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Gabriel Finley #1
Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle
A tangle of riddles, a malevolent necklace called a torc, and flocks of menacing birds: these are just some of the obstacles that stand between Gabriel and his father, Adam Finley, who has vanished from their Brooklyn brownstone. When Gabriel rescues an orphaned baby raven named Paladin, he discovers a family secret: Finleys can bond with ravens in extraordinary ways. Along with Paladin and three valiant friends, Gabriel sets out to bring his father home. They soon discover that Adam is being held captive by the evil demon Corax—half man, half raven, and Adam’s very own disgraced brother—in a foreboding netherworld of birds called Aviopolis. With help from his army of ghoulish minions, the valravens, Corax is plotting to take over the land above, and now only Gabriel stands in his way.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
25 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
June 7, 2020
Some parts of this book really reminded me of certain characters and objects in Harry Potter. The plot is a bit similar to me. This is not about wizard, though. It’s about raven. It’s about a 12 yo boy named Gabriel Finley who can speak with raven. Something like parselmouth, lol. And most of all, it’s about riddle. Pretty interesting, right? That keywords: riddle and raven, are the main reasons why I put this book into my cart. And surprisingly, I did enjoy the plot, though I couldn’t help myself comparing it with Harry Potter series. They're the best fantasy books I’ve ever read so far. I don’t read much fantasy by the way.
This book has that amusing and eerie part. Sometimes I think Gabriel, or anybody else in this book who has amicus (befriended with a raven) could sometimes act like a person with multiple personality disorder. Seriously. There are two souls inside their body and it’s interesting and scary to some level. Too bad there’s not much about it. I would like to read some more of it.
The characters are mostly unique. But, I kinda lost interest when Gabriel finally went to Aviopolis, which should've been the best part of this book. He was fronted with Corax, the Voldemort of this book! The adventure was not fantastic. It was too ordinary for me.
This book has that amusing and eerie part. Sometimes I think Gabriel, or anybody else in this book who has amicus (befriended with a raven) could sometimes act like a person with multiple personality disorder. Seriously. There are two souls inside their body and it’s interesting and scary to some level. Too bad there’s not much about it. I would like to read some more of it.
The characters are mostly unique. But, I kinda lost interest when Gabriel finally went to Aviopolis, which should've been the best part of this book. He was fronted with Corax, the Voldemort of this book! The adventure was not fantastic. It was too ordinary for me.
August 26, 2014
Closer to a 1.5, honestly.
This book is truly a bit of a mess. It doesn't know if it's a fantasy book, or a horror book, or a book centered around riddles, or a book centered around birds, or a book about animal companions, or a book about animal zombies/vampires. It could be all of these things, or it could be about none of them at all.
And did I mention it's a book for kids?
The story is incredibly long for what it is, has very cardboard characters and a far-too-confusing premise for the audience it's after. I really don't get it at all, and I'm at a loss to figure out where in the process it went wrong. I'm hesitant to call it a complete failure, but it's pretty much the closest I can get to "failure" without actually calling it one. There's redeemable ideas about virtue and selfless acts throughout, but you have to get through a LOT of nonsense to get there along the way, and it's just not worth it.
Avoid this one at all costs.
This book is truly a bit of a mess. It doesn't know if it's a fantasy book, or a horror book, or a book centered around riddles, or a book centered around birds, or a book about animal companions, or a book about animal zombies/vampires. It could be all of these things, or it could be about none of them at all.
And did I mention it's a book for kids?
The story is incredibly long for what it is, has very cardboard characters and a far-too-confusing premise for the audience it's after. I really don't get it at all, and I'm at a loss to figure out where in the process it went wrong. I'm hesitant to call it a complete failure, but it's pretty much the closest I can get to "failure" without actually calling it one. There's redeemable ideas about virtue and selfless acts throughout, but you have to get through a LOT of nonsense to get there along the way, and it's just not worth it.
Avoid this one at all costs.
July 28, 2014
George Hagen does a masterful job of writing an interesting story while integrating riddles into this action packed middle-grade work of fiction. Designed to appeal to readers who enjoy wordplay and word puzzles, this book does a great job of keeping the reader's interest in the characters and plot as Gabriel seeks to solve the mystery of his father's disappearance.
An example of one cleverly written passage includes the Chasm of Doubt which the children must cross in order to rescue Gabriel's father. Each child is plagued by a unique set of doubts and must figure out how to overcome these in order to make it successfully across the chasm. The book is full of great wordplay and lessons for children of all ages.
An example of one cleverly written passage includes the Chasm of Doubt which the children must cross in order to rescue Gabriel's father. Each child is plagued by a unique set of doubts and must figure out how to overcome these in order to make it successfully across the chasm. The book is full of great wordplay and lessons for children of all ages.
April 3, 2020
The reason I read this book was because the back of the book said, "For fantasy lovers who have worn out their copies of Harry Potter." However, this book was very disappointing to me. I found it very unappealing, the content and theme were bad, and the story idea itself was poor. I would not recommend this book to ANYONE... It was that bad.
August 26, 2014
I love Norse Mythology and was happy to see that Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle is based on the myth of Huginn and Muninn. Although, I wish Hagen had included some more detailed information at the end of the book in an authors note to the reader about the origins of the myth. But, it's a small quibble and encouraged me to do some research online for myself. I found that Huginn means "thought" and Muninn means "desire" and these two ravens were thought to be helpers to the god Odin, kinda like his eyes and ears.
Within Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle, Huginn and Muninn are advisers to a human king during a time when both humans and dwarfs were struggling over who would live on the surface of earth and who would live underground (This becomes known as Aviopolis in the story). The myth provides the back-story to Gabriel's quest and history about why ravens and humans were friends, how valravens were created and why protecting a Torc or silver necklace that grants wishes is so important to Gabriel.
Gabriel is primarily the main character, but he does receive help from Abby (who's kind of weird but is alright with that) and Pamela (with her overbearing mom and desire for her to play violin and not eat sweets) as well as a boy named Somes. Somes, who at first bully's Gabriel, but who's story was the saddest part of the book but also the most uplifting in the way he eventually handles his home situation. There are also the ravens. Like Paladin, who is destined to be Gabriel's amicus or "a raven's human friend...can share thoughts. They can merge as one, and fly as one (paravolating)." but there are also ravens who are evil and Gabriel's uncle Corax who is the most evil of them all.
And then there are the riddles, Gabriel loves riddles like...."When is a door not a door? When it's ajar. He liked riddles that used unfamiliar words, like ajar, which means a door that is slightly open, but he also liked riddles that stretched your imagination, like this one: You'll always see me in first place in a running race, third in a marathon, fourth in a tear, yet never in a dash! Who am I?" Riddles play a prominent role in the story, they are what helps distinguish the good from the evil and the answer to a riddle will help Gabriel to find the torc and save his father.
Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle is also about being brave and selfless. It's about Gabriel having to put faith or trust in someone else even though they may disappoint him, he also might find that they surprise him too. Hagin includes humor in the form of a dancing desk that holds clues if you know how to ask it the right questions and I can't say enough about the riddles, they are certainly entertaining and fun to try and solve.
Overall, I really loved the premise of the story and its link to Norse mythology. The human to raven connection was intriguing and there was just the right amount of darkness and danger during the quest to not make the story to scary.
All quotes were taken from an uncorrected eBook proof. In exchange for an honest review, an ARC was generously provided by Random House Children's for free via NetGalley.
Within Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle, Huginn and Muninn are advisers to a human king during a time when both humans and dwarfs were struggling over who would live on the surface of earth and who would live underground (This becomes known as Aviopolis in the story). The myth provides the back-story to Gabriel's quest and history about why ravens and humans were friends, how valravens were created and why protecting a Torc or silver necklace that grants wishes is so important to Gabriel.
Gabriel is primarily the main character, but he does receive help from Abby (who's kind of weird but is alright with that) and Pamela (with her overbearing mom and desire for her to play violin and not eat sweets) as well as a boy named Somes. Somes, who at first bully's Gabriel, but who's story was the saddest part of the book but also the most uplifting in the way he eventually handles his home situation. There are also the ravens. Like Paladin, who is destined to be Gabriel's amicus or "a raven's human friend...can share thoughts. They can merge as one, and fly as one (paravolating)." but there are also ravens who are evil and Gabriel's uncle Corax who is the most evil of them all.
And then there are the riddles, Gabriel loves riddles like...."When is a door not a door? When it's ajar. He liked riddles that used unfamiliar words, like ajar, which means a door that is slightly open, but he also liked riddles that stretched your imagination, like this one: You'll always see me in first place in a running race, third in a marathon, fourth in a tear, yet never in a dash! Who am I?" Riddles play a prominent role in the story, they are what helps distinguish the good from the evil and the answer to a riddle will help Gabriel to find the torc and save his father.
Gabriel Finley and the Raven's Riddle is also about being brave and selfless. It's about Gabriel having to put faith or trust in someone else even though they may disappoint him, he also might find that they surprise him too. Hagin includes humor in the form of a dancing desk that holds clues if you know how to ask it the right questions and I can't say enough about the riddles, they are certainly entertaining and fun to try and solve.
Overall, I really loved the premise of the story and its link to Norse mythology. The human to raven connection was intriguing and there was just the right amount of darkness and danger during the quest to not make the story to scary.
All quotes were taken from an uncorrected eBook proof. In exchange for an honest review, an ARC was generously provided by Random House Children's for free via NetGalley.
July 13, 2014
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for this advanced reader copy.
This action packed book keeps you really interested as you wonder what will happen next. With likable characters and funny riddles through out the book, it is sure to be a hit with young readers.
This action packed book keeps you really interested as you wonder what will happen next. With likable characters and funny riddles through out the book, it is sure to be a hit with young readers.
August 20, 2014
I suspect this is the first in a series, although Hagen hasn’t given it a name yet. It’s a fantasy for middle-grade readers, and the story is based in Brooklyn.
A special thanks to NetGalley and Schwartz & Wade for allowing me to enjoy this eARC.
My Take
This truly was great fun with a unique twist incorporating vampirism. It's a combination of family, bullying, shapeshifting of a sort, and my favorite part, the riddles. Why is it my favorite? Because I can figure most of them out!! Woo-hoo! Usually I'm terrible at riddles.
Hagen starts with a raven origin story, why ravens no longer speak to us, and it makes me wonder if this is more of a horror story. If it is, parents needn't worry about this keeping the kids up at night as it's really very mild with a breath of the Lord of the Rings in this when they descend into Aviopolis.
It's an odd story with uneven execution. Some parts are just brilliant and make me question and laugh; other parts don't seem well thought-out. Parts like Mrs. Baskin. Why on earth does Aunt Jaz allowing the bullying from the "friend" whom she's helping out of a tight spot? Why is this stupid, mean, nasty, wicked woman even being so mean? What business is it of hers to be ordering Gabriel around? Part of me kept expecting to discover she was hand-in-glove with the bad guy. Or, maybe she's infected?! She's also a cookbook editor…how is it possible she's never learned anything from the books she's edited? Plus she's obsessed about sugar- and salt-free! Oh man, how Mrs. Baskin would hate the sound of that luscious, yummy bowl of oatmeal. I gots ta pick me up some cream!
You know, I don't get that part about Baskin and daughter having no home. Since their apartment building burned down, they're obviously not having to pay any rent. So why can't they go rent another apartment?
Why is Gabriel's father so passive with Corax? It's one thing to hope that one's brother will come back to the light, so to speak, but it's another to be naive enough not to take precautions. Nor do I understand why Hagen sets up these possibilities for betrayal and then doesn't do anything with them. They would have created some great tension. There's no point even setting this up if you're not going to do something with it.
At one point, Paladin questions Septimus' claim that he's a good friend of Gabriel's father, and it still doesn't seem to make a dent in their thinking. Can these two possibly be any more dense and naive? Of course, so is his dad, giving away the secret of how to get the torc from Gabriel while they're still in Aviopolis. Duh much?
The illustrations are great, as are a number of events in the story: a treasure hunt with a shy, dancing desk, flying through the city, a sister who makes candy(!), an underground city, a magical violin, a silly dodo, and a cursed torc. I did enjoy the Chasm of Doubt and how the children got over it. Very neat. There's a sweet story about how Adam met his wife.
Hagen cracked me up with his description of Aunt Jaz's reaction to Gabriel growing out of his clothes: "She had been teaching for so many years that she assumed children came in one size: fourth grade." Hmmm, maybe this explains her cluelessness when it comes to that nasty cow of a friend of hers. I really am surprised that a schoolteacher wouldn't recognize rudeness. As for her friend's cooking? WHY does she put up with this?
Somes is an odd duck. And that's understating it.
As for the pigeons. Well, I had no idea, *grin*.
My last problem with this is that it was simply too easy. There's such promise in this, and I can see how it could be so much better.
The Story
It’s been three years since Gabriel’s father disappeared, and Gabriel is getting more and more curious and anxious. Enough so that Aunt Jaz gives Gabriel his father’s diary. A diary filled without wondrous ideas and fanciful possibilities.
But it will take a tragedy before Paladin and Gabriel become friends.
The Characters
Gabriel Finley is twelve and adores riddles, partially because of his father. Adam Finley. The one who disappeared three years ago. Corax is Adam's older brother, and he disappeared even longer ago. Silverwings was his amicus. Hmmm, I thought humans were the amicus? Well, I guess it goes both ways. He's also the leader of the valravens. Jasmine Finley is Adam and Corax's sister and a schoolteacher; she's taken care of Gabriel since his father disappeared.
Paladin is a baby raven destined to join with Gabriel. Endora is Paladin's mother. Baldasarre was Paladin's grandfather and Muninn is his ancestor. Bertolt is a bird who arrives with a warning. Twit is a melodramatic brown finch. Hobblewing is a raven who hatched in Pleshette's shop. Tiberius is an eagle with part of the riddle. Ulyssa, the leader of the Romany geese will send Gabriel on his path. Caruso is the owl who followed Paladin. More ravens include Specklewing, Hotspur, and Burbage who is Crawfin's brother.
The colorful and eccentric Abigail Chastain is another new student, and she likes riddles. She's also Gabriel's new neighbor as she and her family have moved into Addison's old house. Viv is the candy making sister while Etta is the other.
Somes Grindle is a new boy in Gabriel's class, and he's something of a bully. And he's a good example of why you should look beyond what you see initially. Mr. Grindle is his dad and works for the Quinn Bakery alongside his friend Arturo. Addison Sandoval is one of Gabriel's friends. Well, until he moves. Ms. Cumacho is their teacher.
The extremely rude Mrs. Baskin is a childhood friend of Aunt Jaz's and a cookbook editor — and she still has a crush on Corax. She and her daughter, the violin-playing Pamela, have come to stay since their apartment building was destroyed by fire.
Crawfin is a raven and his amicus, the wishy-washy, cowardly Septimus Geiger, have a symbiotic relationship: Crawfin steals while Geiger tells him what to take.
An amicus is a raven's human friend. They can read each other's minds, share their bodies, and fly together — paravolating. Muninn and Huginn were the king's ravens, only Huginn bought into the wicked idea. Aviopolis is the city the dwarves built and which the king gave over to the birds. Pleshette's Exotics is a bird store owned by the suspicious Mr. Pleshette.
Valravens are immortal because they have eaten the flesh of their friend, their amicus. They're also very wicked and you'll need a riddle to tell the difference. Hookeye, Crooked Leg, Cromwell, and Grinderbeak are wicked valravens while Snitcher is one of the naughty robins.
The Cover
The cover is bold with its red background with the ravens flying through it. In front of it, Gabriel is superimposed on top of Paladin, a metaphor for their ability to join. I do like the wrought iron fence serving as a frame for the title.
The title introduces the excitement of Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle, for Gabriel meets his amicus in a tragic moment and solves his riddle.
A special thanks to NetGalley and Schwartz & Wade for allowing me to enjoy this eARC.
My Take
This truly was great fun with a unique twist incorporating vampirism. It's a combination of family, bullying, shapeshifting of a sort, and my favorite part, the riddles. Why is it my favorite? Because I can figure most of them out!! Woo-hoo! Usually I'm terrible at riddles.
Hagen starts with a raven origin story, why ravens no longer speak to us, and it makes me wonder if this is more of a horror story. If it is, parents needn't worry about this keeping the kids up at night as it's really very mild with a breath of the Lord of the Rings in this when they descend into Aviopolis.
It's an odd story with uneven execution. Some parts are just brilliant and make me question and laugh; other parts don't seem well thought-out. Parts like Mrs. Baskin. Why on earth does Aunt Jaz allowing the bullying from the "friend" whom she's helping out of a tight spot? Why is this stupid, mean, nasty, wicked woman even being so mean? What business is it of hers to be ordering Gabriel around? Part of me kept expecting to discover she was hand-in-glove with the bad guy. Or, maybe she's infected?! She's also a cookbook editor…how is it possible she's never learned anything from the books she's edited? Plus she's obsessed about sugar- and salt-free! Oh man, how Mrs. Baskin would hate the sound of that luscious, yummy bowl of oatmeal. I gots ta pick me up some cream!
"'Bouillabaisse?' he repeated. 'Is that French for socks?'
'Judging from the colors bubbling around the lid, the evening's dinner was a brown sweater.'"
You know, I don't get that part about Baskin and daughter having no home. Since their apartment building burned down, they're obviously not having to pay any rent. So why can't they go rent another apartment?
Why is Gabriel's father so passive with Corax? It's one thing to hope that one's brother will come back to the light, so to speak, but it's another to be naive enough not to take precautions. Nor do I understand why Hagen sets up these possibilities for betrayal and then doesn't do anything with them. They would have created some great tension. There's no point even setting this up if you're not going to do something with it.
At one point, Paladin questions Septimus' claim that he's a good friend of Gabriel's father, and it still doesn't seem to make a dent in their thinking. Can these two possibly be any more dense and naive? Of course, so is his dad, giving away the secret of how to get the torc from Gabriel while they're still in Aviopolis. Duh much?
The illustrations are great, as are a number of events in the story: a treasure hunt with a shy, dancing desk, flying through the city, a sister who makes candy(!), an underground city, a magical violin, a silly dodo, and a cursed torc. I did enjoy the Chasm of Doubt and how the children got over it. Very neat. There's a sweet story about how Adam met his wife.
Hagen cracked me up with his description of Aunt Jaz's reaction to Gabriel growing out of his clothes: "She had been teaching for so many years that she assumed children came in one size: fourth grade." Hmmm, maybe this explains her cluelessness when it comes to that nasty cow of a friend of hers. I really am surprised that a schoolteacher wouldn't recognize rudeness. As for her friend's cooking? WHY does she put up with this?
Somes is an odd duck. And that's understating it.
As for the pigeons. Well, I had no idea, *grin*.
My last problem with this is that it was simply too easy. There's such promise in this, and I can see how it could be so much better.
"The awful thing about dark magic, you see. It takes whatever matters most to you that you'll forever miss."
The Story
It’s been three years since Gabriel’s father disappeared, and Gabriel is getting more and more curious and anxious. Enough so that Aunt Jaz gives Gabriel his father’s diary. A diary filled without wondrous ideas and fanciful possibilities.
But it will take a tragedy before Paladin and Gabriel become friends.
The Characters
Gabriel Finley is twelve and adores riddles, partially because of his father. Adam Finley. The one who disappeared three years ago. Corax is Adam's older brother, and he disappeared even longer ago. Silverwings was his amicus. Hmmm, I thought humans were the amicus? Well, I guess it goes both ways. He's also the leader of the valravens. Jasmine Finley is Adam and Corax's sister and a schoolteacher; she's taken care of Gabriel since his father disappeared.
Paladin is a baby raven destined to join with Gabriel. Endora is Paladin's mother. Baldasarre was Paladin's grandfather and Muninn is his ancestor. Bertolt is a bird who arrives with a warning. Twit is a melodramatic brown finch. Hobblewing is a raven who hatched in Pleshette's shop. Tiberius is an eagle with part of the riddle. Ulyssa, the leader of the Romany geese will send Gabriel on his path. Caruso is the owl who followed Paladin. More ravens include Specklewing, Hotspur, and Burbage who is Crawfin's brother.
The colorful and eccentric Abigail Chastain is another new student, and she likes riddles. She's also Gabriel's new neighbor as she and her family have moved into Addison's old house. Viv is the candy making sister while Etta is the other.
Somes Grindle is a new boy in Gabriel's class, and he's something of a bully. And he's a good example of why you should look beyond what you see initially. Mr. Grindle is his dad and works for the Quinn Bakery alongside his friend Arturo. Addison Sandoval is one of Gabriel's friends. Well, until he moves. Ms. Cumacho is their teacher.
The extremely rude Mrs. Baskin is a childhood friend of Aunt Jaz's and a cookbook editor — and she still has a crush on Corax. She and her daughter, the violin-playing Pamela, have come to stay since their apartment building was destroyed by fire.
Crawfin is a raven and his amicus, the wishy-washy, cowardly Septimus Geiger, have a symbiotic relationship: Crawfin steals while Geiger tells him what to take.
An amicus is a raven's human friend. They can read each other's minds, share their bodies, and fly together — paravolating. Muninn and Huginn were the king's ravens, only Huginn bought into the wicked idea. Aviopolis is the city the dwarves built and which the king gave over to the birds. Pleshette's Exotics is a bird store owned by the suspicious Mr. Pleshette.
Valravens are immortal because they have eaten the flesh of their friend, their amicus. They're also very wicked and you'll need a riddle to tell the difference. Hookeye, Crooked Leg, Cromwell, and Grinderbeak are wicked valravens while Snitcher is one of the naughty robins.
The Cover
The cover is bold with its red background with the ravens flying through it. In front of it, Gabriel is superimposed on top of Paladin, a metaphor for their ability to join. I do like the wrought iron fence serving as a frame for the title.
The title introduces the excitement of Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle, for Gabriel meets his amicus in a tragic moment and solves his riddle.
October 8, 2014
Talking birds, an impossible underground city, a magical necklace, and an epic quest? George Hagen’s middle-grade fantasy, Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle has all this and more!
Three years ago Gabriel’s father went missing. Riddle-loving Gabriel is sure his father is out there and that he must find him. With the help of a raven name Paladin, some unexpected friends, and unimaginable powers, Gabriel sets off on a wild adventure to an underground, bird filled city to rescue his father and stop the sinister half-man half-raven foe.
Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle is a wonderfully imaginative and refreshing addition to middle-grade fantasy! With sparkling storytelling and a pitch-perfect voice, Hagen weaves an unforgettable story full of mesmerizing magic, endearing characters, captivating settings, and an inventive premise. From talking, riddle-loving ravens to a mischievous writing desk, wish-granting necklace, mysterious mausoleum passages, and a spellbinding, dwarf-made underground city, Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle is brimming with all things wondrous and whimsical. Hagen’s talking ravens, and their bond with their amicus (the human they can communicate with telepathically and even join bodies with) are quite unlike anything I’ve ever come across in fantasy before! Young readers will be absolutely enthralled by the fantastical and magical elements in Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle and will want a raven BFF of their own.
From the historic streets of Brooklyn to a shop of oddities, a mysterious mausoleum, and the glittering underground city of Aviopolis, Gabriel’s journey takes him to some unforgettable places! Crafted with vivid, compelling details, the settings in this book are pretty awesome. I most loved the grand, dwarf-made city of Aviopolis in all its dark beauty! Full of birds of all kinds (even dodos), breathtaking drops, and passages that will make your heart race, Aviopolis has magic in its walls and magic in its making!
Our unexpected hero, Gabriel, and his new friends Abbi, Pamela, and Somes, are all super-likable and endearing young characters. I love Gabriel’s quick riddle-solving wit, Abbi’s creativity, Pamela’s compassion, and Some’s courage. They make a quirky, lovable foursome for sure! I really enjoyed the bond between Gabriel and the raven, Paladin, too.
Gabriel’s search for his father takes him and his friends on an epic journey filled with twists, turns, fun riddles, and thrilling magic. Hagen concludes this book in a really satisfying, heartwarming way, but cleverly sets up a new adventure...and I, for one, am so ready for more!
My Final Thoughts: Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle has everything you want and need in a middle-grade fantasy! This is an exciting, enthralling, entertaining read that will easily captivate younger readers.
Three years ago Gabriel’s father went missing. Riddle-loving Gabriel is sure his father is out there and that he must find him. With the help of a raven name Paladin, some unexpected friends, and unimaginable powers, Gabriel sets off on a wild adventure to an underground, bird filled city to rescue his father and stop the sinister half-man half-raven foe.
Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle is a wonderfully imaginative and refreshing addition to middle-grade fantasy! With sparkling storytelling and a pitch-perfect voice, Hagen weaves an unforgettable story full of mesmerizing magic, endearing characters, captivating settings, and an inventive premise. From talking, riddle-loving ravens to a mischievous writing desk, wish-granting necklace, mysterious mausoleum passages, and a spellbinding, dwarf-made underground city, Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle is brimming with all things wondrous and whimsical. Hagen’s talking ravens, and their bond with their amicus (the human they can communicate with telepathically and even join bodies with) are quite unlike anything I’ve ever come across in fantasy before! Young readers will be absolutely enthralled by the fantastical and magical elements in Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle and will want a raven BFF of their own.
From the historic streets of Brooklyn to a shop of oddities, a mysterious mausoleum, and the glittering underground city of Aviopolis, Gabriel’s journey takes him to some unforgettable places! Crafted with vivid, compelling details, the settings in this book are pretty awesome. I most loved the grand, dwarf-made city of Aviopolis in all its dark beauty! Full of birds of all kinds (even dodos), breathtaking drops, and passages that will make your heart race, Aviopolis has magic in its walls and magic in its making!
Our unexpected hero, Gabriel, and his new friends Abbi, Pamela, and Somes, are all super-likable and endearing young characters. I love Gabriel’s quick riddle-solving wit, Abbi’s creativity, Pamela’s compassion, and Some’s courage. They make a quirky, lovable foursome for sure! I really enjoyed the bond between Gabriel and the raven, Paladin, too.
Gabriel’s search for his father takes him and his friends on an epic journey filled with twists, turns, fun riddles, and thrilling magic. Hagen concludes this book in a really satisfying, heartwarming way, but cleverly sets up a new adventure...and I, for one, am so ready for more!
My Final Thoughts: Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle has everything you want and need in a middle-grade fantasy! This is an exciting, enthralling, entertaining read that will easily captivate younger readers.
September 30, 2014
A twelve year old buy would probably enjoy this. Me? Not so much. (NetGalley pre-approved me for it).
But thanks anyway, NetGalley and Random House Children's, for this free book to review!
The plot was a cool idea (taking down an evil bird man) but not for me. I liked reading it, but I had zero connection to it.
The characters, while fun to read about, were shallow (I did like Gabriel, though. He was funny and nice. Woo hoo!) But Pamela's greatest fear was losing her violin? What...? I'm pretty sure more twelve year olds are deeper than that. Abby, on the other hand, was awesome. She was weird and she knew it. And for a little while, it bothered her. Which made her infinitely more relatable than a girl whose greatest fear is losing her violin.
I also liked Somes, but not how his relationship with his dad panned out. Grant it, I read this as an ARC. The finished book may be different.
All in all, this was a decent book. If you're its intended audience, you might like it.
But thanks anyway, NetGalley and Random House Children's, for this free book to review!
The plot was a cool idea (taking down an evil bird man) but not for me. I liked reading it, but I had zero connection to it.
The characters, while fun to read about, were shallow (I did like Gabriel, though. He was funny and nice. Woo hoo!) But Pamela's greatest fear was losing her violin? What...? I'm pretty sure more twelve year olds are deeper than that. Abby, on the other hand, was awesome. She was weird and she knew it. And for a little while, it bothered her. Which made her infinitely more relatable than a girl whose greatest fear is losing her violin.
I also liked Somes, but not how his relationship with his dad panned out. Grant it, I read this as an ARC. The finished book may be different.
All in all, this was a decent book. If you're its intended audience, you might like it.
August 13, 2015
I really enjoyed this book because it had a lot of imagination that was fun to read. Also the fantasy was very interesting. I loved how riddles could save people's lives while some thought riddles were not important so they did not care about them. I also loved how the staff made people feel they were protected when in reality it just gave them confidence.
October 14, 2017
A long time ago ravens were actually one of man's best friends. Some humans and ravens would have very strong connections to each other. That all changed during a war. As ravens stood over their fallen or dying companions, one mangled bird with a glowing yellow eye flew onto the battle ground. It would visit each raven and ask if they wanted to know how to live forever. Each time he asked, the ravens would scoff, say that nobody could live forever, and return to there morning. All except one. That raven was terrified of dying, especially after his friend's own death. The yellow-eyed bird whispered to him that if he ate his companions flesh, he would never die. Disgusted, the raven took the tiniest speck of flesh and swallowed it. Repulsed at what he had done, the raven felt ashamed of himself. Suddenly his whole world changed, time worked differently for him now. He had gotten the gift of eternal life, along with the curse of it. Now there were two valravens. After the soldiers saw what had happened, they no longer trusted any raven. Who would want trust someone who eats his best friends flesh? And thus ravens had to stay away from humans, and could never speak to them, less they be hunted down or shown off in a circus or whatnot.
Gabriel Finley is a fairly normal kid. His only oddity is his love for riddles. His father told a new one everyday, until the night he disappeared. Now Gabriel lives with his kind aunt Jaz in the Finley family's house. Over the course of the book Gabriel has to figure out the mystery of his missing father, realize why he was trained in riddles, and make/help some friends along the way.
I really liked this book, I thought it was really interesting. I won't say all of my favorite parts, because they're spoilers, but it would be amazing to go through some of Gabriel's experiences. The connections between parts of the book and the discovering of them was really fun. One part that I like was the riddles throughout the book, which I could use to challenge myself. There were a couple of parts that had some kind of questionable action, or a very coincidental experience, but overall it was a very good book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to stretch there mind a little, or enjoys new types of action. I read through this book in just few days because I thought it was really interesting. I really think that a lot of young adults/middle graders would like to read this book.
My favorite quote from this book is probably when one of Gabriel's friend is kind of skeptical about Gabriel's belief in the importance of the riddles and he replies, "Athletes have flexible bodies, but great thinkers have flexible minds." This quote is significant because that is one of the main focuses of the whole book. The importance of a strong mind. I won't give anything big away, but at this point of the book the quote was kind of foreshadowing.
To summarize, I really enjoyed this book. I'm sure there are people out there that might have some pretty negative reviews about it, but that's the reason I really hate to read reviews. People say really bad things about books that I think were fine or really good. You don't have to love this book, but I suggest you give it a chance.
Gabriel Finley is a fairly normal kid. His only oddity is his love for riddles. His father told a new one everyday, until the night he disappeared. Now Gabriel lives with his kind aunt Jaz in the Finley family's house. Over the course of the book Gabriel has to figure out the mystery of his missing father, realize why he was trained in riddles, and make/help some friends along the way.
I really liked this book, I thought it was really interesting. I won't say all of my favorite parts, because they're spoilers, but it would be amazing to go through some of Gabriel's experiences. The connections between parts of the book and the discovering of them was really fun. One part that I like was the riddles throughout the book, which I could use to challenge myself. There were a couple of parts that had some kind of questionable action, or a very coincidental experience, but overall it was a very good book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to stretch there mind a little, or enjoys new types of action. I read through this book in just few days because I thought it was really interesting. I really think that a lot of young adults/middle graders would like to read this book.
My favorite quote from this book is probably when one of Gabriel's friend is kind of skeptical about Gabriel's belief in the importance of the riddles and he replies, "Athletes have flexible bodies, but great thinkers have flexible minds." This quote is significant because that is one of the main focuses of the whole book. The importance of a strong mind. I won't give anything big away, but at this point of the book the quote was kind of foreshadowing.
To summarize, I really enjoyed this book. I'm sure there are people out there that might have some pretty negative reviews about it, but that's the reason I really hate to read reviews. People say really bad things about books that I think were fine or really good. You don't have to love this book, but I suggest you give it a chance.
April 8, 2016
what do you call a country where drives everybody pink automobile? A pinkcar-nation! this riddle might be a silly one but what if I told you it would save people's life? I know,I wouldn't believe me either. but it did in this book when Gabriel needed to get something important as for to stop a person from messing up the world he got it back and saved his friends who were in a bit of trouble as well! this all happened because of one simple & silly riddle.the genre of my book would be fantasy because it has stuff that you could never do with birds or would never most likely see places like the ones in this book.this book is really good for a book filled with riddles and kids I honestly thought it would be bad but after reading it I loved it.it was one of the books that hit the top of my favorites list after I finished and till this day it still holds as a favorite. *spoiler warning*dont read if don't like spoilers!!!!!!!!
the setting in my book takes place in a modern time period and the places that Gabriel gets to go to area underground world where cool stuff happens,explores the town he lives in,his own home filled with a few secrets,and for a short while his school was he finds his friends. Gabriel originally wanted to find out about his dad's findings after he disappeared But one day he helps a little raven bird who was a orphan and discovers secrets and skills he never thought he had and So he goes to find out more making friends with people bird and finds out about a evil item where when you make a wish there's bound to be a twist and not a good one either Gabriel finds it someone takes it tries to be ruler fails Gabriel wins and yay reunited with his dad has friends and saves everything on earth!the type of conflict that goes through on the story would be person vs. person because Gabriel fights against mostly his uncle who is the antagonist.the theme of the story is somewhat confusing but can be seen I got two out of this story which would be don't be selfish be selfless and also family stays together if you hold on and find the true ones that care for you related or not related by blood. the point of view in this book was in 3rd person and it was really good at how it was because it would tell you what was happening but also show the characters thoughts and switched which told the story perfectly and no part was unclear.Unlike a few not all but a few 1st point of view stories where the stories events might sometimes be unclear or not well enough told by one person's thoughts.Like when Gabriel gets into his final battle against his uncle, the narrator tells you what's going on along with other characters thoughts dialog etc giving the reader a perfect image/movie in their mind of what going on.I like how the title does relate to the book even if it was simple. All it really told you was the main characters name and "the raven's riddle"part which sums up the whole story slightly for the beginning which is really cool. the "& the raven's riddle"describes what mostly describes how the story started because of an orphan raven's riddle.
I was surprised when I realized how the title went well with the book because at first it seemed so unfitting.But then as I kept reading I slowly understood how it worked like fitting together a couple of puzzle pieces together. I loved the way the author did their wording and the words they chose to use because they weren't words that were to the top but weren't words that were slang or weren't kid like words.They were words that showed you setting/time words that mostly everybody could understand and were nice descriptive words.
I would rate this book 5/5 stars because it was really good it had characters that were relatable some not and some that weren't even human giving it a good mix of funny weird and just great story and the story/plot line wasn't bad it self it was really good for being just a simple story.
I recommend this book for fantasy lovers and to people who like riddles pun or joke lovers or great adventures because this book is just full of it.overall this was great book and hey remember always think of a good riddle because you never know one day it might just save your life.
the setting in my book takes place in a modern time period and the places that Gabriel gets to go to area underground world where cool stuff happens,explores the town he lives in,his own home filled with a few secrets,and for a short while his school was he finds his friends. Gabriel originally wanted to find out about his dad's findings after he disappeared But one day he helps a little raven bird who was a orphan and discovers secrets and skills he never thought he had and So he goes to find out more making friends with people bird and finds out about a evil item where when you make a wish there's bound to be a twist and not a good one either Gabriel finds it someone takes it tries to be ruler fails Gabriel wins and yay reunited with his dad has friends and saves everything on earth!the type of conflict that goes through on the story would be person vs. person because Gabriel fights against mostly his uncle who is the antagonist.the theme of the story is somewhat confusing but can be seen I got two out of this story which would be don't be selfish be selfless and also family stays together if you hold on and find the true ones that care for you related or not related by blood. the point of view in this book was in 3rd person and it was really good at how it was because it would tell you what was happening but also show the characters thoughts and switched which told the story perfectly and no part was unclear.Unlike a few not all but a few 1st point of view stories where the stories events might sometimes be unclear or not well enough told by one person's thoughts.Like when Gabriel gets into his final battle against his uncle, the narrator tells you what's going on along with other characters thoughts dialog etc giving the reader a perfect image/movie in their mind of what going on.I like how the title does relate to the book even if it was simple. All it really told you was the main characters name and "the raven's riddle"part which sums up the whole story slightly for the beginning which is really cool. the "& the raven's riddle"describes what mostly describes how the story started because of an orphan raven's riddle.
I was surprised when I realized how the title went well with the book because at first it seemed so unfitting.But then as I kept reading I slowly understood how it worked like fitting together a couple of puzzle pieces together. I loved the way the author did their wording and the words they chose to use because they weren't words that were to the top but weren't words that were slang or weren't kid like words.They were words that showed you setting/time words that mostly everybody could understand and were nice descriptive words.
I would rate this book 5/5 stars because it was really good it had characters that were relatable some not and some that weren't even human giving it a good mix of funny weird and just great story and the story/plot line wasn't bad it self it was really good for being just a simple story.
I recommend this book for fantasy lovers and to people who like riddles pun or joke lovers or great adventures because this book is just full of it.overall this was great book and hey remember always think of a good riddle because you never know one day it might just save your life.
August 9, 2014
At the time, Gabriel "didn't know anything about ravens..." but he liked riddles because he enjoyed unlocking them and trying to discover the double meanings in the words: When is a door not a door? Now just for a moment, think about what it would be like to be raised in a home where instead of sports... riddles were your daily challenge, entertainment, and connections with your father. You will realize just how much of a "riddle master" Gabriel's father truly was if you accept this "riddled" journey with Gabriel.
As Gabriel turns 12, he learns of a quest that very few are allowed to embark on. His father has gone missing. his mother has been missing since he was born, there's a new boy in seventh grade that for whatever reason wants to "cheat" off of him and keeps hanging around, and there is this raven (Paladin) that begins appearing every where. Gabriel's Aunt Jaz remembers that his father once kept a diary, in which he discovers that his father knew a raven by the name of Baldasarre. Within the diary are very important clues to events that will help Gabriel discover his skill of paravolating. On his twelfth birthday, his aunt remembers there is a gift his father has left him, it turns out to be a riddle of sorts. Why would an old key be so important that his father prepared it as a specific gift for... a specific age? And now there's this new girl in school, Abigail Chastain (I personally adore her). Add in these obnoxious visitors and a writing desk that is on the move. You do know that riddles can be more than words... Why after all these years would his Uncle Corax's mysterious departure be such a major "key" to where his father has gone?
I must let you know a bit about the raven, Paladin. He is learning all about the history of ravens and humans. His mother instructs him in the skill of "meaningful" riddles (think of these riddles as being multi-layered investigative research). Paladin learns about the evil Valravens, these ravens are not the type of playmates any mother would want hanging around the neighborhood. He is being schooled about the dwarf's underground dungeons and mazes of Aviopolis. Then during one of his lessons, Paladin's mother provides a riddle:
"Every house has one of me,
I will not let you in, you see,
Unless you feed me with a meal
Of jagged brass or hardened steel."
The promise within the covers of this journey is that you will be "mystified" by the paralleled paths for Gabriel and Paladin. As each of these characters are uncovering their true quest, the riddles they are given are meant for you. You can discover the "intersections" that are just around the corner for them... if you have the skill to decipher the meaning behind the words!
Are you willing to travel this path? Do you know how to keep Corax from finding the torc? Are you good at solving riddles?
Please help Gabriel and Paladin...
MrsK http://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
As Gabriel turns 12, he learns of a quest that very few are allowed to embark on. His father has gone missing. his mother has been missing since he was born, there's a new boy in seventh grade that for whatever reason wants to "cheat" off of him and keeps hanging around, and there is this raven (Paladin) that begins appearing every where. Gabriel's Aunt Jaz remembers that his father once kept a diary, in which he discovers that his father knew a raven by the name of Baldasarre. Within the diary are very important clues to events that will help Gabriel discover his skill of paravolating. On his twelfth birthday, his aunt remembers there is a gift his father has left him, it turns out to be a riddle of sorts. Why would an old key be so important that his father prepared it as a specific gift for... a specific age? And now there's this new girl in school, Abigail Chastain (I personally adore her). Add in these obnoxious visitors and a writing desk that is on the move. You do know that riddles can be more than words... Why after all these years would his Uncle Corax's mysterious departure be such a major "key" to where his father has gone?
I must let you know a bit about the raven, Paladin. He is learning all about the history of ravens and humans. His mother instructs him in the skill of "meaningful" riddles (think of these riddles as being multi-layered investigative research). Paladin learns about the evil Valravens, these ravens are not the type of playmates any mother would want hanging around the neighborhood. He is being schooled about the dwarf's underground dungeons and mazes of Aviopolis. Then during one of his lessons, Paladin's mother provides a riddle:
"Every house has one of me,
I will not let you in, you see,
Unless you feed me with a meal
Of jagged brass or hardened steel."
The promise within the covers of this journey is that you will be "mystified" by the paralleled paths for Gabriel and Paladin. As each of these characters are uncovering their true quest, the riddles they are given are meant for you. You can discover the "intersections" that are just around the corner for them... if you have the skill to decipher the meaning behind the words!
Are you willing to travel this path? Do you know how to keep Corax from finding the torc? Are you good at solving riddles?
Please help Gabriel and Paladin...
MrsK http://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
July 11, 2014
Gabriel Finley is a near orphan...his mother is presumed dead and his father has been missing for three years. He lives with his dad's sister, who assures Gabriel his father will return eventually, but otherwise, gives him very little information. As Gabriel nears the age of 12, lots of things begin to happen at once. He learns more about his grandfather, uncle, and father, and their special relationship with ravens.
It seems that long ago, ravens and humans communicated freely. In more recent times, his grandfather and his sons each had particular ravens that they had formed close bonds with and could communicate telepathically. They even had the ability to share one another's physical body from time to time, meaning that they could protect one another when they were in the presence of an enemy of either humans or ravens.
Early in the story, Gabriel rescues a young raven named Paladin. Gabriel discovers that not all ravens are of good character. Some have become valravens, meaning they eat human or raven flesh. The valravens are immortal and serve the demon master of the Bird World, located far below the city where Gabriel lives. Gabriel and Paladin soon discover that they can understand one another's thoughts. Paladin shares lore from the raven world that sheds light on what might have happened to Gabriel's father and his uncle.
Gabriel remembers his father and how much he emphasized analyzing riddles for hidden meanings. Turns out riddles are the key to distinguishing ravens and valravens, and Gabriel has learned the lessons well. The author George Hagen uses riddles and puns which I think should appeal to the middle school reader, not to mention the reluctant reader, many of whom should enjoy working out the riddle before reading what the solution is.
Gabriel, some of his school friends and Paladin have a grand though somewhat scary adventure in pursuit of his missing father. Not every adult in the story is reliable, in fact, several are trying to outsmart Gabriel and take the treasure that Gabriel must use to rescue his father. But as the riddles have predicted, if Gabriel makes unselfish choices, he will be able to rescue his father....but those choices are not easy to make.
I received an ebook from Netgalley and recommend the book for middle school readers and others who will enjoy this fast-paced magical fantasy.
It seems that long ago, ravens and humans communicated freely. In more recent times, his grandfather and his sons each had particular ravens that they had formed close bonds with and could communicate telepathically. They even had the ability to share one another's physical body from time to time, meaning that they could protect one another when they were in the presence of an enemy of either humans or ravens.
Early in the story, Gabriel rescues a young raven named Paladin. Gabriel discovers that not all ravens are of good character. Some have become valravens, meaning they eat human or raven flesh. The valravens are immortal and serve the demon master of the Bird World, located far below the city where Gabriel lives. Gabriel and Paladin soon discover that they can understand one another's thoughts. Paladin shares lore from the raven world that sheds light on what might have happened to Gabriel's father and his uncle.
Gabriel remembers his father and how much he emphasized analyzing riddles for hidden meanings. Turns out riddles are the key to distinguishing ravens and valravens, and Gabriel has learned the lessons well. The author George Hagen uses riddles and puns which I think should appeal to the middle school reader, not to mention the reluctant reader, many of whom should enjoy working out the riddle before reading what the solution is.
Gabriel, some of his school friends and Paladin have a grand though somewhat scary adventure in pursuit of his missing father. Not every adult in the story is reliable, in fact, several are trying to outsmart Gabriel and take the treasure that Gabriel must use to rescue his father. But as the riddles have predicted, if Gabriel makes unselfish choices, he will be able to rescue his father....but those choices are not easy to make.
I received an ebook from Netgalley and recommend the book for middle school readers and others who will enjoy this fast-paced magical fantasy.
June 3, 2014
Loved the premise of this book, but wasn't thrilled with its execution. The story revolves around talking ravens who communicate in riddles and form bonds with human partners. A twelve-year-old boy named Gabriel forms such a bond with a young raven named Paladin and embarks on a quest to rescue his father from his evil uncle and solve the mystery of a magic torc. Along the way, he becomes close friends with the violin-obsessed Pamela and his wacky neighbor Abby. Even the misunderstood bully, Somes, eventually joins the cause. Gabriel and his friends travel to an underground city inhabited by birds and ruled by the half-man, half-raven Lord of Air and Darkness. Gabriel must keep a flexible mind and a selfless heart in order to rescue his father.
The plot involves pieces of Norse mythology, and the relationship between ravens and humans is cleverly done. However, the writing of the story is weak in many places. All of the characters lack depth and have essentially no personality. Many of them are mere caricatures, defined by one over exaggerated trait. Pamela is completely defined by her interest in playing the violin. Pamela's mother, Trudy, is a hyperbolic over-bearing mother who insists on cooking "healthy" food that tastes like socks and vehemently condemning anything that sounds like it could bring anyone happiness. Somes is a stereotypical bully who demands answers to the homework from Gabriel and then returns home to an abusive father. Abby is a caricature of a "weird kid," and Gabriel himself is the male version of a Mary Sue--kind, good-hearted, but with no hints of an actual personality besides his propensity for solving riddles.
The plot of the story doesn't hold up much better than its characters. The action is frequently pushed forward by plot devices such as the sudden introduction of new characters. The main events are generally predictable, and the reader tends to figure things out long before the characters do.
Despite these short-comings, Gabriel Finley is a decent read for a middle-grade reader. The book may appeal to both girls and boys, since it has protagonists of both genders. Overall, a fun and entertaining read, if not a great example of literary genius.
The plot involves pieces of Norse mythology, and the relationship between ravens and humans is cleverly done. However, the writing of the story is weak in many places. All of the characters lack depth and have essentially no personality. Many of them are mere caricatures, defined by one over exaggerated trait. Pamela is completely defined by her interest in playing the violin. Pamela's mother, Trudy, is a hyperbolic over-bearing mother who insists on cooking "healthy" food that tastes like socks and vehemently condemning anything that sounds like it could bring anyone happiness. Somes is a stereotypical bully who demands answers to the homework from Gabriel and then returns home to an abusive father. Abby is a caricature of a "weird kid," and Gabriel himself is the male version of a Mary Sue--kind, good-hearted, but with no hints of an actual personality besides his propensity for solving riddles.
The plot of the story doesn't hold up much better than its characters. The action is frequently pushed forward by plot devices such as the sudden introduction of new characters. The main events are generally predictable, and the reader tends to figure things out long before the characters do.
Despite these short-comings, Gabriel Finley is a decent read for a middle-grade reader. The book may appeal to both girls and boys, since it has protagonists of both genders. Overall, a fun and entertaining read, if not a great example of literary genius.
August 8, 2014
I have never been one of a riddler, I get bogged down in the details and then I get all confused and forget where I was going in the first place but after reading Gabriel Finley & the Raven’s Riddle I was getting pretty good. The secret I found is not thinking too deep, just look for the obvious answers and then put all the pieces together. Perhaps if my father had given me riddles every day like Gabriel’s did, I might be a whiz like him. Looking at the cover of this book you would never see the true wonders that are beyond this book’s jacket. For this book is truly a magical journal with talking birds, magical furniture, enchanted letters, a scavenger hunt, just to name a few of its wonderful elements. Friendships evolve, there’s a mystery to solve, lots of magic transpires and the book ends before you’re really ready. George begins by explaining the history of ravens and their attraction to riddles and owls, for this important information lays the foundation for the journey the book takes you. Thus begins the story of ravens and valravens and their quest for the torc. Their ability to converse with humans (just a few of them) and what power this torc processes was captivating and exciting, I loved the creativeness and uniqueness this story provided. Life was great for the ravens until one of them had to ruin for everyone. Endora, a mother raven and her son Paladin, just warmed my heart. As she cares for him and protects him, there is so much love there; I can still see those images in my head. As the story unfolds Gabriel is given his father’s diary which delivers a side of his father that Gabriel didn’t know existed. With support from his two friends, Gabriel is persistent in his pursuit for the answers to where his father is. I really enjoyed this book immensely. I was mesmerized by both of the storylines and the how they came together, the story was fast-paced and the characters were fantastic. I would love to read this out loud and watch the faces on the kids as the story plays out. It sure would lead to some good discussions and I am sure the kids would be creating some riddles on their own.
I received this book from NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books in exchange for an honest opinion.
I received this book from NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books in exchange for an honest opinion.
August 2, 2014
Designed for middle grade readers on up, Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle by George Hagen has moments of delightful fancy, as well as demonstrations of family love and the determination of one boy to find the father he thought he had lost forever. A little on the dark and serious side, Gabriel goes son a mission to uncover the truth of what happened to his father several years before. Tales of cursed ravens abound and the only way to tell a good raven from a bad rave is to give them a riddle to solve. The demon ravens cannot do it, thereby singling them out. But who is behind the ravens and the disappearance of those around Gabriel? Can all adults be trusted? With only his friends by his side, Gabriel sometimes bites off more than he can chew, but hey, what are friends for, if not to help you out in times of trouble. At the end of his journey, who/what will Gabriel find? Will he discover the truth, that fact and fiction can meet somewhere in between reality and fancy? Will he feel closer to a town that has laughed in his family’s face/
Old secrets come to life, in this well-paced, detailed fantasy for younger readers. I would recommend this to an avid young reader due to its length . If your child likes to fall into the magic of reading, and they don’t mind a little darkness, I would highly recommend this book to readers everywhere.
I received an ARC edition from Schwartz & Wade in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade
ISBN: 9780385371032
Genre: Age Level: 9 - 12 - Fantasy
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Old secrets come to life, in this well-paced, detailed fantasy for younger readers. I would recommend this to an avid young reader due to its length . If your child likes to fall into the magic of reading, and they don’t mind a little darkness, I would highly recommend this book to readers everywhere.
I received an ARC edition from Schwartz & Wade in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade
ISBN: 9780385371032
Genre: Age Level: 9 - 12 - Fantasy
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
July 8, 2014
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Genre: Fiction
Age Recommended: 12 and up
This book is well-written and has an amazing concept with raven and human body-switching.
This book is an ARC, courtesy of NetGalley. It will be published on October 28, 2014.
Gabriel Finley and The Raven's Riddle
--------------------------------------------------------
Gabriel Finley lives with his aunt. His mother died and his father disappeared a while ago. Gabriel finds out that long ago, people and ravens were best friends. They could talk to each other, and when they found the raven or the human who had the closest connection to themselves, they could switch bodies.
Gabriel Finley found out that his uncle, Corax, was a half raven, half human mutation and that he was a ruthless demon who spared nobody. You see, long ago, one day someone offered a raven eternal life. The raven asked what he had to do, and the person just said to eat the flesh of your elder.
A raven did that and he became a Valraven - an invincible demon. Valravens were always hunting down ravens to kill them. The only way to tell a valraven from a raven was by asking them a riddle. If one answered a riddle correctly, the ravens would burst out in laughter but valravens would just find it stupid. For this reason, whenever ravens are confronted by another raven, they ask them a riddle.
There was also the powerful Torc. The Torc was a necklace of great power that would grant any wish. The ravens were in possession of it but the valravens wanted it for their master Corax. It brought immense power and malevolence to those who unworthily wielded it.
Gabriel now finds out that he is the type of person who has the power to join a raven's body. He finds his raven partner with whom he can do that. Gabriel also finds out that his father is being held captive by Corax and that the only way to free his father is by finding the Torc.
Gabriel sets out on a mission with some of his friends to stop the evil.
Will Gabriel find the Torc? Will he save his dad? Will he be able to stop Corax?
--
Genre: Fiction
Age Recommended: 12 and up
This book is well-written and has an amazing concept with raven and human body-switching.
This book is an ARC, courtesy of NetGalley. It will be published on October 28, 2014.
Gabriel Finley and The Raven's Riddle
--------------------------------------------------------
Gabriel Finley lives with his aunt. His mother died and his father disappeared a while ago. Gabriel finds out that long ago, people and ravens were best friends. They could talk to each other, and when they found the raven or the human who had the closest connection to themselves, they could switch bodies.
Gabriel Finley found out that his uncle, Corax, was a half raven, half human mutation and that he was a ruthless demon who spared nobody. You see, long ago, one day someone offered a raven eternal life. The raven asked what he had to do, and the person just said to eat the flesh of your elder.
A raven did that and he became a Valraven - an invincible demon. Valravens were always hunting down ravens to kill them. The only way to tell a valraven from a raven was by asking them a riddle. If one answered a riddle correctly, the ravens would burst out in laughter but valravens would just find it stupid. For this reason, whenever ravens are confronted by another raven, they ask them a riddle.
There was also the powerful Torc. The Torc was a necklace of great power that would grant any wish. The ravens were in possession of it but the valravens wanted it for their master Corax. It brought immense power and malevolence to those who unworthily wielded it.
Gabriel now finds out that he is the type of person who has the power to join a raven's body. He finds his raven partner with whom he can do that. Gabriel also finds out that his father is being held captive by Corax and that the only way to free his father is by finding the Torc.
Gabriel sets out on a mission with some of his friends to stop the evil.
Will Gabriel find the Torc? Will he save his dad? Will he be able to stop Corax?
--
March 30, 2015
This was quite a disappointment after all the hype. The riddles were alright although they got rather old, the storyline wasn't bad if rather familiar, and I did like the idea of being able to merge and speak with ravens, but the writing was just so trite and condescending.
Most of the characters were shallow caricatures meant to teach some specific lesson, like the embarrassing creation of the misunderstood, bullying dunce who is only terribly violent because his daddy beats him, but all he really needs is a hug and some confidence. Yay, group hug!
The children were bland and stupid and had no guile. Real children can be a lot deeper and trickier than the author seems to suspect them of ever being. Those are the kind of heroes one wants to read about.
Gabriel and his friends seem to trust everyone who says they are on their side, no matter how many dark evidences they give to the contrary. There's a whole lot of, "Well, we have no choice but to trust them, and besides they pinky promised they were the good guys!" And then when the obvious traitor reveals his treachery and blackmails them, it's all, "Wow, I can't believe that shady stranger lied to us! I guess we have no choice but to do what he says even though it may mean the death of us and numberless others." Really? We can't even hold a meeting or something to brainstorm ideas of how we might out-trick the trickster?
But it's all good because the heroes each have a special "I believe in me!" moment, and that confidence is all they need to stop the powers of evil. There was never any real sense of danger, never any idea of the characters really having to work for their successes. What you get is a ton of riddles and a whole lot of positive attitude self-help talk.
Most of the characters were shallow caricatures meant to teach some specific lesson, like the embarrassing creation of the misunderstood, bullying dunce who is only terribly violent because his daddy beats him, but all he really needs is a hug and some confidence. Yay, group hug!
The children were bland and stupid and had no guile. Real children can be a lot deeper and trickier than the author seems to suspect them of ever being. Those are the kind of heroes one wants to read about.
Gabriel and his friends seem to trust everyone who says they are on their side, no matter how many dark evidences they give to the contrary. There's a whole lot of, "Well, we have no choice but to trust them, and besides they pinky promised they were the good guys!" And then when the obvious traitor reveals his treachery and blackmails them, it's all, "Wow, I can't believe that shady stranger lied to us! I guess we have no choice but to do what he says even though it may mean the death of us and numberless others." Really? We can't even hold a meeting or something to brainstorm ideas of how we might out-trick the trickster?
But it's all good because the heroes each have a special "I believe in me!" moment, and that confidence is all they need to stop the powers of evil. There was never any real sense of danger, never any idea of the characters really having to work for their successes. What you get is a ton of riddles and a whole lot of positive attitude self-help talk.
November 24, 2016
Ulasan lengkap: http://bibliough.blogspot.co.id/2016/...
Sejak Juni lho bacanya, dan baru kelar November. Super sekali! Menyelesaikan ini, melegakan.
Hal menyenangkan terjadi saat menemukan nama-nama burung yang disebutkan pada buku ini. Aku tentu tahu nama beberapa jenis burung seperti merpati, burung hantu, dan kasuari. Tapi mungkin aku tidak akan pernah tahu nama-nama burung dari dodo, tekukur, mynah, sampai burung emu atau kardinal. Mungkin aku pernah mendengarnya suatu waktu seperti burung dodo, namun tidak dengan yang lain. Bahkan masih ada beberapa daftar buku pada buku ini yang belum pernah kudengar dan tidak kusebutkan di sini. Akan membosankan jika disebutkan satu per satu.
Menariknya, burung yang jadi lakon utama adalah raven dan valraven. Raven adalah saudara jauh burung gagak namun tetap berbeda karena masih ada beberapa perbedaan anatomi dari kedua burung tersebut. Kamu bisa cari tahu di Google dengan kata kunci "perbedaan raven dan gagak". Berbeda dengan raven, valraven atau dalam mitologi disebut Valravn adalah makhluk yang berasal dari legenda rakyat Denmark berbentuk burung gagak supernatural yang memakan mayat di medan pertempuran. Diceritakan juga bahwa valraven mampu berubah wujud menjadi ksatria jika memakan jantung anak-anak. Penulis sangat pas memasukkan Valravn dalam petualangan Gabriel Finley sesuai dengan kisah mitologinya.
Sejak Juni lho bacanya, dan baru kelar November. Super sekali! Menyelesaikan ini, melegakan.
Hal menyenangkan terjadi saat menemukan nama-nama burung yang disebutkan pada buku ini. Aku tentu tahu nama beberapa jenis burung seperti merpati, burung hantu, dan kasuari. Tapi mungkin aku tidak akan pernah tahu nama-nama burung dari dodo, tekukur, mynah, sampai burung emu atau kardinal. Mungkin aku pernah mendengarnya suatu waktu seperti burung dodo, namun tidak dengan yang lain. Bahkan masih ada beberapa daftar buku pada buku ini yang belum pernah kudengar dan tidak kusebutkan di sini. Akan membosankan jika disebutkan satu per satu.
Menariknya, burung yang jadi lakon utama adalah raven dan valraven. Raven adalah saudara jauh burung gagak namun tetap berbeda karena masih ada beberapa perbedaan anatomi dari kedua burung tersebut. Kamu bisa cari tahu di Google dengan kata kunci "perbedaan raven dan gagak". Berbeda dengan raven, valraven atau dalam mitologi disebut Valravn adalah makhluk yang berasal dari legenda rakyat Denmark berbentuk burung gagak supernatural yang memakan mayat di medan pertempuran. Diceritakan juga bahwa valraven mampu berubah wujud menjadi ksatria jika memakan jantung anak-anak. Penulis sangat pas memasukkan Valravn dalam petualangan Gabriel Finley sesuai dengan kisah mitologinya.
July 25, 2014
George Hagen’s Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle (Random House Children’s Books, 2014) is a MUST HAVE for public libraries. Some reviewers compare it to the Harry Potter books, and It IS one of those rare books kids and teens will enjoy reading on their own and adults will enjoy reading to their younger children or for themselves – it’s that well written.
But this fantasy for young readers isn’t another story about magicians. It’s a quest, with an 11-year-old hero, Gabriel, the clever raven Palladin, and Gabriel’s friends Abby, Somes, and Pamela using their wits and risking their lives to rescue Gabriel’s father and perhaps the entire world from the power-mad villain, Corax. I’m buying it for our library because I know our young patrons and their parents will love the kids, the story, and the way Hagen weaves in themes about courage, hope, greed, generosity, and friendship in this delightful adventure.
But this fantasy for young readers isn’t another story about magicians. It’s a quest, with an 11-year-old hero, Gabriel, the clever raven Palladin, and Gabriel’s friends Abby, Somes, and Pamela using their wits and risking their lives to rescue Gabriel’s father and perhaps the entire world from the power-mad villain, Corax. I’m buying it for our library because I know our young patrons and their parents will love the kids, the story, and the way Hagen weaves in themes about courage, hope, greed, generosity, and friendship in this delightful adventure.
February 3, 2016
Closer to 3.5, because I couldn't really get into it until the last third.
This is the standard “boy finds out he’s special and heads off with friends on an adventure to save the world” story. It stands out from the hundreds of similar stories thanks to an ingenious twist of raven myths and copious amounts of riddles.
There’s a character for everyone to empathize with and it deals with some serious issues in ways that won’t get a kid down but teach them to look at things from different perspectives.
I had a problem with how it drags a bit at the beginning; there are a lot of explanations necessary to create the myth world of ravens and valravens, but it felt like there was a lot more setting up of the story than actual story. I’m not sure it can manage to hold the interest of the average child until it gets to the really good part. Which is a shame, because the last third is all about adventure and being sure of who you are.
This is the standard “boy finds out he’s special and heads off with friends on an adventure to save the world” story. It stands out from the hundreds of similar stories thanks to an ingenious twist of raven myths and copious amounts of riddles.
There’s a character for everyone to empathize with and it deals with some serious issues in ways that won’t get a kid down but teach them to look at things from different perspectives.
I had a problem with how it drags a bit at the beginning; there are a lot of explanations necessary to create the myth world of ravens and valravens, but it felt like there was a lot more setting up of the story than actual story. I’m not sure it can manage to hold the interest of the average child until it gets to the really good part. Which is a shame, because the last third is all about adventure and being sure of who you are.
March 30, 2015
Received from Netgalley for review.
Edit: We got this from the library on audio and finished it. Still not crazy about it.
I read over half of this torturous novel before my son took mercy on me and stopped making me read it. It took about 2 months to read that half. I avoided it whenever possible, and only read it when my son asked for it. I never wanted to keep reading myself when I was done reading to him, as I do with good books.
The synopsis said that this book would appeal to fans of Harry Potter. They lied! Do not believe it!
ages 10+, as it has some shockingly graphic details about a conscious being, a raven who is psychically connected to his master, turning on that master and eating his flesh. There were several parts I skipped over because of the graphic violence. Would not recommend for young children.
Edit: We got this from the library on audio and finished it. Still not crazy about it.
I read over half of this torturous novel before my son took mercy on me and stopped making me read it. It took about 2 months to read that half. I avoided it whenever possible, and only read it when my son asked for it. I never wanted to keep reading myself when I was done reading to him, as I do with good books.
The synopsis said that this book would appeal to fans of Harry Potter. They lied! Do not believe it!
ages 10+, as it has some shockingly graphic details about a conscious being, a raven who is psychically connected to his master, turning on that master and eating his flesh. There were several parts I skipped over because of the graphic violence. Would not recommend for young children.
March 9, 2015
This book had loads of elements that I love to find in middle grade fantasy: epic battles between good and evil, but still featuring nuanced characters that are neither completely good nor completely evil, talking animals, smart and heroic girls, an imperfect yet loveable hero, and humor. As the title implies there are lots of riddles--but not just puzzle and logic riddles, but funny ones, silly ones, and even some puns! Give this to fans of John Stevens' Emerald Atlas series, The Mysterious Benedict Society, or another of my favorites from this past year, The Last Wild by Piers Torday.
June 2, 2017
I enjoyed this middle grade 2018 Nutmeg nominee book. The characters were interesting, varied, with good back stories. The setting was wonderful - both of them! and I really enjoyed the ravens/birds stories more than I thought I would. It wove in a little Norse mythology for those interested in following a thread or picking up one of the many adventures involving Norse mythology. Well paced and it didn't leave me hanging although I know there's a sequel coming. The SLJ review that mentions Harry Potter might perhaps be a stretch for those serious fans of the Potter world but it was a good read. Loved the writing desk!
July 4, 2014
This is a fun book to read. Characters are imaginative - imagine a magical desk that likes to dance. Students who have the language skills to understand riddles and puns are going to especially enjoy reading this book. Teachers can help promote this book in their classrooms by first introducing riddles and puns. This will help the struggling readers as well as promote creative thinking. It will be interesting to see where Hagen takes us in the next book. Can't wait to find out.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
I received an ARC from NetGalley
August 5, 2014
Fantastic original, creative story! Gabriel loves riddles and learns that those riddles give him a special connection to ravens. After he saves a young raven named Paladin, Gabriel realizes that he and Paladin are destined to rescue Gabriel's missing father. A series of events lead them to Aviopolis where Gabriel, Paladin, and his friends must face several challenges.
Fun, fantasy story with a great mix of magic, adventure, and good vs. evil plot.
Fun, fantasy story with a great mix of magic, adventure, and good vs. evil plot.
July 9, 2014
I got this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
What I liked: This book starts like this: "Ravens love riddles." What a wonderful first line. I was immediately hooked. The premise is intriguing, the characters likable, complex, and relatable. The story is fast paced and I found myself reading until late at night when I should have been sleeping. I can't wait until the next book is out---hopefully there is one!!!
What I liked: This book starts like this: "Ravens love riddles." What a wonderful first line. I was immediately hooked. The premise is intriguing, the characters likable, complex, and relatable. The story is fast paced and I found myself reading until late at night when I should have been sleeping. I can't wait until the next book is out---hopefully there is one!!!
July 25, 2014
Wholly unique, unbearably suspenseful, and utterly captivating. Middle grade fantasy lovers will just eat this one up. Vivid worldbuilding, amusing wordplay, likable main character - give this one to your tween HP and Percy Jackson fans. Thankfully, no cliffhanger ending but the promise of a sequel. I hope the publisher is creating a book trailer for this one.
May 24, 2015
I like the part where Paladin said, " all i know is,good riddance!"
On a scale of -100000000000000000000000000000000 - 100000000000000000000000000000000 it's a 100000000000000000000000000000000!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
p.s. thank you sharon
On a scale of -100000000000000000000000000000000 - 100000000000000000000000000000000 it's a 100000000000000000000000000000000!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
p.s. thank you sharon
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