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The Mapmaker's Sons
Reveling in mysterious destinies and dangerous adventure, this novel for middle schoolers follows Thomas Hawkins, a student no different from his peers at the Lost Preparatory Academy for Boys, until a man with a wooden leg appears and Thomas must leave the life he knows or chance not reaching his next birthday, which is only days away. After years of scaling the school’s rooftops, engaging in swordplay and treasure hunts with his friends, and fighting-off blood thirsty pirates, this imaginary world suddenly becomes all too real. And as if a close encounter with a pirate isn’t enough, Thomas discovers a brother he never knew and a gift that will eventually save both their lives: he can make maps come alive.
176 pages, Hardcover
First published October 15, 1912
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 27, 2012
Mapmaker's Son's by V.L. Burgess fulfills its publisher's mission get those middle grade students, especially boys, to read! The reluctant reader will choose the title for its slim size and get hooked right away with Tom Hawkins scaling walls and battling adversaries in the bell tower. While geared for those who do not want to read under any circumstances, parents, teachers, and librarians will find that this is not the typical book for that purpose. Instead of watered-down vocabulary and many illustrations, Burgess fools the reader into learning challenging words within the fast-paced plot. The descriptive paragraphs, which these readers often skip for their dryness in other books, are devoured in search of Tom's next exciting and dangerous adventure. This is a book that I will wholeheartedly recommend to parents of those reluctant readers! See the trailer bit.ly/TKEJDT
September 26, 2012
As most of you know, I have two boys, so I was intrigued to learn that a new publisher was starting and their mission was Middle Grade Books for boys. Let's face it, the market is inundated with the latest romantic vampire read and boy books usually get overlooked. Most parents and educators are always on the hunt to find ways to promote reading amongst boys, so it's refreshing to see Move Books want to change the way boys look at reading.
Their first title is THE MAPMAKER'S SONS by V.L. Burgess and I believe this will definitely help Move Books with their mission. Thomas Hawkins is like most boys in that he likes to hang with his friends, have pretend sword fights, and create his own adventures. However, he's a student at the Lost Preparatory Academy for Boys, a place full of rules and certainly not fun. I mean, bells alert the boys when to wake, when to eat, when to shower and more. One night, Tom decides to silence the bells, but instead finds a pirate who has come to deliver Tom's inheritance from a father he never knew--an old map. The map leads Tom back home to The Five Kingdoms where Tom learns his father was a mapmaker and Tom discovers a brother he never knew he had. Together, they must solve a prophecy to save the world and their lives.
THE MAPMAKER'S SONS is a quick read, which boys will love and they won't want to put it down because it's packed with mystery and action. Who doesn't love a story where you interact with pirates, voyage to a mysterious land and take on an evil ruler? If that doesn't appeal to boys, then I don't know what will!
Their first title is THE MAPMAKER'S SONS by V.L. Burgess and I believe this will definitely help Move Books with their mission. Thomas Hawkins is like most boys in that he likes to hang with his friends, have pretend sword fights, and create his own adventures. However, he's a student at the Lost Preparatory Academy for Boys, a place full of rules and certainly not fun. I mean, bells alert the boys when to wake, when to eat, when to shower and more. One night, Tom decides to silence the bells, but instead finds a pirate who has come to deliver Tom's inheritance from a father he never knew--an old map. The map leads Tom back home to The Five Kingdoms where Tom learns his father was a mapmaker and Tom discovers a brother he never knew he had. Together, they must solve a prophecy to save the world and their lives.
THE MAPMAKER'S SONS is a quick read, which boys will love and they won't want to put it down because it's packed with mystery and action. Who doesn't love a story where you interact with pirates, voyage to a mysterious land and take on an evil ruler? If that doesn't appeal to boys, then I don't know what will!
May 14, 2013
TCL Call number: J BURGESS V
Stephanie’s rating: 4 stars
Oh fantasy fiction books! How imaginative, adventurous, and brilliant they are! Growing up I was a sucker for treasure map stories…old cartography maps, trails, and “x marks” the spot trivia! “The Mapmaker’s Sons” has all these elements and more; powerful wizards, good/bad magic, evil ruler, dragons, a sword, and a hero…well in this case make it two, because we’re talking twins here! Tom and Porter were separated at birth and finally 2 days before their 14th birthday they are introduced to one another and immediately given the task to find the Sword of Five Kingdoms and save the world. Whoa! That’s quite the load for two teenyboppers, right? Nah. They are the mapmaker’s sons…they have the power to make it happen.
Stephanie’s rating: 4 stars
Oh fantasy fiction books! How imaginative, adventurous, and brilliant they are! Growing up I was a sucker for treasure map stories…old cartography maps, trails, and “x marks” the spot trivia! “The Mapmaker’s Sons” has all these elements and more; powerful wizards, good/bad magic, evil ruler, dragons, a sword, and a hero…well in this case make it two, because we’re talking twins here! Tom and Porter were separated at birth and finally 2 days before their 14th birthday they are introduced to one another and immediately given the task to find the Sword of Five Kingdoms and save the world. Whoa! That’s quite the load for two teenyboppers, right? Nah. They are the mapmaker’s sons…they have the power to make it happen.
August 31, 2012
I was invited to read an advance copy of this title, and was very pleasantly entertained by it. I would definitely recommend it to elementary readers, reluctant middle school readers, and even adults who want a delightful little adventure break ;-) The plot is developed nicely and flows well from the first page to the last. What young reader wouldn't be intrigued by an orphan, a stern headmaster, mysterious strangers in dark cloaks, a magical map, a legend of good and evil forces, and many surprises along the way! The stated intention of the publisher is a book appealing to middle-grade boys, but I feel that this would appeal to many girls as well.
August 26, 2012
The MAPMAKER'S SONS is suspenseful and a fast-paced adventure that is like a young Indian Jones times two. There are many twists and surprises that will leave readers anxious to read to the end. [Note: This is easy to visualize this novel as if a screen movie.]
May 6, 2022
This fantasy-adventure story begins in a contemporary boy's school where orphan Tom learns he has strange control over a map. He is quickly whisked away by a man with a peg leg moving into an alternate world that feels similar to a medieval time period, known as the Five Kingdoms. Here Tom meets a boy, named Porter, he learns is his twin. The two were separated at birth when a unsavory character named Keegan learned about a prophesy involving the boys that would end his rule. To avoid Keegan stealing one or both of the boys, their father had Tom whisked away to supposed safety. In this manner, Tom ended up transported to a life at a the Lost Preparatory Academy for Boys under the protection of a strict headmaster. Now on the eve of their 14th birthday, a countdown begins for the fulfillment of the prophesy. But the two must locate a missing sword for the true ruler (ala the Sword in the Stone) to overthrow Keegan and end his evil reign. Together, the boys are able to make the map come alive and reveal the swords' hiding place. Readers will enjoy following the brothers on their quest as they travel through each of the Five Kingdoms accompanied by a young girl named Willa and a young boy named Mudge. Overall, I enjoyed this first book in what looks like might become a series. There was one scene that I thought was perhaps inappropriate for this age group that involved Keegan planning their next evil deed, while drinking and speaking in a manner reminiscent of Darth Vader. He even wore a black cape. I could practically hear the breathing. That paragraph felt like it belonged in an adult novel. Otherwise, this is a solid book for middle grade readers who enjoy battles, sword fighting, chase scenes, narrow escapes, and the struggle for good over evil. Easy-to- read and not overly long. With all the unexpected twists and turns, and switched loyalties, it will appeal to the most reluctant reader.
February 14, 2016
Burgess, V. L., and Jon Berkeley. The Mapmaker's Sons. Beacon Falls, CT: Move, 2012. Print.:
Summary: Tom goes to a very structured boys 19 prep school. Every time a bell rings, the boys have to do something. Tom, the main character in the book, attempts to silence the bells by climbing to the roof. There he meets a pirate named Umbrey from another era. Enemies (the Watch) appear as well and a small battle ensues. Umbrey, talks Tom into coming back to his world to save the people from the abusive rule of Keegan and the Watch. There he finds that he has a twin brother. He also discovers that he can make maps come alive. The sword that needs to be found to save the people can only be found if both twins are together. This is a wonderfully exciting book for intermediate and middle school children. Although the publisher is pushing this book for boys, I 19m sure that both girls and boys will love the adventurous ride.
Ridiculously Simple Synopsis: Boy travels through time to save a nation from a brutal ruler.
Curriculum Connection: Students who are studying maps can make their own maps after reading this book. They can write up directions to follow to find a treasure.
Reading Level: Elementary, Intermediate
Genre: Fiction
Characters:
Tom: Protagonist who goes back in time to save his people.
Porter: Tom 19s twin brother.
Umbrey: A good pirate who helps the boys and is a mentor to them.
Mudge: A scruffy boy they pick up along the way to help them in their quest.
Willa: A girl who takes care of Mudge who also joins them in their quest.
Keegan: An abusive ruler.
Mortimer Lost: The head of the Lost Preparatory Books for Boys.
Summary: Tom goes to a very structured boys 19 prep school. Every time a bell rings, the boys have to do something. Tom, the main character in the book, attempts to silence the bells by climbing to the roof. There he meets a pirate named Umbrey from another era. Enemies (the Watch) appear as well and a small battle ensues. Umbrey, talks Tom into coming back to his world to save the people from the abusive rule of Keegan and the Watch. There he finds that he has a twin brother. He also discovers that he can make maps come alive. The sword that needs to be found to save the people can only be found if both twins are together. This is a wonderfully exciting book for intermediate and middle school children. Although the publisher is pushing this book for boys, I 19m sure that both girls and boys will love the adventurous ride.
Ridiculously Simple Synopsis: Boy travels through time to save a nation from a brutal ruler.
Curriculum Connection: Students who are studying maps can make their own maps after reading this book. They can write up directions to follow to find a treasure.
Reading Level: Elementary, Intermediate
Genre: Fiction
Characters:
Tom: Protagonist who goes back in time to save his people.
Porter: Tom 19s twin brother.
Umbrey: A good pirate who helps the boys and is a mentor to them.
Mudge: A scruffy boy they pick up along the way to help them in their quest.
Willa: A girl who takes care of Mudge who also joins them in their quest.
Keegan: An abusive ruler.
Mortimer Lost: The head of the Lost Preparatory Books for Boys.
August 20, 2014
Since my son has gotten older, I haven't read as much middle grade fantasy-adventure. He used to be a reluctant reader, which is the exact target for this publishing company. I just wrote a MG manuscript with a boy main character, so I thought this book appealed to me as a writer. After a few chapters, I was swept into the story! In fact, I had a hard time putting it down. Maybe I'm the target audience!
The main character, Tom, climbs up a tower to cause mischief on the boarding school's bell. A storm is brewing. He winds up being attacked by two men, when a pirate-looking man rescues him. Then Tom finds out the truth about the rescuer and the headmaster of his boarding school. There's another world he must enter in order to find a magical sword.
This book impressed me because the pace is good, yet it doesn't lack depth. I could quibble about a few things. I think Tom could've inquired about his parents more and maybe had more thoughts about them. Fun read. I look forward to reading the next one.
Another note: I really appreciated the illustrations. Quality work from a small press.
The main character, Tom, climbs up a tower to cause mischief on the boarding school's bell. A storm is brewing. He winds up being attacked by two men, when a pirate-looking man rescues him. Then Tom finds out the truth about the rescuer and the headmaster of his boarding school. There's another world he must enter in order to find a magical sword.
This book impressed me because the pace is good, yet it doesn't lack depth. I could quibble about a few things. I think Tom could've inquired about his parents more and maybe had more thoughts about them. Fun read. I look forward to reading the next one.
Another note: I really appreciated the illustrations. Quality work from a small press.
December 8, 2014
Teacher note: This one was hard for me to get into. Would need to be a good reader and maybe even give them a starting explanation. However, once I got into it then I couldn’t put it down.
Tom lives in Lost Preparatory Academy for Boy and it has a lot of rules. Tome believes he is an orphan until one night men come after him and one of those men is a one legged pirate. The pirate saves his life and then takes him through a portal into another world. In this world he finds out he has a twin brother and there is a prophecy about them.
Tom meets up with his brother Porter. Tom also saves a kid named Mudge. Mudge had a caretaker named Willa who helped the three of them cross the swamp and forest to get to the sword. They faced scary monsters and found an army. They make it back to the city and there Umbrey (the pirate) betrays them to Keegan (the bad guy). Turns out Umbrey didn’t really betray them just made it appear that way. He really betrayed Keegan and helped the boys. Mudge turns out to be the king and defeats Keegan and his evil men.
Tom lives in Lost Preparatory Academy for Boy and it has a lot of rules. Tome believes he is an orphan until one night men come after him and one of those men is a one legged pirate. The pirate saves his life and then takes him through a portal into another world. In this world he finds out he has a twin brother and there is a prophecy about them.
Tom meets up with his brother Porter. Tom also saves a kid named Mudge. Mudge had a caretaker named Willa who helped the three of them cross the swamp and forest to get to the sword. They faced scary monsters and found an army. They make it back to the city and there Umbrey (the pirate) betrays them to Keegan (the bad guy). Turns out Umbrey didn’t really betray them just made it appear that way. He really betrayed Keegan and helped the boys. Mudge turns out to be the king and defeats Keegan and his evil men.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2014
Oh fantasy fiction books! How imaginative, adventurous, and brilliant they are! Growing up I was a sucker for treasure map stories…old cartography maps, trails, and “x marks” the spot trivia! “The Mapmaker’s Sons” has all these elements and more; powerful wizards, good/bad magic, evil ruler, dragons, a sword, and a hero…well in this case make it two, because we’re talking twins here! Tom and Porter were separated at birth and finally 2 days before their 14th birthday they are introduced to one another and immediately given the task to find the Sword of Five Kingdoms and save the world. Whoa! That’s quite the load for two teenyboppers, right? Nah. They are the mapmaker’s sons…they have the power to make it happen.
December 10, 2012
I'm always a sucker for a quest, but if it's not well done with exciting twists and turns, believable obstacles, forward moving plot and developed characters, I can lose interest. Fortunately, this quest had all of those ingredients.
In spite of the over used theme of twins separated at birth, I thought the author handled the two boys' relationship well, making it complex enough to keep me involved. I liked not being able to predict betrayal or loyalty, and I liked the surprise discovery about the True King.
I know young readers will want to read this and the sequel.
In spite of the over used theme of twins separated at birth, I thought the author handled the two boys' relationship well, making it complex enough to keep me involved. I liked not being able to predict betrayal or loyalty, and I liked the surprise discovery about the True King.
I know young readers will want to read this and the sequel.
December 10, 2012
I have to say, I loved this book! The Mapmaker's Sons by V.L. Burgess is as exciting as a fun adventure should be. The writing is excellent and the pacing is perfect. This story would definitely be great for boys, as there is a lot of action and adventure. I can relate to Tom and particularly enjoyed the back story about his childhood. I would recommend this book for ages 10 and up. For all of you thrill seekers out there- this book is for you!
May 5, 2013
Simple but satisfying. This adventure tale with a nod to seemingly every classic childhood tale has borrowed all the essential elements - dragons, deadly wild beasts, a treasure map, pirates, battles, betrayal, evil rulers,characters who are not what they seem, and a treasure map that leads the heroes on a quest for a magical sword - and has thrown them all together in a dashing read - what's not to like?
May 5, 2013
Simple but satisfying. This adventure tale with a nod to seemingly every classic childhood tale has borrowed all the essential elements - dragons, deadly wild beasts, a treasure map, pirates, battles, betrayal, evil rulers,characters who are not what they seem, and a treasure map that leads the heroes on a quest for a magical sword - and has thrown them all together in a dashing read - what's not to like?
June 3, 2013
A fantasy adventure designed to hook boys who like the Percy Jackson and or Alex Rider series. Loosely based on the sword in the stone legend. (This is explicitly acknowledged.) It is fast paced and adequately, if not elegantly written. I kept hoping for something less predictable, but the girl had honey colored hair and was graceful, the villains were loutish and the brothers overcame their animus. A satisfying, if undemanding read. (Seems to be first in a series.)
February 20, 2013
Written for boys, this is a fast read for adults, with many classical elements of a fantasy - the lost heir to the throne, dangers at every turn, and a boy hero. A good read to capture boys who are reluctant readers.
March 26, 2013
Excellent fantasy/adventure about two brothers who must unite to save both their worlds. Great pick for those younger readers who are strong but not yet ready for more intense fantasy.
May 29, 2013
A good fantasy book for those who want a book under 200 pages
June 18, 2013
Great fast-paced, adventure/fantasy that grabs the reader from the first chapter. Jacki
I loved this book! Nancy
I loved this book! Nancy
January 25, 2014
It had a good plot line, but I think the other world could have been a little different. It was short, but a good read.
Read
April 12, 2014DNF: the book is trying too hard to be a compelling fantasy story but doesn't really manage to do that. Also, the character names are pretty terrible. "Keegan" is a bad guy name?
April 23, 2015
Two brothers unite for a true cause with the helps of some old family friends. Entertaining youth story.
September 26, 2015
It was a fun read. Very interesting story. The brothers made excellent lead characters and the interactions between made for good reading
Read
February 8, 2018It was a great, detailed, interesting book that I think anyone would love to read.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews