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Irving Wishbutton #1
Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy
There’s an academy where characters go to be schooled. While their authors toil at getting their stories written and printed, these characters are killing time at The Questing Academy. As their stories take shape, they endure many changes, some good, and some bad. At the academy, heroes learn the plotting ropes alongside villains, supporting characters and even window dressing castmates such as guard three whose only contribution to his scene is a poorly timed sneeze.
Ah, but the academy stresses there are no small roles. Plopped into the middle of things is a grand hero, Irving Wishbutton. As he adjusts to life on a literary campus, he has to also deal with the twists and turns of his character and story development. It isn’t always pretty. For one, he arrives a smudge, his only distinct feature, a gaudy red button on his chest. Everything else about him is hazy and not defined yet due to his writer who has avoided describing him early on. Two, he immediately gets on Dean Harmstrike’s bad side when a pack of emberhounds from Irving’s own story attack him at the Office of Fine Aunts. Three, there are a plethora of mysteries and entanglements afloat at the academy. Irving’s creator has marked him as acutely curious. While the faculty tells him to dig into what makes himself tick, he can’t help but unravel the mysteries and secrets that abound on campus.
On his quest of self-discovery, he is befriended by another fellow smudge, a beautiful fairy from another book’s supporting cast. He also gets mixed up with a confused vampire whose fickle writer is constantly making revisions, including writing her twin brother out of her story. Lord Raggleswamp, a short-statured short-tempered braggart of a villain and Gared, The Golden Knight, whose silver tongue can command any and all monsters, are both constant thorns at Irving’s side as he seeks answers and to fit in. With the help of an equally headstrong cast, Irving tackles the big questions:
Who built the academy?
What’s Dean Harmstrike’s true agenda?
Why is being branded a smudge so very wrong to others on campus?
What lurks beneath the library?
What happens to each character upon graduation?
Ah, but the academy stresses there are no small roles. Plopped into the middle of things is a grand hero, Irving Wishbutton. As he adjusts to life on a literary campus, he has to also deal with the twists and turns of his character and story development. It isn’t always pretty. For one, he arrives a smudge, his only distinct feature, a gaudy red button on his chest. Everything else about him is hazy and not defined yet due to his writer who has avoided describing him early on. Two, he immediately gets on Dean Harmstrike’s bad side when a pack of emberhounds from Irving’s own story attack him at the Office of Fine Aunts. Three, there are a plethora of mysteries and entanglements afloat at the academy. Irving’s creator has marked him as acutely curious. While the faculty tells him to dig into what makes himself tick, he can’t help but unravel the mysteries and secrets that abound on campus.
On his quest of self-discovery, he is befriended by another fellow smudge, a beautiful fairy from another book’s supporting cast. He also gets mixed up with a confused vampire whose fickle writer is constantly making revisions, including writing her twin brother out of her story. Lord Raggleswamp, a short-statured short-tempered braggart of a villain and Gared, The Golden Knight, whose silver tongue can command any and all monsters, are both constant thorns at Irving’s side as he seeks answers and to fit in. With the help of an equally headstrong cast, Irving tackles the big questions:
Who built the academy?
What’s Dean Harmstrike’s true agenda?
Why is being branded a smudge so very wrong to others on campus?
What lurks beneath the library?
What happens to each character upon graduation?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 8, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 16, 2021
Fun Book
Hear me out. A Book about an academy for book characters? I don't think I properly realized what an awesome idea that is until I was reading and then I couldn't read this book fast enough. One of the things that made this unique was the dual perspective. We get perspectives from Wishbutton's author as he's writing his story and Wishbutton's as he explores the academy. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and looking forward to book 2.
Hear me out. A Book about an academy for book characters? I don't think I properly realized what an awesome idea that is until I was reading and then I couldn't read this book fast enough. One of the things that made this unique was the dual perspective. We get perspectives from Wishbutton's author as he's writing his story and Wishbutton's as he explores the academy. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and looking forward to book 2.
January 24, 2020
Where do books, stories, plots and characters come from? Brian Clopper’s Irving Wishbutton postulates a training academy for new characters, who develop new features, skills and more as their author fills them in. But something is wrong, and this author’s protagonist might have to go on an adventure all his own to set things right.
Irving Wishbutton’s a teen hero in the mold of Harry Potter or Inkheart perhaps, but Wishbutton’s blend of free will and author direction offers a fun meta-story to this tale. Meanwhile his author fails to write the next feature, and the button’s surely important, and… And slowly he learns his powers and weaknesses, as something else is learning to exploit.
Wishbutton’s story is slow, as the meta-author is constantly distracted. But that gives time for the world to grow, and to grow on the reader. Hidden lessons teach young readers to write; story trials teach lessons for growing up, and a sharp, enjoyable wit keeps the dialog flowing between surprisingly vivid characters.
There will be more in the series, and much more to learn. Meanwhile, Irving’s growing clearer all the time.
Disclosure: I got an ecopy on a deal.
Irving Wishbutton’s a teen hero in the mold of Harry Potter or Inkheart perhaps, but Wishbutton’s blend of free will and author direction offers a fun meta-story to this tale. Meanwhile his author fails to write the next feature, and the button’s surely important, and… And slowly he learns his powers and weaknesses, as something else is learning to exploit.
Wishbutton’s story is slow, as the meta-author is constantly distracted. But that gives time for the world to grow, and to grow on the reader. Hidden lessons teach young readers to write; story trials teach lessons for growing up, and a sharp, enjoyable wit keeps the dialog flowing between surprisingly vivid characters.
There will be more in the series, and much more to learn. Meanwhile, Irving’s growing clearer all the time.
Disclosure: I got an ecopy on a deal.
Did Not Finish
November 21, 2021A very fun concept, but I just wasn’t invested enough in the story and characters. I’ll probably come back at some point and finish it.
June 10, 2013
How does author Brian Clopper create his quirky and FUN tales, aim them toward a younger audience and completely captivate this not-so-young-reader?? How does he flesh out his characters to be so completely endearing, yet fun, brave, flawed and totally unique? Believe it or not, Mr. Clopper tells us in his own clever way with his novel Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academyand he manages to do so while being completely entertaining and whisking the reader off to a world where anything can, and just may happen!
Irving Wishbutton started as an idea in the mind of his author. He had no name, no face, he was a ‘smudge,’ just a shadow of the character he would become, so naturally, he must be enrolled in the Questing Academy, a newbie in the world of fictitious characters! He really doesn’t understand who or what he is or how he just ‘knows’ some things, like what a dog is. Irving learns he will ‘graduate’ from the Academy when/if his book is published. Of course, authors have ‘real’ lives, too, and Irving’s author frequently takes breaks from writing to do ‘real world’ things, things revolving around his family, things that obviously help fuel his creative mind! Have you ever wondered how characters get their names? How their personalities are created? How they evolve from a ‘smudge’ into “well-developed and fleshed out characters who feel real?” How about the plot? The twists, the turns, the change in direction, the lessons learned, do you think they are the sole workings of the author? Just maybe, this is a joint effort between author and the characters!
In his own way, Brian Clopper has probably created the best “How to Write” book ever, and he did it in a fun way, full of surprises, full of characters, twists, turns and tons of imagination! Younger readers will love this leap into a world full of fantasy where the mind can run free! Books like this spread the joy of the written word to all ages and just MAY spur a young reader into becoming a young author!
I need to thank both Brian Clopper and Irving Wishbutton (and probably Mr. Clopper's family)for allowing me the chance to read and get lost in this book!
Publication Date: June 21, 2012
Publisher: Behemoth Books
Number of Pages: 301
Genre: Children's Fantasy
Recommended Age: 9 to 90
My rating: 5 HUGE Stars and a few 'buttons'
Available at: Amazon
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Irving Wishbutton started as an idea in the mind of his author. He had no name, no face, he was a ‘smudge,’ just a shadow of the character he would become, so naturally, he must be enrolled in the Questing Academy, a newbie in the world of fictitious characters! He really doesn’t understand who or what he is or how he just ‘knows’ some things, like what a dog is. Irving learns he will ‘graduate’ from the Academy when/if his book is published. Of course, authors have ‘real’ lives, too, and Irving’s author frequently takes breaks from writing to do ‘real world’ things, things revolving around his family, things that obviously help fuel his creative mind! Have you ever wondered how characters get their names? How their personalities are created? How they evolve from a ‘smudge’ into “well-developed and fleshed out characters who feel real?” How about the plot? The twists, the turns, the change in direction, the lessons learned, do you think they are the sole workings of the author? Just maybe, this is a joint effort between author and the characters!
In his own way, Brian Clopper has probably created the best “How to Write” book ever, and he did it in a fun way, full of surprises, full of characters, twists, turns and tons of imagination! Younger readers will love this leap into a world full of fantasy where the mind can run free! Books like this spread the joy of the written word to all ages and just MAY spur a young reader into becoming a young author!
I need to thank both Brian Clopper and Irving Wishbutton (and probably Mr. Clopper's family)for allowing me the chance to read and get lost in this book!
Publication Date: June 21, 2012
Publisher: Behemoth Books
Number of Pages: 301
Genre: Children's Fantasy
Recommended Age: 9 to 90
My rating: 5 HUGE Stars and a few 'buttons'
Available at: Amazon
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
July 15, 2012
I was not sure if it is a 4 star or a 5 star book for me. In the end I gave it 5 stars.
The book has 2 story lines. One is the story of Irving Wishbutton. The other is the story of 'his' author. The latter tells us how the author, a teacher, includes writing this story in his everyday life and how he develops the story, sometimes rewriting it, creates characters find names and how in some parts the process of writing is not an active process by the author but rather following the story he began like being drawn by a current.
In the Wishbutton story line those developments and changes are reflected by the hero, who starts as a smudge with undefined features, no clothes and no knowledge of himself. Irving is lead to the questing academy, where all characters learn how to act and play their role. A character leaves this academy when his book is published. The more his author defines him the more he knows about himself and the clearer his character becomes in appearance. The process is packed in a whodunit for YA.
I won't tell more about the content. Read for yourself. As for the rating:
5 stars for the idea. I like books, i like books about books. I would like to write myself. And a book about writing a book and experiencing the writing process from a chracters POV. I love you, Mr. Clopper....
5 stars for the second story line. It is beautifully balanced against the other story line and in itself.
4-5 stars for the Wishbutton story line. The only reason I did not give that story line 5 stars is that at least in the beginning I had the feeling that the language and the thoughts of the other characters sometimes did not fit those characters. As the story developed I got the impression that this was intended by the author to show how other authors try to define characters by their way of speaking and sometimes just fail in doing so.
The story does not end. We are promised a second book. I have not yet decided if I like this feeling of anticipation or rather hate to wait.
So, if you are not above reading a YA whodunit and if you ever wanted to experience how a book is written from a characters POV, give this one a try.
The book has 2 story lines. One is the story of Irving Wishbutton. The other is the story of 'his' author. The latter tells us how the author, a teacher, includes writing this story in his everyday life and how he develops the story, sometimes rewriting it, creates characters find names and how in some parts the process of writing is not an active process by the author but rather following the story he began like being drawn by a current.
In the Wishbutton story line those developments and changes are reflected by the hero, who starts as a smudge with undefined features, no clothes and no knowledge of himself. Irving is lead to the questing academy, where all characters learn how to act and play their role. A character leaves this academy when his book is published. The more his author defines him the more he knows about himself and the clearer his character becomes in appearance. The process is packed in a whodunit for YA.
I won't tell more about the content. Read for yourself. As for the rating:
5 stars for the idea. I like books, i like books about books. I would like to write myself. And a book about writing a book and experiencing the writing process from a chracters POV. I love you, Mr. Clopper....
5 stars for the second story line. It is beautifully balanced against the other story line and in itself.
4-5 stars for the Wishbutton story line. The only reason I did not give that story line 5 stars is that at least in the beginning I had the feeling that the language and the thoughts of the other characters sometimes did not fit those characters. As the story developed I got the impression that this was intended by the author to show how other authors try to define characters by their way of speaking and sometimes just fail in doing so.
The story does not end. We are promised a second book. I have not yet decided if I like this feeling of anticipation or rather hate to wait.
So, if you are not above reading a YA whodunit and if you ever wanted to experience how a book is written from a characters POV, give this one a try.
September 12, 2012
This is a fun book, with a mix of fantasy and mystery that will capture most readers.
The book is a bit difficult to describe because it is sort of a story within a story. One storyline is Irving’s and the other is his author. Irving’s part of the story takes place in the Academy, where he learns about himself. But as much as I enjoyed that one, I preferred Irving’s author’s story line. I loved to see the way he wrote, shifting Irving’s character and plot. It is very cleverly written.
The writing itself is wonderful. It has a nice quirkiness to it that makes it a fun to read. I did find the beginning a tad bit confusing, because we don’t really know what’s happening or who the characters are, but it slowly starts changing. As Irving learns more about himself, so do we, which is fun. You might find yourself confused at the beginning, but know that everything will be cleared up.
I do recommend this book. It is very amusing, with lovely writing, which will keep you entertained for many hours.
The book is a bit difficult to describe because it is sort of a story within a story. One storyline is Irving’s and the other is his author. Irving’s part of the story takes place in the Academy, where he learns about himself. But as much as I enjoyed that one, I preferred Irving’s author’s story line. I loved to see the way he wrote, shifting Irving’s character and plot. It is very cleverly written.
The writing itself is wonderful. It has a nice quirkiness to it that makes it a fun to read. I did find the beginning a tad bit confusing, because we don’t really know what’s happening or who the characters are, but it slowly starts changing. As Irving learns more about himself, so do we, which is fun. You might find yourself confused at the beginning, but know that everything will be cleared up.
I do recommend this book. It is very amusing, with lovely writing, which will keep you entertained for many hours.
July 26, 2012
Irving Wishbutton is a novel where all the characters are self-aware, that is, they know they're characters! The only exception is the author in the novel's frame story, a delicious little irony. Irving and his fellow characters must survive everything from plot twists to shifting appearances as the author writes and changes things in their world. What will it mean for their sense of self? And will they be able to survive when everything can change on a writers whim? I thoroughly enjoyed this imaginative world and hope there's a sequel in the future.
January 9, 2020
A copy of the book was given free by the author.
An imaginative and fun start to a series that's friendly for a wide range of ages, Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy was a quick and engaging read that always kept the plot moving forward without fully untangling the mystery before the reader. Faster readers may find some pacing issues due to the book's narrative structure.
The premise of Irving Wishbutton is relatively straightforward, and told from two alternating points of view. The first of these is the nameless author, a writer who is also a teacher, husband, and father. Through his eyes we see the development process of Irving's yet untold story, and how he balances his many life responsibilities with his writing. The second point of view is from the titular character, Irving Wishbutton, the protagonist in the author's story, who comes to life as the author creates him, and is influenced throughout the author's creative process.
Irving finds himself at the Questing Academy, a place where all characters in books find themselves as their author creates their story, and who leave when their story is published. It is a place where these characters can come to terms with their existence, and learn how to deal with the various tropes and narrative devices they will eventually encounter. However, there's more to the Questing Academy than first impressions, and entangled in its mysteries, Irving finds himself wrapped up in a plot his author did not create.
Clopper's grasp on imaginative scenery and character development is a delight, and it was easy for me to quickly get entrenched in the worlds he created. Irving is not the only character given development, and while some of the characters at the Academy might seem wild in appearance, Clopper still builds empathy and understanding of their unique personalities and situations.
Each chapter begins with a brief narrative of the author's life and creative process, before returning to Irving's world. While the insight into the writing process is refreshing and offers some reader omniscience, the pacing of the chapters, which tend to be only a few pages long, began to make this narrative device feel forced after a while. I would have preferred less author interludes, perhaps made as small chapters of their own in between the main story. Irving's story tells itself well without the handholding of the writer's narrative.
I also found the chosen ending point for this book ill-timed. It does end on a cliffhanger, but it's the kind of cliffhanger that literally says "Something exciting is happening tomorrow" and not "soon" or "in the next season." It leaves no gap in time between books, making it feel more like an arbitrary cut-off point than a genuine transition.
Still, it's overall an enjoyable read and builds a very promising setting, and believable characters, to want to keep reading the rest of the series!
An imaginative and fun start to a series that's friendly for a wide range of ages, Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy was a quick and engaging read that always kept the plot moving forward without fully untangling the mystery before the reader. Faster readers may find some pacing issues due to the book's narrative structure.
The premise of Irving Wishbutton is relatively straightforward, and told from two alternating points of view. The first of these is the nameless author, a writer who is also a teacher, husband, and father. Through his eyes we see the development process of Irving's yet untold story, and how he balances his many life responsibilities with his writing. The second point of view is from the titular character, Irving Wishbutton, the protagonist in the author's story, who comes to life as the author creates him, and is influenced throughout the author's creative process.
Irving finds himself at the Questing Academy, a place where all characters in books find themselves as their author creates their story, and who leave when their story is published. It is a place where these characters can come to terms with their existence, and learn how to deal with the various tropes and narrative devices they will eventually encounter. However, there's more to the Questing Academy than first impressions, and entangled in its mysteries, Irving finds himself wrapped up in a plot his author did not create.
Clopper's grasp on imaginative scenery and character development is a delight, and it was easy for me to quickly get entrenched in the worlds he created. Irving is not the only character given development, and while some of the characters at the Academy might seem wild in appearance, Clopper still builds empathy and understanding of their unique personalities and situations.
Each chapter begins with a brief narrative of the author's life and creative process, before returning to Irving's world. While the insight into the writing process is refreshing and offers some reader omniscience, the pacing of the chapters, which tend to be only a few pages long, began to make this narrative device feel forced after a while. I would have preferred less author interludes, perhaps made as small chapters of their own in between the main story. Irving's story tells itself well without the handholding of the writer's narrative.
I also found the chosen ending point for this book ill-timed. It does end on a cliffhanger, but it's the kind of cliffhanger that literally says "Something exciting is happening tomorrow" and not "soon" or "in the next season." It leaves no gap in time between books, making it feel more like an arbitrary cut-off point than a genuine transition.
Still, it's overall an enjoyable read and builds a very promising setting, and believable characters, to want to keep reading the rest of the series!
October 25, 2019
Riveting!
What an interesting book! The action was novel and well-paced, and the characters relatable and believable. Thoroughly enjoyed the author and character perspective. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Harry Potter and other novels like it. Can't wait to read the next one!
What an interesting book! The action was novel and well-paced, and the characters relatable and believable. Thoroughly enjoyed the author and character perspective. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Harry Potter and other novels like it. Can't wait to read the next one!
November 10, 2020
Absolutely delightful. This story is two in one — on is the author writing the story; the second is the character finding himself while the story develops. It covers so many writing techniques as it plays out. It is very clever and, I imagine, would delight a class of upper primary (elementary) students. It certainly did me.
Sadly, it is not the complete story, but I will be looking for the remainder of it.
Sadly, it is not the complete story, but I will be looking for the remainder of it.
November 30, 2018
Unpredictable, and absorbing.
I chose this rating because of the very interesting
way the book was written. It held my attention all the way through. The only negative I have is, I am not a real fan of series. I like my books to be complete into themselves.
I chose this rating because of the very interesting
way the book was written. It held my attention all the way through. The only negative I have is, I am not a real fan of series. I like my books to be complete into themselves.
September 6, 2019
oh my goodness. This book drew me in and kept me. I don't know if it was wanting to know more about what was happening with the characters and what they are going through, or if it was watching the author go through his creative process in writing a novel. All that I know is that when I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about it and wondering what would happen next.
November 20, 2019
Sometimes I wonder if should just read children’s books because those I really like.
This was a very good book.
Very interesting concept, very well thought-out (even if I have some questions about some things still) and I really enjoyed the different characters.
Now I need to go and read the next one!
This was a very good book.
Very interesting concept, very well thought-out (even if I have some questions about some things still) and I really enjoyed the different characters.
Now I need to go and read the next one!
March 30, 2021
Read with my 11 year old. We both enjoyed this book!
April 12, 2019
I loved this book! Extremely creative!
July 23, 2019
If I could just stay home and read
I really enjoyed this book the character development is great, I got to the last page and checked three times that it indeed ended. I wanted more. Time to get the second one!
I really enjoyed this book the character development is great, I got to the last page and checked three times that it indeed ended. I wanted more. Time to get the second one!
June 12, 2016
A Story About the Story of How to Write A Story
Of the literally hundreds of self published, Kindle freebie, and kindleunlimited books I've read, skimmed and commented on, this is one of the most interesting, entertaining and satisfying finds to date.
The premise struck me at first as a bit twee and too clever for its own good. Irving awakens at the Questing Academy. He is a character being developed by an author. He exists as a "smudge" and only comes into focus, bit by bit, as his author writes him. Everyone at the Academy is in the same boat, and they sit around waiting to find out who or what they will become and what their story will be. They come into focus physically, but they also learn their own backstory, in the form of memories and knowledge that just pops into their heads, as they are further developed by their author.
And this set up works on multiple levels. You can read it, of course, as an extended metaphor for growing up in general, but you can put that rather obvious angle aside and just enjoy the story, craft and writing. You can also read this as meta-meta-meta fiction, since it's a story about a writer writing a story about how stories are written. Feel free to go into that rabbit hole as deeply as you like. But you don't have to do any of that if you don't care to.
Because get this. Our hero Irving, (and everyone at the Academy knows he is destined to be a hero and not just some supporting character), is funny, interesting, sensitive, observant, resourceful and vulnerable. He is a great character as a smudge, never mind what he's going to be when fully developed. His fellows at the Academy are equally appealing. There are at least six other smudges, (gal pal, grumpy sidekick, really grumpy sidekick, nasty villain in development, possible second gal pal, mysterious/intriguing passing characters), who each add a fresh and unique voice to the proceedings. Then there are the characters - the director of the Academy and so on - who add more wry, funny, idiosyncratic voices to the project. The upshot is that you get a complete mashup of just about every kids book character imaginable all lumped together in this antic half-way house.
This all sounds a bit confusing, but it doesn't play out that way. The idea of the Questing Academy is clearly developed at the outset. By following Irving's development we are brought along as the tale unfolds. Irving is given a tour of the Academy and attends "Orientation", so we get a lot of seamless exposition to get us grounded. Then, once the premise has been fully fleshed out, and the main characters have been introduced, Irving's actual adventures at the Academy can begin. It all builds naturally and clearly, for even the youngest reader.
Early on the chapters alternate between what is happening to Irving and what is going on in the head of his author. At first this struck me as rather indulgent, since the author is not especially interesting and his process isn't exactly fascinating. If it doesn't appeal you can skim the "writing!" parts in order to get back to Irving; if you are interested in the process, then this will be rewarding.
Just as an added pleasure, on top of all this, the book is sharp and witty. There are all sorts of jokes and puns and references to other books tucked into the story. Dialogue is crisp. Characters have loads of attitude and personalities that jump off the page. The pace is brisk and the energy level is high. Sometimes these high-concept books can feel like a bit of a slog, (I felt that way during parts of books like "Inkheart"), but this one is generally pretty light and nimble. It helps that all of the characters know that they are characters, so practically every line is delivered ironically and works on multiple levels.
So, to me this was a refreshing change of pace, a true entertainment, and a happy find. Enjoy.
Of the literally hundreds of self published, Kindle freebie, and kindleunlimited books I've read, skimmed and commented on, this is one of the most interesting, entertaining and satisfying finds to date.
The premise struck me at first as a bit twee and too clever for its own good. Irving awakens at the Questing Academy. He is a character being developed by an author. He exists as a "smudge" and only comes into focus, bit by bit, as his author writes him. Everyone at the Academy is in the same boat, and they sit around waiting to find out who or what they will become and what their story will be. They come into focus physically, but they also learn their own backstory, in the form of memories and knowledge that just pops into their heads, as they are further developed by their author.
And this set up works on multiple levels. You can read it, of course, as an extended metaphor for growing up in general, but you can put that rather obvious angle aside and just enjoy the story, craft and writing. You can also read this as meta-meta-meta fiction, since it's a story about a writer writing a story about how stories are written. Feel free to go into that rabbit hole as deeply as you like. But you don't have to do any of that if you don't care to.
Because get this. Our hero Irving, (and everyone at the Academy knows he is destined to be a hero and not just some supporting character), is funny, interesting, sensitive, observant, resourceful and vulnerable. He is a great character as a smudge, never mind what he's going to be when fully developed. His fellows at the Academy are equally appealing. There are at least six other smudges, (gal pal, grumpy sidekick, really grumpy sidekick, nasty villain in development, possible second gal pal, mysterious/intriguing passing characters), who each add a fresh and unique voice to the proceedings. Then there are the characters - the director of the Academy and so on - who add more wry, funny, idiosyncratic voices to the project. The upshot is that you get a complete mashup of just about every kids book character imaginable all lumped together in this antic half-way house.
This all sounds a bit confusing, but it doesn't play out that way. The idea of the Questing Academy is clearly developed at the outset. By following Irving's development we are brought along as the tale unfolds. Irving is given a tour of the Academy and attends "Orientation", so we get a lot of seamless exposition to get us grounded. Then, once the premise has been fully fleshed out, and the main characters have been introduced, Irving's actual adventures at the Academy can begin. It all builds naturally and clearly, for even the youngest reader.
Early on the chapters alternate between what is happening to Irving and what is going on in the head of his author. At first this struck me as rather indulgent, since the author is not especially interesting and his process isn't exactly fascinating. If it doesn't appeal you can skim the "writing!" parts in order to get back to Irving; if you are interested in the process, then this will be rewarding.
Just as an added pleasure, on top of all this, the book is sharp and witty. There are all sorts of jokes and puns and references to other books tucked into the story. Dialogue is crisp. Characters have loads of attitude and personalities that jump off the page. The pace is brisk and the energy level is high. Sometimes these high-concept books can feel like a bit of a slog, (I felt that way during parts of books like "Inkheart"), but this one is generally pretty light and nimble. It helps that all of the characters know that they are characters, so practically every line is delivered ironically and works on multiple levels.
So, to me this was a refreshing change of pace, a true entertainment, and a happy find. Enjoy.
February 1, 2021
I would even give 4.5 stars if it were possible.
Maybe not because of writing style itself, or because of plot development, characters or ...
Nope, it was the idea of story of book characters being written. And their own stories.
Very clever and entertaining. Thumbs up!
Maybe not because of writing style itself, or because of plot development, characters or ...
Nope, it was the idea of story of book characters being written. And their own stories.
Very clever and entertaining. Thumbs up!
June 19, 2013
What for a fantasy, and what for a delightful world!
The story idea itself is wonderful: A character, Irving Wishbutton, is thrown into a world (the Quest Academy) where he remains until his author completes the story. Of course, being a character 'in progress' has its risks - ones that Irving and the characters around him have no control over. A zombie can transform into a vampire, or a girl will suddenly sprout wings. (All writers know, how unexpected these sudden character changes can occur). Not only must Irving and his fellow characters struggle with these unexpected changes, but at the same time, they're struggling to find foothold at the Academy. Yep, these characters have their own lives and all the problems that come with it.
And these characters are definitely alive. Not only did I feel as if I were sitting in at the academy, but the characters were as vivid as real friends (or enemies). I'd be more than happy to invite most of them for a cup of tea!
Getting lost in this wonderful world was easy, and the story never had a boring moment - but I found that it went out too long. When I saw the size of Irving Wishbutton, I'll admit, I swallowed. For a middle grade (and I'd really suggest it for that audience), it's long. I found myself fighting to stay in the story about half-way through - not because it was boring. It wasn't. It just seemed that there were sometimes too many side-stories and characters,
This is where I find this difficult to review. Irving Wishbutton is good. The story is good. The characters and world are terrific. But I think it would have been better to break it down into several books or cut down on some of the sub-plots. Plus, I found the writer's thoughts at the beginning of every chapter too much - I caught myself trying to skip over them more and more as the book went on. To make sure it wasn't only me, my kids dove into Irving too. They completely skipped over these first parts (after the first 2 or 3 chapters).
But Irving Wishbutton is worth reading, and it's an amazing journey.
The story idea itself is wonderful: A character, Irving Wishbutton, is thrown into a world (the Quest Academy) where he remains until his author completes the story. Of course, being a character 'in progress' has its risks - ones that Irving and the characters around him have no control over. A zombie can transform into a vampire, or a girl will suddenly sprout wings. (All writers know, how unexpected these sudden character changes can occur). Not only must Irving and his fellow characters struggle with these unexpected changes, but at the same time, they're struggling to find foothold at the Academy. Yep, these characters have their own lives and all the problems that come with it.
And these characters are definitely alive. Not only did I feel as if I were sitting in at the academy, but the characters were as vivid as real friends (or enemies). I'd be more than happy to invite most of them for a cup of tea!
Getting lost in this wonderful world was easy, and the story never had a boring moment - but I found that it went out too long. When I saw the size of Irving Wishbutton, I'll admit, I swallowed. For a middle grade (and I'd really suggest it for that audience), it's long. I found myself fighting to stay in the story about half-way through - not because it was boring. It wasn't. It just seemed that there were sometimes too many side-stories and characters,
This is where I find this difficult to review. Irving Wishbutton is good. The story is good. The characters and world are terrific. But I think it would have been better to break it down into several books or cut down on some of the sub-plots. Plus, I found the writer's thoughts at the beginning of every chapter too much - I caught myself trying to skip over them more and more as the book went on. To make sure it wasn't only me, my kids dove into Irving too. They completely skipped over these first parts (after the first 2 or 3 chapters).
But Irving Wishbutton is worth reading, and it's an amazing journey.
July 17, 2012
I strongly believe this is Brian Clopper's finest hour to date. It's not his first novel, nor his last, but it will always be a personal favorite with me. The whole idea of it is unique: the main character is (literally) being fleshed out as the story progresses while, in a parallel story, the fictional author goes about his daily routine and jots down ideas. So Irving comes to life slowly and surely at the hand of his unseen creator... and not a moment too soon!
It's hard to explain the plot properly in a sentence, but it rocks. The story is well told, has fabulous characters, and as a bonus the author excels in his ability to come up with cool and clever ideas and names for characters, places and creatures. It ends nicely but leaves the door wide open for Book 2, and I can't wait because it promises to be a corker.
Fed up with run-of-the-mill fantasy romps? Buy IRVING WISHBUTTON AND THE QUESTING ACADEMY.
It's hard to explain the plot properly in a sentence, but it rocks. The story is well told, has fabulous characters, and as a bonus the author excels in his ability to come up with cool and clever ideas and names for characters, places and creatures. It ends nicely but leaves the door wide open for Book 2, and I can't wait because it promises to be a corker.
Fed up with run-of-the-mill fantasy romps? Buy IRVING WISHBUTTON AND THE QUESTING ACADEMY.
July 19, 2015
Full of twists and surprises, author Brian Clopper runs his characters through the wringer in this delightful exploration of what it might be like to "live" in a story while it's being written. An enjoyable read from beginning to end.
January 22, 2020
I really, really, REALLY enjoyed this book… until I got to the end and realized it was a cliffhanger and there was no resolution. It was SO GOOD. Now, I’m super upset & here’s why…
Plot: What a unique and fascinating story premise: a school for W.I.P. characters. Sure, the boarding school idea has been used plenty of times (H.P. anyone?), but that’s pretty much the only obvious similarity. The rest is (for me, at least) refreshing and exciting and believable and new.
Characters: I loved Irving- really. I loved seeing him develop as his writer tries to create Irving’s story. He’s supposed to be a hero but he’s kind of a putz and only accidentally does he occasionally do something heroic/get things “right”. He’s flawed, but hey, that’s cause he’s not fully developed yet; just like the rest of the characters at the Questing Academy… clever really, of the Real Author (Clopper) to have this “excuse” for flawed and/or under-developed characters. I personally think it’s genius and wish I’d thought of it.
The Writing: Switches from 3rd person POV (Irving’s author, present-day, real-world with real-world situations that inspire his creative experience) and 1st person POV (Irving Wishbutton, a student newly arrived at the “mysterious” Questing Academy) seamlessly and reads like butter. Writing style alone would merit 5 stars.
In Case You Wanted to Know: There’s nothing extreme or unfriendly in this book that needs any forewarning, with the one exception THAT THE ONLY (SUB) PLOT RESOLVED is Irving getting fleshed out!!! Everything else you “think” you’ll get an answer to- you don’t. Sorry, that should’ve come with a “spoiler alert”, but see how mad you are now? Glad I could share my ire.
Overall: 50-100 more pages and this book would’ve gone from exposition/world building to an actual finished product. But, at 290 pages, all of the beautiful & imaginative details of Irving’s world are for nothing because I’m too disappointed at being left hanging to even bother reading the next three books in the series, regardless of how much I LOVED the whole damn thing up 'til the “end”.
Plot: What a unique and fascinating story premise: a school for W.I.P. characters. Sure, the boarding school idea has been used plenty of times (H.P. anyone?), but that’s pretty much the only obvious similarity. The rest is (for me, at least) refreshing and exciting and believable and new.
Characters: I loved Irving- really. I loved seeing him develop as his writer tries to create Irving’s story. He’s supposed to be a hero but he’s kind of a putz and only accidentally does he occasionally do something heroic/get things “right”. He’s flawed, but hey, that’s cause he’s not fully developed yet; just like the rest of the characters at the Questing Academy… clever really, of the Real Author (Clopper) to have this “excuse” for flawed and/or under-developed characters. I personally think it’s genius and wish I’d thought of it.
The Writing: Switches from 3rd person POV (Irving’s author, present-day, real-world with real-world situations that inspire his creative experience) and 1st person POV (Irving Wishbutton, a student newly arrived at the “mysterious” Questing Academy) seamlessly and reads like butter. Writing style alone would merit 5 stars.
In Case You Wanted to Know: There’s nothing extreme or unfriendly in this book that needs any forewarning, with the one exception THAT THE ONLY (SUB) PLOT RESOLVED is Irving getting fleshed out!!! Everything else you “think” you’ll get an answer to- you don’t. Sorry, that should’ve come with a “spoiler alert”, but see how mad you are now? Glad I could share my ire.
Overall: 50-100 more pages and this book would’ve gone from exposition/world building to an actual finished product. But, at 290 pages, all of the beautiful & imaginative details of Irving’s world are for nothing because I’m too disappointed at being left hanging to even bother reading the next three books in the series, regardless of how much I LOVED the whole damn thing up 'til the “end”.
September 7, 2022
Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy is the first book in Brian Clopper’s meta fantasy series about the eponymous boy-hero and the anonymous writer drafting his book. The story alternates between the everyday life of the writer and his family, and Irving’s time at the Questing Academy.
I liked the concept of this book a lot and thought how Clopper depicted the often-mundane life of writers was spot on. I also loved the mystery about Dean Harmstrike and the other characters Irving encountered, especially cyborg Val and fairy Sarya. I equally loathed Gared, the arrogant pompous knight, and windbag villain Raggleswamp.
However, my major criticism of the book was how Irving was never in any danger as all his problems were fixed by the actions of his author. For example, Irving’s writer drafts a chapter where he gains a wish, that he then uses later in the Questing Academy plotline.
This happened repeatedly to the point I could predict how Irving would get out of tights spots and thus never feared for him. Not only did this rob the story of all narrative tension, but it made for boring reading, and I’d go as far as saying it bordered on Deus ex machina territory, in the sense the almighty hand of the author was always there to pull Irving out of danger.
I also didn’t like how the book ended on a massive cliff hanger, but that should have been expected given how often the “writer” in the story ended his chapters on cliffhangers.
I will say there were a lot of redundancies and clunky sentences throughout the book, and it could have stood a few more rounds of editing.
Overall, the book lacked polish and could have been executed better. I give Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy 3.0 out of 5.00 stars. I bought the next in the series, but I’m in no rush to read it.
I recommend you either rent this from your library or snag it when it’s on sale.
I liked the concept of this book a lot and thought how Clopper depicted the often-mundane life of writers was spot on. I also loved the mystery about Dean Harmstrike and the other characters Irving encountered, especially cyborg Val and fairy Sarya. I equally loathed Gared, the arrogant pompous knight, and windbag villain Raggleswamp.
However, my major criticism of the book was how Irving was never in any danger as all his problems were fixed by the actions of his author. For example, Irving’s writer drafts a chapter where he gains a wish, that he then uses later in the Questing Academy plotline.
This happened repeatedly to the point I could predict how Irving would get out of tights spots and thus never feared for him. Not only did this rob the story of all narrative tension, but it made for boring reading, and I’d go as far as saying it bordered on Deus ex machina territory, in the sense the almighty hand of the author was always there to pull Irving out of danger.
I also didn’t like how the book ended on a massive cliff hanger, but that should have been expected given how often the “writer” in the story ended his chapters on cliffhangers.
I will say there were a lot of redundancies and clunky sentences throughout the book, and it could have stood a few more rounds of editing.
Overall, the book lacked polish and could have been executed better. I give Irving Wishbutton and the Questing Academy 3.0 out of 5.00 stars. I bought the next in the series, but I’m in no rush to read it.
I recommend you either rent this from your library or snag it when it’s on sale.
September 10, 2019
Really enjoyed this! Took a little bit to get into the way the book alternates between two different points of view, but that really adds to the story. The characters were likeable and developed well throughout the book, good range of fun fantasy characters. Really enjoyed the physical descriptions of varying characters and how they were developed. I'm not big on lengthy description and this book hit a good balance of providing a picture but not being too waffley. It ended on a cliffhanger which normally I consider almost unforgivable, but everything was developing so well and I enjoyed it so much that I'll forgive it the cliffhanger and I've put the second one on my wish list. The multiple premises to the book are brilliant, really quirky and creative. (Don't want to say more because spoilers).
I loved it, and I've added it to my nine year old daughter's Kindle and I think she'll love it too.
I loved it, and I've added it to my nine year old daughter's Kindle and I think she'll love it too.
October 2, 2024
While written specifically for younger readers, I enjoyed the layers of writing within the story. Clipper has written a book about an English teacher who is living life and writing on the side as much as possible. But the true meat of the story is about his main character - Irving Wishbutton. Irving lives in the world of developing characters. It’s not just the characters from his story, though; it’s characters from all stories currently in development. Think since Upon a Time series, but not confined to characters from one universe.
It was very interesting to read about the writing process in a fictional setting and to consider how characters themselves may drive and change their stories. The writing itself was a little immature, but it held my attention. I’m hopeful to finish this series in the future.
It was very interesting to read about the writing process in a fictional setting and to consider how characters themselves may drive and change their stories. The writing itself was a little immature, but it held my attention. I’m hopeful to finish this series in the future.
September 2, 2019
Maybe three and a half stars. Very fascinating concept with the 'author' starting each chapter with his writing the book (and playing with his kids) and then the character at the Questing Academy. I did find the hero rather annoying and whiny at times though he mostly got better as the story went on. I also wasn't thrilled to get about 90% of the way through only to discover it wasn't a stand alone at all. Sigh...
May or may not read the next book.
May or may not read the next book.
October 29, 2018
So original
This is the most original story I have ever had the privilege to read. The last few pages gave me an idea as to what might be going on. The characters are so alive in both stories. I will not tell you what that means because it is what I believe to be the heart of the story. I would give this book 100 stars if that were possible, it is really that good.
This is the most original story I have ever had the privilege to read. The last few pages gave me an idea as to what might be going on. The characters are so alive in both stories. I will not tell you what that means because it is what I believe to be the heart of the story. I would give this book 100 stars if that were possible, it is really that good.
October 15, 2019
At first I thought this book was trying too hard to be like Harry Potter. It was kind of interesting to watch all the metafictional developments as the book progressed, though. Ultimately, I think this book needs some tighter editing and faster pacing, but I might be intrigued enough to look into the second book if I can also get it for free/through the library.
September 11, 2022
Unique
An author writes a book. The characters of that book have different adventures and those adventures are influenced by what the author is putting in his own book.
A bit confusing to read, but the pace of each keeps the reader interested.
I just hate that I have to pay so much for the next part of the stories.
An author writes a book. The characters of that book have different adventures and those adventures are influenced by what the author is putting in his own book.
A bit confusing to read, but the pace of each keeps the reader interested.
I just hate that I have to pay so much for the next part of the stories.
March 1, 2019
Quick read
I began this book after completing another series that was similarly written (Peter Able series). This book may not be as intriguing as the Peter Able books but it can hold your attention and leave you wanting to know more about Irving and the many plot twists.
I began this book after completing another series that was similarly written (Peter Able series). This book may not be as intriguing as the Peter Able books but it can hold your attention and leave you wanting to know more about Irving and the many plot twists.
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