The Bomoh's Apprentice

The Bomoh's Apprentice #1

by Geoffrey S. Walker

Tragically orphaned at the age of three, Kutu is adopted by the animist bomoh of Kampung Pokok Tertinggi in the wilds of Borneo. Over the course of the next thirteen years, the powerful sorcerer schools the boy in the supernatural arts, preparing him to take his place when he himself must leave on a perilous quest in the service of the tree-god he worships.

Before he can be inducted into the office he is fated to hold, disaster strikes, and Kutu the boy-bomoh suddenly finds himself alone in the world—separated perhaps forever from his adoptive father and cast out by the villagers he had been trained to serve. Will his magical powers suffice to overcome the dangers he must face if he hopes to survive?

A spellbinding fantasy that celebrates the timeless, exotic allure of the Land Below the Wind, The Bomoh's Apprentice will delight readers of all ages with its rich cast of characters and the thrilling twists and turns of its plot.

389 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2010

About the author

Geoffrey S. Walker first read about Borneo as a young boy, and his fascination with the island has stayed with him ever since. In 2004, following a successful career in advertising, he left the United States and moved to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

As a member of the Sabah Society, he has had the opportunity to explore many parts of Borneo that are well off the beaten track, and these experiences helped shape The Bomoh's Apprentice and his sequel, Blood Reunion. Besides working on the third book in the series, he is also compiling a book of nonsense verse for children.

Reviews

[Shah Si Pencinta Buku · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kutu, an orphan who lost both of his parents due to the tragic incident has been adopted by Bomoh Katak Hitam at the age of three. He was trained by the bomoh to be his successor when he turn sixteen.

For thirteen years under his adopted father's care, Kutu was taught all the knowledge and skills he needs to continue Bomoh's legacy. He went through various events and experiences while growing up under the care of Bomoh. This will prepare him to be Bomoh's Apprentice.

Kutu is very brilliant and bright kids. Full of curiosity and a cheeky person. Very fast learner.

Bomoh Katak is a suitable character for the phrase don't judge the book by its cover. Physical appearance may look like he is a serious and fierce person but actually he is someone with big heart. Loving and patient.

This novel is full of emotions. Joyous, sadness, anger, love, laughter become one in this book. The author manage to build the character of Kutu and Bomoh very well.

The way author write about Kutu journey and the other world make is surreal. So magical but so true.

One more thing i love about this book is how the author who is not local manage to write beautifully about our culture.

Love the plot. Love the twist. Love the story.

[Rose Ling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much. I want to look for the second book of the same author.