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Jake McGreevy
Celtic Run
While in Ireland on a class trip, Jake stumbles upon the first clue to a treasure missing from the Spanish Armada. Jake sees the riches as his chance to buy back the family sailboat and restore a piece of the life he enjoyed before his father was critically injured in an accident. Desperate to find the treasure, Jake teams up with Zach, his nemesis and class bully, and two girls in a clue-hunting chase across the Dingle Peninsula. Dodging would-be thieves, exchanging wisecracks with Zach, and concocting ingenious devices to get them out of scrapes, Jake leads the team as they connect piece after piece to the more than 400-year-old mystery. Jake, a 14-year-old gadget whiz, didn't plan on a summer full of treasure, thieves, and danger. He just got lucky.
160 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Sean Vogel
4 books24 followersGrowing up in a small town in Michigan during the 1980s, Sean was provided with an excellent garden for cultivating his writing career. With only a few simplistic video games and three television channels, he became an accomplished daydreamer and a creative outside adventurer.
A son of a garbage truck driver, Sean often received “gently used” items from his father’s route. With a bit of imagination and a little tinkering, these items were reborn as tools for battles against backyard bandits. These childhood experiences would later serve as the foundation and inspiration for Jake McGreevy’s gadgetry expertise.
Seeking his own adventures, Sean joined the Army via an ROTC scholarship at Colorado State University. Living in Germany for several years gave him the opportunity to travel extensively in Europe. During his time in the Army, he served in the Field Artillery and Signal Corp, rising to the rank of Captain and receiving the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Iraq.
Sean started drafting novels to fill downtime during long deployments in the military; a pen is easier to carry than a guitar. But he soon fell in love with the frustrating yet satisfying science called writing and has been hard at work ever since.
When he’s not helping Jake get out of tangles, Sean is a department manager for a large aerospace company. He lives in Denver with his wife, two daughters, and a crazy wirehaired dachshund.
A son of a garbage truck driver, Sean often received “gently used” items from his father’s route. With a bit of imagination and a little tinkering, these items were reborn as tools for battles against backyard bandits. These childhood experiences would later serve as the foundation and inspiration for Jake McGreevy’s gadgetry expertise.
Seeking his own adventures, Sean joined the Army via an ROTC scholarship at Colorado State University. Living in Germany for several years gave him the opportunity to travel extensively in Europe. During his time in the Army, he served in the Field Artillery and Signal Corp, rising to the rank of Captain and receiving the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Iraq.
Sean started drafting novels to fill downtime during long deployments in the military; a pen is easier to carry than a guitar. But he soon fell in love with the frustrating yet satisfying science called writing and has been hard at work ever since.
When he’s not helping Jake get out of tangles, Sean is a department manager for a large aerospace company. He lives in Denver with his wife, two daughters, and a crazy wirehaired dachshund.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 28, 2012
Celtic Run is the tale of a New York boy's adventures while on a class trip to Ireland with his secret crush and her boyfriend, who also happens to be his nemesis. While there, Jake discovers a clue to ancient Spanish treasure. Hoping to solve the riddle so he can buy back the family boat and relive some of his most cherished memories with his father, Jake recruits their help along with the assistance of the girl whose family he's staying with in Ireland to try to solve the riddle. Trying to track down the goods would be difficult enough on its own ... now throw in some bad guys who are intent on taking the booty for themselves.
This book is a very fun read. The plot has plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing as to what would happen next. The characters are well fleshed out and I found myself rooting not only for Jake, but for his hometown enemy. I was impressed with the personal growth of the characters as well as the development of the relationships between them. There are some very pointed lessons in the book which I found very refreshing and instructive. The chapters are structured in such a way to make it readable for younger readers as well (my 8 year old is now tearing through the pages). The author's descriptive narrative of the Irish countryside was poetic without being too wordy. The plot developed at a great pace building to a wonderfully imaginative ending.
I recommend this book for the 8- to 14-year-old set, as well as for any adults looking to relive part of their childhood. Celtic Run took me back to the days when I was young and stayed up late, hidden under my covers with a flashlight, poring over the pages of books like Follow My Leader and The Indian in the Cupboard. All said, a fantastic read. Thank you to Mr. Vogel for the opportunity to read and review his work.
This book is a very fun read. The plot has plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing as to what would happen next. The characters are well fleshed out and I found myself rooting not only for Jake, but for his hometown enemy. I was impressed with the personal growth of the characters as well as the development of the relationships between them. There are some very pointed lessons in the book which I found very refreshing and instructive. The chapters are structured in such a way to make it readable for younger readers as well (my 8 year old is now tearing through the pages). The author's descriptive narrative of the Irish countryside was poetic without being too wordy. The plot developed at a great pace building to a wonderfully imaginative ending.
I recommend this book for the 8- to 14-year-old set, as well as for any adults looking to relive part of their childhood. Celtic Run took me back to the days when I was young and stayed up late, hidden under my covers with a flashlight, poring over the pages of books like Follow My Leader and The Indian in the Cupboard. All said, a fantastic read. Thank you to Mr. Vogel for the opportunity to read and review his work.
March 27, 2013
I won this book in the Goodreads Giveaways and I have to say AWESOME BOOK! Made me feel like I was back in Ireland following the kids on their adventure. I will definitely read this book again and place it on my Faorite shelf! So glad I won this and I really hope that Sean Vogel the author will write another adventure with these same characters. They are great characters!
April 9, 2022
4.5 stars
Wow. As an adult, when I read MG/YA book I’m usually looking for something quick and light to break up my regular reading and so I lower my expectations. So I have to say, I was actually impressed by this book. I really enjoyed this adventure story set in Ireland.
With a 14 y/o protagonist this book’s feel is somewhere between MG and YA. This story also stays pretty clean which is always a plus in my book.
Jake’s headed to Ireland on a school trip and finds himself caught up in a treasure hunt with his friends. I liked him. He is a kid of many talents and posses a lot of ingenuity. He’s also kind to his host family in Ireland and struggling to come to terms with how his life has changed since his fathers accident.
Of course, there are aspects of the book that were a little predictable. Everything ties up nice and clean at the end. A lot of the clues were found by happenstance. I also found myself wanting to scream “where are the adults!?” several times as the kids went off with little to no supervision whatsoever. But then there would be much of a story I suppose. I don’t count this as a negative as this book is intended for a younger audience and that’s to be expected.
More so than a mystery, I would say this book is a story about adventure, making friends, and the importance of family. It also has a little bit of a young romance between the characters.
Would recommend for young readers and even adults looking for a fun and quick read.
Now I’m off to read book 2!
Wow. As an adult, when I read MG/YA book I’m usually looking for something quick and light to break up my regular reading and so I lower my expectations. So I have to say, I was actually impressed by this book. I really enjoyed this adventure story set in Ireland.
With a 14 y/o protagonist this book’s feel is somewhere between MG and YA. This story also stays pretty clean which is always a plus in my book.
Jake’s headed to Ireland on a school trip and finds himself caught up in a treasure hunt with his friends. I liked him. He is a kid of many talents and posses a lot of ingenuity. He’s also kind to his host family in Ireland and struggling to come to terms with how his life has changed since his fathers accident.
Of course, there are aspects of the book that were a little predictable. Everything ties up nice and clean at the end. A lot of the clues were found by happenstance. I also found myself wanting to scream “where are the adults!?” several times as the kids went off with little to no supervision whatsoever. But then there would be much of a story I suppose. I don’t count this as a negative as this book is intended for a younger audience and that’s to be expected.
More so than a mystery, I would say this book is a story about adventure, making friends, and the importance of family. It also has a little bit of a young romance between the characters.
Would recommend for young readers and even adults looking for a fun and quick read.
Now I’m off to read book 2!
July 30, 2012
An adventure for young adults.
My Take
This was great! I enjoyed this bright and lively adventurous tale very much. Vogel creates a nice homey feel with some telling insights for Jake on family and what is truly important. The images at each chapter start were rather fun---a good clue as to what the topic of each chapter was about! Gorgeous pictures both fore and aft of the story as well.
There were a few odd hiccups in the story, but nothing to spoil this adventure! Being a gadget-nut myself, I crowed with delight at all of Jake's handy inventions! Too much fun!
I could wish that Vogel had emphasized that family was more important than things a little more intensively, but, hey, it's an adventure not a tale of morality.
Events certainly did fulfill Julie's intentions of regarding the boys!
I get the impression that Vogel has a series planned around Jake McGreevy. At least I hope so as I'm looking forward to reading more of Jake's adventures!
The Characters
Jake McGreevy is a mischievous 14-year-old quite willing to sneakily pay Zach back for his bullying. Still depressed over his dad's selling their sailboat to pay the medical bills, he's obsessed with figuring out how to get it back. It's the only way he and his dad can be together again, he thinks.
Gerald and Mrs. O'Connell and their daughter Maggie who is 15 are Jake's host family in Ireland. Mrs. O'Connell manages a pub in Dingle and the unemployed Mr. O'Connell is mysteriously busy on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Maggie won in a competition for stepdancing, but had to give it up when her father lost his job.
Julie grew up with Jake, but is Zach's girlfriend. A fact that Jake hates as he's in love with her himself. Zachary Maguire is the class bully and never fails to pick on Jake. He dreams of writing, but is, instead, resigned to his father's dreams.
The Colonel turns out to be Jake's great-uncle with friends in high places. Evan is a skinny guy with glasses and pointy nose. So is Constable Fritz. Malic is one of the crooks. Shamus is the museum curator.
The Cover
It's a bit odd and busy. It's a collage with, I'm guessing, the textured green representing the Irish coast, the parchment colored block underneath with its coffee-brown representation of the British Isles is a metaphor for a map, and the ruby is the initial and final clue.
The title is all about Jake's rush for the rescue for a Celtic Run is better than a bad stand.
My Take
This was great! I enjoyed this bright and lively adventurous tale very much. Vogel creates a nice homey feel with some telling insights for Jake on family and what is truly important. The images at each chapter start were rather fun---a good clue as to what the topic of each chapter was about! Gorgeous pictures both fore and aft of the story as well.
There were a few odd hiccups in the story, but nothing to spoil this adventure! Being a gadget-nut myself, I crowed with delight at all of Jake's handy inventions! Too much fun!
I could wish that Vogel had emphasized that family was more important than things a little more intensively, but, hey, it's an adventure not a tale of morality.
Events certainly did fulfill Julie's intentions of regarding the boys!
I get the impression that Vogel has a series planned around Jake McGreevy. At least I hope so as I'm looking forward to reading more of Jake's adventures!
The Characters
Jake McGreevy is a mischievous 14-year-old quite willing to sneakily pay Zach back for his bullying. Still depressed over his dad's selling their sailboat to pay the medical bills, he's obsessed with figuring out how to get it back. It's the only way he and his dad can be together again, he thinks.
Gerald and Mrs. O'Connell and their daughter Maggie who is 15 are Jake's host family in Ireland. Mrs. O'Connell manages a pub in Dingle and the unemployed Mr. O'Connell is mysteriously busy on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Maggie won in a competition for stepdancing, but had to give it up when her father lost his job.
Julie grew up with Jake, but is Zach's girlfriend. A fact that Jake hates as he's in love with her himself. Zachary Maguire is the class bully and never fails to pick on Jake. He dreams of writing, but is, instead, resigned to his father's dreams.
The Colonel turns out to be Jake's great-uncle with friends in high places. Evan is a skinny guy with glasses and pointy nose. So is Constable Fritz. Malic is one of the crooks. Shamus is the museum curator.
The Cover
It's a bit odd and busy. It's a collage with, I'm guessing, the textured green representing the Irish coast, the parchment colored block underneath with its coffee-brown representation of the British Isles is a metaphor for a map, and the ruby is the initial and final clue.
The title is all about Jake's rush for the rescue for a Celtic Run is better than a bad stand.
June 6, 2017
Jake McGreevey, a gadget-wiz 14 year old from New York, travels to Ireland with his best friend (and secret crush) Julie and her boyfriend Zach on a class trip. What starts as a hunt for his family roots becomes a fast-paced adventure as he and his friends are embroiled in the intrigue of a treasure hunt all over the Dingle Peninsula originating from a Spanish Armada shipwreck.
While eluding thieves who are also after the treasure and working out his rivalry with Zach, Jake becomes better friends with Maggie O’Connell, the daughter of the family hosting his stay in Ireland. The plot is exciting, if a little predictable, but what adds weight to just a typical adventure is Jake’s growing maturity. This coming-of-age story follows Jake as he works out his emotions over his father’s accident (more below) and their changed relationship. Seeing his host family’s love and support for each other, and their contentedness with much less in the way of money, gadgets, and “stuff”, he also learns a lot about what is important in life.
While we receive hints along the way of his father’s illness, it is not until close to the end that it is revealed he has been paralyzed and Jake blames himself for the accident. While trying to come to terms with the way their relationship has changed—summers spent sailing, horse riding, and building gadgets together have become days spent in the hospital or in rehab with his dad, struggling to come up with conversation topics—Jake’s growing relationship with Maggie and her example of her relationship with her own parents helps him to feel proud of his dad and more comfortable with his own talents.
Family is prized in this book as we see numerous examples of parent-child relationships and Vogel makes a point of showing that the kids who are most comfortable with themselves and happy in their own skin are those whose parents give them the freedom to grow and also challenge them to help out with difficult situations of sickness and poverty. However, these themes are embedded in such a way that Jake and the other characters’ personal growth and changing relationships with each other occur very naturally, even to them.
While some of the characters and situations are a little stereotypical (both American and Irish), readers will have the chance to enjoy the interaction between the two cultures and learn some Irish phrases and history. The end of the novel is unrealistic in that everyone’s problems are resolved, but major themes of family, forgiveness, and friendship are dealt with positively.
www.goodreadingguide.com
While eluding thieves who are also after the treasure and working out his rivalry with Zach, Jake becomes better friends with Maggie O’Connell, the daughter of the family hosting his stay in Ireland. The plot is exciting, if a little predictable, but what adds weight to just a typical adventure is Jake’s growing maturity. This coming-of-age story follows Jake as he works out his emotions over his father’s accident (more below) and their changed relationship. Seeing his host family’s love and support for each other, and their contentedness with much less in the way of money, gadgets, and “stuff”, he also learns a lot about what is important in life.
While we receive hints along the way of his father’s illness, it is not until close to the end that it is revealed he has been paralyzed and Jake blames himself for the accident. While trying to come to terms with the way their relationship has changed—summers spent sailing, horse riding, and building gadgets together have become days spent in the hospital or in rehab with his dad, struggling to come up with conversation topics—Jake’s growing relationship with Maggie and her example of her relationship with her own parents helps him to feel proud of his dad and more comfortable with his own talents.
Family is prized in this book as we see numerous examples of parent-child relationships and Vogel makes a point of showing that the kids who are most comfortable with themselves and happy in their own skin are those whose parents give them the freedom to grow and also challenge them to help out with difficult situations of sickness and poverty. However, these themes are embedded in such a way that Jake and the other characters’ personal growth and changing relationships with each other occur very naturally, even to them.
While some of the characters and situations are a little stereotypical (both American and Irish), readers will have the chance to enjoy the interaction between the two cultures and learn some Irish phrases and history. The end of the novel is unrealistic in that everyone’s problems are resolved, but major themes of family, forgiveness, and friendship are dealt with positively.
www.goodreadingguide.com
October 5, 2012
I don't know what it was about this book that I liked so much but I loved it. The book is about a group of teenagers in Ireland who discover a clue to a buried treasure and set out to find it. Unknown to them there is another group searching for it and they don't want to share or anyone else who knows to live.
The setting alone gives this book a star. I have always enjoyed the idea of a book set in Ireland, and this book did. With this setting the book has a different feel then other adventure treasure books. Also the setting being in a small town gives the book a less hectic feel and more enjoyable as an easy, fun read it was.
The characters, to be it simply, were wonderfully written and thought out. Each had its own skill, attitude and hidden skill. The main character, Jake, is a smart, quick thinking, and skilled in the out doors, but not athletic. Jake's rival in the book Zach is the bully and the school's football star. He also is a unknown to everyone. Julie is Jake's love interest and best friend she is like most leading girls in romantic films; kind, attracted to troubled guys, oblivious to how Jake feels. Maggie is the daughter of the family that Jake will be spending the summer with in Ireland. She is a strong willed, smart, self motivated girl who is helping her family make enough money to survive. Maggie's mother and father were good minor characters who lightened up the book and made it seemed real. all of the character were good, and the colonel was a fun character who turned out to be surprising.
The romance in this book was pretty good since it was just part of the story and not a main over powering factor in it. I did like how it turned out
The plot was well thought out and fun. The book had a good flow and was easy to follow. It went from action to little side event to keep the momentum going. The Macgyver like ideas Jake had we fun and even laughable but great all the same. The action was toned down for younger audiences but still mature enough for older readers to enjoy.
Great book I recommend it fully for anyone.
The setting alone gives this book a star. I have always enjoyed the idea of a book set in Ireland, and this book did. With this setting the book has a different feel then other adventure treasure books. Also the setting being in a small town gives the book a less hectic feel and more enjoyable as an easy, fun read it was.
The characters, to be it simply, were wonderfully written and thought out. Each had its own skill, attitude and hidden skill. The main character, Jake, is a smart, quick thinking, and skilled in the out doors, but not athletic. Jake's rival in the book Zach is the bully and the school's football star. He also is a unknown to everyone. Julie is Jake's love interest and best friend she is like most leading girls in romantic films; kind, attracted to troubled guys, oblivious to how Jake feels. Maggie is the daughter of the family that Jake will be spending the summer with in Ireland. She is a strong willed, smart, self motivated girl who is helping her family make enough money to survive. Maggie's mother and father were good minor characters who lightened up the book and made it seemed real. all of the character were good, and the colonel was a fun character who turned out to be surprising.
The romance in this book was pretty good since it was just part of the story and not a main over powering factor in it. I did like how it turned out
The plot was well thought out and fun. The book had a good flow and was easy to follow. It went from action to little side event to keep the momentum going. The Macgyver like ideas Jake had we fun and even laughable but great all the same. The action was toned down for younger audiences but still mature enough for older readers to enjoy.
Great book I recommend it fully for anyone.
November 8, 2012
From its opening pages to its final chapter, Celtic Run offers readers an action-packed adventure full of romance, peer problems, and more than a little luck o’ the Irish. Set amidst a breathtaking backdrop, this story follows Jake McGreevy as he travels to the place of his ancestors for a school project only to find himself in the middle of a centuries-old treasure hunt. Armed with his trusty Leatherman multi-tool, a well-worn guidebook, and three friends (only two of whom he actually likes), Jake pieces together clues to find the loot that may be his last hope of making things right with his father. The teens battle the elements (endless gray skies, chilly summer nights—typical Ireland) and their own inhibitions to find the treasure before a gang of thieves beats them to it—or kills them all—and what they find is more valuable than they could ever imagine.
Sean Vogel does the Irish landscape justice with his attention to detail. From the soaring cliffs that hug the coastline to the majestic make-up of Corráin Castle, readers can easily envision the juxtaposition of a peaceful country and the dangers the teens face (some of which seem very improbable, but a little willing suspension of disbelief will do the trick). Vogel’s occasional sprinkling of Irish phrases will enchant readers, leaving them with foreign words to add to their collections. Despite a few passages that suffer from awkward syntax, Vogel manages to charm his readers with his amiable protagonist, non-stop action, and witty one-liners. Readers won’t be able to help eagerly flipping the pages, reading as quickly as the characters run away from their pursuers, until they come upon the satisfying conclusion. Teens and YA-fiction lovers of all ages will find themselves cheering for Jake and his crew as they traverse the rugged Land of Éire in search of the fortune of a lifetime.
POTENTIAL TEACHABLES: Irish words and phrases; difference between “Irish” and “Gaelic”; types of Gaelic; Ireland’s geography and brief history; Spanish words and phrases; Spanish Armada; 1588; inner monologue as indirect characterization; rising action points to build climax; landscape as character; words to enhance imagery.
Sean Vogel does the Irish landscape justice with his attention to detail. From the soaring cliffs that hug the coastline to the majestic make-up of Corráin Castle, readers can easily envision the juxtaposition of a peaceful country and the dangers the teens face (some of which seem very improbable, but a little willing suspension of disbelief will do the trick). Vogel’s occasional sprinkling of Irish phrases will enchant readers, leaving them with foreign words to add to their collections. Despite a few passages that suffer from awkward syntax, Vogel manages to charm his readers with his amiable protagonist, non-stop action, and witty one-liners. Readers won’t be able to help eagerly flipping the pages, reading as quickly as the characters run away from their pursuers, until they come upon the satisfying conclusion. Teens and YA-fiction lovers of all ages will find themselves cheering for Jake and his crew as they traverse the rugged Land of Éire in search of the fortune of a lifetime.
POTENTIAL TEACHABLES: Irish words and phrases; difference between “Irish” and “Gaelic”; types of Gaelic; Ireland’s geography and brief history; Spanish words and phrases; Spanish Armada; 1588; inner monologue as indirect characterization; rising action points to build climax; landscape as character; words to enhance imagery.
July 25, 2012
Review: Celtic Run by Sean Vogel
4 STARS A Jake McGreevy Novel Celtic Run is a fast paced adventure, treasure hunting tale. It is good clean fun entertainment. It starts out on airplane from NYC to Ireland some students are having a long field trip.They are going to stay with different host families. Some even in different cities. Julie's father pulled string so the three of them would be in the same town. Jake has been friends for years. He really likes her and can't see what she sees in that bully Zach. Jake is smart and handy around tools and gadgets. He is really short. Zach plays football and likes to tease and torture Jake. Zach & Julie's host families we never see about them besides they have money. Zach & Julie's family have money too. Jake's host family has a daughter about his age Maggie. They are in am older car but it works. Mrs.O'Connell runs the pub. Mr. O'Connell is unemployed but still looking for work. The O'Connell family and thats the important part. They parked at a viewing point and all got out to look at the water they were only 15 feet to the water. Jake noticed a little tolder chasing a butterfly and wemt over the side. Jake ran and jumped right after. He almost gave up finding her but he did and the second time they both went under he did not let her go. When Jake gets pulled out he had spanish coin and a clue tp a treasure. The four teenagers decide to work together to find the treasure. They have a lot of drama. Someone else is trying to find the treasure. They are dangerous and want the clues to the treasure. In the pub Jake finds a uncle who says he is in the milatary and call if he needs anything. The bartender does not believe the older gentleman story. I would read other books from Sean Vogel in the future. They drew me into the story and I wanted to be there. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 05/24/2012 PUB. MB Publishing, LLC Imprint Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Tities ISBN:9780962416699
4 STARS A Jake McGreevy Novel Celtic Run is a fast paced adventure, treasure hunting tale. It is good clean fun entertainment. It starts out on airplane from NYC to Ireland some students are having a long field trip.They are going to stay with different host families. Some even in different cities. Julie's father pulled string so the three of them would be in the same town. Jake has been friends for years. He really likes her and can't see what she sees in that bully Zach. Jake is smart and handy around tools and gadgets. He is really short. Zach plays football and likes to tease and torture Jake. Zach & Julie's host families we never see about them besides they have money. Zach & Julie's family have money too. Jake's host family has a daughter about his age Maggie. They are in am older car but it works. Mrs.O'Connell runs the pub. Mr. O'Connell is unemployed but still looking for work. The O'Connell family and thats the important part. They parked at a viewing point and all got out to look at the water they were only 15 feet to the water. Jake noticed a little tolder chasing a butterfly and wemt over the side. Jake ran and jumped right after. He almost gave up finding her but he did and the second time they both went under he did not let her go. When Jake gets pulled out he had spanish coin and a clue tp a treasure. The four teenagers decide to work together to find the treasure. They have a lot of drama. Someone else is trying to find the treasure. They are dangerous and want the clues to the treasure. In the pub Jake finds a uncle who says he is in the milatary and call if he needs anything. The bartender does not believe the older gentleman story. I would read other books from Sean Vogel in the future. They drew me into the story and I wanted to be there. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 05/24/2012 PUB. MB Publishing, LLC Imprint Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Tities ISBN:9780962416699
January 18, 2013
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Treasure? Clues to find the treasure? Say no more, I'm hooked!
The riddles that lead the four kids to find the treasure were quite difficult, and required them to look at it in an abstract way. These riddles added a new element of mystery into the book, one that I really liked.
I really didn't like Zach and Jake's relationship. I felt it was fake and would never happen in real life. Their incessant bantering got on my nerves a lot in this book. And Julie, who was supposed to be his best friend, never once berated Zach for being so mean to her best friend.
The depth of the characters was very deep, all with the exception of Julie. Zach was a charatcer with lots of depth, while Julie seemed stereotyped, and only in the book as a romantic interest for Jake. Julie seemed to also be like the damsel in distress, relying on Jake when she and Zach broke up. Although we saw Zach as mean and rude in the first few pages, by the end, we finally know why he's like that way. Maggie is a girl who loves dancing but gave it up to help her parents. Jake is a boy who has his own problems with a father who's critically injured. They all had their own problems and were not stereotyped like Julie was.
I loved how Mr. and Mrs. O'Connell, along with their daughter Maggie, were used to portray the ideal family life Jake would love to have. I think it makes Jake realise that a sailboat wasn't necessary for his father and him to reconnect again.
All in all, this book was still a solid read, so I rate it a 3 stars out of 5 stars. It may not suit my tastes, as I like reading books with more complexity, but it will certainly satisfy its targeted audience, which are middle-grade students.
(I got a copy of this novel from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
July 17, 2012
I was pleasantly surprised by this action packed middle grade novel! To be perfectly honest, this was one of those times that you just can't judge a book by its cover. I was sort of expecting something boring to be honest (sorry, Sean!), but I was pulled in right from the beginning! I mean, look at that first chapter excerpt - right off the bat, the main character, Jake, is throwing himself into a life threatening situation! The whole book is like that - full of excitement that kept me wanting to find out what was going to happen next! Really, my only complaint is the cover - I'm just afraid that the cover is not going to attract a middle grade audience. It needs to be a bit flashier...I'm thinking a picture of all 4 kids - Jake, Maggie, Julie, and Zach in the middle of one of their adventures.
I thought Vogel did a great job with character development. I loved Jake - he obviously loved his father, who was disabled from a horseback riding accident, and felt guilty from the circumstances behind it. He was a normal 14 year old in that he loved to prank his "nemesis" and fellow traveler, Zach, who had what he wanted most - Julie. He fights with his dad over normal things like wanting the latest video game, but really, he is a very thoughtful and caring young man. I also loved Maggie, the young Irish girl that Jake is staying with. She was tough, spunky, and smart.
I was very impressed with Vogel's writing - it was engaging and full of adventure, mystery, humor, and even a little romance. This book would appeal to both boys and girls. I think it's particularly appealing to boys, since the main character is an adventure seeking boy. I think my son will really like this book in a year or so (he's 9 now.) I would highly recommend this book to kids about 10 and up!
I thought Vogel did a great job with character development. I loved Jake - he obviously loved his father, who was disabled from a horseback riding accident, and felt guilty from the circumstances behind it. He was a normal 14 year old in that he loved to prank his "nemesis" and fellow traveler, Zach, who had what he wanted most - Julie. He fights with his dad over normal things like wanting the latest video game, but really, he is a very thoughtful and caring young man. I also loved Maggie, the young Irish girl that Jake is staying with. She was tough, spunky, and smart.
I was very impressed with Vogel's writing - it was engaging and full of adventure, mystery, humor, and even a little romance. This book would appeal to both boys and girls. I think it's particularly appealing to boys, since the main character is an adventure seeking boy. I think my son will really like this book in a year or so (he's 9 now.) I would highly recommend this book to kids about 10 and up!
July 18, 2012
I seldom read books twice unless a long period of time has passed. I read this book twice to make sure I had not missed anything. I don't know if it is my desire to one day visit Ireland, my love of all things Irish, all coupled with characters that were very believable that made this such a wonderful book to read. I was with them throughout their adventures. I loved the way they had to go from one clue, and research different parts of the island to find what they were looking for. I loved the way that Jake became more mature and assertive as time went on. I really enjoyed the way he could come up with gadgets to help them out. Once scene came to life in my mind that I could see Maggie dancing and hear the music in my head. Maybe it is because my daughter did Irish dance for a couple of years. I have a small collection Irish music. Books like this make me want to research my family to see where we come from. I know my great-grandfather and two of his brother's came from Ireland and settled along the Ohio River. That is all I know at this point. I will definitely recommend this book to my students. I see this is the first in a series so I look forward to seeing what other adventures Jake will get himself into.
After reading all about Sean Vogel you can click on a link and visit his wonderful website where you will learn much more about him and Ireland. Then click on the link to read an excerpt from chapter 1. You won't be sorry you did.
After reading all about Sean Vogel you can click on a link and visit his wonderful website where you will learn much more about him and Ireland. Then click on the link to read an excerpt from chapter 1. You won't be sorry you did.
February 15, 2017
An adventure filled rollicking good time
July 17, 2012
'Celtic Run' is a fun and fast-paced middle grade action adventure/mystery novel. It's set in Ireland and takes the reader on a treasure hunt across the beautiful country to find lost clues from centuries before. The story follows Jake McGreevy, an American student on a school trip to Ireland, who finds a lost artifact from the past and a wild treasure hunt ensues. Along for the ride are Jake's schoolmates Julie and Zach as well as his sponsor's daughter, Maggie. Jake and the crew must figure out the secret clues in order to find a hidden treasure, all while trying to keep out of the clutches of Irish bandits.
Jake's character development is very evident throughout the novel. He starts out as an immature and scared boy who is facing some hard times at home with his father. By the end of the treasure hunt, Jake is much more confident, wise, courageous, and mature. He goes from being a middle grader into a young man. The narrative is well written and the story is a page-turning adventure that makes the reader race through the book trying to figure out what will happen next. I think that 'Celtic Run' is a great adventure story for readers of all ages and is a fun read that will appeal to the treasure hunter in everyone.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Jake's character development is very evident throughout the novel. He starts out as an immature and scared boy who is facing some hard times at home with his father. By the end of the treasure hunt, Jake is much more confident, wise, courageous, and mature. He goes from being a middle grader into a young man. The narrative is well written and the story is a page-turning adventure that makes the reader race through the book trying to figure out what will happen next. I think that 'Celtic Run' is a great adventure story for readers of all ages and is a fun read that will appeal to the treasure hunter in everyone.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2013
Oh WOW! Read this in one sitting! Loved it!!! It grabbed me during the first few pages and just never let me go. Doesn’t fall into the genre that I’ve been reading lately – but just loved it! Mystery and action and an all-round wonderful story!
Three young adults head over to Ireland for the summer on a school trip – to find their heritage. What they find is a treasure hunt! Yes very much like the Indiana Jones as Julie kept saying in the book. But there was just so much more to this story – 2 young lads really coming into their own. Jake who experienced a terrible loss and is struggling to find his life again – desperate to go back to the good times he had with this Dad. Zach, who we later discover, is also struggling, with a strong father with very strong opinions of what his son WILL do. Their experiences throughout the summer teach them so much and I had so much fun running around the Irish countryside with them.
The story was an adventure where the kids went on a treasure hunt, were hunted down by the bad guys and encountered a lot of fun roadblocks along the way. I think what I really enjoyed about the book was the happy ending! Love it!!!
A fun and lovely story. Will be keeping my eye out for more
Three young adults head over to Ireland for the summer on a school trip – to find their heritage. What they find is a treasure hunt! Yes very much like the Indiana Jones as Julie kept saying in the book. But there was just so much more to this story – 2 young lads really coming into their own. Jake who experienced a terrible loss and is struggling to find his life again – desperate to go back to the good times he had with this Dad. Zach, who we later discover, is also struggling, with a strong father with very strong opinions of what his son WILL do. Their experiences throughout the summer teach them so much and I had so much fun running around the Irish countryside with them.
The story was an adventure where the kids went on a treasure hunt, were hunted down by the bad guys and encountered a lot of fun roadblocks along the way. I think what I really enjoyed about the book was the happy ending! Love it!!!
A fun and lovely story. Will be keeping my eye out for more
July 16, 2012
I was quite excited to read this book as I am always looking for books for my 13 year old son. He reads so fast I can’t keep him in books. He loved this book. He’s already asking me to find more adventures with Jake. The only thing that bothered him was in chapter 2 when Mr. O’Connell says to Jake and Zach, “Enough. You kids work together… Tomorrow you can all go to the Dingle museum. They’ll help you figure it out.” He didn’t think an adult would really say this, which kind of made me sad that he would think that… but other than that one issue he loved the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was charming, adventurous, age appropriate yet kept my attention as well (which is greatly appreciated since I try to read everything my kids read), had well developed characters, and a fun, fast plot. I enjoyed seeing Jake grow as a person and overcome his fears. He was always looking out for others which makes him a great role model for kids.
My son gives this book 4.5 stars and I give is 5 out of 5 clouds. I definitely recommend it for young teens and middle school children of both sexes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was charming, adventurous, age appropriate yet kept my attention as well (which is greatly appreciated since I try to read everything my kids read), had well developed characters, and a fun, fast plot. I enjoyed seeing Jake grow as a person and overcome his fears. He was always looking out for others which makes him a great role model for kids.
My son gives this book 4.5 stars and I give is 5 out of 5 clouds. I definitely recommend it for young teens and middle school children of both sexes.
June 24, 2012
Keeping in mind this book is (should be) directed to the YA audience so I cant be too harsh. Packed with mounds of fantastical action and adventure where no one ever gets seriously hurt or worse. A story where not only does 'boy get girl' but everyone 'good' ends up in a better place (financially or emotionally) than they were. Reminded me of a McGyver'd National Treasure but played by exceptionally gifted 8th graders. Feel good, dreams can come true fluff.
July 21, 2012
Celtic run its a great read for youth and adults alike. It brings adventure and common issues that everyone goes through. I found myself wanting not only to visit ireland but to find an adventure in my life. Its fun to escape and be a kid again. I dare you (older folk) to try to put this book down after reading the first 25 pages. You will want to know what happens and Vogel strides you throughout the way. well written and I want to see more adventures from jake and hopefully maggie.
November 8, 2015
This was heaps of fun! Very Famous Five-esque, with a lovely rural Ireland setting, some hidden Spanish treasure, and a pack of bad guys hot on the heels of the four kids as they collect and put together the clues to find it. I loved also how Jake and Zach went from enemies to friends as they had to work together to find the treasure.
(I would probably write more but this keyboard is busted and I have to frickin' pound the keys to make it work ugh!)
(I would probably write more but this keyboard is busted and I have to frickin' pound the keys to make it work ugh!)
October 16, 2012
Take one gadget-crazy fourteen-year-old, a trip to Ireland, a couple of villains, hidden treasure and mix in some jealous romance, quick get-aways and spidery caves and you have the perfect combination of high-adventure and mystery-solving action. This Indiana Jones-like tale is another great boy read that anyone, young and old will enjoy. And guess what? It's only the beginning of this great adventure series.
December 30, 2012
While this title had a good basis for the story line, I found it lacking in character depth and the dialogue somewhat forced (too many exclamation points). The story also was a bit choppy. It could have been improved by adding more introduction to the scenes, allowing it to flow better.
Although this title would be age appropriate for my school library, with as many books that are available to purchase, I would probably not add this to my collection.
Although this title would be age appropriate for my school library, with as many books that are available to purchase, I would probably not add this to my collection.
March 23, 2015
This was a mystery/adventure with a treasure hunt. Although the clues are easy enough, they have a creative and surprising touches. It was a fun time to travel around the Irish countryside.This has a good storyline and characters that race through abandoned churches, secret passages and empty museums and the characters are truly wonderful.
***I received this book in return for an honest review***
***I received this book in return for an honest review***
December 28, 2012
Romance, danger, intrigue, and personality clashes between peers all make Celtic Run a action packed coming-of-age novel, drawing direct connections between life's changes, strife, and the process of maturity. Teens and many adults will find Celtic Run a vivid, memorable adventure story.
November 2, 2012
This is an amazing book! My kids and I have read it and reread it. We can't get enough of the main character, Jake McGreevy. We're eagerly awaiting another novel. The setting is beautiful, the storyline riveting, and the ending leaves you breathless! We love it! You've got to read this book!
January 10, 2014
I met Sean at a local author event and brought his book mainly for the title: Celtic Run. The book turned out to be a superb read about young love, adventure, peer rivalry, and coming of age. Young readers will easily identify with Jake, Zach, Maggie, and Julie.
September 19, 2012
A wonderful story for young teens. Adventure, first love, hidden treasure, and travel to Ireland. 4 young people find and unravel clues in the adventure of a lifetime. Great for boys and girls
October 17, 2012
This is a Colorado author; I met him when he did a program for the library. Nice guy. He did lots of research for this adventure/thriller that takes place in Ireland.
May 19, 2013
I loved this book ! Love the main character. Good, fun, interesting read.
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November 9, 2014KP to review @ www.GoodReadingGuide.com
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