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The Stobes Trilogy #1
The Time Table
There’s something weird going on deep in the London Underground.
Down in the subterranean labyrinths of long abandoned tunnels, ventilation shafts and disused stations, strange creatures are engaged in pointless battles of stupidity in their dark hidden world.
And the discovery of a stone table with amazing powers will only make things worse, as with staggering incompetence, the rival gangs fight to gain control of it.
But who will be the victors? Which of them will gain control of the table? Will they have a clue what to do with it? And in the process, how much longer will they be able to keep their existence a secret?
Could the world below ground, and the world above ground, be well on course for an unpredictable collision?
Down in the subterranean labyrinths of long abandoned tunnels, ventilation shafts and disused stations, strange creatures are engaged in pointless battles of stupidity in their dark hidden world.
And the discovery of a stone table with amazing powers will only make things worse, as with staggering incompetence, the rival gangs fight to gain control of it.
But who will be the victors? Which of them will gain control of the table? Will they have a clue what to do with it? And in the process, how much longer will they be able to keep their existence a secret?
Could the world below ground, and the world above ground, be well on course for an unpredictable collision?
- GenresFantasy
288 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2014
8 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
N.J. Rayner
1 book42 followersNJ Rayner grew up in Mellor, Cheshire in the United Kingdom, where as well as briefly holding the record in the local "100 yard Tripe Juggling" category, he was also one half of "The Flying Yoghurt Brothers" a specialised trapeze act involving death defying feats of acrobatics on a plank of wood balanced on two upturned buckets.
He has played golf with Bernhard Langer, Des O'Connor's Pianist and the man from the Oxo commercials, been a Dog Handler at Crufts - where he came last - and been publicly ridiculed by both Billy Connolly and Stan Boardman.
He is married and lives in Kent.
After spending over thirty years working in the advertising industry for several top agencies, he decided to become a full time author in 2014.
His debut novel 'The Time Table' is the first book in The Stobes Trilogy. The second book in the series 'The Assassinator' will be published in Spring/Summer 2017, with the third book 'The Exodus' expected late 2017. He has two more novels due to be published in 2018 - Peter Panic And The Book of Dreams, and It's Never Too Late For The Sky.
He firmly believes that Douglas Adams was correct when he said the world is a giant computer program run by mice, and refuses to take life too seriously.
Favorite authors include Douglas Adams, Tom Sharpe, Terry Pratchett, Stuart Maconie, Joseph Heller and Alan Titchmarsh.
www.njrayner.com
He has played golf with Bernhard Langer, Des O'Connor's Pianist and the man from the Oxo commercials, been a Dog Handler at Crufts - where he came last - and been publicly ridiculed by both Billy Connolly and Stan Boardman.
He is married and lives in Kent.
After spending over thirty years working in the advertising industry for several top agencies, he decided to become a full time author in 2014.
His debut novel 'The Time Table' is the first book in The Stobes Trilogy. The second book in the series 'The Assassinator' will be published in Spring/Summer 2017, with the third book 'The Exodus' expected late 2017. He has two more novels due to be published in 2018 - Peter Panic And The Book of Dreams, and It's Never Too Late For The Sky.
He firmly believes that Douglas Adams was correct when he said the world is a giant computer program run by mice, and refuses to take life too seriously.
Favorite authors include Douglas Adams, Tom Sharpe, Terry Pratchett, Stuart Maconie, Joseph Heller and Alan Titchmarsh.
www.njrayner.com
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 23, 2015
Rayner’s The Time Table is an amusing tale filled with fascinating characters. On many occasions I found myself laughing out loud and wished I could venture into London’s underground to see what it’s like and to meet The Stobes. The beginning of the novel starts off slow and I wasn’t sure how it was going to come together. However, the author deftly wove all the revolving parts. And when the action picked up, it was an exciting read.
One aspect that I wish was different was the amount of characters in the novel. Character development is important, but when there are so many characters, it can be nearly impossible to make each one memorable and individual. At times, this made me stumble a bit when reading. I had to stop and remember who certain characters were and why they mattered.
However, I still found the story funny and intriguing, and I’m quite curious to see what the author does next.
One aspect that I wish was different was the amount of characters in the novel. Character development is important, but when there are so many characters, it can be nearly impossible to make each one memorable and individual. At times, this made me stumble a bit when reading. I had to stop and remember who certain characters were and why they mattered.
However, I still found the story funny and intriguing, and I’m quite curious to see what the author does next.
January 30, 2015
The Time Table is a fun whimsical novel full of fun mythical and mystical creatures who inhabit the underground subway systems of London.
There are two factions vying for the right to control the underworld and the power of the Time Table...a magical table that transports from place to place with the manipulation of a few pegs. These characters range from the sweet (farting dragons) to the ominous (black shadows). There are also a host of Above characters (band playing and chip eating) who know something is afoot, but can't quite put their finger (or nose) to it.
The plot carries nicely from exposition to resolution with a dramatic climax of a battle between the two forces. There is a bit of sadness as some characters are killed (or are they?). There is also a sense of family and love and commitment within the Stobes (the good faction).
This book is similar to the Gregor books and the Hitchhiker story in that their is magic and just enough silliness to keep everyone happy and engaged.
This book is probably best for intermediate grades...maybe younger kids if it's read aloud. The names of the characters are a bit difficult to pronounce, but it would make for a great phonics lesson.
A really fun and cute read.
There are two factions vying for the right to control the underworld and the power of the Time Table...a magical table that transports from place to place with the manipulation of a few pegs. These characters range from the sweet (farting dragons) to the ominous (black shadows). There are also a host of Above characters (band playing and chip eating) who know something is afoot, but can't quite put their finger (or nose) to it.
The plot carries nicely from exposition to resolution with a dramatic climax of a battle between the two forces. There is a bit of sadness as some characters are killed (or are they?). There is also a sense of family and love and commitment within the Stobes (the good faction).
This book is similar to the Gregor books and the Hitchhiker story in that their is magic and just enough silliness to keep everyone happy and engaged.
This book is probably best for intermediate grades...maybe younger kids if it's read aloud. The names of the characters are a bit difficult to pronounce, but it would make for a great phonics lesson.
A really fun and cute read.
February 3, 2015
An amusing tale written with levity and humor. The underground train tunnels of London carry secrets and many strange characters. These unusual creatures live in two enemy factions. The Stobes live on the first level underground. They are a silly and colorful group of such beings like dragons. Deeper in the tunnels live the Stobe's enemies. They are darker creatures.
An event brings out the characters from their hiding places. It is a table. The Stobes find a table with magical powers. When the pegs on this table are moved, the table rumbles and moves through time and space. It flies through someone's backyard and someone is hurt. Then it flies into a business with a police officer holding on for dear life. Then it disappears from sight.
The two warring faction need to find the table. The Stobes are afraid someone else will be hurt. Their enemies want it for power. And more fun and games ensue.
An event brings out the characters from their hiding places. It is a table. The Stobes find a table with magical powers. When the pegs on this table are moved, the table rumbles and moves through time and space. It flies through someone's backyard and someone is hurt. Then it flies into a business with a police officer holding on for dear life. Then it disappears from sight.
The two warring faction need to find the table. The Stobes are afraid someone else will be hurt. Their enemies want it for power. And more fun and games ensue.
December 10, 2015
Such a fun and quirky read!! I'll agree with many other reviewers and say that "The Time Table" is a wonderful book that can be enjoyed by all.
I've never been to London or been on a subway, but as I read, I felt I could imagine it quite well just from what was being described to me. I loved the stobes! These unique, quirky, funny little (or not so little) creatures that inhabit the forgotten and unused parts of the London underground subway station. Even the humans that lived above ground where described in such fun, unique ways.
It took me a little bit to get into the story, mostly because I wasn't exactly sure what to expect or if I would enjoy it. Once I got a few chapters in the story really started to pull me in. It was just fun and different. If you want a unique fantasy with magical creatures that take you on a journey through the London Underground then you should give this book a try.
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
I've never been to London or been on a subway, but as I read, I felt I could imagine it quite well just from what was being described to me. I loved the stobes! These unique, quirky, funny little (or not so little) creatures that inhabit the forgotten and unused parts of the London underground subway station. Even the humans that lived above ground where described in such fun, unique ways.
It took me a little bit to get into the story, mostly because I wasn't exactly sure what to expect or if I would enjoy it. Once I got a few chapters in the story really started to pull me in. It was just fun and different. If you want a unique fantasy with magical creatures that take you on a journey through the London Underground then you should give this book a try.
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
February 17, 2015
The Time Table is a clever and imaginative young adult book. I found it to be a bit slow at first but once the story got rolling it was more than exciting. I love how the story jumps between the underground and normal world. I thought of it as a Neverwhere for young adults, though it was much more hilarious. NJ Rayner had me chuckling throughout the whole book. He definitely knows how to weave a marvelously funny tale. Once you familiarize yourself to all the character's personalities it's hard to confuse them, despite the cast being quite large. The eccentric characters creep their ways into your hearts, you almost feel like you could be friends with these creatures. I cannot wait for my toddler son to be old enough to read books like this. The Time Table could easily be in my top 5 young adult books. 5/5
February 9, 2015
An imaginative look at the London Underground, I must say! With a delightful amount of humour and quirkiness, this book has definitely got it going on.
Written on the edge of Gaiman's Neverwhere style, but with a lot more fun and games, this book brings the London Underground to life. With whimsy and magic smothering the characters, you would think it would get a bit annoying (and it does in some places), but the overall feeling of the book is both fun and joyous. The creatures of the Underground are magical, spirited and territorial, with fights spilling every which-way. Great for the young learning to read (except the slightly-ridiculous names) and the young at heart, this is definitely a book for everyone.
4/5
Written on the edge of Gaiman's Neverwhere style, but with a lot more fun and games, this book brings the London Underground to life. With whimsy and magic smothering the characters, you would think it would get a bit annoying (and it does in some places), but the overall feeling of the book is both fun and joyous. The creatures of the Underground are magical, spirited and territorial, with fights spilling every which-way. Great for the young learning to read (except the slightly-ridiculous names) and the young at heart, this is definitely a book for everyone.
4/5
February 26, 2017
Title: The Time Table
Author: N. J. Rayner
Paperback: 280 pages; $12.00
Publisher: N. J. Rayner (August 4, 2014)
Language: English
WARNING: Spoilers.
Man, did this book frustrate the shit out of me!
On the one hand, there is a lot to admire in the craft of N. J. Rayner’s The Time Table. On the other hand, there are fart jokes. And I don’t mean one or two here or there: fart jokes, which make up a substantial amount of the humour in the book, are strewn throughout.
About a third of the way through The Time Table, I decided that this book was aimed at eight year-olds. But…towards the end of the novel, there is a short scene which pays homage to the film Blade Runner. Umm, okay, it’s possible that an eight year-old would have seen that film. Again but, though, a few pages later is a line taken from the film Apocalypse Now.
Honestly, what is the audience for a book that combines references to Blade Runner and Apocalypse Now with copious amounts of fart jokes?
Not me, obviously.
The Time Table is the first book in The Stobes Series. What are stobes? They’re creatures who live in the abandoned tunnels and stations of the London underground. They seem to be based on different animals, although they all have human characteristics. In addition to the stobes, there are the Darkenbads, similarly anthropomorphic animals, but dark in nature where the stobes are carefree; the Cribbit Snocklers, albino bats who trade in information and enjoy a good spot of mayhem; and, the Brolley Cats, a group of female felines who carry umbrellas.
The underground world of the novel (which is based on facts about London's abandoned underground tunnels and railway stations) is impressively built, with a lot of credible detail that makes the setting come alive. The non-human characters are well delineated; each has a unique look and set of personality quirks (not a bad thing considering that there must be 15 to 20 characters whose actions are significant to the story), and their interactions are believably complex.
Too bad the same care wasn’t given to the human characters. There are two police officers, for example, who would have been largely interchangeable if not for the fact that one believed that something strange was going on and the other was skeptical. Worse: the main female character is made fun of for her weight and appetite for food, which I found more offensive than funny.
The story centres around a stone table that the stobes find. Early in the novel, one foolishly fiddles with it, which causes it to vanish, only to appear in a (now mostly destroyed) tool shed. As it is fiddled with and travels around London, the stobes and Darkenbads give chase. Neither group knows exactly what the table is or is capable of, but it seems clear that is powerful, so both want it.
Another problem with The Time Table is that the reader doesn’t know, either. By the end, I wondered where the table had come from, who had made it, and why. (I also wondered how the stobes and Darkenbads were created and sustained their numbers; since they were made up of a variety of different animals, it is unlikely that they could reproduce.)
Granted, because this is a trilogy, it is possible that these questions will be answered in the remaining two books. Usually, though, some questions are answered in the first book so that readers can be satisfied that they have a basic understanding of what happened. When so many questions are left unanswered, the reader’s reaction is more often mystification and dissatisfaction. That was certainly this reader's reaction.
Also: it’s a minor note, but I assumed from the title of the novel that the table would somehow be involved in time travel. In fact, although it was involved in travel through space, no travel in time was involved. Perhaps, because the table was destroyed towards the end of the book, this is an indication of how it will return in a future book. Nonetheless, it just makes the title confusing.
The Time Table contains some strong storytelling. It also contains some very weak elements. As I said: frustrating.
Originally published on the Amazing Stories Web site (http://amazingstoriesmag.com/2016/09/...) on September 5, 2016.
Author: N. J. Rayner
Paperback: 280 pages; $12.00
Publisher: N. J. Rayner (August 4, 2014)
Language: English
WARNING: Spoilers.
Man, did this book frustrate the shit out of me!
On the one hand, there is a lot to admire in the craft of N. J. Rayner’s The Time Table. On the other hand, there are fart jokes. And I don’t mean one or two here or there: fart jokes, which make up a substantial amount of the humour in the book, are strewn throughout.
About a third of the way through The Time Table, I decided that this book was aimed at eight year-olds. But…towards the end of the novel, there is a short scene which pays homage to the film Blade Runner. Umm, okay, it’s possible that an eight year-old would have seen that film. Again but, though, a few pages later is a line taken from the film Apocalypse Now.
Honestly, what is the audience for a book that combines references to Blade Runner and Apocalypse Now with copious amounts of fart jokes?
Not me, obviously.
The Time Table is the first book in The Stobes Series. What are stobes? They’re creatures who live in the abandoned tunnels and stations of the London underground. They seem to be based on different animals, although they all have human characteristics. In addition to the stobes, there are the Darkenbads, similarly anthropomorphic animals, but dark in nature where the stobes are carefree; the Cribbit Snocklers, albino bats who trade in information and enjoy a good spot of mayhem; and, the Brolley Cats, a group of female felines who carry umbrellas.
The underground world of the novel (which is based on facts about London's abandoned underground tunnels and railway stations) is impressively built, with a lot of credible detail that makes the setting come alive. The non-human characters are well delineated; each has a unique look and set of personality quirks (not a bad thing considering that there must be 15 to 20 characters whose actions are significant to the story), and their interactions are believably complex.
Too bad the same care wasn’t given to the human characters. There are two police officers, for example, who would have been largely interchangeable if not for the fact that one believed that something strange was going on and the other was skeptical. Worse: the main female character is made fun of for her weight and appetite for food, which I found more offensive than funny.
The story centres around a stone table that the stobes find. Early in the novel, one foolishly fiddles with it, which causes it to vanish, only to appear in a (now mostly destroyed) tool shed. As it is fiddled with and travels around London, the stobes and Darkenbads give chase. Neither group knows exactly what the table is or is capable of, but it seems clear that is powerful, so both want it.
Another problem with The Time Table is that the reader doesn’t know, either. By the end, I wondered where the table had come from, who had made it, and why. (I also wondered how the stobes and Darkenbads were created and sustained their numbers; since they were made up of a variety of different animals, it is unlikely that they could reproduce.)
Granted, because this is a trilogy, it is possible that these questions will be answered in the remaining two books. Usually, though, some questions are answered in the first book so that readers can be satisfied that they have a basic understanding of what happened. When so many questions are left unanswered, the reader’s reaction is more often mystification and dissatisfaction. That was certainly this reader's reaction.
Also: it’s a minor note, but I assumed from the title of the novel that the table would somehow be involved in time travel. In fact, although it was involved in travel through space, no travel in time was involved. Perhaps, because the table was destroyed towards the end of the book, this is an indication of how it will return in a future book. Nonetheless, it just makes the title confusing.
The Time Table contains some strong storytelling. It also contains some very weak elements. As I said: frustrating.
Originally published on the Amazing Stories Web site (http://amazingstoriesmag.com/2016/09/...) on September 5, 2016.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2015
When you first open this book, you are introduced a quick page which describes the London Underground railways that are still used to this day. While this is a nice little 'Did you Know...' section, I feel that some of it does not really matter to the story on the whole such as:
It closes at around midnight each day, and opens again at around 5.30am the next morning, and there are over 2.7 million journeys made every day.
No part later does the reader need to remember how many journeys or trips that are made on the railways each day.
A fair warning to other Americans or 'Yanks', as NJ Rayner is from Chesire England, parts of the dialogue in the story is in cockney. This can be confusing to some if you don't know the commonly used phrases that is used in cockney English which can actually break the story up at sections as readers are confused about terminology.
Another problem that I had with this story is that there is a lot of exposition throughout the book that off-balances the dialogue. Instead of stating that these character's look like this and saying that the characters think that, it could have been incorporated through their actions or their dialogue. One example of this would be see early on with Doreen Fudge, who is described in the book as...
She was eighteen-years-old and a bit on the fat side. This was probably due to her fondness for crisps and chocolate, and an awful lot of it. However, according to Doreen, all the women on her mother’s side of the family were big-boned, so it was genetics, not crisps and chocolate, that were to blame.
There is no way that this could have just been briefly mentioned? While giving a lot of information about the characters from the get-go can give the reader insight and an idea of what the character is supposed to look like, it can be too much. It should be explained over the course of the book. My last observation that I find to be a poor choice is that the chapters on average are only six to eight pages long and the book has FORTY TWO chapters in it. Several of these chapters could be turned into single chapters, there is no need for creating shortened chapters like this.
The characters in this book are divided into two different groups: The Topsiders and the Strobes.
The Topsiders consists of the humans who live on the ground above the London Underground as they find themselves becoming involved with the activities below. The story focuses on several human characters including an elderly couple (Norman and Florrie Beswick), an obese young woman (Doreen Fudge), a struggling musician and his band (Rod Heath) and others.
The Strobes on the other hand are the subterranean creatures that live in the abandoned sections of the London Underground Railway and scavenge what is left down there. Several of these characters are imaginative for readers to be entranced by such as an orange dragon who 'farts fire' and steals IPods. There are also two different groups that also reside in the London underground called 'the Cribbit Snocklers, and the Darkenbads' whose intents vary from the mischievous to the malevolent.
While each of these characters are described and given backstory, the problem is that they are not memorable. From the moment that a character is introduced and given a back story, the story almost immediately focuses on another character. Part of having characters that the reader can enjoy is letting them sink in over the course of an entire chapter, even two. If you are going to have multiple characters in a story, that's fine, but let them build. In the first chapter alone, the reader is introduced to four different characters. That is too much for the first chapter alone.
The premise of this story would be that in the labyrinth like London Underground, there are subterranean characters have come across a stone table with inscriptions embedded on it with several holes and a few pegs that is capable of transporting to different locations in time and space. When the table is accidentally sent to the human world, its purpose and powers confuses the humans and the Strobes, the Cribbit Snocklers, and the Darkenbads try to retrieve the table.
While the story is creative and original, it seems that it is unsure of how it wants to proceed. With the constant switching between characters and plot lines, the story becomes muddled and confusing to the reader. There is too much being thrown at the reader from the beginning that it can steer them away from reading the rest of the story which for a guy in his twenties is moderately enjoyable once you get past the beginning. Some parts are moderately funny for both young and old readers.
While younger audiences would enjoy this more, older audiences would have some difficulties with the imaginative characters and imagery. I would hope that in future projects that NJ Rayner would create a more cohesive story so readers in the future can better follow what exactly is going on.
It closes at around midnight each day, and opens again at around 5.30am the next morning, and there are over 2.7 million journeys made every day.
No part later does the reader need to remember how many journeys or trips that are made on the railways each day.
A fair warning to other Americans or 'Yanks', as NJ Rayner is from Chesire England, parts of the dialogue in the story is in cockney. This can be confusing to some if you don't know the commonly used phrases that is used in cockney English which can actually break the story up at sections as readers are confused about terminology.
Another problem that I had with this story is that there is a lot of exposition throughout the book that off-balances the dialogue. Instead of stating that these character's look like this and saying that the characters think that, it could have been incorporated through their actions or their dialogue. One example of this would be see early on with Doreen Fudge, who is described in the book as...
She was eighteen-years-old and a bit on the fat side. This was probably due to her fondness for crisps and chocolate, and an awful lot of it. However, according to Doreen, all the women on her mother’s side of the family were big-boned, so it was genetics, not crisps and chocolate, that were to blame.
There is no way that this could have just been briefly mentioned? While giving a lot of information about the characters from the get-go can give the reader insight and an idea of what the character is supposed to look like, it can be too much. It should be explained over the course of the book. My last observation that I find to be a poor choice is that the chapters on average are only six to eight pages long and the book has FORTY TWO chapters in it. Several of these chapters could be turned into single chapters, there is no need for creating shortened chapters like this.
The characters in this book are divided into two different groups: The Topsiders and the Strobes.
The Topsiders consists of the humans who live on the ground above the London Underground as they find themselves becoming involved with the activities below. The story focuses on several human characters including an elderly couple (Norman and Florrie Beswick), an obese young woman (Doreen Fudge), a struggling musician and his band (Rod Heath) and others.
The Strobes on the other hand are the subterranean creatures that live in the abandoned sections of the London Underground Railway and scavenge what is left down there. Several of these characters are imaginative for readers to be entranced by such as an orange dragon who 'farts fire' and steals IPods. There are also two different groups that also reside in the London underground called 'the Cribbit Snocklers, and the Darkenbads' whose intents vary from the mischievous to the malevolent.
While each of these characters are described and given backstory, the problem is that they are not memorable. From the moment that a character is introduced and given a back story, the story almost immediately focuses on another character. Part of having characters that the reader can enjoy is letting them sink in over the course of an entire chapter, even two. If you are going to have multiple characters in a story, that's fine, but let them build. In the first chapter alone, the reader is introduced to four different characters. That is too much for the first chapter alone.
The premise of this story would be that in the labyrinth like London Underground, there are subterranean characters have come across a stone table with inscriptions embedded on it with several holes and a few pegs that is capable of transporting to different locations in time and space. When the table is accidentally sent to the human world, its purpose and powers confuses the humans and the Strobes, the Cribbit Snocklers, and the Darkenbads try to retrieve the table.
While the story is creative and original, it seems that it is unsure of how it wants to proceed. With the constant switching between characters and plot lines, the story becomes muddled and confusing to the reader. There is too much being thrown at the reader from the beginning that it can steer them away from reading the rest of the story which for a guy in his twenties is moderately enjoyable once you get past the beginning. Some parts are moderately funny for both young and old readers.
While younger audiences would enjoy this more, older audiences would have some difficulties with the imaginative characters and imagery. I would hope that in future projects that NJ Rayner would create a more cohesive story so readers in the future can better follow what exactly is going on.
March 4, 2015
When I first took a look at this book description I was curious how it could have such a wide range of ages and/or grades that it is written for. In my experience, if other factors such as learning disabilities are ruled out third graders and 12th graders don't t typically enjoy the same kind of tails, even those that are fans of fantasy, whimsy, and a bit of science fiction. However, I was taken in on the first page and I am 37 reading from the perspective of would my 11 year old niece enjoy this? The answer is a resounding yes.
It has been some time since I have seen a book for tween's and teens that is so full of whimsical detail, fantastic imagery, and descriptions that make each character come so alive that he or she vibrates off the page. My boyfriend spent some years in a London boarding school and as I read the first few pages to him, he laughed and said it sounded just like some of the stories he used to come up with when he was board and had little else to do but think about the “what if's” with various curiosities around London including the underground.
I found myself giggling at the phrase, “furtling twazlets.” I teetered back and forth with an internal debate about needing to see if this is actually a phrase in use that I have never heard, or a completely fantastical phrase made up by the author. I found some conjecture online about a less than wholesome description for furtling but decided it has no danger of corrupting the minds of today's youth. In fact the phrase reminded me of my 7th grade science teacher who was accident prone and had developed quite a colorful array of words to use when we all knew he wanted to swear. I can picture him saying furtling twazlets plainly in my mind, and I'm sure it will work it's way into my stubbed my toe expletives since the phrase struck my funny bone so. I'm sure kids will fall into even bigger giggle fits than I.
I also found myself giggling at the names of the underground creatures as they reminded me a bit of Dr. Seuss, the most prolific children's author that has caught the minds and imaginations of millions of children around the globe for generations. I gave up trying to pronounce them with any accuracy, in fact I'm not sure I even tried that hard because I was too eager to read the rest of this story.
If I had one complaint, it would be that there was one introduction of a new character after the other for a while and it began to remind me of one of those cliche's mom's say to their kids all the time, “too many chiefs not enough Indians,” or something similar.
Overall,I have to say that one of the books strongest points is that it encourages the imaginations of it's readers in a way that hasn't been done well in decades, in my personal opinion. In a day when children expect movies to tell them how things look and act and feel, seeing a book that will put a child's mind to work really impresses me. We live in a time where our children will need imagination to emerge as leaders that solve actual real world problems with creative, out of the box thinking. I believe The Time Table needs to catch on to encourage the imagination that leads to that creative thinking EXCELLENT story, can't wait to read more!
It has been some time since I have seen a book for tween's and teens that is so full of whimsical detail, fantastic imagery, and descriptions that make each character come so alive that he or she vibrates off the page. My boyfriend spent some years in a London boarding school and as I read the first few pages to him, he laughed and said it sounded just like some of the stories he used to come up with when he was board and had little else to do but think about the “what if's” with various curiosities around London including the underground.
I found myself giggling at the phrase, “furtling twazlets.” I teetered back and forth with an internal debate about needing to see if this is actually a phrase in use that I have never heard, or a completely fantastical phrase made up by the author. I found some conjecture online about a less than wholesome description for furtling but decided it has no danger of corrupting the minds of today's youth. In fact the phrase reminded me of my 7th grade science teacher who was accident prone and had developed quite a colorful array of words to use when we all knew he wanted to swear. I can picture him saying furtling twazlets plainly in my mind, and I'm sure it will work it's way into my stubbed my toe expletives since the phrase struck my funny bone so. I'm sure kids will fall into even bigger giggle fits than I.
I also found myself giggling at the names of the underground creatures as they reminded me a bit of Dr. Seuss, the most prolific children's author that has caught the minds and imaginations of millions of children around the globe for generations. I gave up trying to pronounce them with any accuracy, in fact I'm not sure I even tried that hard because I was too eager to read the rest of this story.
If I had one complaint, it would be that there was one introduction of a new character after the other for a while and it began to remind me of one of those cliche's mom's say to their kids all the time, “too many chiefs not enough Indians,” or something similar.
Overall,I have to say that one of the books strongest points is that it encourages the imaginations of it's readers in a way that hasn't been done well in decades, in my personal opinion. In a day when children expect movies to tell them how things look and act and feel, seeing a book that will put a child's mind to work really impresses me. We live in a time where our children will need imagination to emerge as leaders that solve actual real world problems with creative, out of the box thinking. I believe The Time Table needs to catch on to encourage the imagination that leads to that creative thinking EXCELLENT story, can't wait to read more!
May 10, 2015
3.5/5 rating.
I struggled with weather to rate 3 or 4 star rating. As others have pointed it, the beginning is very hard to get through. It is slow and with some of the character names it was hard to get through. At one point, I wondered about giving up reading it, but continued on because I won the book and wanted to give it a fair chance. As I continued on, I continued to struggle on if I should continue, at one point I came on and saw it was rated well and heard it got better, so I continued reading.
It was probably around page 100 that things started to get interesting and stuff finally happened. What made the beginning so hard, was the Author had to set up the story. I think some things he didn't need to go in detail about, it dragged the story down.
To expand on that thought, when talking about the humans, who played minor parts in this book, he didn't need to talk about there back story so much. The story is about the table and he should of given enough details to know the humans, but not that much. We didn't need to hear in great detail about It turns of Doreen,
I don't see how things like that, had to deal with the heart of the story, which is about the table and underground. Maybe the humans will play a bigger part in the future books, but save the back story or info about them, for future books, don't put it in at the beginning, it's distracting and boring to read, when you don't know what's going on. The book would of been way better if he laid out the foundation quickly and jumped right into things.
After you get halfway through, it does get better and at that point, you can Identify with the characters and small action things start to happen, that build up to the final fighting scene.
Overall, the book ended great and the Author put a book two teaser, that starts out great. I'll probably check out the second book because of the teaser.
I really struggled if I put a 3 star rating and in the end, since it ended on a high note, I bumped it up. If the Author continues to drag the story in book 2, it will be a disappointment and I probably won't put up with it then. Because the characters have been established.
To end on a positive note. I do like the story he created and the main characters in the underground. I think if the Author gets the pacing in book 2 correct, it will be much better. I do want to see what happens next with all the characters and the table.
I won this book on goodreads giveaway for an honest review.
I struggled with weather to rate 3 or 4 star rating. As others have pointed it, the beginning is very hard to get through. It is slow and with some of the character names it was hard to get through. At one point, I wondered about giving up reading it, but continued on because I won the book and wanted to give it a fair chance. As I continued on, I continued to struggle on if I should continue, at one point I came on and saw it was rated well and heard it got better, so I continued reading.
It was probably around page 100 that things started to get interesting and stuff finally happened. What made the beginning so hard, was the Author had to set up the story. I think some things he didn't need to go in detail about, it dragged the story down.
To expand on that thought, when talking about the humans, who played minor parts in this book, he didn't need to talk about there back story so much. The story is about the table and he should of given enough details to know the humans, but not that much. We didn't need to hear in great detail about It turns of Doreen,
I don't see how things like that, had to deal with the heart of the story, which is about the table and underground. Maybe the humans will play a bigger part in the future books, but save the back story or info about them, for future books, don't put it in at the beginning, it's distracting and boring to read, when you don't know what's going on. The book would of been way better if he laid out the foundation quickly and jumped right into things.
After you get halfway through, it does get better and at that point, you can Identify with the characters and small action things start to happen, that build up to the final fighting scene.
Overall, the book ended great and the Author put a book two teaser, that starts out great. I'll probably check out the second book because of the teaser.
I really struggled if I put a 3 star rating and in the end, since it ended on a high note, I bumped it up. If the Author continues to drag the story in book 2, it will be a disappointment and I probably won't put up with it then. Because the characters have been established.
To end on a positive note. I do like the story he created and the main characters in the underground. I think if the Author gets the pacing in book 2 correct, it will be much better. I do want to see what happens next with all the characters and the table.
I won this book on goodreads giveaway for an honest review.
February 15, 2015
Anyone using subway or do you prefer calling it underground or metro? Well, I have never been in London, though I’m planning to go there soon and this book just raised my interest of the London underground. In my city, which is Tbilisi, we do have a subway, it may be not a long as London one, okay it definitely is way shorter than London underground, but I still used it every day during my school years. When I read the summary of this book, I was already intrigued by it and it did not disappoint me in any way.
During all my rides and those were quite a lot, I have always been fantasizing about mysterious creatures lurking in those tunnels. As I see, I was not the only one like that; however N.J. Rayner actually did put his fantasy on the paper and got an amazing output. His descriptions are compelling and so easy that everything comes to life in front of you, as if living things were just converted into words and stuck on my tablet. I enjoyed every minute of it and nearly got into trouble with my lecturer. Instead of listening to him, I was fully engrossed in the book.
There is a lot I want to say about this book, but as I know myself perfectly I will just blurb something important and spoil the thrilling ride that this book is giving its readers. I loved these underground creatures so much, especially the dragon, the first impression of him was something that made me fall from the couch laughing. I really mean that. Most of the creatures have quite difficult names to pronounce, but nevertheless what makes them “cute” their uniqueness and their behavior. In the beginning I was confused with a lot of characters and they just didn’t stop appearing, but after 2 chapters I was so engrossed into the book, that it didn’t matter that the points of view were changing a lot.
I enjoyed Time Table a lot, and to say the truth I will be really looking out for a dragon when I get a chance to ride the London Underground. The author didn’t disappoint with a nice cliffhanger at the end, which just gave me shivers. I am definitely going to read the second book. I hope you will get a copy of this book, and will enjoy it as much as I did. I believe the grade and middle school students will enjoy it, however, adult might enjoy it too, because the politics of the underground are quite similar to the real politics. As well as the author’s sharp wit and sometimes sarcastic comments on this or that industry gives the life to the book and just makes to read until you finish. Enjoy!
June 23, 2015
In the first book of The Stobes Trilogy, one would think that there’s nothing to the underground London, just like in any other metropolitan city with subway stations. But some Topsiders (or people in our human language) have witnessed a funny looking orange dragon prowling around and about, burning toasts, stealing IPods, and humming to Kylie Minogue’s Can’t Get You Out Of My Head. And that is only a teaser of what lurks in the depths and darkness of the underground.
The Stobes, who are non-threatening scavenger creatures that wear just about anything they can get their hands on lying around stations. The Darkenbads, who are maleficent creatures that like to start violent battles on a regular basis, whose arch-enemies are the Stobes. Cribbit Snocklers, who are bat-like creatures not very fond of other factions, but they live for knowledge and gossip…and they would trade in information if your information serves them a greater purpose. And The Time Table, which is a regular-looking table owned by the Stobes with a power to travel through space. A bewildering object to the Topsiders. A key for power to the Darkenbads. A must retrieval to the Stobes.
Rayner’s debut Fantasy novel mesmerized me from the start with its simple language, concise and easy to understand descriptions and explanations, witty jokes, imaginative and exaggerated characters, and fast-paced action. I truly felt myself immersed into a world of darkness, mystique, divergence, and funniness and be a part of it all from start to finish. Likewise, I could not help but reminisce about some of my favorite Fantasy movies as a child: The Labyrinth, The Neverending Story, and Gremlins. The Boxtrolls is another beloved addition in my adulthood.
The Time Table is an unforgettable and magical read for children, teenagers, as well as young adults who are Fantasy aficionados. Furthermore, being grown adults should not deter the readers from enjoying this novel wholeheartedly; it is absolutely action-packed, hilarious, and touching. If anything, the readers relive the magic felt and experienced during their childhood.
The Stobes, who are non-threatening scavenger creatures that wear just about anything they can get their hands on lying around stations. The Darkenbads, who are maleficent creatures that like to start violent battles on a regular basis, whose arch-enemies are the Stobes. Cribbit Snocklers, who are bat-like creatures not very fond of other factions, but they live for knowledge and gossip…and they would trade in information if your information serves them a greater purpose. And The Time Table, which is a regular-looking table owned by the Stobes with a power to travel through space. A bewildering object to the Topsiders. A key for power to the Darkenbads. A must retrieval to the Stobes.
Rayner’s debut Fantasy novel mesmerized me from the start with its simple language, concise and easy to understand descriptions and explanations, witty jokes, imaginative and exaggerated characters, and fast-paced action. I truly felt myself immersed into a world of darkness, mystique, divergence, and funniness and be a part of it all from start to finish. Likewise, I could not help but reminisce about some of my favorite Fantasy movies as a child: The Labyrinth, The Neverending Story, and Gremlins. The Boxtrolls is another beloved addition in my adulthood.
The Time Table is an unforgettable and magical read for children, teenagers, as well as young adults who are Fantasy aficionados. Furthermore, being grown adults should not deter the readers from enjoying this novel wholeheartedly; it is absolutely action-packed, hilarious, and touching. If anything, the readers relive the magic felt and experienced during their childhood.
February 22, 2015
This book took me right back to my childhood as soon as I started reading. It reminded me of one of my favourite books growing up, the Secret of Platform 13.
Though the opening is full of ominous overtones, this book has a light tone that makes it really easy to read and draws the reader in. The fantastical elements of this book make it very endearing and the comedic edge to the narrative has the wonderful ability to cause the reader to break out into laughter – sometimes without any warning.
The style of the book with constantly changing view points as the narrative moves through the plot allows the reader to experience this beautifully crafted world in a much more well-rounded way. The characters are very well constructed, though for the most part they are believable and engaging, there are moments when some of the magics do require an appreciation of the more mythical aspects of the fantasy genre.
There are also elements to this book that can only be fully appreciated by British people, some of the humorous moments, the turns of phrase and even some of the mannerisms of the creatures in The Time Table are quintessentially British.
The setting in the subterranean area of the London Underground and the author’s knowledge of it gave depth to this story and an aspect of wonder at what could be hiding beneath our feet at any given moment (and not just when travelling on the Underground).
The tone of the book means that readers from younger ages will enjoy it as much as adult readers – possibly even more so. It may take a few chapters to really get into the flow of the writing and the plot of the book but it is well worth doing so, especially as the characters grow more likable as the book goes on.
Though the opening is full of ominous overtones, this book has a light tone that makes it really easy to read and draws the reader in. The fantastical elements of this book make it very endearing and the comedic edge to the narrative has the wonderful ability to cause the reader to break out into laughter – sometimes without any warning.
The style of the book with constantly changing view points as the narrative moves through the plot allows the reader to experience this beautifully crafted world in a much more well-rounded way. The characters are very well constructed, though for the most part they are believable and engaging, there are moments when some of the magics do require an appreciation of the more mythical aspects of the fantasy genre.
There are also elements to this book that can only be fully appreciated by British people, some of the humorous moments, the turns of phrase and even some of the mannerisms of the creatures in The Time Table are quintessentially British.
The setting in the subterranean area of the London Underground and the author’s knowledge of it gave depth to this story and an aspect of wonder at what could be hiding beneath our feet at any given moment (and not just when travelling on the Underground).
The tone of the book means that readers from younger ages will enjoy it as much as adult readers – possibly even more so. It may take a few chapters to really get into the flow of the writing and the plot of the book but it is well worth doing so, especially as the characters grow more likable as the book goes on.
February 19, 2015
While reading this book, I couldn't help but think this is what it would be like if you watched Monty Python while taking hallucinogenics. NJ's book is hilarious and more than a little "out there". His characters, both human and fantastical, take on a hyperbolic nature. Their every quirk is exaggerated in ways that will leave you chuckling from page to page.
I enjoyed his creatures the most, from his sarcastic (if not gassy) dragon, Scorchington, to the overly curious Spoogemige.
The only downfall resides within the formatting and punctuation. The switch to and from italic text forced me to take pause a couple times and I couldn't place their purpose or why the author chose to transition the way he did. The punctuation was off as well. I had to go back and read some of the dialogue over again which stalled the flow of the story.
However, I wouldn't let that keep you from buying the book. By chapter three, your stomach will be sore from laughing and you'll find that even the little hiccups are worth the ride. I highly anticipate the next installment of this trilogy!
I enjoyed his creatures the most, from his sarcastic (if not gassy) dragon, Scorchington, to the overly curious Spoogemige.
The only downfall resides within the formatting and punctuation. The switch to and from italic text forced me to take pause a couple times and I couldn't place their purpose or why the author chose to transition the way he did. The punctuation was off as well. I had to go back and read some of the dialogue over again which stalled the flow of the story.
However, I wouldn't let that keep you from buying the book. By chapter three, your stomach will be sore from laughing and you'll find that even the little hiccups are worth the ride. I highly anticipate the next installment of this trilogy!
July 14, 2015
Time Table is an enjoyable and funny read that people of all ages will enjoy. The book quickly drew me in and kept me turning pages till I reached the end. The author skillfully and masterfully uses the back drop of the London underground to create a compelling story. The characters in the book are well done and likable they draw you in and refuse to let go. The plot is well thought out and flows consistently through the book without slowing or dragging along. This book is entertaining and funny at several parts I had to stop reading because I was laughing so hard. Even after setting it down I caught myself laughing as I thought about it. There is so much I would love to say but I don’t want to spoil anything for future readers. If you are contemplating this book I recommend you pick it up, you won’t be disappointed and like me will be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
November 24, 2014
The readers of this book have said that it is about:There’s something weird going on deep in the London Underground. Down in the subterranean labyrinths of long abandoned tunnels, ventilation shafts and disused stations, strange creatures are engaged in pointless battles of stupidity in their dark hidden world. And the discovery of a stone table with amazing powers will only make things worse, as with staggering incompetence, the rival gangs fight to gain control of it. But who will be the victors? Which of them will gain control of the table? Will they have a clue what to do with it? And in the process, how much longer will they be able to keep their existence a secret? Could the world below ground, and the world above ground, be well on course for an unpredictable collision?
April 27, 2015
Great read for all ages
I really enjoyed reading this book. I wasn't to sure at first if I would enjoy it because I normally don't read books with creatures and dragons. But I feel this book has something in it for everyone.
I really enjoyed the characters scorchington. I can picture him as an adorable cute little dragon. I also really enjoyed Doreen! She's hilarious. I also love chocolate so I find her so funny!
I had a hard time reading it at first. Meaning it was hard for me to remember who was who since the characters had hard and unique names but I got it towards the end. I really cant wait to see where the other two books will take us.
Can I just say more scorchington and Doreen!! :)
I really enjoyed reading this book. I wasn't to sure at first if I would enjoy it because I normally don't read books with creatures and dragons. But I feel this book has something in it for everyone.
I really enjoyed the characters scorchington. I can picture him as an adorable cute little dragon. I also really enjoyed Doreen! She's hilarious. I also love chocolate so I find her so funny!
I had a hard time reading it at first. Meaning it was hard for me to remember who was who since the characters had hard and unique names but I got it towards the end. I really cant wait to see where the other two books will take us.
Can I just say more scorchington and Doreen!! :)
March 31, 2015
As I am an american, I'm not overly familiar with the landmarks described in this book. However, I don't feel that took away from the story at all. It made it all the more interesting for me. I got to learn some things. It feels to me like the author truly knew the routes described, as if they'd ridden it so often that they had time to imagine these thing, and I felt as if we saw it as the author imagined it on these rides. We have an engaging cast of characters here and although this is a young adult story, it's interesting enough to fans of any age
May 8, 2015
This is a really good and unique story. I think anyone with an imagination has thought they have seen something in the shadows of the subway, and N.J. Rayner takes that to a crazy new level!
There are battles between the good and evil creatures that live in the shadows of the underground, there is magic, and a very confused detective looking for a table that destroys whatever is standing in the way when it appears, and then disappears just as suddenly.
It did take three chapters to get me really into it, but I was on the edge of my seat for the rest of it. Can't wait for the next one!
There are battles between the good and evil creatures that live in the shadows of the underground, there is magic, and a very confused detective looking for a table that destroys whatever is standing in the way when it appears, and then disappears just as suddenly.
It did take three chapters to get me really into it, but I was on the edge of my seat for the rest of it. Can't wait for the next one!
June 18, 2015
Get ready for a quirky, fun roller-coaster ride with “The Time Table” series by NJ Rayner. Venue? In the subterranean labyrinths of long abandoned tunnels, ventilation shafts, and disused stations of underground London.
N.J. Rayner has created a vivid fantasy world for our feasting, complete with humor, weasels, dreamers, and heroes—some of who happen to enjoy rats and gravel pie!
Every creative soul with a knack for unconventionality, fascinating out-of-the-box storyline and a liking for dark themes will enjoy this book. Comes recommended!
May 18, 2015
Ok. Mixed feelings. I could not imagine Stobes for some reason. I just could not. I loved the quality of paper (although I am no professional), really nice to touch! Would recommend to read this book while you are on tube if you can find one :) Page 125 - was a killer (for me)! It happened that I was on a Central line tube train and was reading The Time Table, then I started laughing out loud. I just could not hold it!
I have received this book through Goodreads Giveway.
I have received this book through Goodreads Giveway.
June 4, 2015
Won this Through Goodread First Read.
Was unsure of what to think about this book at the beginning. Started off a little slow but it definitely picked up. By the time I got to the end I was sad to be finishing it. Will definitely be reading book two.
Was unsure of what to think about this book at the beginning. Started off a little slow but it definitely picked up. By the time I got to the end I was sad to be finishing it. Will definitely be reading book two.
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