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Middle School Magic #1
The Kindling
All thirteen-year-old Connor Dell wants to do is pass pre-algebra, play lacrosse, and possibly kiss Melanie Stephens, but when a run-in with the school bully ignites strange powers inside him, Connor's normal teenage life goes up in flames. Now he'll need his new powers to defeat the Darkness that's coming for him. Fast-paced and original, this book's guaranteed to keep you guessing!
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2012
15 people are currently reading
994 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
May 10, 2012
I read this to my 12-year-old son at night, and he hated it when it was time to stop. He declared this as his co-favorite book in the whole world.
The Kindling captivated me from the first, with an evil presence and a seemingly normal life for three middle school aged children who attended a gifted school. As events progressed to where the children realized they had powers, the danger also escalated to life-threatening situations.
I was quite impressed with the way Braden Bell managed to weave in deep core human beliefs, such as self-worth and individual talents within text that reads as a supernatural action novel. I was glad that my son was gainging subliminal messages about the importance of fighting off negative thoughts and not wallowing in self-pity or feelings of self-degradation. (Actually, that part helped me, too!)
This book carries readers along on a journey in this world as well as another, which contains the darkest of elements as well as the brightest.
I am already anticipating the next book Braden Bell gives as a gift to the world.
The Kindling captivated me from the first, with an evil presence and a seemingly normal life for three middle school aged children who attended a gifted school. As events progressed to where the children realized they had powers, the danger also escalated to life-threatening situations.
I was quite impressed with the way Braden Bell managed to weave in deep core human beliefs, such as self-worth and individual talents within text that reads as a supernatural action novel. I was glad that my son was gainging subliminal messages about the importance of fighting off negative thoughts and not wallowing in self-pity or feelings of self-degradation. (Actually, that part helped me, too!)
This book carries readers along on a journey in this world as well as another, which contains the darkest of elements as well as the brightest.
I am already anticipating the next book Braden Bell gives as a gift to the world.
May 10, 2012
Braden is a natural storyteller. The Kindling was fun, imaginative, and smart--exactly the type of book I'd love my kids to read.
June 27, 2012
From bending locker doors to battling Darkhands while trapped where the incessant music of “It’s a Small World” plays (that alone is scary to me), to the soul-scarring Shadow Box, The Kindling keeps the reader turning pages (or scrolling down their reader).
What I liked about The Kindling:
1. There is great suspense, danger, courage, and adventure perfectly geared to middle-school readers (and the parents who prefer to preview what their children read).
The Stalker stared right at them.
He wore a pizza deliveryman’s clothes, and he held a pizza box, but it was him. . .
“I’ve found you,” he whispered then laughed—
Lexa couldn’t breathe. She felt like she was in a movie and someone had pushed “pause.”
2. I like the way Bell carefully chose names for groups and actions that had meaning. For example:
“Why are they called the Twilight Phalanx?” Lexa asked. “Isn’t it kind of dark at twilight? That sounds more like the Darkhands.”
. . .
“Twilight is the moment of the last light before the night comes,” Dr. Timberi continued. “Historically, the Phalanx has often been the only thing standing between civilization and complete Darkness.”
Things I liked as a parent (the average reader won't care, but their parents might appreciate these:
1. I liked that the story was principled, such as honoring a parent’s decisions (even if they were not the best answer, the motive was always to protect their child).
2. I especially loved the lessons that were woven into the story without being preachy.
3. I appreciated the loyalty between Conner and Lexa and how he is willing to sacrifice himself for his sister. Throughout the story, “family” takes priority.
What I didn’t like:
Well, since this is not the genre I usually read, I can’t really say, but I suspect most readers will not like having to wait for the sequel. On second thought, I will probably read that one too.
What I liked about The Kindling:
1. There is great suspense, danger, courage, and adventure perfectly geared to middle-school readers (and the parents who prefer to preview what their children read).
The Stalker stared right at them.
He wore a pizza deliveryman’s clothes, and he held a pizza box, but it was him. . .
“I’ve found you,” he whispered then laughed—
Lexa couldn’t breathe. She felt like she was in a movie and someone had pushed “pause.”
2. I like the way Bell carefully chose names for groups and actions that had meaning. For example:
“Why are they called the Twilight Phalanx?” Lexa asked. “Isn’t it kind of dark at twilight? That sounds more like the Darkhands.”
. . .
“Twilight is the moment of the last light before the night comes,” Dr. Timberi continued. “Historically, the Phalanx has often been the only thing standing between civilization and complete Darkness.”
Things I liked as a parent (the average reader won't care, but their parents might appreciate these:
1. I liked that the story was principled, such as honoring a parent’s decisions (even if they were not the best answer, the motive was always to protect their child).
2. I especially loved the lessons that were woven into the story without being preachy.
3. I appreciated the loyalty between Conner and Lexa and how he is willing to sacrifice himself for his sister. Throughout the story, “family” takes priority.
What I didn’t like:
Well, since this is not the genre I usually read, I can’t really say, but I suspect most readers will not like having to wait for the sequel. On second thought, I will probably read that one too.
January 12, 2013
Conner Dell and his twin sister Lexa, along with their best friend Melanie Stephens find themselves involved in a battle between good and evil. Things begin to get weird for them at school when Conner accidentally sets the school bully's gym shorts on fire. They have no idea how this happens and then wonder what is up as they hear several of the teachers conspiring against them, becoming convinced that they are out to kill them. Little do they know what is really going but it doesn't take long for them to find out. This is a story about an ultimate battle between good and evil.
As I read this story two things kept going through my mind. First, I was thinking how cool it would be to be in Conner's place. It's not too often that I think this way but this book was one time that I would love to have traded places with him. Second, I was trying to picture this as a movie. After reading the book I happened to be looking at the author's web site and that's when I realized that my idea of what the characters look like was way out of whack. Although I was fully aware that they are only 13 I actually had much older teens pictured in my mind. Now, after reconsidering, I think that this would be very scary for kids so young.
The book was well written and quite enjoyable. When my wife recommended it to me she indicated that it might be a bit too violent for my students (5th graders) to read. I find that I do not agree with her as the violence is never excessive (for the story) nor graphic. I believe that my students would love to read this book. Definitely a book well worth the time spent enjoying it. I assume that there will be a sequel which I will look forward to with much anticipation.
As I read this story two things kept going through my mind. First, I was thinking how cool it would be to be in Conner's place. It's not too often that I think this way but this book was one time that I would love to have traded places with him. Second, I was trying to picture this as a movie. After reading the book I happened to be looking at the author's web site and that's when I realized that my idea of what the characters look like was way out of whack. Although I was fully aware that they are only 13 I actually had much older teens pictured in my mind. Now, after reconsidering, I think that this would be very scary for kids so young.
The book was well written and quite enjoyable. When my wife recommended it to me she indicated that it might be a bit too violent for my students (5th graders) to read. I find that I do not agree with her as the violence is never excessive (for the story) nor graphic. I believe that my students would love to read this book. Definitely a book well worth the time spent enjoying it. I assume that there will be a sequel which I will look forward to with much anticipation.
July 18, 2015
Three middle school students notice strange things happening in their life and their teachers suddenly seem to know more than they let on. Will they be able to figure out what is going on before it is too late?
This book was a cute, fun read. It makes the middle school main characters seem like, well, middle schoolers. My friends and I were just talking about how authors always make their protagonists act years older than they should, and it was refreshing to see more accurate portrayals.
I've passed this on to my middle schooler and I suspect he will be able to relate to these kids and will enjoy the book, too. It has magic, right/wrong choices, good/evil battles and adults who are involved and not idiots (another refreshing quality).
This book was a cute, fun read. It makes the middle school main characters seem like, well, middle schoolers. My friends and I were just talking about how authors always make their protagonists act years older than they should, and it was refreshing to see more accurate portrayals.
I've passed this on to my middle schooler and I suspect he will be able to relate to these kids and will enjoy the book, too. It has magic, right/wrong choices, good/evil battles and adults who are involved and not idiots (another refreshing quality).
May 10, 2012
I've been involved with this book from the beginning, and it's been a fun journey! This is a good, fast-paced book with relatable characters and a plot that reminds you of your fun, funny and awkward days of middle school - with just a touch of magic and a spinkle of romance. The book is well written, with unexpected twists and turns leaving you on the edge of your seat!
I'd reccommend this bok to pre-teens and teens who enjoy Harry Potter and realistic fantasy!
Read it, it's amazing!
I'd reccommend this bok to pre-teens and teens who enjoy Harry Potter and realistic fantasy!
Read it, it's amazing!
May 10, 2012
Braden Bell is a master of creating magic out of thin air. His words built a world I could easily see, where kids come into unusual powers they never knew they had. I would recommend this book to any adventurous person of any age.
May 11, 2012
The Kindling is a fantastic story that every middle schooler needs to read. I wish my middle school was like that. Tons of fun!
December 21, 2013
Yes! Loved this book so much! Amazing read!
August 24, 2012
** Full Review to Post to the MY PRECIOUS blog @
the callawayfam.blogspot.com on 8/30/12 **
SUMMARY
Conner Dell just wants to fly under the radar and make it through seventh grade without making too much of a fool of himself. He has a comfortable group of friends and may just be developing a crush on his twin sister's best friend, Melanie. But then, strange things start to happen around town. One night all the dogs die mysteriously after a stranger is seen lurking in the dark. Next, some kids end up missing, potentially kidnapped. And finally, a large number of robberies occur randomly around town. Ironically, nothing really remarkable or expensive has been stolen. So, what's going on? Why do all the teachers seem to trailing Conner and his group of friends? Are any of these bizarre events connected? Conner and his friends decide to investigate, but what they uncover is something they could have never imagined, something which will change their lives forever!
BACKGROUND
From Braden's Website: "Braden Bell earned a Ph.D. in educational theatre from New York University. He and his family live on a quiet, wooded lot in Tennessee, where he teaches theatre and music at a private middle school--the world described in The Kindling (whether his evenings and weekends are spent fighting evil is something he cannot disclose). An experienced performer, Braden enjoys singing, acting, reading, gardening, and long walks with the dog." The Kindling is Braden's debut novel and is book one in a new exciting middle grade trilogy.
SETTING PACE AND STYLE
This story takes place in a small, private middle school in Nashville, TN. Its a fast paced, page turner which should keep even the most reluctant reader captivated. With real life dialogues and extensive literary term use, Braden Bell concocts a compelling, but humorous, magical middle grade read. The story unfolds in third person narrative from multiple character perspectives.
CHARACTERS AND PLOT
Conner, Lexa and Melanie, the three main characters in this story were all model students. They followed rules, minded their parents and held a lot of compassion for underdogs. I liked how they were sympathetic to those being bullied, were good sibling to one another and didn't seem to buck the system. They all had real life wants and desires for children of that particular age range, so for me they seemed realistic to me. Since this story was told in a third person perspective, I didn't feel I got to know these children on the more personal level I seem to find in a first person narrative. I knew Melanie was anxious, Conner truly wanted to fit in, but Lexa's personality didn't really shine through. The adults and teachers present in this story did leave more of an impression on me than the children did for some reason.
One notable aspect of this book is whenever the children would talk to themselves or each other in their mind, the text was italicized. These areas of the book were able to give me a little more insight into each of their characters, but I think more is still needed. I would like to get to know these kids better in future installments.
The plot revolves around three young tweens discovering they have a special kind of magic and their need to use it to help foil an evil plot exploiting young teens.
RECOMMENDATION
This would be the perfect read for middle grade boys interested in science and yearning for an action packed story with magic and fantasy elements. Fantasy readers seeking something creative, unique and even quite funny will find this book entertaining. Its a enjoyable, clean read with lead characters possessing strong moral values.
PERSONAL NOTE
The Kindling is a creative, action packed read about a tight knit group of middle school kids who discover they possess a special kind of magic, including superpowers. A captivating story, loaded with excitement and a magnitude of descriptive, intricately developed battle scenes, plus a nip of good clean humor. Even though it was a real page turner, it does possess some fairly complex scientific theory, for those readers not well versed in this area, it may prove to be challenging. The author develops his own theorems, postulates and scientific concepts, which for me were hard to grasp. Much of it went right over my head.
Throughout parts of the story, the author worked too hard to write descriptively. Chock-full of rich metaphors and similes its overall effect was slightly overdone or even a little forced at times. I don't mind a little of this sprinkled in here and there, but this story had an excessive amount of wordy, descriptive language. Here is a concrete example, "her stomach churned with seasick butterflies" (her stomach "churning" paints a nice picture for me, but then toss in seasick butterflies, well is that even possible? Now I'm off on a tangent, taken away from the story, my mind now wandering trying to concoct potential ways a butterfly might actually become seasick?).
In addition, the extensive use of dialogues found in this story left me with the feeling of being a student in a classroom. Its the instrument the author uses to reveal background story, complicated world building and important historical information about the Magi, their specific magic. These explanations in dialogue form lead to more showing and less telling as the story unfolded. I would say relying primarily on conversations for information dumping made the book less readable for me.
Finally, in this story it was refreshing to find parents who were present and active in their kids lives. These parental figures actually drove their children to school, had rules and expectations for their children. Even though every once in a while I felt they were a little over the top, it was much better to read about this than the usual absent parental bodies present in the vast majority of middle grade reads.
This book is the first in a new middle grade trilogy (Middle Grade Magic). Amazingly, this book did not end on a cliffhanger. It wrapped up nicely and could be read as a stand alone novel. I look forward to continuing the series to see how the characters and story grows in future installments.
RATING
This one scores a 3.5 Rings. It wasn't lacking in content, but I found the presentation wasn't as strong as it could be since the author goes full throttle in descriptive terminology and dialogues. Its a great start to a new middle grade series and I'm looking forward to future installments.
(3.5 out of 5 Rings)
(REALLY GOOD - KEPT ME TURNING PAGES)
July 20, 2012
MIDDLE SCHOOL MAGIC: THE KINDLING
By
Braden Bell
Homework? Of course. Crushes? Sure. But who knew seventh grade included superpowers?
Author Braden Bell’s long awaited, and highly heralded Middle-Grade fantasy The Kindling launched this week, and it was worth the wait . . . and all the hype. This is family entertainment at its best, a smartly-written, fast-paced, gripping spot-on, tour-de-middle school, with one exception—some of these tweens are developing special powers.
Twins Conner and Lexa Dell, and their best friend, Melanie Stephens are living the sweet life. Family life is good, and all three are privileged to attend The Marion Academy, a prestigious private school. The perks are great. Connor enjoys a sweet spot on the Lacrosse team, Melanie is the smartest girl in school, and Lexa is . . . well . . . Lexa.
But everything changes one day. Suddenly, whatever Connor thinks or feels begins occurring. Oddly, it’s also the day the sky splits with thunder, the hooded stalker appears on these seventh-graders’ street, and the day terrible things begin happening to the local pets and children. Soon Lexa and Melanie develop some previously unheard of talents as well, and worse yet, they all feel the same sense of dread. Something is about to happen, and they know that not even their parents can stop it.
All alone, they notice an increase in their teachers’ scrutiny. They seem to always be watching and sabotaging the friends at every turn. The three question whom they can trust, and more importantly, how to protect the ones they love. And then they realize that seventh-grade will never be the same again.
Bell’s delivery of seventh-grade life and language is pitch perfect, and why not? Bell, a beloved, doctorate-wielding, middle school drama professor works amid his subjects and target audience. When he’s not at his computer deciding what new dangers and mayhem to inflict upon his characters, he’s doing what he loves best, teaching and conducting research amongst his adoring middle-school students. And clearly, one of the beauties of this book is that Bell loves and understands this age group.
He has deftly created a rich cadre of vulnerable, multi-layered characters youth will find it easy to cheer for, empathize, and identify with. The school setting is drawn so clearly you can practically smell the gym socks, and the action is described in such crisp detail one can easily “see” each battle play out like a movie. I hope someone actually makes The Kindling into a movie.
One of the challenges facing a fantasy writer is the need to create a unique world with rules and consequences within which the characters must function. The Kindling’s world is chock-full of rules, conflicts, and consequences that build tension and suspense. At first glance, readers may see similarities between The Kindling and the “Harry Potter” books, but while both benefit from proven literary devices common to this genre—namely powerful, older teacher/mentor figures like Dumbledore, Gandalf, or Obi-Wan Kenobi; and the idea of magical or mystical powers—the seemingly subtle differences are important ones that become increasingly evident the more one examines the story.
The Kindling’s appeal deepens with contemplation and analysis, and that’s not by accident. Like Bell’s first novel, The Roadshow, aimed for an older audience, Bell always digs deep and writes what he knows and cares about—faith, family, and youth. In the case of The Kindling, Bell is in his wheelhouse delivering a book that satisfies on many levels.
On the most basic level, The Kindling is great whole-family entertainment with no agenda but to delight its readers, but Bell’s tale of good versus evil, and the temptation, destruction, and redemption of souls, lends itself to deeper interpretation for spiritually-minded people. LDS readers will find even deeper symbolism within its pages.
Personally, I love that Conner, Lexa, and Melanie come from imperfect but solid, loving families, a near anomaly in today’s youth fiction. I appreciate that further support comes to these youth not from a gaggle of smarter-than-any-adult friends, but from other caring adults, another increasingly rare occurrence in current national literature.
Finally, I love this book because without ever becoming preachy or overtly didactic, Bell presents a fun read whose values are strong, clear, and unapologetic. The Kindling is a book parents will enjoy with their kids, tweens, and teens. It offers a host of opportunities to launch great discussions on a wide variety of topics such as loyalty, trust, courage, temptation, sacrifice, gratitude, revenge, faith, and many more.
When The Kindling ended, all my major questions were answered, but Bell left enough breadcrumbs to make me want to continue the journey. Readers will be relieved to know that sequels are planned for this series, and Braden Bell’s Kindling web site is stocked with additional information, trailers, and background material.
This gem is published by Cedar Fort Publishing and can be purchased on Amazon, or at your local LDS bookstores. Autographed copies are also available through the author’s web site.
Here's the blurb from the back cover of the book:
Loud shrieks sliced the air, followed by the smell of burning cloth. Conner looked over in time to see Geoffrey jumping up and down, yelling and shrieking. Smoke poured from the seat of his shorts while blue and yellow sparks snap-crackle-and-popped all around the heater.
All thirteen-year-old Connor Dell wants to do is pass pre-algebra, play lacrosse, and possibly kiss Melanie Stephens. He didn’t mean to set anyone’s gym shorts on fire or make school lunches explode. But now that the strange powers inside him have been ignited, Connor’s normal teenage life is about to go up in flames!
This fast-paced novel is non-stop fun for kids and parents alike. With characters you can’t help but root for, a plot that keeps you guessing, and plenty of humor, it’s a guaranteed thrill ride from cover to cover!
*******
July 16, 2012
The Kindling
by Braden Bell
When Connor Dell, his twin sister Lexa, and their friend Melanie Stephens notice a stranger stalking them they little realize that life as they know it is about to dramatically change. But no one else seems to be able to see their stalker and he seems to have a strange power that seems to draw them to him. Could this stranger have anything to with the kidnappings that have started occurring?
When the English teacher Mrs. Grant overhears Lexa and Melamie talking about the stranger her summons Dr. Timberi to the classroom. The next day everything the three do seems to earn them demerits and detention that afternoon. Melanie is convinced that the teachers are going to kill them because of a partial conversation that she overhears. When the three try to escape the teachers and the campus they are pursued by the teachers and black hooded men whom the the teachers refer to as Darkhands.
When Dr. Timberi tells them that their lives are all in danger they are surprised to learn that it's because they've all just Kindled. The three are then put through intense training to help them to fight off the the Darkhands and their attempts to kidnap them. The teachers are guarding them at night to stop any attempts on them so that they will not be captured.
The Magisterium decides to send the Phalanx to guard Connor, Lexa, and Melanie from the Darkhands. When Notzange sends a sigil to Lexa, Lexa becomes a high priority target because of her link. The Darkhands redouble their efforts to capture the three children as Melanie's mother, under the direction of Dr. Timberi, races home. But when all the parents were brought together at the Stephens' home they forbid the teachers and the kids from continuing their training.
When the Dell and Stephens families go to Disney World for spring break their parents befriend Kelli and Kyle Black. But something about the Blacks unsettles Conner and Lexa. The fun at Disney World is soon forgotten as the families are attacked by Darkhands. A battle takes place in the Small World ride. With their parents permission a sigil is sent to Dr. Timberi. With the arrival of Dr. Timberi, Mrs. Grant, Madame Cumberland and the Twilight Phalanx the attack is ended but not before the Blacks, Madi, and Connor are missing. Madi is located, but according to her Kyle took Connor as he saved Madi. Soon the Phalanx receive reports that the Umbra are moving on the park so everyone except Mr. Dell is taken to a sanctuary called Mockingbird Cottage.
When Connor is taken into one of the tunnels by an agent of darkness he rescued by the cherubim who give him a choice. Connor can return to his family or enter the realm of darkness to free those imprisoned by the darkness. Connor decides to continue on with Mr. Stanley to the realm of Lady Nightwing. Connor stops them from capturing the energy of a kindling boy, but at a terrible cost to himself. He is tortured and then told that he has become a Darkhand!
To try to determine Connor's location Lexa sends out her sigil that the other Magi are tracking. But Lexa and Melanie are soon trapped just as Connor is. Can they break through the darkness that threatens to destroy them or will they lose their souls to the evil that is closing in?
The Kindling is an exciting page turner sure to capture and hold the attention of middle grade readers. Fast paced excitement will have you anticipating book 2!
I received a digital loan of this title from the publisher for the purpose of this review.
by Braden Bell
When Connor Dell, his twin sister Lexa, and their friend Melanie Stephens notice a stranger stalking them they little realize that life as they know it is about to dramatically change. But no one else seems to be able to see their stalker and he seems to have a strange power that seems to draw them to him. Could this stranger have anything to with the kidnappings that have started occurring?
When the English teacher Mrs. Grant overhears Lexa and Melamie talking about the stranger her summons Dr. Timberi to the classroom. The next day everything the three do seems to earn them demerits and detention that afternoon. Melanie is convinced that the teachers are going to kill them because of a partial conversation that she overhears. When the three try to escape the teachers and the campus they are pursued by the teachers and black hooded men whom the the teachers refer to as Darkhands.
When Dr. Timberi tells them that their lives are all in danger they are surprised to learn that it's because they've all just Kindled. The three are then put through intense training to help them to fight off the the Darkhands and their attempts to kidnap them. The teachers are guarding them at night to stop any attempts on them so that they will not be captured.
The Magisterium decides to send the Phalanx to guard Connor, Lexa, and Melanie from the Darkhands. When Notzange sends a sigil to Lexa, Lexa becomes a high priority target because of her link. The Darkhands redouble their efforts to capture the three children as Melanie's mother, under the direction of Dr. Timberi, races home. But when all the parents were brought together at the Stephens' home they forbid the teachers and the kids from continuing their training.
When the Dell and Stephens families go to Disney World for spring break their parents befriend Kelli and Kyle Black. But something about the Blacks unsettles Conner and Lexa. The fun at Disney World is soon forgotten as the families are attacked by Darkhands. A battle takes place in the Small World ride. With their parents permission a sigil is sent to Dr. Timberi. With the arrival of Dr. Timberi, Mrs. Grant, Madame Cumberland and the Twilight Phalanx the attack is ended but not before the Blacks, Madi, and Connor are missing. Madi is located, but according to her Kyle took Connor as he saved Madi. Soon the Phalanx receive reports that the Umbra are moving on the park so everyone except Mr. Dell is taken to a sanctuary called Mockingbird Cottage.
When Connor is taken into one of the tunnels by an agent of darkness he rescued by the cherubim who give him a choice. Connor can return to his family or enter the realm of darkness to free those imprisoned by the darkness. Connor decides to continue on with Mr. Stanley to the realm of Lady Nightwing. Connor stops them from capturing the energy of a kindling boy, but at a terrible cost to himself. He is tortured and then told that he has become a Darkhand!
To try to determine Connor's location Lexa sends out her sigil that the other Magi are tracking. But Lexa and Melanie are soon trapped just as Connor is. Can they break through the darkness that threatens to destroy them or will they lose their souls to the evil that is closing in?
The Kindling is an exciting page turner sure to capture and hold the attention of middle grade readers. Fast paced excitement will have you anticipating book 2!
I received a digital loan of this title from the publisher for the purpose of this review.
July 11, 2012
(Some middle of the book spoilers, but not the ending)
I think this is the first book where I feel like it deserves two reviews, written in opposing perspectives. One for the actual targeted audience of pre-teens and the other for the adults who adore this genre. So here it goes:
Attention MG students: (5/5)
This is a fun book to read. Buy it. There’s magic, whimsical characters, and a whole lot of kick-ass. Dr. Timberi is the ringleader in this circus of people defending the Kindled students against the Darkhands. There are many references to pop culture splattered through the book that will get you giggling.
Attention MG adults: (3/5)
Certain discrepencies and cliches will drive you bonkers. There are far too many characters for this book to handle and nearly all the adults are useless and have no depth. Only Dr. Timberi feels like an actual person. He’s a pretty cool character and definitely the star. Also, some of the events aren’t logical. No matter how magical a universe, if children disappear from their homes on the way home for school, there is zero chance that parents will continue to send their kids to school day after day, particularly when more and more kids disappear each day. Not going to happen. Also, if all of your children’s teachers tell Mommy and Daddy that there is an evil man behind these disappearances and only will proper training can they survive…they’re either going to skip town or they’re going to believe the teachers. Mommy and Daddy aren’t logically going to tell the teachers that they’re full of BS and yet continue to allow their kids to go to that school.
I’d like to warn Braden Bell of a potential PETA picket for managing to euthanize the entire dog population of Nashville, Tennessee in a single sentence. I’m not quite sure why Fluffy, Fluffy’s family, and all of Fluffy’s friends deserved to die. But they did.
The plot itself is fairly action pack and fun. The action scenes are probably my favorite part of the novel, as they feel authentic to what I’d imagine a MG would experience caught in a similar situation. The author does put the characters in harmful, suspenseful situations, while still keeping the novel PG. Overall, it is an entertaining story that middle grade students will like. Adults will find the cracks in this story, but I doubt pre-teens will.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I think this is the first book where I feel like it deserves two reviews, written in opposing perspectives. One for the actual targeted audience of pre-teens and the other for the adults who adore this genre. So here it goes:
Attention MG students: (5/5)
This is a fun book to read. Buy it. There’s magic, whimsical characters, and a whole lot of kick-ass. Dr. Timberi is the ringleader in this circus of people defending the Kindled students against the Darkhands. There are many references to pop culture splattered through the book that will get you giggling.
Attention MG adults: (3/5)
Certain discrepencies and cliches will drive you bonkers. There are far too many characters for this book to handle and nearly all the adults are useless and have no depth. Only Dr. Timberi feels like an actual person. He’s a pretty cool character and definitely the star. Also, some of the events aren’t logical. No matter how magical a universe, if children disappear from their homes on the way home for school, there is zero chance that parents will continue to send their kids to school day after day, particularly when more and more kids disappear each day. Not going to happen. Also, if all of your children’s teachers tell Mommy and Daddy that there is an evil man behind these disappearances and only will proper training can they survive…they’re either going to skip town or they’re going to believe the teachers. Mommy and Daddy aren’t logically going to tell the teachers that they’re full of BS and yet continue to allow their kids to go to that school.
I’d like to warn Braden Bell of a potential PETA picket for managing to euthanize the entire dog population of Nashville, Tennessee in a single sentence. I’m not quite sure why Fluffy, Fluffy’s family, and all of Fluffy’s friends deserved to die. But they did.
The plot itself is fairly action pack and fun. The action scenes are probably my favorite part of the novel, as they feel authentic to what I’d imagine a MG would experience caught in a similar situation. The author does put the characters in harmful, suspenseful situations, while still keeping the novel PG. Overall, it is an entertaining story that middle grade students will like. Adults will find the cracks in this story, but I doubt pre-teens will.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2012
Wow! I just finished this book and what a ride! I am very excited to share this book with my students in a couple of months, I think they'll love it. With plenty of action, interesting and diverse characters and great settings (the Sanctuary sounds like a place I'd love to visit when I'm stressed out), this book is sure to win lots of fans. The book is really, really intense at times, but nothing inappropriate for a middle grade audience, although I think plenty of young adults as well as adults will enjoy it as well.
The story centers on three seventh graders, Connor, his twin sister Lexa, and Lexa's best friend (and Connor's crush) Melanie. When strange things start happening, the three students are confused. They become even more confused and scared when it appears that the teachers are out to get them. A strange black stalker, teachers who seem to appear out of nowhere, and thoughts that seem to cause things to happen lead Connor, Lexa, and Melanie into an adventure of a lifetime as they learn to use the power of the Light. The fight between Light and Dark contines as it has for millenia and Connor, Lexa, and Melanie find themselves fighting for their lives.
Characters: Connor, Lexa, and Melanie are great characters, each true to his/her nature. Melanie hates lying but loves prealgebra. Lexa has a powerful intuition and isn't afraid to say what she thinks. Connor exercises his strong spirit against bullies and tries to do the right thing regardless of the consequences. I also found the teachers to be a wonderful addition to the story. In too many stories, teachers are the enemies, but here we see teachers as human beings with strengths and weaknesses, reminds me of Harry Potter in that regard.
Setting: Most of the story takes place at Connor, Lexa's and Melanie's school, but I think my favorite scenes occurred while the kids were in a car, on the "It's a Small World" ride at Disney World (what a fight!), and in the Sanctuary. I did wish we got to spend more time at the Sanctuary, it would have been a nice breather as this book picks up pace quickly and doesn't slow down until the very end.
Plot: All I can say is wow. What a great story with twists and turns, hints and clues, but most of all, sheer courage. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a hard-to-put down, stay up till midnight kind of read.
The story centers on three seventh graders, Connor, his twin sister Lexa, and Lexa's best friend (and Connor's crush) Melanie. When strange things start happening, the three students are confused. They become even more confused and scared when it appears that the teachers are out to get them. A strange black stalker, teachers who seem to appear out of nowhere, and thoughts that seem to cause things to happen lead Connor, Lexa, and Melanie into an adventure of a lifetime as they learn to use the power of the Light. The fight between Light and Dark contines as it has for millenia and Connor, Lexa, and Melanie find themselves fighting for their lives.
Characters: Connor, Lexa, and Melanie are great characters, each true to his/her nature. Melanie hates lying but loves prealgebra. Lexa has a powerful intuition and isn't afraid to say what she thinks. Connor exercises his strong spirit against bullies and tries to do the right thing regardless of the consequences. I also found the teachers to be a wonderful addition to the story. In too many stories, teachers are the enemies, but here we see teachers as human beings with strengths and weaknesses, reminds me of Harry Potter in that regard.
Setting: Most of the story takes place at Connor, Lexa's and Melanie's school, but I think my favorite scenes occurred while the kids were in a car, on the "It's a Small World" ride at Disney World (what a fight!), and in the Sanctuary. I did wish we got to spend more time at the Sanctuary, it would have been a nice breather as this book picks up pace quickly and doesn't slow down until the very end.
Plot: All I can say is wow. What a great story with twists and turns, hints and clues, but most of all, sheer courage. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a hard-to-put down, stay up till midnight kind of read.
January 10, 2013
The Kindling by Braden Bell is a great middle school fantasy read! Conner Dell, Lexa Dell, and Melanie Stephens are three "normal" 7th graders...until now.
It all started that night. The night of the storm.
The kidnappings...of random children in their area.
The deaths...of every. Single. Dog. In. Their. Neighborhood.
The stalker...that no one else could see.
The teachers...acting suspicious.
The strange supernatural events happening to the trio.
And it all leads up to one thing...
They've kindled.
Now that they have kindled and become Magi, the trio is dragged into the intense battle between Light and Dark, having to use their newly gained powers...and there's no turning back.
Official trailer #1 [Conner Dell]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_tok...
Braden Bell holds a Ph.D. in educational theatre from New York University. He and his family live on a quiet, wooded lot in Tennessee, where he teaches middle school theatre and music. An experienced performer, Mr. Bell enjoys singing, acting, reading, gardening, and long walks with the dog. [from Amazon.com's Braden Bell page]
The Kindling is a great must-read for preteens/teens! With *just* the right blend of action, adventure, fantasy, and a dab of romance, this book is headed for the top! The plot is very in-depth and well put together. I love the first sentence:
"Conner Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire."
The book pulls you in with its lasso of suspense, and as the story unfolds, the words are so vivid and descriptive that you feel like you're inside the book, watching everything! I also like how the main three characters are so relatable. This makes it a great family read--I'm giving it to my brother next. 4.5 stars!!!
**I received a copy of this eBook for free from Cedar Fort through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I received no other compensation.**
Blog Review: The Kindling by Braden Bell
www.KristinaCardoza.com
www.facebook.com/KristinaCardozaChild...
www.twitter.com/KristinaCardoza
It all started that night. The night of the storm.
The kidnappings...of random children in their area.
The deaths...of every. Single. Dog. In. Their. Neighborhood.
The stalker...that no one else could see.
The teachers...acting suspicious.
The strange supernatural events happening to the trio.
And it all leads up to one thing...
They've kindled.
Now that they have kindled and become Magi, the trio is dragged into the intense battle between Light and Dark, having to use their newly gained powers...and there's no turning back.
Official trailer #1 [Conner Dell]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_tok...
Braden Bell holds a Ph.D. in educational theatre from New York University. He and his family live on a quiet, wooded lot in Tennessee, where he teaches middle school theatre and music. An experienced performer, Mr. Bell enjoys singing, acting, reading, gardening, and long walks with the dog. [from Amazon.com's Braden Bell page]
The Kindling is a great must-read for preteens/teens! With *just* the right blend of action, adventure, fantasy, and a dab of romance, this book is headed for the top! The plot is very in-depth and well put together. I love the first sentence:
"Conner Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire."
The book pulls you in with its lasso of suspense, and as the story unfolds, the words are so vivid and descriptive that you feel like you're inside the book, watching everything! I also like how the main three characters are so relatable. This makes it a great family read--I'm giving it to my brother next. 4.5 stars!!!
**I received a copy of this eBook for free from Cedar Fort through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I received no other compensation.**
Blog Review: The Kindling by Braden Bell
www.KristinaCardoza.com
www.facebook.com/KristinaCardozaChild...
www.twitter.com/KristinaCardoza
July 13, 2012
First of all, bravo! Bell has written an engaging, creative story. It’s geared toward middle-grade readers, though, as an adult, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
There are three primary characters in the book: Conner Dell, his twin sister Lexa, and Lexa’s best friend Melanie Stephens. Each one of them has a distinct, unique voice. As the story unfolds, it is told from their separate viewpoints which gives a greater depth to the extraordinary events around them.
While the three young teenagers are the focus of the story, it is the supporting characters that make this book shine. Dr. Timberi is an altogether fascinating character. While Braden Bell states that he is not Dr. Timberi, I can’t help believe that Timberi wasn’t heavily influenced by Bell. I love the line where Bell writes, “While I’ll admit to some similarities in appearance, he is not me. Although, I would love to be him.” I dare say that if Dr. Timberi was real, he’d make the reverse claim after reading this book.
One thing Bell does in The Kindling is create a whole world of “magic”—though it isn’t quite that. He starts with basic concepts and builds on them. The end result is rather complex and, in turn, more believable than many stories I’ve read where things “just happen because it’s magic!”
My favorite part of the book happens on a trip to Disneyworld. I don’t want to spoil it. Let me just say, it was written in a way that I was laughing and holding on tightly to the edges of the book at the same time.
In fact, that is a great way to describe the whole book. It’s filled with creative humor while at the same time being suspenseful. That’s a fine line to walk, but Bell does it perfectly.
Who would like this book? I hope you notice that I left out any references to other middle grade books with magic and young characters. Why? Because this book is different enough that I didn’t want people go into it with the notion of, “Oh, it’s going to be just like…” It’s a clean read and safe for younger readers, and rich enough for adults to enjoy.
Bell has left the door open for more adventures with these characters. Again, bravo! I enjoyed my time with them and look forward to hanging out with them again.
There are three primary characters in the book: Conner Dell, his twin sister Lexa, and Lexa’s best friend Melanie Stephens. Each one of them has a distinct, unique voice. As the story unfolds, it is told from their separate viewpoints which gives a greater depth to the extraordinary events around them.
While the three young teenagers are the focus of the story, it is the supporting characters that make this book shine. Dr. Timberi is an altogether fascinating character. While Braden Bell states that he is not Dr. Timberi, I can’t help believe that Timberi wasn’t heavily influenced by Bell. I love the line where Bell writes, “While I’ll admit to some similarities in appearance, he is not me. Although, I would love to be him.” I dare say that if Dr. Timberi was real, he’d make the reverse claim after reading this book.
One thing Bell does in The Kindling is create a whole world of “magic”—though it isn’t quite that. He starts with basic concepts and builds on them. The end result is rather complex and, in turn, more believable than many stories I’ve read where things “just happen because it’s magic!”
My favorite part of the book happens on a trip to Disneyworld. I don’t want to spoil it. Let me just say, it was written in a way that I was laughing and holding on tightly to the edges of the book at the same time.
In fact, that is a great way to describe the whole book. It’s filled with creative humor while at the same time being suspenseful. That’s a fine line to walk, but Bell does it perfectly.
Who would like this book? I hope you notice that I left out any references to other middle grade books with magic and young characters. Why? Because this book is different enough that I didn’t want people go into it with the notion of, “Oh, it’s going to be just like…” It’s a clean read and safe for younger readers, and rich enough for adults to enjoy.
Bell has left the door open for more adventures with these characters. Again, bravo! I enjoyed my time with them and look forward to hanging out with them again.
July 21, 2012
Review: The Kindling by Braden Bell
5 STARS The Kindling is a fun,nail biting adventure. About three middle grade students that weird things are happening around them. Thier teachers are stalking them. Everywhere they go the teachers follow them. Conner Dell is 13 he is worried about passing pre-algebra. trying out for the lacrosse team. His twin sister Lexa and thier best friend Melanie. The three hangout a lot together. Thier mothers are good friends since collage. Connor hates that the bullys are picking on his friend and wishes something bad would happen to him like his pants would catch on fire. Then they do. Other things happen around them when they think things. They can see this guy stalking them but no one else seems too see him. In thier part of town all the dogs die at the same time. It does not matter if they are outside or inside. Lexa thinks its the stalker. They are noticing other things around them that are wierd. They fear that the teachers and stalker are working together. When one of them hears part of the conversation she thinks the teachers are going to kill them after school. The three of them are never in trouble and all of a sudden they get 7 demerits each in one day and after stay for detention. But they figure out how to get away from them and take off running after the bell rings. Connor gets seperated from the girls and two teachers are chasing him when others appear in front of him and trap him or do they? This is a classic fight light against darkness. They have different gifts that happen when someone is about to Kindle or come into power. The teens have to decide if they want to join the battle and fight for the light side or not. Other teens thier ages are turning up missing all over thier town. Also in that part of town weird robberies are happening. No one is saying anything. I liked the storyline the characters, thier disneyworld vacation is ont they will never forget. I would read a sequal if one comes out in the future. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 7/10/2012 PUB Cedar Fort Imprint Sweetwater 304 pages suggested ages 13-17 (or 49)
5 STARS The Kindling is a fun,nail biting adventure. About three middle grade students that weird things are happening around them. Thier teachers are stalking them. Everywhere they go the teachers follow them. Conner Dell is 13 he is worried about passing pre-algebra. trying out for the lacrosse team. His twin sister Lexa and thier best friend Melanie. The three hangout a lot together. Thier mothers are good friends since collage. Connor hates that the bullys are picking on his friend and wishes something bad would happen to him like his pants would catch on fire. Then they do. Other things happen around them when they think things. They can see this guy stalking them but no one else seems too see him. In thier part of town all the dogs die at the same time. It does not matter if they are outside or inside. Lexa thinks its the stalker. They are noticing other things around them that are wierd. They fear that the teachers and stalker are working together. When one of them hears part of the conversation she thinks the teachers are going to kill them after school. The three of them are never in trouble and all of a sudden they get 7 demerits each in one day and after stay for detention. But they figure out how to get away from them and take off running after the bell rings. Connor gets seperated from the girls and two teachers are chasing him when others appear in front of him and trap him or do they? This is a classic fight light against darkness. They have different gifts that happen when someone is about to Kindle or come into power. The teens have to decide if they want to join the battle and fight for the light side or not. Other teens thier ages are turning up missing all over thier town. Also in that part of town weird robberies are happening. No one is saying anything. I liked the storyline the characters, thier disneyworld vacation is ont they will never forget. I would read a sequal if one comes out in the future. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 7/10/2012 PUB Cedar Fort Imprint Sweetwater 304 pages suggested ages 13-17 (or 49)
July 19, 2012
Original review here
Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Kindling
Full disclosure: I don't normally think of fantasy as a genre I enjoy reading. Of course I loved Harry Potter, but in general, fantasy isn't my first thought when I want to pick up something to read. So, when Braden asked me to review his latest book, I really hoped I would like it.
Because I absolutely loved Braden's first book, The Road Show. It was one of those soul-changers. I knew The Kindlng would be a different ball game, being written for and about middle-schoolers and also being in that fantasy genre, but Braden is such a good writer I knew I didn't have to worry too much.
So, I read it, and I loved it, and I'm already waiting for the sequel. I have started reading it to my kids, and had hoped to have it finished with them by the time my review was due, but life has been too insane and we're only a third of the way through. However, my kids love the story. Chloe especially is dying to know what happens and talks about it fairly often.
The best thing about this book is that Braden manages to write a fun book that is very appealing to the age group it is written for while still including poignant lessons about good vs. evil and light vs. darkness. The second best thing about this book is the fight between the good guys and the bad guys that takes place in Disneyland on the Small World ride. So much fun! And really? When the first sentence of a book is, "Conner Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire," you know it's going to pull you right in, magic or no.
A quick sum-up: Conner Dell, his twin sister, Lexa, and their friend Melanie have discovered they have special powers. And, a scary stalker guy that nobody else can see is following them. Then all of their middle school teachers are out to get them. What are three middle-schoolers to do?
You'll have to read it and find out.
Buy it for your kids, and read it yourselves. It's a book the whole family will love.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Kindling
Full disclosure: I don't normally think of fantasy as a genre I enjoy reading. Of course I loved Harry Potter, but in general, fantasy isn't my first thought when I want to pick up something to read. So, when Braden asked me to review his latest book, I really hoped I would like it.
Because I absolutely loved Braden's first book, The Road Show. It was one of those soul-changers. I knew The Kindlng would be a different ball game, being written for and about middle-schoolers and also being in that fantasy genre, but Braden is such a good writer I knew I didn't have to worry too much.
So, I read it, and I loved it, and I'm already waiting for the sequel. I have started reading it to my kids, and had hoped to have it finished with them by the time my review was due, but life has been too insane and we're only a third of the way through. However, my kids love the story. Chloe especially is dying to know what happens and talks about it fairly often.
The best thing about this book is that Braden manages to write a fun book that is very appealing to the age group it is written for while still including poignant lessons about good vs. evil and light vs. darkness. The second best thing about this book is the fight between the good guys and the bad guys that takes place in Disneyland on the Small World ride. So much fun! And really? When the first sentence of a book is, "Conner Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire," you know it's going to pull you right in, magic or no.
A quick sum-up: Conner Dell, his twin sister, Lexa, and their friend Melanie have discovered they have special powers. And, a scary stalker guy that nobody else can see is following them. Then all of their middle school teachers are out to get them. What are three middle-schoolers to do?
You'll have to read it and find out.
Buy it for your kids, and read it yourselves. It's a book the whole family will love.
November 9, 2012
Connor lives a pretty average life. He, along with his twin sister Lexa and her friend Melanie, are looking forward to their trip to Disney World and tryouts for different things at school. One day though, strange things begin to happen. It seems like they can make things happen just by thinking about it. Then, they notice a stranger following them around. He really seems like a bad guy, but their teachers stop him from getting to them. Connor, Lexa, and Melanie find themselves caught in a world they never even knew existed. This world is full of Light and Dark, and the teens will have to use everything they have to keep themselves and everyone they love safe.
I loved this book! It draws you in fairly quickly, and I read it pretty fast. Even though it is a more of a middle-school book, it is not too childish. The use of Light and Dark in this book were fairly unique. There was a lot that wasn't explained though, so I'm hoping there's another book (at least) coming so I can learn some more about the world. Connor, Lexa, and Melanie were great friends. I liked that they squabbled some while they were going through all of this. That made things seem much more realistic, and it also allowed them for some growth. I also liked that all 3 of the kids were given a chance to shine. There wasn't one "hero" taking care of the danger; all of them had a part to play.
Of course, I was also very intrigued by the teachers. I think I would read an entire book just about them! I really loved the use of particular skills to harness the Light (also big points for having one of the girls love math). The use of music was particularly awesome, and it showed the author really knows his stuff where music is concerned. The songs all fit in different ways. Overall, this was a super fun book. It was unique, and it had some great parts in it. Watching Connor having to fight the darkness within himself was particularly interesting. This is a book that younger and older people will be able to enjoy, and it will leave them dying for more.
Galley provided for review.
I loved this book! It draws you in fairly quickly, and I read it pretty fast. Even though it is a more of a middle-school book, it is not too childish. The use of Light and Dark in this book were fairly unique. There was a lot that wasn't explained though, so I'm hoping there's another book (at least) coming so I can learn some more about the world. Connor, Lexa, and Melanie were great friends. I liked that they squabbled some while they were going through all of this. That made things seem much more realistic, and it also allowed them for some growth. I also liked that all 3 of the kids were given a chance to shine. There wasn't one "hero" taking care of the danger; all of them had a part to play.
Of course, I was also very intrigued by the teachers. I think I would read an entire book just about them! I really loved the use of particular skills to harness the Light (also big points for having one of the girls love math). The use of music was particularly awesome, and it showed the author really knows his stuff where music is concerned. The songs all fit in different ways. Overall, this was a super fun book. It was unique, and it had some great parts in it. Watching Connor having to fight the darkness within himself was particularly interesting. This is a book that younger and older people will be able to enjoy, and it will leave them dying for more.
Galley provided for review.
June 26, 2012
I’m not much for reading middle grade literature but this story sounded particularly interesting and fun. And it was! When a brother, sister and best friend discover, much to their surprise, that they have unusual powers, their otherwise ordinary middle school days take a very drastic turn toward the unknown, barreling headlong into a conflict between darkness verses light.
There are two forms of power in the world Bell has invented, light verses darkness/good verses evil. Embracing one or the other will give a person strength and unbelievable power, a choice each child must make for his/her self.
Of course these children chose the light and then must learn to channel that light, and the power that comes next, in his/her own way by focusing on that which makes each child happy. I like this focus on individuality. Too much in our world attempts to place children in a box—on 100% conformity. But in this book, kids learn not only the importance of focusing on the positive, on hope, for power, but also on searching for their own personal strengths.
Thus, the symbolism in this novel is very poignant. Amidst the suspense and dramatic fight scenes, a general theme emerges—embrace the good in this world—the light—and in return, the light will give you power.
Also woven throughout the plot is a message of moving forward, of not allowing the past to get the best of you—to drag you down—and keep you from discovering your potential. Throw in an evil mystical scientist and you get an adventure that is exciting and wildly imaginative.
I also liked that the teachers were the good guys. I get a little tired of seeing authority figures portrayed as stupid and/or maniacal morons out to get every person under the age of eighteen.
This is a well written story that would be great for a teacher to read to his/her class, parents to their children, or to find your kid under the covers with a flashlight, reading long after bedtime.
There are two forms of power in the world Bell has invented, light verses darkness/good verses evil. Embracing one or the other will give a person strength and unbelievable power, a choice each child must make for his/her self.
Of course these children chose the light and then must learn to channel that light, and the power that comes next, in his/her own way by focusing on that which makes each child happy. I like this focus on individuality. Too much in our world attempts to place children in a box—on 100% conformity. But in this book, kids learn not only the importance of focusing on the positive, on hope, for power, but also on searching for their own personal strengths.
Thus, the symbolism in this novel is very poignant. Amidst the suspense and dramatic fight scenes, a general theme emerges—embrace the good in this world—the light—and in return, the light will give you power.
Also woven throughout the plot is a message of moving forward, of not allowing the past to get the best of you—to drag you down—and keep you from discovering your potential. Throw in an evil mystical scientist and you get an adventure that is exciting and wildly imaginative.
I also liked that the teachers were the good guys. I get a little tired of seeing authority figures portrayed as stupid and/or maniacal morons out to get every person under the age of eighteen.
This is a well written story that would be great for a teacher to read to his/her class, parents to their children, or to find your kid under the covers with a flashlight, reading long after bedtime.
July 4, 2012
Thirteen-year-olds, Conner and Lexa Dell and their friend Melanie Stephens thought that they were normal teenagers, then strange things started happening. Things like middle school bullies pants starting on fire in the middle of gym class and the lights flickering on and off when they are upset or excited. These things seemed a little strange, but then Conner, Lexa and Melanie started noticing other things. There was a huge storm one night and Lexa and Melanie saw a strange man dressed in black, but no one else seemed to and that man in black seemed to have killed all the dogs in the neighborhood...at exactly the same time. Then there are their teachers at school, one of them is always around, even for things like trips to the office for a band-aid or to the bathroom. Weird! Then one day, everything seems to go wrong, each of the three friends earn 7 demerits in one day and all receive detention, which makes their parents furious. None of the three want to attend detention, so they decide to make a run for it and ditch detention...really bad plan. As they are trying to ditch detention in two different places, the kids are attacked by more people dressed in black, luckily they are being pursued by their teachers and the teachers are able to protect them. But they quickly learn that they have "Kindled" they are Magi, able to use light to fight darkness, but they're only kids. How can they be normal kids and also Magi?
This book was amazing. I loved the engaging plot. I wanted to find out just what was going to happen next and the plot kept me guessing too. I enjoyed the characters, they seemed real to me, and I cared about what happened to them. I love this book, I think that this book will be an amazing book for kids to read, I can't wait to read more of this series!
This book was amazing. I loved the engaging plot. I wanted to find out just what was going to happen next and the plot kept me guessing too. I enjoyed the characters, they seemed real to me, and I cared about what happened to them. I love this book, I think that this book will be an amazing book for kids to read, I can't wait to read more of this series!
July 16, 2012
The Story- Conner and his sister Lexa are in seventh grade. They do the typical type of teenage things like playing lacrosse, doing homework and hanging out with their friend Melanie Stephens, but one day that all changes.
Conner gets ticked off about a bully in PE, and by just thinking about it, Conner makes the bully’s shorts catch on fire. Lexa and Melanie are quick to follow, discovering magic powers of their own. But, with their magic’s discovery, a strange man in black begins stalking them. To add to their problems, even their middle school teachers start treating them differently, and soon they are convinced their teachers are trying to kill them!
Join Conner, Lexa, and Melanie as they begin to learn about magic and battle the forces of darkness.
My Thoughts- This is a great middle school read. The plot is fast moving and the surprises keep coming. I love kids that develop magic powers and need to be trained in their use. This story takes on the battle of light versus dark in a fun and original way.
The teenagers are nicely developed, with Conner being the lacrosse player, Melanie, the math nerd and Lexa, the talented thespian. I do have to mention one thing in my critique. The story has too many point of view switches. The first chapter is all Conner, and you think he is the main character, and then bang, it just starts switching between the three kids, sometimes even crossing over into teachers POV mid chapter. This does cause the reader problems. However, because I enjoyed the plot I just ignored it after awhile.
I think kids will love this book, and I’m pretty sure from the way things end that there will be a sequel.
Conner gets ticked off about a bully in PE, and by just thinking about it, Conner makes the bully’s shorts catch on fire. Lexa and Melanie are quick to follow, discovering magic powers of their own. But, with their magic’s discovery, a strange man in black begins stalking them. To add to their problems, even their middle school teachers start treating them differently, and soon they are convinced their teachers are trying to kill them!
Join Conner, Lexa, and Melanie as they begin to learn about magic and battle the forces of darkness.
My Thoughts- This is a great middle school read. The plot is fast moving and the surprises keep coming. I love kids that develop magic powers and need to be trained in their use. This story takes on the battle of light versus dark in a fun and original way.
The teenagers are nicely developed, with Conner being the lacrosse player, Melanie, the math nerd and Lexa, the talented thespian. I do have to mention one thing in my critique. The story has too many point of view switches. The first chapter is all Conner, and you think he is the main character, and then bang, it just starts switching between the three kids, sometimes even crossing over into teachers POV mid chapter. This does cause the reader problems. However, because I enjoyed the plot I just ignored it after awhile.
I think kids will love this book, and I’m pretty sure from the way things end that there will be a sequel.
November 30, 2012
This is a wonderful contemporary fantasy story for tween and young teen readers (and as an adult I enjoyed it, as well). Mr. Bell has done a great job creating a unique magic system, realistic and comprehensive middle school characters, and a very fun, action-packed story.
There are plenty of summaries out there already, so I'll skip that part and just tell you what I really enjoyed:
#1. More and more books geared towards the tween/teen audience seem to feel the need to add sex, swearing, and other inappropriate content, which makes it very difficult for parents to trust any book these days. I love that The Kindling is a perfectly safe and clean book for any age reader. Thank you, Mr. Bell!!
2. The parents of the main characters are alive and well in this story. It seems like most books that have children as the main characters, portray the children as orphans, as living with an elderly and clueless aunt, or as having to sneak around their parents to go on their adventure. In this book, all the parents are alive and well, care about their children, and react as realistically as one would expect, given the situation they are put in. There may be a little arguing between the parents and teens, but overall the children (and the teachers) respect the parents' wishes. The parents play a small, but important, part of the story. I really liked that the author chose to write the parents' role in this manner, as it gives the readers an example of "good" parents. Things can turn out fun and adventuresome, even while obeying and getting along with parents! As a parent, I thank Mr. Bell for that, as well!
Overall, a great story! My 11-year-old and I both loved it!
There are plenty of summaries out there already, so I'll skip that part and just tell you what I really enjoyed:
#1. More and more books geared towards the tween/teen audience seem to feel the need to add sex, swearing, and other inappropriate content, which makes it very difficult for parents to trust any book these days. I love that The Kindling is a perfectly safe and clean book for any age reader. Thank you, Mr. Bell!!
2. The parents of the main characters are alive and well in this story. It seems like most books that have children as the main characters, portray the children as orphans, as living with an elderly and clueless aunt, or as having to sneak around their parents to go on their adventure. In this book, all the parents are alive and well, care about their children, and react as realistically as one would expect, given the situation they are put in. There may be a little arguing between the parents and teens, but overall the children (and the teachers) respect the parents' wishes. The parents play a small, but important, part of the story. I really liked that the author chose to write the parents' role in this manner, as it gives the readers an example of "good" parents. Things can turn out fun and adventuresome, even while obeying and getting along with parents! As a parent, I thank Mr. Bell for that, as well!
Overall, a great story! My 11-year-old and I both loved it!
August 8, 2012
The Kindling by Braden Bell is exciting and intense. It is written for mid grade readers, but as an adult it kept me fully engaged and wanting to keep reading.
The story features twins Connor and Lexa and their best friend Melanie, all normal 13 year olds until they all Kindle (develop magic powers) at the same time attracting the attention of both the forces of light and darkness.
The kids know something strange is happening, its not everyday you wish the school bullies shorts catch fire and then they really do, or you see a man all in black, that no one else can see, watching you, but they don't know what. In addition it appears to them that the teachers want to kill them.
There is so much action, adventure, suspense and intensity. I almost jumped out of my skin, when someone walked up behind me while I was reading.
I think young readers will love the magic and the action. Who doesn't dream of being able to get back at the school bully, a good food fight or a vicious attack Unicorn.
As an adult I liked all of that too. I also like how family values take priority and the Magi honor the wishes of the parents when they say to back off. I like that the teachers are portrayed as caring human beings, too often the adults in mid grade books come off as uncaring or stupid.
I am anxiously waiting for Volume 2.
I would recommend The Kindling by Braden Bell for kids age 10 and up and adults.
The story features twins Connor and Lexa and their best friend Melanie, all normal 13 year olds until they all Kindle (develop magic powers) at the same time attracting the attention of both the forces of light and darkness.
The kids know something strange is happening, its not everyday you wish the school bullies shorts catch fire and then they really do, or you see a man all in black, that no one else can see, watching you, but they don't know what. In addition it appears to them that the teachers want to kill them.
There is so much action, adventure, suspense and intensity. I almost jumped out of my skin, when someone walked up behind me while I was reading.
I think young readers will love the magic and the action. Who doesn't dream of being able to get back at the school bully, a good food fight or a vicious attack Unicorn.
As an adult I liked all of that too. I also like how family values take priority and the Magi honor the wishes of the parents when they say to back off. I like that the teachers are portrayed as caring human beings, too often the adults in mid grade books come off as uncaring or stupid.
I am anxiously waiting for Volume 2.
I would recommend The Kindling by Braden Bell for kids age 10 and up and adults.
June 7, 2012
“The Kindling” by Braden Bell is a great story that can be enjoyed by all and is sure to become an instant hit to middle-graders.
How great would it be to summon supernatural powers by embracing the things you love, whether that be quoting lines from your favorite play, singing a favorite song or even by solving pre-algebra problems?
Sixth grade for Connor, Lexa, and Melanie is proving to be far more interesting, as well as far more dangerous, than any of them had ever imagined. When the threesome ‘Kindle’, they have to learn how to control their magical powers in addition to navigating the usual junior high pitfalls: hard subjects, demanding teachers, bullies, acne, and peer pressure. Add battling Darkhands, traveling through the Otherworld, and a trip to Disney World and there is a recipe for lots of fun and adventure.
Along with learning to control their new powers, Connor, Lexa, and Melanie learn about themselves, each other, the power of good friends and family, and that doing the right thing is often not easy, but is always necessary.
What’s not to love? It has everything: Magic, friendship, and lots of adventure. I highly recommend this fun read and look forward to the further adventures of Connor, Lexa and Melanie.
How great would it be to summon supernatural powers by embracing the things you love, whether that be quoting lines from your favorite play, singing a favorite song or even by solving pre-algebra problems?
Sixth grade for Connor, Lexa, and Melanie is proving to be far more interesting, as well as far more dangerous, than any of them had ever imagined. When the threesome ‘Kindle’, they have to learn how to control their magical powers in addition to navigating the usual junior high pitfalls: hard subjects, demanding teachers, bullies, acne, and peer pressure. Add battling Darkhands, traveling through the Otherworld, and a trip to Disney World and there is a recipe for lots of fun and adventure.
Along with learning to control their new powers, Connor, Lexa, and Melanie learn about themselves, each other, the power of good friends and family, and that doing the right thing is often not easy, but is always necessary.
What’s not to love? It has everything: Magic, friendship, and lots of adventure. I highly recommend this fun read and look forward to the further adventures of Connor, Lexa and Melanie.
July 6, 2012
If you have Middle Grade kids that love to read, Braden Bell's newest novel is a great book to suggest to them (it's actually quite enjoyable for parents too).
All thirteen-year-old Conner Dell wants to do is pass pre-algebra, play lacrosse, and possibly kiss Melanie Stephens. He didn’t mean to set anyone’s gym shorts on fire or make school lunches explode. But now that the strange powers inside him have been ignited, Conner’s normal teenage life is about to go up in flames!
Several years ago if someone told me I'd be interested in books about kids and magic, I'm pretty sure I would have laughed in their face. But, during college I worked at a city library and I could no longer ignore the magical books that I frequently checked out to patrons. It didn't take long to get hooked into this exciting genre.
The Kindling is a fun story that is original and well delivered. The characters are great (quirky "teachers" and average teenagers who discover they're not average). There's action and even a bit of young love.
One of the things I liked best about The Kindling is how much fun it seemed to be for Braden Bell to write it.
All thirteen-year-old Conner Dell wants to do is pass pre-algebra, play lacrosse, and possibly kiss Melanie Stephens. He didn’t mean to set anyone’s gym shorts on fire or make school lunches explode. But now that the strange powers inside him have been ignited, Conner’s normal teenage life is about to go up in flames!
Several years ago if someone told me I'd be interested in books about kids and magic, I'm pretty sure I would have laughed in their face. But, during college I worked at a city library and I could no longer ignore the magical books that I frequently checked out to patrons. It didn't take long to get hooked into this exciting genre.
The Kindling is a fun story that is original and well delivered. The characters are great (quirky "teachers" and average teenagers who discover they're not average). There's action and even a bit of young love.
One of the things I liked best about The Kindling is how much fun it seemed to be for Braden Bell to write it.
July 26, 2013
A locker door is ripped off, someone's shorts catch on fire... weird things are happening at the Dell's junior high and it because of them! As more unexplainable things happen Connor, his twin sister and their friend Melanie learn they part of a group of Magi that have powers of Light to fight Darkness.
Aided and instructed by many of their teachers, who it turns out are also Magi, they begin to learn and develop their abilities and join the fight for the Light.
Even though these books are written towards a young teen and pre-teen audience they really sucked me in. The characters are likable and very believable as junior high age kid traits. The story moves along at a great pace with great character development and believable victories and setbacks (as believable as sci-fi type books can be).
While these books deal with Light fighting darkness, they are done in such a way that get you thinking and involved but aren't too "dark" and remain great and clean for younger readers.
Even if you aren't a sci-fi fan but like books with a little magic you will really enjoy this series and I definitely recommend it for pre-teens on up.
Aided and instructed by many of their teachers, who it turns out are also Magi, they begin to learn and develop their abilities and join the fight for the Light.
Even though these books are written towards a young teen and pre-teen audience they really sucked me in. The characters are likable and very believable as junior high age kid traits. The story moves along at a great pace with great character development and believable victories and setbacks (as believable as sci-fi type books can be).
While these books deal with Light fighting darkness, they are done in such a way that get you thinking and involved but aren't too "dark" and remain great and clean for younger readers.
Even if you aren't a sci-fi fan but like books with a little magic you will really enjoy this series and I definitely recommend it for pre-teens on up.
September 19, 2013
I can't tell you how many times I wished there were more books like this out when my two older kids were younger. Especially my boy. These books have all the things he loved when he was in those middle grades.
There are so many things to love about these books. The foundation is the classic struggle between Light and Dark - Good vs. Evil. You have three kids with developing super powers and the bad guys who are trying to get them. From there though, a magical and complicated story develops, bringing hold your breath moments and heart pumping adventure. It's classic fantasy stuff but unique too.
The things that make these books for me are that they are free of swearing, profanity and sexual situations. They are right on level for middle grade readers but not in any way less exciting.
I love the three kids that this story revolves around. They interact well and they felt believable to me. I believed they were the age claimed. There were lots of intense moments and the bad guys are really bad! It's a magical fantasy feast for middle grade readers.
There are so many things to love about these books. The foundation is the classic struggle between Light and Dark - Good vs. Evil. You have three kids with developing super powers and the bad guys who are trying to get them. From there though, a magical and complicated story develops, bringing hold your breath moments and heart pumping adventure. It's classic fantasy stuff but unique too.
The things that make these books for me are that they are free of swearing, profanity and sexual situations. They are right on level for middle grade readers but not in any way less exciting.
I love the three kids that this story revolves around. They interact well and they felt believable to me. I believed they were the age claimed. There were lots of intense moments and the bad guys are really bad! It's a magical fantasy feast for middle grade readers.
August 8, 2012
When this book became available for review, Emma (my 8 year old) was looking over my shoulder and said - "Cool. What's that?" So, I asked to be a part of Braden's Blog tour for his new book because I had two kids who were into it, and I thought we'd do a little family read and review :-D
This story is absolutely universally liked by my family. It's completely obvious that Bell spends time around middle-school aged kids because he has that voice down PERFECT.
My husband laughed, my daughter laughed, and my son laughed when he paid attention (he's five).
It's a great mix of fun and mystery, and I flew through it in a night. (The family read took slightly longer)
I think I can probably sell you on this one just by typing up the first few lines...
That's what hooked my daughter.
Connor Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire.
He didn't know it would happen. And if he had known, he never would have - well, that might be going too far. It started in seventh period science...
AND NOW YOU HAVE TO GET YOUR OWN, lol.
This story is absolutely universally liked by my family. It's completely obvious that Bell spends time around middle-school aged kids because he has that voice down PERFECT.
My husband laughed, my daughter laughed, and my son laughed when he paid attention (he's five).
It's a great mix of fun and mystery, and I flew through it in a night. (The family read took slightly longer)
I think I can probably sell you on this one just by typing up the first few lines...
That's what hooked my daughter.
Connor Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire.
He didn't know it would happen. And if he had known, he never would have - well, that might be going too far. It started in seventh period science...
AND NOW YOU HAVE TO GET YOUR OWN, lol.
September 18, 2012
Conner Dell, along with his twin sister Lexa, and her best friend Melanie Stephens, have noticed strange things going on lately, such as gym shorts on fire, exploding lunches, and mysteriously, the whole neighborhood's dogs dead at the exact time of the day in the middle of a storm. It reached it's peak when they get detention before the last class of the day. The next day, the school is attacked by mysterious hooded figures, and the teachers fight back with what looks like some sort of magic. They soon learn that the teachers are magi, and the hooded figures were called darkhands. They start training after the attack to learn to be magi, people who use the light, against the darkhands, the users of the dark.
Take part of an adventure full of middle school magic, friendship, and action. You will learn about the light and dark civilizations. The army of the light called twilight and the army of the dark called eclipse. Learn all about the light and the dark at the author's website. If you are a fan of fantasy, this is the book for you.
Take part of an adventure full of middle school magic, friendship, and action. You will learn about the light and dark civilizations. The army of the light called twilight and the army of the dark called eclipse. Learn all about the light and the dark at the author's website. If you are a fan of fantasy, this is the book for you.
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