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Secrets of the Book
You don’t choose the book—the book chooses you.
Sixth grader Spencer Lemon has a degenerative eye disease—and he’s rapidly losing his eyesight. So he has no idea why he was chosen to guard Pandora’s Book. When Ed, the old guy at the nursing home, hands over the book, he doesn’t get a chance to explain any of the rules to Spencer. Spencer only knows that the book contains famous dead people—people who can be brought back to life. Spencer and his autistic best friend, Gregor, soon figure out how to get people out of the book, but not how to get them back in. Then Ed disappears, and a strange man shows up on Spencer’s doorstep—and he seems to know a lot about Spencer and about Pandora’s Book. Is he one of the bad guys? Or is here to help Spencer unravel the secrets of the book? But there are others interested in Pandora’s Book, others who might use its powers to take over the world. And it’s up to Spencer, along with Gregor and Ed’s mysterious (and cute) granddaughter Mel, to protect the book—and save the world.
Sixth grader Spencer Lemon has a degenerative eye disease—and he’s rapidly losing his eyesight. So he has no idea why he was chosen to guard Pandora’s Book. When Ed, the old guy at the nursing home, hands over the book, he doesn’t get a chance to explain any of the rules to Spencer. Spencer only knows that the book contains famous dead people—people who can be brought back to life. Spencer and his autistic best friend, Gregor, soon figure out how to get people out of the book, but not how to get them back in. Then Ed disappears, and a strange man shows up on Spencer’s doorstep—and he seems to know a lot about Spencer and about Pandora’s Book. Is he one of the bad guys? Or is here to help Spencer unravel the secrets of the book? But there are others interested in Pandora’s Book, others who might use its powers to take over the world. And it’s up to Spencer, along with Gregor and Ed’s mysterious (and cute) granddaughter Mel, to protect the book—and save the world.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2014
About the author
Erin Fry
20 books38 followersErin Fry's first middle grade novel, LOSING IT, was published in 2012 by Amazon Children's Publishing and has been well-received by librarians and teachers, in addition to being dubbed "an energizing and ultimately uplifting tale of the power to change" by Kirkus. Her second novel, SECRETS OF THE BOOK, hits shelves in 2014 while her first YA serial, THE BENEFACTOR, is set to release in September, 2013.
For over a decade, Fry has taught 6th grade language arts and history at a middle school in southern California. She also coaches cross country each fall, which gets her in shape to run an occasional half marathon or marathon. Since 2003, she has reviewed children's books for Publishers Weekly. This past year, she and a fellow curriculum developer co-founded Common Core Curriculum Specialists, through which they create CCSS-aligned Teachers’ Guides for authors and publishers. She lives in southern California with (and frequently runs alongside) her husband, three children, and their golden Retriever.
For over a decade, Fry has taught 6th grade language arts and history at a middle school in southern California. She also coaches cross country each fall, which gets her in shape to run an occasional half marathon or marathon. Since 2003, she has reviewed children's books for Publishers Weekly. This past year, she and a fellow curriculum developer co-founded Common Core Curriculum Specialists, through which they create CCSS-aligned Teachers’ Guides for authors and publishers. She lives in southern California with (and frequently runs alongside) her husband, three children, and their golden Retriever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 23, 2013
Nowadays, every time I read a book with a beginning, a middle and an end, I love it. There is a trend among authors to write only series or trilogies and the old fashion way of writing a complete story in one volume is fading quickly.
This book was written with a young adult audience in mind. It is very entertaining and the plot is simple and will get you hooked on the development of the story, cheering for our young group of 6th graders. Spencer and Gregor are best friends. Gregor has a level of autism and Spencer has a degenerative eye disease that will ultimately make him blind. Spencer's mom makes him go with her on all community service/charity she goes. One of those places is the Everlasting Home for Seniors, where Spencer meets Ed, a senior guy that has a very special book, called Pandora's Book. It is a magical book, that brings to life some famous dead people it has on its pages. Spencer meets Babe Ruth, Albert Einstein and Marilyn Monroe in one of his visits to Ed. Ed gives Spencer the book, as he thinks Spencer is the new guardian of the book. But Spencer cannot keep the secret from his best friend Gregor and soon they summoned Socrates, but the problem is that Spencer still do not know how to use the book, so he does not know how to send Socrates back to his book's page. And things start to get really out of control, when they found out that Ed disappeared before teaching how to use the book and his granddaughter Mel appears from nowhere trying to help them to find Ed. Other characters like Al Capone, Theodore Roosevelt, President Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr. make the story very alive and the action will not let you put the book down till you turn the last page.
I recommend this book to all young adults that appreciate action books and are willing to be entertained for some hours. It took me around 5 hours to read the whole book.
Amazon.com was kind enough to send me this book through their Vine Program for reviewing and I was not requested to provide a positive review. Opinions expressed here are my own.
This book was written with a young adult audience in mind. It is very entertaining and the plot is simple and will get you hooked on the development of the story, cheering for our young group of 6th graders. Spencer and Gregor are best friends. Gregor has a level of autism and Spencer has a degenerative eye disease that will ultimately make him blind. Spencer's mom makes him go with her on all community service/charity she goes. One of those places is the Everlasting Home for Seniors, where Spencer meets Ed, a senior guy that has a very special book, called Pandora's Book. It is a magical book, that brings to life some famous dead people it has on its pages. Spencer meets Babe Ruth, Albert Einstein and Marilyn Monroe in one of his visits to Ed. Ed gives Spencer the book, as he thinks Spencer is the new guardian of the book. But Spencer cannot keep the secret from his best friend Gregor and soon they summoned Socrates, but the problem is that Spencer still do not know how to use the book, so he does not know how to send Socrates back to his book's page. And things start to get really out of control, when they found out that Ed disappeared before teaching how to use the book and his granddaughter Mel appears from nowhere trying to help them to find Ed. Other characters like Al Capone, Theodore Roosevelt, President Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr. make the story very alive and the action will not let you put the book down till you turn the last page.
I recommend this book to all young adults that appreciate action books and are willing to be entertained for some hours. It took me around 5 hours to read the whole book.
Amazon.com was kind enough to send me this book through their Vine Program for reviewing and I was not requested to provide a positive review. Opinions expressed here are my own.
June 21, 2014
It was okay-ish.
Reasons why I did not like it:
1. I could see the intent too clearly. A visually impaired hero, an autistic side kick, a 'greats-of-history' theme. All too conspicuous. Integrate your themes, writers, please.
2. The voice. I call this voice the contemporary pop American voice. It's irreverent, snarky without being witty, flippant, entitled, self conscious and dumbed down. It is also highly annoying and I hate it whenever I encounter it.
3. The prayers. I don't want nor need god in my fantasy. And that's not just because I'm an atheist. It's just out of place and heavily authorial again.
4. There was no real hero's journey here. This was a serious lightweight. I've read some children's books that are so profound they've stayed me for long periods after. Even those that didn't resonate as deeply still offered up some insight. From this I garnered nothing of the sort.
5. How is a Stonewall Jackson a hero? A general from the Confederate army is a hero? Seriously?!
6. The heavy handed handling of a boy and his first crush.
7. I just don't think Fry is a good writer. This book lacked nuance, subtlety, delicacy and craft.
I think my next foray into children's fantasy shall come courtesy of a British author, thank you very much.
The narration was fine, though.
Reasons why I did not like it:
1. I could see the intent too clearly. A visually impaired hero, an autistic side kick, a 'greats-of-history' theme. All too conspicuous. Integrate your themes, writers, please.
2. The voice. I call this voice the contemporary pop American voice. It's irreverent, snarky without being witty, flippant, entitled, self conscious and dumbed down. It is also highly annoying and I hate it whenever I encounter it.
3. The prayers. I don't want nor need god in my fantasy. And that's not just because I'm an atheist. It's just out of place and heavily authorial again.
4. There was no real hero's journey here. This was a serious lightweight. I've read some children's books that are so profound they've stayed me for long periods after. Even those that didn't resonate as deeply still offered up some insight. From this I garnered nothing of the sort.
5. How is a Stonewall Jackson a hero? A general from the Confederate army is a hero? Seriously?!
6. The heavy handed handling of a boy and his first crush.
7. I just don't think Fry is a good writer. This book lacked nuance, subtlety, delicacy and craft.
I think my next foray into children's fantasy shall come courtesy of a British author, thank you very much.
The narration was fine, though.
August 5, 2016
This Book Is A Keeper.
The plot is action packed, but straightforward. Spencer is given "Pandora's Book" by Ed, a resident in a nursing home who Spencer visits on occasion. Spencer and his best friend, Gregor, discover that the historical figures in the book can be called out of the book in the real world. Spencer and Gregor cannot, however, figure out how to get the famous characters back into the book, and Ed has disappeared without leaving any instructions. Bad guys, or are they good guys, or a couple of each, start chasing Spencer and Gregor, who are aided by Ed's resourceful grand daughter. All kinds of mayhem follow, before it's all sorted out.
So far, so good. The premise is a little shop worn, but it's all kept afloat by the high energy and cheerful loopiness of the plot, and by the author's wise choice to fill Pandora's book with a broad range of historical figures rather than familiar literary characters. Interesting snapshots of the personalities of the various famous figures are engaging and a number of cameo appearances are very sly and amusing.
But, as I say, apart from the fact that a clever premise is put through it's paces in an accomplished and entertaining way, what else is going on here? Well, I suggest that the author's singular achievement, and the aspect that really moves this book up to a higher level, is the author's choice of heroes. Spencer has a degenerative eye disease that is destroying his eyesight and Gregor is autistic. Their story is presented in a remarkably sensitive, authentic and heartening fashion. The book is near brilliant in its unsentimental and realistic depiction of a functioning autistic hero protagonist. Spencer understands his friend Gregor and displays great patience, understanding and compassion in helping his friend cope. Moreover, he describes Gregor and his autism in a voice that doesn't sound like an after-school special, but rather like the voice and understanding of a sixth grader. This adds an authenticity, a charm, and an appeal that is almost unheard of in what is essentially a middle-grade fantasy/action book.
So, a well handled tale, a nice sense of humor and energy, and appealing characters - a nice find for your middle grade reader.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
The plot is action packed, but straightforward. Spencer is given "Pandora's Book" by Ed, a resident in a nursing home who Spencer visits on occasion. Spencer and his best friend, Gregor, discover that the historical figures in the book can be called out of the book in the real world. Spencer and Gregor cannot, however, figure out how to get the famous characters back into the book, and Ed has disappeared without leaving any instructions. Bad guys, or are they good guys, or a couple of each, start chasing Spencer and Gregor, who are aided by Ed's resourceful grand daughter. All kinds of mayhem follow, before it's all sorted out.
So far, so good. The premise is a little shop worn, but it's all kept afloat by the high energy and cheerful loopiness of the plot, and by the author's wise choice to fill Pandora's book with a broad range of historical figures rather than familiar literary characters. Interesting snapshots of the personalities of the various famous figures are engaging and a number of cameo appearances are very sly and amusing.
But, as I say, apart from the fact that a clever premise is put through it's paces in an accomplished and entertaining way, what else is going on here? Well, I suggest that the author's singular achievement, and the aspect that really moves this book up to a higher level, is the author's choice of heroes. Spencer has a degenerative eye disease that is destroying his eyesight and Gregor is autistic. Their story is presented in a remarkably sensitive, authentic and heartening fashion. The book is near brilliant in its unsentimental and realistic depiction of a functioning autistic hero protagonist. Spencer understands his friend Gregor and displays great patience, understanding and compassion in helping his friend cope. Moreover, he describes Gregor and his autism in a voice that doesn't sound like an after-school special, but rather like the voice and understanding of a sixth grader. This adds an authenticity, a charm, and an appeal that is almost unheard of in what is essentially a middle-grade fantasy/action book.
So, a well handled tale, a nice sense of humor and energy, and appealing characters - a nice find for your middle grade reader.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
February 17, 2014
Imagine having a book full of images of famous people and with some bizarre sliding of your fingers you can bring them to life. Gandhi, Lincoln, Newton…boom, they appear before you, you can have a conversation with the person, and then put them back in the book. In this novel, there’s such a thing. It’s called Pandora’s Book.
Spencer meets an elderly man named Ed at a nursing home. He’s the keeper of the book and hands it over to him. Ed disappears and Spencer has no idea how to fully use the book. Also, Socrates is out and about and he doesn’t know how to get the famous philosopher back inside the book. There are also strange people following him and his friend, Gregor, as well as Ed’s granddaughter, Mel. One of the guys following them is a wicked person who popped out of another book. They need to defeat him, put the famous people back where they belong in between pages, and prevent historical figures, particularly the evil ones, from ever joining the modern world again.
I was hooked by the first chapter because the idea of Pandora’s Book was so interesting. The whole concept is highly imaginative and will appeal to many children. This book is a wonderful mix of both fantasy and history. I’m glad I read an ARC of this through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
Spencer meets an elderly man named Ed at a nursing home. He’s the keeper of the book and hands it over to him. Ed disappears and Spencer has no idea how to fully use the book. Also, Socrates is out and about and he doesn’t know how to get the famous philosopher back inside the book. There are also strange people following him and his friend, Gregor, as well as Ed’s granddaughter, Mel. One of the guys following them is a wicked person who popped out of another book. They need to defeat him, put the famous people back where they belong in between pages, and prevent historical figures, particularly the evil ones, from ever joining the modern world again.
I was hooked by the first chapter because the idea of Pandora’s Book was so interesting. The whole concept is highly imaginative and will appeal to many children. This book is a wonderful mix of both fantasy and history. I’m glad I read an ARC of this through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
February 10, 2014
I won a copy and got it today.... I put in the entry so I can give it as a gift to my friends sons in hope to give them something to read. The cover is beautiful and it starts off well. I think they would enjoy this book very well since it seems like it falls into the Hardy Boys and Encyclopedia Brown. It is a good quick read. This is really a good book for Middle Class boys. The author did a good job
July 2, 2016
Both my 10 year old grandson and I read this book. My grandson loved it and read it in two days. I was hooked by the first chapter because the idea of Pandora’s Book was so interesting. The whole concept is highly imaginative and will appeal to many children. This book is a wonderful mix of both fantasy and history.
November 3, 2016
Looking at the cover, I understand why this was a fail. You think it will be a cool adventure book, but as you begin to read it quickly becomes clear that the author is trying to jam too much in. Easy to read with great descriptions. However, this is where I rapidly began to dislike this book. None of the characters described look the way they do on the cover. For example: Gregor (boy shown on far right of cover) is described as mixed dark skinned Indian boy with dark hair, and light blue eyes. A big kid that is muscular and tall. That turned me off to book, since it was the cover that drew me in.
Spencer, the main character is entrusted with a book that can literally lift people out of them and into real life. The first thing he does is tell his best friend. Ok. But then the author made the friend autistic. Excellent realistic description of Gregor being normal, yet slightly unable to interact with world. But the placing of this character felt so forced and unnatural. The book had great potential but it didn't "pull all the strings together" as I like to call it. Instead there in a massive info dump at end as villain breaks down the happenings from day one. I liked the ideas, however the author tries to combine wayyy too many themes and genres.
Also I think its massively interesting that many of the people here who gave happy reviews, received a book for free. Suspicious much? Hm...maybe I'm just reading into things that aren't there......
Spencer, the main character is entrusted with a book that can literally lift people out of them and into real life. The first thing he does is tell his best friend. Ok. But then the author made the friend autistic. Excellent realistic description of Gregor being normal, yet slightly unable to interact with world. But the placing of this character felt so forced and unnatural. The book had great potential but it didn't "pull all the strings together" as I like to call it. Instead there in a massive info dump at end as villain breaks down the happenings from day one. I liked the ideas, however the author tries to combine wayyy too many themes and genres.
Also I think its massively interesting that many of the people here who gave happy reviews, received a book for free. Suspicious much? Hm...maybe I'm just reading into things that aren't there......
February 15, 2014
Loved this book it was a great read I hope the author Writes more in this series it was also a free book from goodreads first reads
September 13, 2014
Secrets of the Book by Erin Fry is a middle grade novel with a great premise. Sixth grader Spencer Lemon's mom is big on volunteering, which means Spencer does plenty as well. While volunteering at a nursing home he makes friends with Ed, who in turn hands over a very special book without the chance to explain all the necessary details. The book contains famous dead people who can be brought back to life. Unfortunately Ed goes missing and some less than trustworthy characters seem to be popping up with extreme interest in the book. And it’s up to Spencer, along with Gregor and Ed’s mysterious (and cute) granddaughter Mel, to protect the book and save the world.
Love the idea behind Secrets of the Book. The characters are interesting and well fleshed out. I really loved the inclusion of Gregor as a very capable young man, and an asset to the group.The friendship between Gregor and Spencer is well done and feels real. Spencer's eye condition gives him a challenge to overcome, but despite being mentioned regularly did not seem to have much other impact on the story besides in the building of his character. The mystery behind the book and the wondering about which historical figure would pop up next was intriguing as well. However, I will admit that my interest in the book started to wan about half way through. It is not that there was not any action, there were chases and intrigue a plenty. But for some reason my interest started to waver. I put the book down, picked it up again, and so on. I am not sure exactly what was not working for me either. The mystery was there, good characters were there, and I was curious to know what happened next- but several times I was just not curious enough to read instead of cook dinner or pick up my latest crochet project. This means that I got behind on my reading schedule and frustrated with myself, and less interested in the book.
Secrets of the Book did not grab me like I hoped it would. I think some middle grade readers will love it, and think it might inspire some to expand their circle of friends, since friendship is a major component of the book. I think it might also encourage some readers to do some research about the historical figures mentioned or taking part in the book.
Love the idea behind Secrets of the Book. The characters are interesting and well fleshed out. I really loved the inclusion of Gregor as a very capable young man, and an asset to the group.The friendship between Gregor and Spencer is well done and feels real. Spencer's eye condition gives him a challenge to overcome, but despite being mentioned regularly did not seem to have much other impact on the story besides in the building of his character. The mystery behind the book and the wondering about which historical figure would pop up next was intriguing as well. However, I will admit that my interest in the book started to wan about half way through. It is not that there was not any action, there were chases and intrigue a plenty. But for some reason my interest started to waver. I put the book down, picked it up again, and so on. I am not sure exactly what was not working for me either. The mystery was there, good characters were there, and I was curious to know what happened next- but several times I was just not curious enough to read instead of cook dinner or pick up my latest crochet project. This means that I got behind on my reading schedule and frustrated with myself, and less interested in the book.
Secrets of the Book did not grab me like I hoped it would. I think some middle grade readers will love it, and think it might inspire some to expand their circle of friends, since friendship is a major component of the book. I think it might also encourage some readers to do some research about the historical figures mentioned or taking part in the book.
August 12, 2016
Summary:
Spencer has been forced to volunteer at a retirement center. He reluctantly goes along with it, but doesn't like it until Ed hands over this strange book, Pandora's Book, and asks Spencer to become the guard of that book. Spencer and his friend Gregor find out that Pandora's Book full of pictures of positive famous dead people allows the guard to bring people back to life. After they figure out that they can bring people back, Spencer needs more information from Ed, specifically, how to put them back in. Unfortunately, Ed has disappeared. When people start showing up, Spencer and Gregor have to figure out who they should trust and how to keep the book safe.
My thoughts:
I enjoyed this adventure. My favorite is that the heroes within this novel are both children with special needs. Spencer is going blind, which makes him wonder why he's guardian of a book that he may not be able to read soon. Gregor has autism, so he also has some issues as they go through the book. Even with these disabilities, the two are brave and take risks and learn to trust/rely on one another. I really appreciated the depth the friendship was examined and the two characters were developed. On top of that, the mystery is enjoyable and the action keeps the story moving.
Spencer has been forced to volunteer at a retirement center. He reluctantly goes along with it, but doesn't like it until Ed hands over this strange book, Pandora's Book, and asks Spencer to become the guard of that book. Spencer and his friend Gregor find out that Pandora's Book full of pictures of positive famous dead people allows the guard to bring people back to life. After they figure out that they can bring people back, Spencer needs more information from Ed, specifically, how to put them back in. Unfortunately, Ed has disappeared. When people start showing up, Spencer and Gregor have to figure out who they should trust and how to keep the book safe.
My thoughts:
I enjoyed this adventure. My favorite is that the heroes within this novel are both children with special needs. Spencer is going blind, which makes him wonder why he's guardian of a book that he may not be able to read soon. Gregor has autism, so he also has some issues as they go through the book. Even with these disabilities, the two are brave and take risks and learn to trust/rely on one another. I really appreciated the depth the friendship was examined and the two characters were developed. On top of that, the mystery is enjoyable and the action keeps the story moving.
February 17, 2021
Where to begin? The two unlikely heroes of the story; Gregor is autistic and Spencer has degenerative eye disorder. Spencer is deemed the keeper of Pandora's Book from Ed, a man at the local nursing home, and shown how to get historical characters OUT of the book. Unfortunately, Ed is kidnapped before Spencer learns how to get the characters back inside the book. Spencer then learns there is also Pandora's Other Book, which houses infamous characters. Socrates, Al Capone, Teddy Roosevelt, JFK, MLK, and Stonewall Jackson are summoned by Spencer to help him defeat "Evil German Guy (no, not Hitler, even though he is mentioned.) I'm not sure the action is faced paced enough for middle school readers, not action-y enough. However, I can see upper elementary readers enjoying this book. The only issue I had with this storyline is the character of Mel, seems be be thrown in as an afterthought to entice readers with a little first crush romance. To me, there are some loose ends with Mel, even though the author tried wrapping them up at the end. Hopefully, that's setting us up for a sequel?
February 17, 2014
This is a fun little book about a 12 year old boy with macular degeneration, his autistic best friend, an old man in a nursing home and Pandora's Book, which contains lots of dead people whom certain, special people can release from its pages. Add in the old man's grand-daughter, a dog, Pandora's Other Book and a couple of characters who get out of the book before the kid really learns how to get them back and you have a rather wonderful adventure.
February 7, 2014
I liked a lot of the contents of the book, but I felt a little meh about the execution.
May 2, 2014
Great
it's a good thrilling book
the main characters are also very interesting as well.
hey should make a movie of this
.
it's a good thrilling book
the main characters are also very interesting as well.
hey should make a movie of this
.
January 27, 2022
RATING:
4 STARS
Erin Fry delivered a magical and entertaining middle-grade fantasy read with Secrets of the Book. It’s reminiscent of a kid-friendly version of Night at the Museum, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, or Jumanji, where a group of children must contend with a book that can bring dead historical figures back to life and keep said book out of evil hands.
Spencer Lemon (it’s pronounced LEH-mon, not like the citrus) has a degenerative eye disease that will take his sight later in life. His mom has him volunteering at a nursing home, where he encounters Ed. Ed later presents him with “Pandora’s Book”, a magical treasure that has the power to bring figures from history to life. Ed disappears before he can teach Spencer how to use the book the next day, and Spencer and his best friend Gregor must struggle to figure out how to put the historical figures back in the book before things go even more wrong.
I couldn’t stop laughing at Spencer’s narration. He regularly breaks the fourth wall and addresses the audience, and his remarks are hilarious. If you have a chance to listen to the audiobook, I highly recommend it. Narrator Todd Haberkorn did a fantastic job - his performance was very light-hearted and fun, and I couldn’t keep the smile off my face while I was reading.
Both main characters have disabilities - Spencer’s eye condition will eventually leave him blind, and his best friend Gregor is autistic. Some books may have relegated these characters to the sidelines (or to positions as lovable but very underqualified sidekicks), but Ms. Fry places them front and center and I loved that. I also enjoyed that they helped each other overcome the various challenges that come with their conditions. For example, there are a couple of times where Spencer gets frustrated with one of Gregor’s episodes. Despite this frustration, he never sees Gregor as a nuisance or problem like many would. I wish more people took after this example in their interactions with the disabled community. Even without their disabilities, Spencer and Gregor are characters you can’t help but root for. I wanted them to figure things out, and cheered when they did.
Fans of middle-grade fantasy with historical twists should enjoy Secrets of the Book. If you or a young reader in your life enjoyed movies like Night at the Museum, Jumanji, or Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, then you have to check out this novel as soon as you have a chance.
Erin Fry delivered a magical and entertaining middle-grade fantasy read with Secrets of the Book. It’s reminiscent of a kid-friendly version of Night at the Museum, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, or Jumanji, where a group of children must contend with a book that can bring dead historical figures back to life and keep said book out of evil hands.
Spencer Lemon (it’s pronounced LEH-mon, not like the citrus) has a degenerative eye disease that will take his sight later in life. His mom has him volunteering at a nursing home, where he encounters Ed. Ed later presents him with “Pandora’s Book”, a magical treasure that has the power to bring figures from history to life. Ed disappears before he can teach Spencer how to use the book the next day, and Spencer and his best friend Gregor must struggle to figure out how to put the historical figures back in the book before things go even more wrong.
I couldn’t stop laughing at Spencer’s narration. He regularly breaks the fourth wall and addresses the audience, and his remarks are hilarious. If you have a chance to listen to the audiobook, I highly recommend it. Narrator Todd Haberkorn did a fantastic job - his performance was very light-hearted and fun, and I couldn’t keep the smile off my face while I was reading.
Both main characters have disabilities - Spencer’s eye condition will eventually leave him blind, and his best friend Gregor is autistic. Some books may have relegated these characters to the sidelines (or to positions as lovable but very underqualified sidekicks), but Ms. Fry places them front and center and I loved that. I also enjoyed that they helped each other overcome the various challenges that come with their conditions. For example, there are a couple of times where Spencer gets frustrated with one of Gregor’s episodes. Despite this frustration, he never sees Gregor as a nuisance or problem like many would. I wish more people took after this example in their interactions with the disabled community. Even without their disabilities, Spencer and Gregor are characters you can’t help but root for. I wanted them to figure things out, and cheered when they did.
Fans of middle-grade fantasy with historical twists should enjoy Secrets of the Book. If you or a young reader in your life enjoyed movies like Night at the Museum, Jumanji, or Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, then you have to check out this novel as soon as you have a chance.
September 15, 2022
This book was so much fun! The narrative voice is absolutely engaging, and I loved the added aspects that come from Spencer progressively losing his eyesight and Gregor having ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
Spencer Lemon (pronounced Leh-mohn, like it's French, and NOT the bitter citrus fruit!) knows that he will be blind one day, and there's nothing he can do about it. But instead of being depressed and mad about it, he works to make his life as it is as full as he can. Because his mother is trying to teach Spencer about giving back, he spends an hour every Tuesday and Thursday at a nearby nursing home visiting with Ed. On one visit, as soon as Spencer enters Ed's room, Ed tells him to close the door and the blinds and then proceeds to introduce Spencer to Babe Ruth, Marilyn Monroe, and Albert Einstein.
After showing Spencer Pandora's Book, which has pages full of all sorts of notable figures from history, Ed gives him to book to take home and familiarize himself with. Ed has every intention of showing Spencer how the book works the next time he visits, and tells Spencer to simply look through the book and learn who's inside of it.
It's when Spencer gets home that things begin to go sideways. Now Spencer needs help, Ed is missing, and a strange and creepy man seems to be much too interested in the book.
With the help of his best friend, Gregor, and a new acquaintance, Mel, Spencer sets out to try and find Ed and protect Pandora's Book.
The main characters of this book are really well-developed, and the author, via Spencer, is a born storyteller. Written in first-person perspective, it really was like listening to someone tell me their crazy adventures. This was even more true since I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Todd Haberkorn. The voices he used for the different characters were great, and I truly enjoyed listening to him tell the story. The emphasis and feeling, tension and release that he injected into the narration were perfect, and he is one of the few narrators that I didn't have to speed up to reach a normal speaking speed. If you have a chance to listen to the audiobook, take it. It's absolutely great!
Between the fabulous writing and wonderful narration, this is absolutely a book that I will be listening to multiple times. Not only is it a great story with amazing characters - current and historical - but it also has main characters who have disabilities, and I love seeing that positive representation. I will absolutely be following Fry and reading more of her books going forward.
Spencer Lemon (pronounced Leh-mohn, like it's French, and NOT the bitter citrus fruit!) knows that he will be blind one day, and there's nothing he can do about it. But instead of being depressed and mad about it, he works to make his life as it is as full as he can. Because his mother is trying to teach Spencer about giving back, he spends an hour every Tuesday and Thursday at a nearby nursing home visiting with Ed. On one visit, as soon as Spencer enters Ed's room, Ed tells him to close the door and the blinds and then proceeds to introduce Spencer to Babe Ruth, Marilyn Monroe, and Albert Einstein.
After showing Spencer Pandora's Book, which has pages full of all sorts of notable figures from history, Ed gives him to book to take home and familiarize himself with. Ed has every intention of showing Spencer how the book works the next time he visits, and tells Spencer to simply look through the book and learn who's inside of it.
It's when Spencer gets home that things begin to go sideways. Now Spencer needs help, Ed is missing, and a strange and creepy man seems to be much too interested in the book.
With the help of his best friend, Gregor, and a new acquaintance, Mel, Spencer sets out to try and find Ed and protect Pandora's Book.
The main characters of this book are really well-developed, and the author, via Spencer, is a born storyteller. Written in first-person perspective, it really was like listening to someone tell me their crazy adventures. This was even more true since I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Todd Haberkorn. The voices he used for the different characters were great, and I truly enjoyed listening to him tell the story. The emphasis and feeling, tension and release that he injected into the narration were perfect, and he is one of the few narrators that I didn't have to speed up to reach a normal speaking speed. If you have a chance to listen to the audiobook, take it. It's absolutely great!
Between the fabulous writing and wonderful narration, this is absolutely a book that I will be listening to multiple times. Not only is it a great story with amazing characters - current and historical - but it also has main characters who have disabilities, and I love seeing that positive representation. I will absolutely be following Fry and reading more of her books going forward.
September 26, 2020
Pop applauds author Erin Fry for including lead characters with disabilities in her extraordinary middle grade novel, Secrets of the Book. Spencer Lemon, a pre-teen with a degenerative eye disease and his buddy Gregor, stricken with autism, manage with great effort to overcome their impairments to defeat the bad guy and save the world.
Sixth grader Spencer is the novel’s narrator who admits right away, “I can’t see jack,” but he’s not yet blind. One day a week he meets Ed, an aged man living in a retirement home. The young boy soon learns from Ed about a magical book, “Pandora’s Book” that provides brief biographies of people who have contributed positively to humanity. With a wave of a white cardboard paper and a few taps, Ed brings to life Babe Ruth and Marilyn Monroe.
Ed lets Spencer take the book home to read, but warns, “Don’t try to use it until I teach you.” At home, while doing their homework, Spencer shows the book to best friend, Gregor, an autistic student he befriended from school. Gregor has an acute mind for history and dates. He’s also a kick-ass runner on Spencer’s track team. When Spencer mentions meeting Babe Ruth and getting batting tips from the great Bambino, Gregor is skeptical until Spencer manages to bring to life one of Gregor’s heroes, Socrates. But how do you put the guy back?
Erin Fry does a masterful job showing how two school outcasts have joined forces in helping each other overcome their challenges in the face of adversity. The boys encounter an evil plot to steal “Pandora’s Book” and its negative companion, “Pandora’s Other Book”, which contains the brief biographies of history’s villians—Ghengas Khan, Adolph Hitler, Al Capone, and others. Somehow this book lands in the hands of Heinrich, who Mel, Ed’s granddaughter, calls the Evil German Guy. He’s evil because he kidnaps Ed and Gregor’s dog to get his hands on Spencer’s book so he can rule the world.
Secrets of the Book contains a fast-paced plot and realistic characters who face real-world problems. Fry reaches middle school readers with an action packed story that shows the problems near blind and autistic kids endure while teaching a bit of history along the way. Highly recommended.
Sixth grader Spencer is the novel’s narrator who admits right away, “I can’t see jack,” but he’s not yet blind. One day a week he meets Ed, an aged man living in a retirement home. The young boy soon learns from Ed about a magical book, “Pandora’s Book” that provides brief biographies of people who have contributed positively to humanity. With a wave of a white cardboard paper and a few taps, Ed brings to life Babe Ruth and Marilyn Monroe.
Ed lets Spencer take the book home to read, but warns, “Don’t try to use it until I teach you.” At home, while doing their homework, Spencer shows the book to best friend, Gregor, an autistic student he befriended from school. Gregor has an acute mind for history and dates. He’s also a kick-ass runner on Spencer’s track team. When Spencer mentions meeting Babe Ruth and getting batting tips from the great Bambino, Gregor is skeptical until Spencer manages to bring to life one of Gregor’s heroes, Socrates. But how do you put the guy back?
Erin Fry does a masterful job showing how two school outcasts have joined forces in helping each other overcome their challenges in the face of adversity. The boys encounter an evil plot to steal “Pandora’s Book” and its negative companion, “Pandora’s Other Book”, which contains the brief biographies of history’s villians—Ghengas Khan, Adolph Hitler, Al Capone, and others. Somehow this book lands in the hands of Heinrich, who Mel, Ed’s granddaughter, calls the Evil German Guy. He’s evil because he kidnaps Ed and Gregor’s dog to get his hands on Spencer’s book so he can rule the world.
Secrets of the Book contains a fast-paced plot and realistic characters who face real-world problems. Fry reaches middle school readers with an action packed story that shows the problems near blind and autistic kids endure while teaching a bit of history along the way. Highly recommended.
April 14, 2022
I think a child would rate this book higher. I would have no problem listening to this audiobook again with children in the car.
The story: Spencer Lemon has been chosen to be the guardian of Pandora's Book, a book that can call up admirable people from the past. Spencer and his friend, Gregor, accidently call up Socrates who escapes into the present-day world. Now villains want to get the book from Spencer and they will do anything to do so. like kidnapping their new found friend, Mel, or stealing Gregor's dog for ransom. Somehow, Spencer must find Mel, get back Gregor's dog and thwart the people who are trying to get Pandora's Book. Spencer must also learn how to put these famous people back into the book.
Any problems with this story? Well, it is a kid's book. I was a little worried when Mel seemed to be kidnapped from the school playground. Children in danger is a sore point with me. This wasn't too bad.
Also the plot seemed to depend on a really dumb premise, that Ed (the previous guardian of the book) would give the book to Spencer, but would not tell him how to use it safely until the next week. That was how the accident happened, and they could not fix it immediately. They didn't have any instructions on how to put a famous person back into the book once he or she was released.
Note that certain issues are introduced as a teaching moment. Spencer has a degenerative eye disease, but at this time it only affects his night vision. His friend, Gregor, is autistic and seems to react unexpectedly under certain situations. This works in his favor during part of the story. Otherwise, it is simply a complication in the story. Introducing these elements helps to familiarize children to people with handicaps. That seems like a reasonable thing to do. Just know that it is there.
The book also seems to be a vehicle for introducing good and bad characters of the past. This was a history teaching moment, but such moments did not convey much useful information. Thus, it might help a child with name recognition of historical people, but not much else.
Overall it was an enjoyable experience if a bit silly at times. As I said in the beginning, I wouldn't mind listening to it again if I wanted to entertain children on a long drive.
The story: Spencer Lemon has been chosen to be the guardian of Pandora's Book, a book that can call up admirable people from the past. Spencer and his friend, Gregor, accidently call up Socrates who escapes into the present-day world. Now villains want to get the book from Spencer and they will do anything to do so. like kidnapping their new found friend, Mel, or stealing Gregor's dog for ransom. Somehow, Spencer must find Mel, get back Gregor's dog and thwart the people who are trying to get Pandora's Book. Spencer must also learn how to put these famous people back into the book.
Any problems with this story? Well, it is a kid's book. I was a little worried when Mel seemed to be kidnapped from the school playground. Children in danger is a sore point with me. This wasn't too bad.
Also the plot seemed to depend on a really dumb premise, that Ed (the previous guardian of the book) would give the book to Spencer, but would not tell him how to use it safely until the next week. That was how the accident happened, and they could not fix it immediately. They didn't have any instructions on how to put a famous person back into the book once he or she was released.
Note that certain issues are introduced as a teaching moment. Spencer has a degenerative eye disease, but at this time it only affects his night vision. His friend, Gregor, is autistic and seems to react unexpectedly under certain situations. This works in his favor during part of the story. Otherwise, it is simply a complication in the story. Introducing these elements helps to familiarize children to people with handicaps. That seems like a reasonable thing to do. Just know that it is there.
The book also seems to be a vehicle for introducing good and bad characters of the past. This was a history teaching moment, but such moments did not convey much useful information. Thus, it might help a child with name recognition of historical people, but not much else.
Overall it was an enjoyable experience if a bit silly at times. As I said in the beginning, I wouldn't mind listening to it again if I wanted to entertain children on a long drive.
December 24, 2017
I loved this book! This story has so much fun, excitement, adventure, AND history. I know we should never judge a book by its cover, but I have to say; Secrets of the Book’s cover makes it appear to be a children’s book. It is, but it’s so much more. Readers of all ages will enjoy this book. History buffs will love this book. Teachers will love this book. Mothers will love this book and appreciate the fact that they can listen to it with the kids in the car. I highly recommend it for your next road trip with the kids. The only negative to that was; my 11-year-old demanded I NOT listen to it unless she was in the car too. She didn’t want to miss a thing!
My only question is; will there be a second book? It reads perfectly as a stand-alone and doesn’t end in a cliffhanger at all, but I just felt there was more to learn. I felt there’s more of this story to tell. More “details” to the story, and more of a backstory for a few characters. I want more.
Overall, I love the characters, especially the two exceptional children. I appreciate a story that includes special needs children just as they are; just kids. I loved the story, and how it was told. The writing is wonderful. A strong 4.5 Boundless Stars. The narrator did a great job too.
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My only question is; will there be a second book? It reads perfectly as a stand-alone and doesn’t end in a cliffhanger at all, but I just felt there was more to learn. I felt there’s more of this story to tell. More “details” to the story, and more of a backstory for a few characters. I want more.
Overall, I love the characters, especially the two exceptional children. I appreciate a story that includes special needs children just as they are; just kids. I loved the story, and how it was told. The writing is wonderful. A strong 4.5 Boundless Stars. The narrator did a great job too.
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November 4, 2018
If you are looking for a fun middle-grade novel filled with adventure, danger, and sly humor, you should take a look at Secrets of the Book by Erin Fry. I thought the author’s choice of lead characters was interesting. Typically, you give the hero a flaw, like Superman and his sensitivity to Krypton. Which I never really understood because isn’t that where he’s from? Never mind. In this story, Spencer Lemon (pronounced leh-MOHN) suffers from retinitis pigmentosa, which means he is slowly going blind. His best friend Gregor is on the spectrum and, as a result, occasionally has episodes when things disrupt his routine and become overwhelming, which essentially defines the entire book, so you can imagine. In lesser hands, these guys would have been relegated to the role of sidekick. But not today.
Now, add a cute, smart girl named Mel and a sketchy old man who goes by “Ed,” and you have the makings for some real excitement. Oh, I almost forgot—there’s this book, and you really shouldn’t mess with it unless you know what you’re doing, which of course, no one does. I mean, the thing has the name Pandora in it. Kind of says it all, don’t you think?
I had a great time reading Secrets of the Book. Fans of KidLit and history should check it out. I’m confident it will have you hooked after the first couple of pages.
Now, add a cute, smart girl named Mel and a sketchy old man who goes by “Ed,” and you have the makings for some real excitement. Oh, I almost forgot—there’s this book, and you really shouldn’t mess with it unless you know what you’re doing, which of course, no one does. I mean, the thing has the name Pandora in it. Kind of says it all, don’t you think?
I had a great time reading Secrets of the Book. Fans of KidLit and history should check it out. I’m confident it will have you hooked after the first couple of pages.
February 25, 2018
Rating 4.5. I loved Spencer, Ed, Gregor, and Mel and the whole world that Erin Fry created for them -- much of it a real world and much of it a wonderful "what if" world. Each of the characters has challenges, each different, but each difficult to overcome or deal with nonetheless. Spencer is slowly going blind, Ed is aging rapidly, Gregor is autistic, and Mel is financially pampered by uncaring, distant parents. Ed is her great-grandfather and only he really cares for her, but they don't see each other because he's forbidden her to visit him in the senior's facility he's in. Spencer, whose mother is a 60s child saving the world one issue at a time, insists that Spencer volunteer at the center twice a week. Ed is Spencer's project.
All of the above, alone, would be fodder for a good book, but Fry introduces a twist in the form of two magical books -- both amazing, but with opposite effects. The books create the rollercoaster ride in this story. Fry has excellent control of her plot and characters, and everything has an authentic feel from the action to the interaction between all the characters. This book made me laugh out loud many times. Recommended.
All of the above, alone, would be fodder for a good book, but Fry introduces a twist in the form of two magical books -- both amazing, but with opposite effects. The books create the rollercoaster ride in this story. Fry has excellent control of her plot and characters, and everything has an authentic feel from the action to the interaction between all the characters. This book made me laugh out loud many times. Recommended.
September 18, 2022
I enjoyed the book more than I expected to, to the point of resenting interruptions and almost staying up too late (a strong sense of responsibility is the only thing that saved me). I particularly enjoyed Gregor as a character and the strong friendship between him and Spencer. I appreciated prayer being just a part of life in a book that was not particularly targeting a Christian audience. I liked the narrative tone. I have too many books on my bookshelves already, but I was pretty convinced I would buy the sequel...but there was no sequel to buy. I hope someday the story is resumed.
December 27, 2020
Amazing book that'll get you hooked!
I like how well written the book is, especially hooking the reader! I was originally reading this as a book report book, but this was WAY better than just a book report. I recommend this book to any kid who likes history, action, and friendship :) There's no age limit, because literally anyone can read this, be it age 5-50 or even more. Have fun reading this AMAZING book!
-Your average 10 year old ;D
I like how well written the book is, especially hooking the reader! I was originally reading this as a book report book, but this was WAY better than just a book report. I recommend this book to any kid who likes history, action, and friendship :) There's no age limit, because literally anyone can read this, be it age 5-50 or even more. Have fun reading this AMAZING book!
-Your average 10 year old ;D
April 15, 2021
Fun adventure story for middle grade readers. I especially loved the main characters in this story, and appreciated the funny, true to life details that made those characters so believable. Those details are mixed with some imaginative and less believable fantasy bits of course, but it’s all part of the fun. Phenomenal job by the narrator (I listened to the audio version)—-He truly brings Spencer and Gregor to life and adds extra dimension to the story.
March 14, 2018
THE BEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀😊
This is the best book, I recommend it to EVERYONE, parents if you are trying to find a good book for your child's reading level or you are trying to find an interesting story read this!!!!
This is the best book, I recommend it to EVERYONE, parents if you are trying to find a good book for your child's reading level or you are trying to find an interesting story read this!!!!
July 8, 2018
The Book is existing I just was interested and scared at the same time it was
I consider making it more real life action out pictures
Love love love love the book BTW try to write a serious problem bye
I consider making it more real life action out pictures
Love love love love the book BTW try to write a serious problem bye
March 23, 2019
Fun clever book
This was a fun read that kept me hooked. Great character development. Clever & unique story line. Truly enjoyed. Looking forward to the next journey with pandora's book.
This was a fun read that kept me hooked. Great character development. Clever & unique story line. Truly enjoyed. Looking forward to the next journey with pandora's book.
February 1, 2021
Such a fun read! I found myself daydreaming about the people I would meet, if Ed gifted the book to me. I loved the friendship between Spencer and Gregor, it was heartwarming, and the adventure was epic!
July 12, 2021
Super cute middle grade book! I read it in a day and it kept me entertained. I love how middle grade books are short, sweet and to the point. The story had a beginning, middle and end that were all well defined.
March 23, 2022
Inventive story with lots of suspense
Great to read or listen to for young readers who love a great adventure. The story is quite intriguingly told, characters are likable and authentic.
Great to read or listen to for young readers who love a great adventure. The story is quite intriguingly told, characters are likable and authentic.
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