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Trankarri: The Boy with a Magical Pen
En epic adventure is set in motion...
When talented young artist Nathaniel Hancock receives a new drawing pen for Christmas, he promises his great-grandfather that he'll prepare him a Masterpiece for the following year. But Nathaniel is naive for the Pen is magical-and as he makes his finishing touches, the Masterpiece comes to life before his very eyes.
Upon entering the drawing, he discovers that he's added new territory to the enchanted land that lies beyond: the Inkworld, a pen-and-ink realm where reality is limited only by the artist's imagination.
After Nathaniel rescues the drawing of an elf from a deadly prison, he realizes the Inkworld is far more complex than he ever imagined. For dark forces lurk beneath the idyllic surface. In saving the elf, Nathaniel accidentally unleashes an ancient evil that threatens to destroy all that's good in the Inkworld...
And it's up to him to set things right...
When talented young artist Nathaniel Hancock receives a new drawing pen for Christmas, he promises his great-grandfather that he'll prepare him a Masterpiece for the following year. But Nathaniel is naive for the Pen is magical-and as he makes his finishing touches, the Masterpiece comes to life before his very eyes.
Upon entering the drawing, he discovers that he's added new territory to the enchanted land that lies beyond: the Inkworld, a pen-and-ink realm where reality is limited only by the artist's imagination.
After Nathaniel rescues the drawing of an elf from a deadly prison, he realizes the Inkworld is far more complex than he ever imagined. For dark forces lurk beneath the idyllic surface. In saving the elf, Nathaniel accidentally unleashes an ancient evil that threatens to destroy all that's good in the Inkworld...
And it's up to him to set things right...
- GenresFantasy
351 pages, Paperback
First published November 20, 2014
3 people are currently reading
961 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Dean
2 books4 followersI am the author of The Inkworld Sagas. It is an eight part book series that is a coming-of-age story about Nathaniel Hancock and his relationship with a magical pen.
The first book, Trankarri - The Boy with a Magical Pen has just been re-released and the other seven books will follow shortly behind about every two to three months following their edits and formatting.
It took me sixteen years to write this series and now I am ready to share it with the world.
This is actually the second edition. The first edition I published a little too soon when it wasn't quite ready. This new edition has two new chapters and is arranged much better. After I finished the series I went back and tied a few loose ends and did some final revising.
I live in Austin, TX with my wife and our rescue pit.
The first book, Trankarri - The Boy with a Magical Pen has just been re-released and the other seven books will follow shortly behind about every two to three months following their edits and formatting.
It took me sixteen years to write this series and now I am ready to share it with the world.
This is actually the second edition. The first edition I published a little too soon when it wasn't quite ready. This new edition has two new chapters and is arranged much better. After I finished the series I went back and tied a few loose ends and did some final revising.
I live in Austin, TX with my wife and our rescue pit.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 29, 2025
Special thanks to the author(s), publisher, Goodreads and/or NetGalley for the review copy. All views and opinions expressed are honest and my own.
This was a refreshing read – one that’s whimsical, entertaining and inspiring!
I was intrigued by the first few pages of this book. The writing pulls you in almost instantly with its relatable and raw description of a boy trying his hardest to make the best of each situation. The story slows down as time passes in between travels to the Inkworld, but it brings about the reassurance of a reality that is common amongst all of us. Overall, this story captures a unique premise, with promising and well built characters, and a flexible plot that gives it great potential.
The Inkworld is a world limited only by the creator’s creativity. If you can imagine it, then it exists. I loved this entire concept and worldbuilding. It was executed perfectly; easy to understand, interesting and unique. The world makes sense and I loved every moment Nathaniel spent there, because each visit introduced interesting characters or developments. I was saddened at the end with all that occurred but I know we still have a lot to unpack and things will get better.
Nathaniel was an interesting main character. I was curious to understand his real life outside of Inkworld, as a kid. He seemed lonely but also didn’t cry or whine about it to his parents. He seemed a bit too mature for his age then and I wanted to give him a hug. As he grew into a teenage, followed by his time in the Inkworld, he still sounded like a curious and innocent child. I also loved how Nathaniel took time for himself when things were too much – most stories don’t depict this. Nathaniel was a good main character because he was flawed but also had friends who helped make up for his shortcomings.
Brandoveii was the best secondary main character in this book and I’m one hundred percent certain he’s the one on the cover! He was an elf that could do anything, but I absolutely loved his relationship with Nathaniel. His patience, guidance and protectiveness was heartwarming to read throughout. I loved everything about him! There were many other characters in this book particularly in the last quarter. They were all great additions, each with their own personalities, making this story more entertaining.
The story has so many lovable moments but the riddles were playing fiddles in loops through hoops so I couldn’t make sense of things. The moments were energetic but because I couldn’t understand, I felt like I was missing out on some details. Also, I didn’t like the repetitive concept of keeping things a secret from Nathaniel because it’s not “time” yet. Nathaniel almost lost his life many times, so I think he deserved some proper explanations at the end. Also, the few twists throughout were fun, but not unexpected. They personally didn’t have the surprise factor for me.
Overall, this was a fun and enjoyable story. I’m eagerly awaiting the second book in this series and excited to see how the story evolves. That said, I hope there aren’t any unnecessary subplots because this book had a few developments. Nonetheless, I think this is an enjoyable read for any age group and would do really well if adapted as a movie!
Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
This was a refreshing read – one that’s whimsical, entertaining and inspiring!
I was intrigued by the first few pages of this book. The writing pulls you in almost instantly with its relatable and raw description of a boy trying his hardest to make the best of each situation. The story slows down as time passes in between travels to the Inkworld, but it brings about the reassurance of a reality that is common amongst all of us. Overall, this story captures a unique premise, with promising and well built characters, and a flexible plot that gives it great potential.
The Inkworld is a world limited only by the creator’s creativity. If you can imagine it, then it exists. I loved this entire concept and worldbuilding. It was executed perfectly; easy to understand, interesting and unique. The world makes sense and I loved every moment Nathaniel spent there, because each visit introduced interesting characters or developments. I was saddened at the end with all that occurred but I know we still have a lot to unpack and things will get better.
Nathaniel was an interesting main character. I was curious to understand his real life outside of Inkworld, as a kid. He seemed lonely but also didn’t cry or whine about it to his parents. He seemed a bit too mature for his age then and I wanted to give him a hug. As he grew into a teenage, followed by his time in the Inkworld, he still sounded like a curious and innocent child. I also loved how Nathaniel took time for himself when things were too much – most stories don’t depict this. Nathaniel was a good main character because he was flawed but also had friends who helped make up for his shortcomings.
Brandoveii was the best secondary main character in this book and I’m one hundred percent certain he’s the one on the cover! He was an elf that could do anything, but I absolutely loved his relationship with Nathaniel. His patience, guidance and protectiveness was heartwarming to read throughout. I loved everything about him! There were many other characters in this book particularly in the last quarter. They were all great additions, each with their own personalities, making this story more entertaining.
The story has so many lovable moments but the riddles were playing fiddles in loops through hoops so I couldn’t make sense of things. The moments were energetic but because I couldn’t understand, I felt like I was missing out on some details. Also, I didn’t like the repetitive concept of keeping things a secret from Nathaniel because it’s not “time” yet. Nathaniel almost lost his life many times, so I think he deserved some proper explanations at the end. Also, the few twists throughout were fun, but not unexpected. They personally didn’t have the surprise factor for me.
Overall, this was a fun and enjoyable story. I’m eagerly awaiting the second book in this series and excited to see how the story evolves. That said, I hope there aren’t any unnecessary subplots because this book had a few developments. Nonetheless, I think this is an enjoyable read for any age group and would do really well if adapted as a movie!
Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
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April 12, 2016I tried very hard to bring great quality literature to this book. I used many different literary devices that I think people will like. I worked on setting hard also so that the reader would feel planted in the world I have created. Character development was probably the most difficult and I spent much time thinking about Nathaniel and the boy that I want him to be and become. And who said writing was easy...
Overall I think this book will be enjoyed by all who read it. It is filled with adventure, comedy, action, fantasy and so much more.
Overall I think this book will be enjoyed by all who read it. It is filled with adventure, comedy, action, fantasy and so much more.
November 16, 2015
We are proud to announce that TRANKARRIE: THE BOY WITH A MAGIC PEN by Christopher Dean is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
February 15, 2016
Christopher received the pen as a gift, not realizing it had majic. A book of imagination and a fun read for middle school age children. Would recommend to them.
August 10, 2025
Christopher Dean is a spellbinding start to The Inkworld Sagas that blends imagination, adventure, and danger into one captivating journey. Nathaniel Hancock, a young artist gifted with a mysterious pen, begins his story with an innocent promise to his great-grandfather—but soon finds himself stepping into the very world he draws. The Inkworld is breathtaking yet unpredictable, a place where creativity shapes reality and every stroke of the pen holds power. The concept of art literally coming to life is beautifully woven with vivid imagery that makes you feel as if you’re right there beside Nathaniel.
What begins as a whimsical escape quickly transforms into a high-stakes mission when Nathaniel rescues an imprisoned elf, unknowingly awakening an ancient evil. The shift from wonder to tension is masterfully done, pulling readers into a race against time to save the magical realm. The Inkworld’s landscapes, creatures, and secrets are so richly described that they feel tangible, and the emotional depth—Nathaniel’s courage, uncertainty, and determination—keeps you invested. The theme of imagination as both a gift and a responsibility gives the story a deeper layer, making it resonate beyond just fantasy lovers.
This book is more than just a magical adventure—it’s a reminder of the power of creativity and the bravery needed to face the consequences of our actions. Christopher Dean crafts a tale that feels classic yet fresh, perfect for fans of richly built worlds like Inkheart or The NeverEnding Story. By the end, you’ll be eager for the next installment, wondering where Nathaniel’s pen will take him next. A must-read for anyone who believes that the worlds we imagine can be just as real as the one we live in.
What begins as a whimsical escape quickly transforms into a high-stakes mission when Nathaniel rescues an imprisoned elf, unknowingly awakening an ancient evil. The shift from wonder to tension is masterfully done, pulling readers into a race against time to save the magical realm. The Inkworld’s landscapes, creatures, and secrets are so richly described that they feel tangible, and the emotional depth—Nathaniel’s courage, uncertainty, and determination—keeps you invested. The theme of imagination as both a gift and a responsibility gives the story a deeper layer, making it resonate beyond just fantasy lovers.
This book is more than just a magical adventure—it’s a reminder of the power of creativity and the bravery needed to face the consequences of our actions. Christopher Dean crafts a tale that feels classic yet fresh, perfect for fans of richly built worlds like Inkheart or The NeverEnding Story. By the end, you’ll be eager for the next installment, wondering where Nathaniel’s pen will take him next. A must-read for anyone who believes that the worlds we imagine can be just as real as the one we live in.
November 26, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for accepting my ARC request!
I love this book, that's all I can say. This book brings back my childhood, and I see myself as a child, my mind full of an imaginary world. I was so excited when I read and rewound to the good old days at the same time.
I really hope for Christopher's next books. I don't know why I hardly see this book on social media or other review websites. If I had another life, I'm gonna tell my younger self to read this book. It's a must!
I love this book, that's all I can say. This book brings back my childhood, and I see myself as a child, my mind full of an imaginary world. I was so excited when I read and rewound to the good old days at the same time.
I really hope for Christopher's next books. I don't know why I hardly see this book on social media or other review websites. If I had another life, I'm gonna tell my younger self to read this book. It's a must!
August 13, 2025
Trankarri: The Boy with a Magical Pen by Christopher Dean is a story that pulled me in from the very first page. It’s about Nathaniel Hancock, a boy who gets a magical pen for Christmas and promises his great-grandfather he will draw him a masterpiece. But when he finishes his drawing, it comes to life, and he finds himself inside the Inkworld—a place where whatever he draws becomes real. The idea of stepping into your own drawings is something I always wished for, so this story instantly connected with me.
Reading about the Inkworld was exciting. The author described it in such a way that I could picture every place Nathaniel visited. It starts off magical and fun, but when Nathaniel rescues an elf, he accidentally releases an ancient evil. From that point, the story turns into a race to save the Inkworld. I liked how it moved from being light and happy to serious and adventurous. It kept me hooked from start to finish.
This book connected with me on a personal level because it reminded me how powerful imagination can be. It also showed that with creativity comes responsibility. Nathaniel had to fix the problems he caused, and that made him brave and determined. I could relate to that feeling of having to step up when things go wrong.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys magical adventures, especially readers who loved stories like Inkheart or The NeverEnding Story. It’s a fun and creative read for all ages. I read it a few years ago, but I still remember it clearly, which says a lot about how much it stayed with me. I really hope there’s a sequel because I would be excited to see where Nathaniel’s magical pen takes him next..
Reading about the Inkworld was exciting. The author described it in such a way that I could picture every place Nathaniel visited. It starts off magical and fun, but when Nathaniel rescues an elf, he accidentally releases an ancient evil. From that point, the story turns into a race to save the Inkworld. I liked how it moved from being light and happy to serious and adventurous. It kept me hooked from start to finish.
This book connected with me on a personal level because it reminded me how powerful imagination can be. It also showed that with creativity comes responsibility. Nathaniel had to fix the problems he caused, and that made him brave and determined. I could relate to that feeling of having to step up when things go wrong.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys magical adventures, especially readers who loved stories like Inkheart or The NeverEnding Story. It’s a fun and creative read for all ages. I read it a few years ago, but I still remember it clearly, which says a lot about how much it stayed with me. I really hope there’s a sequel because I would be excited to see where Nathaniel’s magical pen takes him next..
August 25, 2025
Reading Trankarri: The Boy with a Magical Pen felt like stepping into a portal of pure imagination. The story begins with Nathaniel Hancock, a young artist who receives a pen for Christmas, and I was instantly drawn to the idea of art breathing life into entire worlds.
The concept of the Inkworld, a place where reality is bounded only by creativity, fascinated me. It was both whimsical and thrilling, and it reminded me of why I fell in love with fantasy stories in the first place.
I loved how Christopher Dean weaved deeper layers into what could have been a simple magical adventure. Nathaniel’s act of rescuing an elf felt heroic, but it also showed how even good intentions can set larger, more dangerous events in motion.
The way an ancient evil emerges added tension and urgency to the story, making me feel like I was running alongside Nathaniel, trying to set things right before the Inkworld crumbled. The prose is clear yet vivid, and the pacing is perfect. I never felt bored, and every chapter drew me further into this mesmerizing universe.
By the end, I wasn’t just entertained but also inspired. The book celebrates imagination, responsibility, and courage in such a powerful way that I found myself reflecting on the creative potential within all of us.
As a reader who adores magical adventures with heart, this book gave me everything I hoped for and more. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy tales where art, courage, and storytelling collide to create something unforgettable.
The concept of the Inkworld, a place where reality is bounded only by creativity, fascinated me. It was both whimsical and thrilling, and it reminded me of why I fell in love with fantasy stories in the first place.
I loved how Christopher Dean weaved deeper layers into what could have been a simple magical adventure. Nathaniel’s act of rescuing an elf felt heroic, but it also showed how even good intentions can set larger, more dangerous events in motion.
The way an ancient evil emerges added tension and urgency to the story, making me feel like I was running alongside Nathaniel, trying to set things right before the Inkworld crumbled. The prose is clear yet vivid, and the pacing is perfect. I never felt bored, and every chapter drew me further into this mesmerizing universe.
By the end, I wasn’t just entertained but also inspired. The book celebrates imagination, responsibility, and courage in such a powerful way that I found myself reflecting on the creative potential within all of us.
As a reader who adores magical adventures with heart, this book gave me everything I hoped for and more. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy tales where art, courage, and storytelling collide to create something unforgettable.
December 14, 2025
This book arrived at just the right moment—on my husband's and my first campervan trip. It felt meant to be. The canvas is pure fantasy, painted through Dean's storytelling, ablaze with adventure, and bubbling over with high stakes. Imagination flowed off the pages, keeping me immersed, even as I looked out onto majestic forests and mirror-like lakes.
Trankarri is great for readers who love fantasy’s limitless possibilities and adventurous fun. We begin with Nathaniel’s imagination and play, only to be thrust into the brutal reality of life: alone, beaten, robbed, and too proud. Yet as the story unfolds, hope returns. Nathaniel is a creator who lives for escapism and discovery. His visits to his great-grandfather in England become the catalyst that both grounds him and expands his imagination beyond measure.
Dean beautifully melds the ideas of art and words. Like a picture sparking a story in your mind, his world opens before your eyes—revealing otherworldly characters who are honorable, bold, and beautiful, contrasted with villains who embody corruption, devastation, and ugliness.
The writing is clean and well-paced. We trot across the globe, from Nathaniel’s hometown to his great-grandfather’s enchanted estate, and into a secret realm that feels impossible to imagine. Each page reveals just enough to keep us guessing what comes next.
I can’t wait for Book Two. Dean ends the tale with a satisfying resolution, while planting a mystery that launches the next adventure. With its exciting plot and family-friendly tone, Trankarri is a great read for all ages.
Trankarri is great for readers who love fantasy’s limitless possibilities and adventurous fun. We begin with Nathaniel’s imagination and play, only to be thrust into the brutal reality of life: alone, beaten, robbed, and too proud. Yet as the story unfolds, hope returns. Nathaniel is a creator who lives for escapism and discovery. His visits to his great-grandfather in England become the catalyst that both grounds him and expands his imagination beyond measure.
Dean beautifully melds the ideas of art and words. Like a picture sparking a story in your mind, his world opens before your eyes—revealing otherworldly characters who are honorable, bold, and beautiful, contrasted with villains who embody corruption, devastation, and ugliness.
The writing is clean and well-paced. We trot across the globe, from Nathaniel’s hometown to his great-grandfather’s enchanted estate, and into a secret realm that feels impossible to imagine. Each page reveals just enough to keep us guessing what comes next.
I can’t wait for Book Two. Dean ends the tale with a satisfying resolution, while planting a mystery that launches the next adventure. With its exciting plot and family-friendly tone, Trankarri is a great read for all ages.
August 28, 2025
This book swept me away right from the very beginning. The idea of a magical pen that can bring drawings to life is such a brilliant concept, and the author has executed it beautifully. Nathaniel’s journey from being an innocent young artist to someone who suddenly finds himself responsible for the fate of an entire world is both gripping and emotional.
The world-building of the Inkworld is absolutely enchanting. I loved how every stroke of Nathaniel’s imagination expanded this universe, making it feel alive and limitless. But what really hooked me was how quickly the story shifts from wonder to danger—especially after Nathaniel rescues the elf. The unfolding of darker forces lurking beneath the surface gave the book an edge of suspense I didn’t expect.
The pacing is spot on too. Each chapter leaves you wanting to know what happens next, and the twists are handled in a way that feels both surprising and satisfying. I also really appreciated the themes of responsibility and courage—how Nathaniel has to face the consequences of his actions, even though he never intended to awaken something so dangerous.
Overall, it’s an epic fantasy adventure that captures both imagination and heart. If you enjoy stories where magic feels fresh and creativity itself becomes a kind of power, this one is definitely worth picking up. It’s the kind of tale that makes you believe in the wonder of storytelling all over again.
The world-building of the Inkworld is absolutely enchanting. I loved how every stroke of Nathaniel’s imagination expanded this universe, making it feel alive and limitless. But what really hooked me was how quickly the story shifts from wonder to danger—especially after Nathaniel rescues the elf. The unfolding of darker forces lurking beneath the surface gave the book an edge of suspense I didn’t expect.
The pacing is spot on too. Each chapter leaves you wanting to know what happens next, and the twists are handled in a way that feels both surprising and satisfying. I also really appreciated the themes of responsibility and courage—how Nathaniel has to face the consequences of his actions, even though he never intended to awaken something so dangerous.
Overall, it’s an epic fantasy adventure that captures both imagination and heart. If you enjoy stories where magic feels fresh and creativity itself becomes a kind of power, this one is definitely worth picking up. It’s the kind of tale that makes you believe in the wonder of storytelling all over again.
November 16, 2025
Shockingly refreshing. Seriously. After trudging through a pile of fantasy books written like the authors were allergic to pacing and basic sentence structure, this one was a relief. Christopher Dean can actually write. Characters have rhythm, the world-building doesn’t require a legal team to decode, and the story moves like it actually wants you to keep turning pages.
It’s classic portal fantasy: two cousins, a magical book, a doorway into the unknown, elves, danger, and a villain with a title so dramatic he probably signs birthday cards with it. It leans younger teen in terms of emotional depth, but the craft behind the writing is miles stronger than a lot of what’s floating around the genre right now.
If you want imaginative fantasy without tripping over clunky writing or fifteen paragraphs describing moss, this delivers. Doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it absolutely stands above the “I swear my cat wrote this” titles clogging up the shelves.
It’s classic portal fantasy: two cousins, a magical book, a doorway into the unknown, elves, danger, and a villain with a title so dramatic he probably signs birthday cards with it. It leans younger teen in terms of emotional depth, but the craft behind the writing is miles stronger than a lot of what’s floating around the genre right now.
If you want imaginative fantasy without tripping over clunky writing or fifteen paragraphs describing moss, this delivers. Doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it absolutely stands above the “I swear my cat wrote this” titles clogging up the shelves.
March 9, 2018
This book is about a boy who gets a magical pen that can make his writings become real. When he draws, his creations enter the world of Trankarri. He ends up visiting the world and having to defeat some evil creatures within the world who are trying to get out. I absolutely loved this book. It is probably on my top 5. The authors descriptions were so vivid in parts that really made me feel like I was physically experiencing these things myself. I still have such amazing memories of this book even though I read it a few years ago. The story line was a really cool concept that reminded me of the Chalkzone tv show. I hope there are more to come because I know I will devour them as well!
April 12, 2016
The author gave himself a 5 star of this book which significantly lowered my hopes for the book. brag awards entity gave 5 stars based on a readership of 200+ because their group gave the text an honourable mention. So at this stage only 2 genuine reviews stand for this book.
SPOILERS included!!!!!
This book started out great but as it progressed it got more unbelievable and the story line got into all kinds of problems. This isn't to say some great originals were included like horses riding horses with tiny elves to guide them.
15% of the book was spent in a long, confusing one and only battle. Bucketloads of new characters were introduced right in the last part of the book so you couldn't relate or follow who was who and what they were doing. I felt this let the text down a lot and these characters should have been brought in earlier to get a feel for them and memorise them.
Naths grandfather did awful things to him to toughen him up so he could fight in Inkworld but the boy never even so much as swung a sword. All he did was watch others fight and draw characters. So his grandfather wanted him to fight but he didn't fight. His father lied to him, spied on him, and paid bullies. A lot of terrible things to do to your own grandson. He did it to get back into Inkworld but it begs the question. He had the pen, he had his own masterpieces. Why didn't he just go back? Why use his grandson like that?
The parents are awful and that brings to the front a lot of emotions in the reader if they are a parent. What parent lets a 13 year old (for some reason I was hung up on him being 11) go hiking and fishing ALONE. The time in Inkworld was long and I thought he was gone 24hrs, especially as he was scolded when his mum found him in his room.
At first I felt this was a book that very young readers could enjoy. Swearing in my opinion doesn't have a place in young readers texts so the inclusion of 'crap' and 'crapping' elevated the age level. Also, I quote 'until he came across the shredded bodied.... Black ink stains were splashed on the trees and snow; and in the real world would have been red - blood red'. Excellent visualisations were in my head of shredded and bloodied bodies and at first I didn't think kids would see what I could until it was spelled out for them. The main villain was pretty terrifying too so for these reasons I'd go for 16+.
Aesthetically the book was poorly constructed. The words cut off too close to the spine so you have to force the book open and hold it there to read the word closest to the spine. The double spacing between the lines I'm told were for younger readers but it seemed larger font might be better used for that end result. It was almost like it was done to make the book last longer. The 350 page book would only have been 175 with proper formatting (the author does say he is going to work on this for future books).
On a positive note, the illustrations throughout were nice though not something I'd expect in a book for kids 16+ which is where I landed the age rating from the books content. Opportunities were missed for important illustrations like the map instead of a 3+ page description of the whole thing I got trying to follow the description but an illustration would have made it clear cut. Also the book described a blanket on Naths lap but the illustration to go with it had the blanket on the back of the seat. The concept of a magical pen was great and has so much potential. The illustrations really added volume to the characters the reader builds in their heads.
I don't think I'd read another. I didn't enjoy it enough to give another a try. I think if a second edition were made and things like the map were drawn instead of described and the formatting was 'standard' it would vastly improve the text it would make for a much better read.
I received this book as part of GoodReads giveaway in exchange for a fair review.
SPOILERS included!!!!!
This book started out great but as it progressed it got more unbelievable and the story line got into all kinds of problems. This isn't to say some great originals were included like horses riding horses with tiny elves to guide them.
15% of the book was spent in a long, confusing one and only battle. Bucketloads of new characters were introduced right in the last part of the book so you couldn't relate or follow who was who and what they were doing. I felt this let the text down a lot and these characters should have been brought in earlier to get a feel for them and memorise them.
Naths grandfather did awful things to him to toughen him up so he could fight in Inkworld but the boy never even so much as swung a sword. All he did was watch others fight and draw characters. So his grandfather wanted him to fight but he didn't fight. His father lied to him, spied on him, and paid bullies. A lot of terrible things to do to your own grandson. He did it to get back into Inkworld but it begs the question. He had the pen, he had his own masterpieces. Why didn't he just go back? Why use his grandson like that?
The parents are awful and that brings to the front a lot of emotions in the reader if they are a parent. What parent lets a 13 year old (for some reason I was hung up on him being 11) go hiking and fishing ALONE. The time in Inkworld was long and I thought he was gone 24hrs, especially as he was scolded when his mum found him in his room.
At first I felt this was a book that very young readers could enjoy. Swearing in my opinion doesn't have a place in young readers texts so the inclusion of 'crap' and 'crapping' elevated the age level. Also, I quote 'until he came across the shredded bodied.... Black ink stains were splashed on the trees and snow; and in the real world would have been red - blood red'. Excellent visualisations were in my head of shredded and bloodied bodies and at first I didn't think kids would see what I could until it was spelled out for them. The main villain was pretty terrifying too so for these reasons I'd go for 16+.
Aesthetically the book was poorly constructed. The words cut off too close to the spine so you have to force the book open and hold it there to read the word closest to the spine. The double spacing between the lines I'm told were for younger readers but it seemed larger font might be better used for that end result. It was almost like it was done to make the book last longer. The 350 page book would only have been 175 with proper formatting (the author does say he is going to work on this for future books).
On a positive note, the illustrations throughout were nice though not something I'd expect in a book for kids 16+ which is where I landed the age rating from the books content. Opportunities were missed for important illustrations like the map instead of a 3+ page description of the whole thing I got trying to follow the description but an illustration would have made it clear cut. Also the book described a blanket on Naths lap but the illustration to go with it had the blanket on the back of the seat. The concept of a magical pen was great and has so much potential. The illustrations really added volume to the characters the reader builds in their heads.
I don't think I'd read another. I didn't enjoy it enough to give another a try. I think if a second edition were made and things like the map were drawn instead of described and the formatting was 'standard' it would vastly improve the text it would make for a much better read.
I received this book as part of GoodReads giveaway in exchange for a fair review.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews