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Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light
Fourteen-year-old Caleb McCallister has always thought his dad’s brother was a little paranoid. But when his parents go missing, Uncle Seamus finally loses it. He wakes Caleb in the middle of the night, they flee their home, and worse, Seamus swears all those Celtic legends Caleb has heard all his life––are actually true. Caleb is the youngest of the Sentries, an ancient guild dedicated to maintaining the balance between light and dark. Although Seamus wants to hide out, Caleb is eager to take on the family obligation. But in the Realm, a war is brewing, and he still needs to convince the Elders he’s up to the challenge. With the help of a leprechaun he nicknames Lucky, Caleb must find the one object that can stem the growing tide of darkness. But how does a kid from Boston go about stealing the invincible sword of an ancient king? Honestly, he couldn’t care less about the Elders or their stupid Realm, but if he has to stop a war to save his parents, Caleb McCallister is ready to try.
284 pages, Paperback
Published June 10, 2023
3 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 24, 2023
This book is amazing! From the beginning Caleb is such a relatable character. It is very interesting to see how he interacts with this community he has been brought into. I am so excited to see how Caleb and his friends conquer darkness in the realm. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a great read!
December 13, 2024
This book was a great idea and was a strong effort to modernize and popularize ancient Irish myths and folklore. While it started well and ended well, the middle became a morass of disjointed information flow. This was combined with an overload of unsought details about Ireland and a rain of unpronounceable Gaelic words and digressive myth fragments.
Words like these:
murdúchann
Aedh
Aileach
Siobhán
Sidhe
Can the average English reader pronounce even one of those? There are lots and lots of words like that in the story.
The book starts out with a seemingly ordinary boy in Boston who has a crazy uncle and parents who are always skipping out on him.
Strange events start to occur, the parents leave suddenly, and the uncle doesn't turn out to be as crazy as he seems. Up to this point, the Irish myth elements are slowly introduced and woven into the story in a digestible and interesting way, allowing the reader to keep participating in the story.
But in the second portion of the book, the author loses the orderly plot and the digestible portions of lore and just dumps incessant action sentences on the reader along with an extreme amount of foreign Gaelic words, Gaelic names, and tons and tons of interrupting myths, story fragments, and historical references.
It's a case of too much information. If the author wants to share Irish myths he would be more successful if he picked fewer of them and just dropped them in once in a while. Or market the book as "The Really Big Adventure Of Every Irish Myth Ever Told", or something similar so as to attract the target audience.
As it turns out the middle portion of the book is an unsought immersion class in every Irish and Gaelic myth there ever was. Or at least that's how it felt.
I think the idea was to weave the Irish myth information seamlessly into a heart-pounding action series and thus effortlessly teach the reader this information which the author clearly loves so much. But in practice, it had the opposite effect, the overload of foreign words and random story fragments derailed the central action of the book and became a burden and a barrier to the reader's enjoying the story.
But then the book switches gears again and the ending battle is a masterpiece of "final showdown" writing. The action, the emotion, the ups and downs and unexpected turns were all on point. And it worked because the overload of lecturing the reader on every Irish myth ever told was missing from this section of the book. It was just the characters and their actions, like the first portion of the book. That's what made the first and last parts work.
There's an expression, "Pick your spots.", and also "If you tell the reader everything then you tell the reader nothing."
Those expressions both apply to the central portion of the book.
If the author wants to teach people about the rich history of Irish mythology I suggest he stick to the first and last formulas of this book and have more story with a lot less lore injected into it. A pronunciation guide following each Gaelic word would make the words more comfortable to an English language audience, and having page numbers is always a good idea so paperback readers can find their place as they read.
Words like these:
murdúchann
Aedh
Aileach
Siobhán
Sidhe
Can the average English reader pronounce even one of those? There are lots and lots of words like that in the story.
The book starts out with a seemingly ordinary boy in Boston who has a crazy uncle and parents who are always skipping out on him.
Strange events start to occur, the parents leave suddenly, and the uncle doesn't turn out to be as crazy as he seems. Up to this point, the Irish myth elements are slowly introduced and woven into the story in a digestible and interesting way, allowing the reader to keep participating in the story.
But in the second portion of the book, the author loses the orderly plot and the digestible portions of lore and just dumps incessant action sentences on the reader along with an extreme amount of foreign Gaelic words, Gaelic names, and tons and tons of interrupting myths, story fragments, and historical references.
It's a case of too much information. If the author wants to share Irish myths he would be more successful if he picked fewer of them and just dropped them in once in a while. Or market the book as "The Really Big Adventure Of Every Irish Myth Ever Told", or something similar so as to attract the target audience.
As it turns out the middle portion of the book is an unsought immersion class in every Irish and Gaelic myth there ever was. Or at least that's how it felt.
I think the idea was to weave the Irish myth information seamlessly into a heart-pounding action series and thus effortlessly teach the reader this information which the author clearly loves so much. But in practice, it had the opposite effect, the overload of foreign words and random story fragments derailed the central action of the book and became a burden and a barrier to the reader's enjoying the story.
But then the book switches gears again and the ending battle is a masterpiece of "final showdown" writing. The action, the emotion, the ups and downs and unexpected turns were all on point. And it worked because the overload of lecturing the reader on every Irish myth ever told was missing from this section of the book. It was just the characters and their actions, like the first portion of the book. That's what made the first and last parts work.
There's an expression, "Pick your spots.", and also "If you tell the reader everything then you tell the reader nothing."
Those expressions both apply to the central portion of the book.
If the author wants to teach people about the rich history of Irish mythology I suggest he stick to the first and last formulas of this book and have more story with a lot less lore injected into it. A pronunciation guide following each Gaelic word would make the words more comfortable to an English language audience, and having page numbers is always a good idea so paperback readers can find their place as they read.
November 10, 2024
Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light, by Scott M. Sargent, is a captivating modern fantasy steeped in the rich lore of Irish mythology. The story follows 14-year-old Caleb, a boy worn down by his father’s constant retelling of ancient Irish myths. Feeling abandoned by his often absent father, Caleb gravitates toward his traumatized uncle Seamus. But on a school field trip with his best friend Scott, the myths he thought were mere stories come to life. As darkness rises and demons emerge, Caleb and his newfound allies must face unimaginable threats to protect the world and save those they care about.
What really stood out to me was the way the author seamlessly wove Irish legends into a modern setting. I have a deep appreciation for world cultures, and learning about the ancient myths alongside Caleb was a fascinating experience. Caleb, though far from a perfect hero, is relatable in his flaws. His struggle with abandonment and his frustration with the world around him felt real. Frankly, he got on my nerves in the first half of the book—mostly because he reminded me of myself at that age. But that’s the brilliance of his character. Caleb’s growth is one of the highlights of the story. Supporting characters like the sarcastic leprechaun "Lucky," the fierce Siobhan and the shy yet loyal Scott added layers of charm and depth to the narrative. Even Kieran, the elven college student, brought his own unique energy to the mix.
There are sections where the story drags a little, particularly when it goes deep into the family history and the backstory of the Tuatha Dé Danann. While this mythology is fascinating, I found myself getting lost in the details at times, yearning to get back to the action. That said, the legends themselves are a treat. The way Sargent ties the mystical artifacts—the Sword of Light, Lugh’s Spear, and the other treasures—into the plot is seamless. Caleb’s gradual discovery of his connection to these ancient myths is compelling, especially when he learns about his father’s secretive role in this world, a revelation that is hinted at with tension throughout the book. The story skillfully blends magical elements with real-world problems—issues of identity, family, and the weight of expectations.
The book wraps up with a solid, if somewhat abrupt, conclusion while leaving room for more adventures in future installments. It's a real page-turner with action and adventure around every corner, and I was fully immersed in its world. Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is an exciting tale of growth, self-discovery, and embracing one's destiny. Scott M. Sargent delivers a brilliant debut, and I’m eager to see what comes next from this promising author.
What really stood out to me was the way the author seamlessly wove Irish legends into a modern setting. I have a deep appreciation for world cultures, and learning about the ancient myths alongside Caleb was a fascinating experience. Caleb, though far from a perfect hero, is relatable in his flaws. His struggle with abandonment and his frustration with the world around him felt real. Frankly, he got on my nerves in the first half of the book—mostly because he reminded me of myself at that age. But that’s the brilliance of his character. Caleb’s growth is one of the highlights of the story. Supporting characters like the sarcastic leprechaun "Lucky," the fierce Siobhan and the shy yet loyal Scott added layers of charm and depth to the narrative. Even Kieran, the elven college student, brought his own unique energy to the mix.
There are sections where the story drags a little, particularly when it goes deep into the family history and the backstory of the Tuatha Dé Danann. While this mythology is fascinating, I found myself getting lost in the details at times, yearning to get back to the action. That said, the legends themselves are a treat. The way Sargent ties the mystical artifacts—the Sword of Light, Lugh’s Spear, and the other treasures—into the plot is seamless. Caleb’s gradual discovery of his connection to these ancient myths is compelling, especially when he learns about his father’s secretive role in this world, a revelation that is hinted at with tension throughout the book. The story skillfully blends magical elements with real-world problems—issues of identity, family, and the weight of expectations.
The book wraps up with a solid, if somewhat abrupt, conclusion while leaving room for more adventures in future installments. It's a real page-turner with action and adventure around every corner, and I was fully immersed in its world. Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is an exciting tale of growth, self-discovery, and embracing one's destiny. Scott M. Sargent delivers a brilliant debut, and I’m eager to see what comes next from this promising author.
June 18, 2023
Caleb McCallister goes on the hero's journey, but in a way we've never read before. The novel is fast-paced, taut, and rich with Irish mythology. At the beginning of the novel, Caleb is just a regular kid who has a complicated relationship with his father. But within the first ten pages, Caleb has a near-fatal encounter with a merrow, a mermaid-like creature from Irish folklore. And then we're off: the adventures begin. Caleb survives attacks by púca, benefits from the guidance of a curmudgeonly leprechaun, and then travels through a portal into the mythical realm of the Tuatha de Danann.
The novel reminds me a lot of the Percy Jackson stories. Sargent, like Rick Riordan, excels at a type of world-building based on a culture's myths. Sargent assumes that the the reader may need some background about Irish mythology, and he sets up the story so that the reader is educated along the way. The way he weaves the mythology into his own text is seamless. That's the kind of thing that could get clunky, but Sargent's weaving is graceful. Also like Riordan, Sargent creates a relationships between his characters that have heft and complexity. There are three young teenagers whose choices drive the novel, and the friendships among them wax and wane as the characters test what it means to be loyal.
I recommend Caleb McCallister for sure. I've taught English for 20 years, and Sargent's story is the kind of tale that kids 11-15 gobble up. And then ask for the next one.
The novel reminds me a lot of the Percy Jackson stories. Sargent, like Rick Riordan, excels at a type of world-building based on a culture's myths. Sargent assumes that the the reader may need some background about Irish mythology, and he sets up the story so that the reader is educated along the way. The way he weaves the mythology into his own text is seamless. That's the kind of thing that could get clunky, but Sargent's weaving is graceful. Also like Riordan, Sargent creates a relationships between his characters that have heft and complexity. There are three young teenagers whose choices drive the novel, and the friendships among them wax and wane as the characters test what it means to be loyal.
I recommend Caleb McCallister for sure. I've taught English for 20 years, and Sargent's story is the kind of tale that kids 11-15 gobble up. And then ask for the next one.
August 9, 2024
"Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is a thrilling adventure that masterfully combines modern fantasy with Irish mythology. The story centers on fourteen-year-old Caleb, whose life is turned upside down when his parents mysteriously disappear. He is catapulted into a world where the Celtic legends he has grown up hearing are not only real but intricately linked to his own fate.
The author crafts a fast-paced, engaging narrative that immediately grabs the reader's imagination. Caleb's transformation from an ordinary Boston kid to the youngest member of the ancient Sentries guild is both exciting and relatable. Fans of "Percy Jackson" and mythology enthusiasts will find much to enjoy as Caleb navigates the challenges of his new reality, from evading dark forces to uncovering the secrets of an ancient king's invincible sword.
The well-researched Irish mythology adds depth to the plot, and the language is sophisticated yet accessible, elevating the book above many others in the genre. Overall, "Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is a must-read for any young reader who enjoys mythology, fantasy, or simply a suspenseful, well-told tale.
The author crafts a fast-paced, engaging narrative that immediately grabs the reader's imagination. Caleb's transformation from an ordinary Boston kid to the youngest member of the ancient Sentries guild is both exciting and relatable. Fans of "Percy Jackson" and mythology enthusiasts will find much to enjoy as Caleb navigates the challenges of his new reality, from evading dark forces to uncovering the secrets of an ancient king's invincible sword.
The well-researched Irish mythology adds depth to the plot, and the language is sophisticated yet accessible, elevating the book above many others in the genre. Overall, "Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is a must-read for any young reader who enjoys mythology, fantasy, or simply a suspenseful, well-told tale.
September 2, 2024
If you are not familiar with Irish mythology, ‘Celeb McCallister and the Sword of Light’ presents an interesting and amazing study of Irish folklore, magic and legendary warriors. The adventures of Caleb move at a breathtaking pace and are a visual delight.
The development of a fourteen-year-old boy into a complex protagonist who has to take up the role destined for him is brilliantly crafted by Sargent. There are so many stories about mythical creatures but the way they have been linked to each other and woven into one whole is the striking feature of this young adult fantasy. Seamus’ character adds a touch of realism and poignancy; probably hinting at the effects that such stories cast on impressionable minds.
The description of the Realms and the crystal walls of the House of the Elders add great value to the narrative but the way values are highlighted when Caleb has to choose between self-sacrifice and loyalty is an outstanding aspect of the plot. Highly recommended.
The development of a fourteen-year-old boy into a complex protagonist who has to take up the role destined for him is brilliantly crafted by Sargent. There are so many stories about mythical creatures but the way they have been linked to each other and woven into one whole is the striking feature of this young adult fantasy. Seamus’ character adds a touch of realism and poignancy; probably hinting at the effects that such stories cast on impressionable minds.
The description of the Realms and the crystal walls of the House of the Elders add great value to the narrative but the way values are highlighted when Caleb has to choose between self-sacrifice and loyalty is an outstanding aspect of the plot. Highly recommended.
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June 19, 2023First time author Scott Sargent has just published Caleb McAllister and the Sword of Light, a book for middle school readers. The author understands the mind of the teenager as we follow 15-year-old Caleb McAllister, whose life is complete with a loving but annoying mother, a distant father, a sometimes-friend, sometimes enemy, a school bully, an eccentric uncle, a demanding teacher. We meet Caleb as he is suffering through a school field trip to a nearby Civil War fort. While at the fort, he finds himself transported to Ireland, a place he knows through his father’s teaching of Irish folktales. The novel then takes Caleb and the reader on a tale filled with adventure, danger, enlightenment and more. This book is set up to become a series and is sure to delight the middle school crowd.
December 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this story as it was rich in Irish myths, legends and folklore, including many legends and creatures that I had never even heard of before. Caleb McAllister is a well written and likeable character who has become very exhausted by all of the myths and legends that his father has been telling him. Yet after a terrifying encounter with a “merrow” (an Irish mythological creature similar to a mermaid) Caleb is drawn into a strange and mystical adventure.
Some of the Irish words for mythical beings can be tricky for an English reader to pronounce because the way they’re spelt isn’t always the obvious pronunciation (Tuatha Dé Danann being an example, I couldn’t remember how it was spelt so had to look at another review for the correct spelling) But apart from that, it was a good read overall. I would suggest that the ideal ages are 11-15.
Some of the Irish words for mythical beings can be tricky for an English reader to pronounce because the way they’re spelt isn’t always the obvious pronunciation (Tuatha Dé Danann being an example, I couldn’t remember how it was spelt so had to look at another review for the correct spelling) But apart from that, it was a good read overall. I would suggest that the ideal ages are 11-15.
June 21, 2023
What a great book!!
Caleb McCallister is suddenly pulled into a world of Irish mythology and magic, and the reader is pulled willingly right along with him on a wonderful adventure! From the first chapter, Caleb is a likable, relatable teenager with admirable character and bravery. The Irish legends of his family's past are effortlessly shared with concise, clear detail in this action packed novel which is hard to put down. You will quickly find yourself cheering for Caleb and his interesting friends as they battle the dark forces in the Realm. What a great book to kick off summer for middle school kids and to remind them how fun reading for pleasure is now that school is out! I know that they, like me, will be eagerly anticipating Caleb's next adventure!
Caleb McCallister is suddenly pulled into a world of Irish mythology and magic, and the reader is pulled willingly right along with him on a wonderful adventure! From the first chapter, Caleb is a likable, relatable teenager with admirable character and bravery. The Irish legends of his family's past are effortlessly shared with concise, clear detail in this action packed novel which is hard to put down. You will quickly find yourself cheering for Caleb and his interesting friends as they battle the dark forces in the Realm. What a great book to kick off summer for middle school kids and to remind them how fun reading for pleasure is now that school is out! I know that they, like me, will be eagerly anticipating Caleb's next adventure!
August 7, 2024
absolutely enjoyed this story. I basically sat down and tore through it. I really liked the main character, Caleb. I thought he was very well drawn in the way. The author does a great job of showing his thoughts and his emotions which seemed very on point for a boy his age. He was easy to root for right from the start. I also liked the magic, I guess I learned something about Celtic mythology. That was pretty refreshing in a YA fantasy. It's a pure adventure story with a good ending. Doesn't conclude enough to not leave space for the next book (I think there will follow a next book?) I will probably read that one as well. Even though it's not what I usually read at all (I think it's middle grade or YA?) it's a good enough story to be enjoyed by anyone.
April 10, 2025
Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is a fast-paced young adult fantasy adventure that blends Irish folklore with an exciting modern twist. The story follows Caleb, a 15-year-old boy who unexpectedly finds himself on a quest where he faces supernatural challenges and magical creatures, he must grow into his role and overcome tests of character and confidence.
The book does a great job of incorporating Irish mythology in a way that enhances the story without overwhelming the reader. The action is intense, the emotional moments hit the right notes, and the plot’s unexpected turns keep things engaging. Caleb is a relatable protagonist, making his journey even more compelling.
For readers who enjoy adventure, mythology, and stories of self-discovery, this is a great pick.
The book does a great job of incorporating Irish mythology in a way that enhances the story without overwhelming the reader. The action is intense, the emotional moments hit the right notes, and the plot’s unexpected turns keep things engaging. Caleb is a relatable protagonist, making his journey even more compelling.
For readers who enjoy adventure, mythology, and stories of self-discovery, this is a great pick.
June 19, 2023
I am not an avid reader but I finished Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light in one day. I could not stop reading this beautifully told and fun to take part in story. Caleb is a powerful protagonist that is a good and relatable example for all young people. His path will grip and astound anyone looking to get hooked into a thrilling tale of wild adventure and myth. It didn't hurt that the Irish folklore was obviously deeply researched and described in book for those less familiar. Whether a fan of enthralling young adult literature, fascinating Irish mythology, or just great stories, Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is worth every minute. 10/10
June 25, 2023
Fast-paced, exciting, and steeped in Irish lore, Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is the first in a hopefully lengthy series exploring the mythos and history of Ireland. Sargent deftly navigates the field of Celtic history, providing just enough to set context clearly while our hero battles ferocious monsters likely unknown to most readers. Caleb, the fifteen-year-old Sentry in training, demonstrates canny self-awareness that makes him an interesting and complex hero. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series and can confidently recommend it to middle-grade readers as well as anyone who enjoys a speedy YA urban fantasy.
December 25, 2023
I can't say enough good things about Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light. I became entirely enveloped in the tales of Irish folklore, learning about their legendary warriors and being way too interested in each new piece of their lush stories. Not only did I pause on some pages and do a lap of surprise around my room, I also thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Caleb and the qualities that create the compelling character he is. I now have a very full notes file in my computer of all the small details I refuse to forget about this amazing read. I want I can't wait for the next book!
June 21, 2023
Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light is a fast-paced, home run pick for anyone who enjoys YA adventure, mythology, fantasy, or just great storytelling! Sargent does a masterful job seamlessly interweaving Irish mythology with a tale of friendship, family, loyalty, and courage that had me hooked from page one. It reminded me of the Percy Jackson and Artemis Fowl stories in the very best ways, and without feeling at all derivative – I can’t wait for the second installment!
June 19, 2023
Loved this book! Terrific adventure story--didn't want to put it down. Amazing descriptions of the Irish countryside and Irish legends; enjoyed watching Caleb unravel mysteries about himself and his family and face some pretty daunting challenges. Eager for the next in the series.
July 25, 2023
Such a great book! It is beautifully written and full of Irish folklore, mystery, and excitement. You can't help but root for Caleb. Can't wait to read the next book in this series! I highly recommend this book not only for young adults but for anyone who loves a well-written and entertaining book.
August 28, 2024
Scott M. Sargent's "Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is a captivating young adult fantasy novel that will keep you turning pages. It seamlessly weaves Celtic mythology into a modern-day adventure, following Caleb, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers his extraordinary destiny as a Sentry, a protector of humanity from the forces of darkness.
Sargent's writing is fast-paced and immersive, instantly drawing you into Caleb's world. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and heart-pounding action scenes, like Caleb's thrilling escape from a merrow in Boston Harbor. You'll be on the edge of your seat as Caleb grapples with his new identity and the dangers it brings.
The well-developed characters are easy to connect with. Caleb's bond with his uncle Seamus is heartwarming, while his banter with his friend Scott adds a touch of humor. The enigmatic Siobhan keeps you guessing, and you'll find yourself rooting for Caleb and his allies throughout their journey.
The world-building is superb, seamlessly blending the mythical realm of the Tuatha Dé Danann with familiar settings in Ireland and Boston. Sargent's knowledge of Celtic mythology shines through, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The ending is a breathtaking climax that showcases Caleb's courage and the sacrifices he makes for those he loves. It's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and bravery can triumph. "Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is an outstanding debut novel that leaves you eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling series.
Sargent's writing is fast-paced and immersive, instantly drawing you into Caleb's world. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and heart-pounding action scenes, like Caleb's thrilling escape from a merrow in Boston Harbor. You'll be on the edge of your seat as Caleb grapples with his new identity and the dangers it brings.
The well-developed characters are easy to connect with. Caleb's bond with his uncle Seamus is heartwarming, while his banter with his friend Scott adds a touch of humor. The enigmatic Siobhan keeps you guessing, and you'll find yourself rooting for Caleb and his allies throughout their journey.
The world-building is superb, seamlessly blending the mythical realm of the Tuatha Dé Danann with familiar settings in Ireland and Boston. Sargent's knowledge of Celtic mythology shines through, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The ending is a breathtaking climax that showcases Caleb's courage and the sacrifices he makes for those he loves. It's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and bravery can triumph. "Caleb McCallister and the Sword of Light" is an outstanding debut novel that leaves you eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling series.
June 16, 2023
One of the best books I have read this year!
June 18, 2023
Wonderful story for kids and adults alike. I enjoyed the Irish legends and rich, scenic background.
June 19, 2023
Fantastic book for teens, especially boys. Lots of adventure and fantasy. Characters come to life with Sarg’s writing. Very entertaining!
June 19, 2023
Great read and fast paced! Perfect for magical, folklore lovers and adventure seekers too. Can’t wait to read the sequel.
November 8, 2024
Perfect book for those with Irish Blood.
The characters are well-developed. There is mystery, intrigue, thrill, suspense. The chapters flow easily and maintain the rhythm of the story.
The characters are well-developed. There is mystery, intrigue, thrill, suspense. The chapters flow easily and maintain the rhythm of the story.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews