told in an odd way. It's like you and the story teller are hovering above the scene and he points things out in present tense using "you" and "we" as if talking directly to the reader, then it'd slid back into past tense but it's like you're watching a movie. You never get inside the characters' heads, though you're sometimes told what they are thinking or feeling.

This gave the book a somewhat distant feel, but it still came across as an engaging story told by a (hovering) storyteller. There's plenty of fast-paced action and high suspense due to physical danger (though the distant feel made it so the really scary things weren't too scary). I'm not sure this story would really appeal to adults, but I do think kids of the right age would enjoy it. I liked its mood and subtle lessons better than I like a lot of Christian fantasy.

This book was the first in a series and it did end somewhat abruptly, but it's not left at a cliff-hanger. There was no bad language and no sex. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting novel to children.

[Kristen Harvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit wordy at first, this book is about a boy who has some sort of destiny. Sadly, you don't really learn much at the end of this first book in a trilogy. There's some monsters, a book with some serious meaning, and a few big baddies. I did really get into the adventure of the book and really enjoyed reading it. I just wish I had more of a clue as to what the big quest will be.

[(Jen) The Artist Librarian · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good beginning to the Wormling series, unfortunately for me, the later books don't live up to it's potential ... and I could barely get through them. Of course, I'm a bit older than the target age range. However, I'd suggest other (better written) juvenile Christian fantasy series such as Wayne Thomas Batson's Door Within Trilogy.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

While dealing with bullies from school, young Owen Reeder also becomes immersed in dangers at home… and beyond.
I came across The Book of the King at the local thrift store a few weeks ago. I almost missed the title, but my interest was piqued when I saw the book was from Tyndale. I am so glad I bought the book!

Scripture Connection

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

John 8:32
Spiritual Themes

I debated awhile about which verse to use above, for the “Scripture Connection.” The first one that came to my mind was the popular Ephesians 6 verse about spiritual warfare, because the book very strongly emphasizes the reality of the spiritual realm.

This is a fairly common theme I’ve encountered, lately, in Christian books and I didn’t particularly want to repeat the verse. I was looking for verses that point to the reality of the invisible, spiritual world and John 8:32 came up. I felt that this was the verse that really fits the book, because discernment truly is a big theme, as Owen discovers truth.

There are a number of Scripture quotes/paraphrases, throughout, as well as quotes that have Scripture embedded into them.

We also see a thirst for truth—which was infectious for me, as the reader—as well as an act of sacrifice.

Series

Published in 2007, The Book of the King is the first book in the Wormling series by Jerry B. Jenkins and Chris Fabry. This is a children’s allegory series set in the present time, but straddling another kingdom.

What I Liked

I really, really enjoyed the writing style and narration. The narrators use a lot of second-person narration, directly addressing the reader, and the humorous style reminded me of Lemony Snicket— so much so that I wondered if it was actually written as a Christian alternative to A Series of Unfortunate Events (There’s even parts about not reading the book if you’re fainthearted). But where Snicket’s books ultimately promote moral relativism, The Book of the King very clearly points to absolute truth. Moreover, it is full of Scriptural themes and references.

The novel captured my attention, from the first page. This was one of those instances where I thought I’d just steal a peek into the story— and quickly became engrossed. In fact, I even asked to read the foreword and beginning to my mom, since I liked it so much.

I really enjoyed the intermingling plot/subplots. As I reflect, I almost feel like the two switch places, in terms of significance, midway through the story. At first, the emphasis is on Owen and the things he is experiencing as a freshman in high-school. Gradually, the emphasis shifts to the other (and other-worldly) plot. And yet, we are aware of both plots, from the beginning of the book. The narrators have a lot of fun jumping us back, forth and around while promising that all will be revealed in due time.

There are some beautiful, piercing moments of light and truth, which is exactly what I look for in allegory.

The formatting was refreshing, with short chapters and skinny columns of text on the first page of each chapter. This certainly made for a faster reading experience.

Critique

This is entirely personal, but I found myself losing interest once it came to the introduction of the dragon (I generally am not interested in books about dragons). With that said, dragons totally make sense in a biblical allegory, given that there is an actual dragon in Revelation.

Content Notes

Admittedly, I finished this book over a week ago, but I don’t recall any content warnings.

There is some content about dating/crushes, but no real romance or kissing. Because the protagonist is a high-school freshman, I think this book would be about right for ages 12 and up.

Recommendation Status

This is a title I would definitely recommend, although I’d recommend it as a YA novel, not a “children’s book.”

[Mark Buxton · Rating 4 out of 5]

My name is Owen Reeder, and I've learned some strange things around my father's used book shop. I've wondered why he doesn't like me to read fantasy stories, and he's never been a warm, loving man. However, I've overheard him talking to people in hooded cloaks, in a room hidden below the floorboards. I accidentally discovered the room and barely managed to escape a giant guardian creature. Then, an old man appeared in the store and wanted to give me a large book. My father was very upset about that, and I couldn't understand why. I still don't fully get it, but my life has been turned upside down. A book, a dragon, a portal, oh my!

I randomly came upon this series while looking for a new eBook. This initial story slowly related Owen's destiny to fulfill a prophecy, but he wasn't endowed with amazing powers or abilities. Once the book was opened, it became a source of magic, with Owen acting as its keeper. Owen was able to make some things happen, but he didn't really know what he was doing. I like this more "realistic" approach to a character learning about new abilities. It bugs me a bit when a character quickly masters them without a learning curve. Owen was briefly joined by an annoying younger girl, and I assumed she'd become a sidekick. Some clues were dropped along the way, even though she disappeared from the story later in the book. She added spunk to the events! The author portrayed Owen as some kind of savior, but I'm still trying to figure out how he fits in. Is he a king's son? Does he have undiscovered powers? I've already started the sequel, The Sword of the Wormling, so we'll see what happens.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

My son and I read this one together and neither one of us liked it at all. The narrator is constantly stopping mid-scene to tell you what is going on. I hated that. Show don't tell, right?

I get that it's a stylistic choice, but for the reader, it's frustrating and pulls you out of the scene.

The author's voice is definitely not to my taste, and the book is wordy and holy cow we get it! It's Christian fantasy, you don't need to stop mid-scene to tell us a parable. We get it.

My son didn't like Owen, and to be honest, neither did I. He was kind of a brat. I didn't want him to keep getting bullied, obviously, but he wasn't a very nice kid.

TL;DR
The narrator kept stopping the book mid-scene to tell you what was happening.

[Becky Emerick · Rating 2 out of 5]

While kids may enjoy this series, as an adult, it was too “on the nose” spiritually speaking. The narrator’s voice did not appeal to me. He told me what I should think rather than showing me why I should think it. For example, it said something like, “He was a wonderful boy you would love.” But the flow was so quick, we didn’t naturally love him. Anyway, I forced myself to finish the series, but I didn’t find it very enjoyable. I also had a hard time picturing the characters, like the dog that was described as having hooves multiple times. If your pre-teen or younger likes fantasy, they’d probably like this.

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Owen Reeder is bullied, teased, and hurt. He's been told he's "nothing special" all his life. A stranger visits his father's bookstore. Owen's life spirals out of control and into a world he didn't know existed. He's forced into a battle that will affect two worlds: his and the unknown world of the Lowlands.

Interesting and exciting. Two words to describe this book. I would suspect many people identify with Owen. I did. The mystery of the plot kept me reading. I love a book that gives me an experience that I'll long feel. The Book of the King did exactly that.

[Mary Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Did this as a read-aloud. There are some intense scenes that I slightly changed for my youngest two, but otherwise a magical, suspenseful fantasy story with Biblical undertones. Some reviews complain about the zooming in and out of “voice” in the book, which happens a lot in the beginning as the story is being set up and less as the book goes on, and their dislike for it. It is unusual, but we used it as an opportunity to discuss how the zooming out to narrator is giving different perspective and information. Kids all asked to immediately start the second book which is always a plus to me!

[Joven Frantz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't like how the book was written at some points. Where every now and then the author tries to tell you about what you think about the protagonist. It was very boring at first and it took me a lot of consideration just to keep on reading. I've finished it and I'm still curious on what will happen to Owen Reader.

[Ron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not what I thought at first.

When I started, I was reminded very much of the "Neverending Story" by
Michael Ende. But this comparison ended quickly. In Ende's work, the character is brought into the book. Here the book is part of the story! Am looking forward to the rest of the series now.

[Naru Ithil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great Christian book series! Though I don't really like the writing style where the author cuts in sometimes and explains everything (and the non-descriptiveness of some of the creatures), I love it when it's just pure story. Owen is a great, admirable character that everyone should read about!

[Isaiah (aka Isaiah Ward) Herrero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! I was looking for a book that would scratch that itch that Narnia and Lord of the rings have left. For a long time I thought it was impossible to find a book that matched it's caliber but I think I found at least something very close and this series is it. Great introduction into a Christian fantasy series. 5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I would definitely read again and again.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique, clever, entertaining

At first, I thought the writing style was a little off, but it didn't take from the reading experience at all. However, I got used to it quickly, and I was quickly hooked. I can't wait to start the next book.

[LaShunda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastically fascinating

A harrowing fantasy wrapped around a living breathing book about a king and his son. An awesome beginning to what already is proving to be a compelling series. A very good read!

[Pamela Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obviously the first in a series, but well done. The world building is a bit confusing at first but the reader will soon understand. Interesting that it's written in second person with the narrator talking straight to the reader.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Cheryl Neer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delightful first book in this fantasy series and coming of age story. Good vs. evil, interesting point of view narration, and a very mysterious book kept my attention throughout. Looking forward to the book 2.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 1 of 5 in an epic fantasy from the co-author of the Left Behind series. Although aimed for the Young Adult market, it is gripping enough to capture the attention of older readers, as well. (I should know, I'm 75.)