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The Doldrums #2
The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse
The stand-alone sequel to The Doldrums, which the New York Times called “a dreamy charmer of a book,” is a second tour-de-force by author-illustrator Nicholas Gannon.
It brims with the spirit of exploration and celebrates the bond of friendship. The exquisite hardcover package features Gannon’s distinctive full color full-page art throughout, as well as black-and-white spot illustrations. The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse is a timeless tale and a beautiful gift for a young reader.
Archer Helmsley’s grandparents—famous explorers who went missing on an iceberg two years ago—are finally coming home. Archer is overjoyed, but he may be the only one. Rumors are flying that Archer’s grandparents were never really abandoned on the iceberg; that they’re making it all up. Archer knows that the rumors are false. With his best friends, Oliver and Adélaïde, and their new neighbor, Kana, Archer sets out during a snowstorm to rescue his grandparents’ reputation.
In the tradition of Roald Dahl, Lemony Snicket, and Brian Selznick, Nicholas Gannon’s wildly imaginative world of The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse is packed with sly humor, an undeniably charming cast of characters, and the thrill of discovering secrets and adventures right in your own backyard.
It brims with the spirit of exploration and celebrates the bond of friendship. The exquisite hardcover package features Gannon’s distinctive full color full-page art throughout, as well as black-and-white spot illustrations. The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse is a timeless tale and a beautiful gift for a young reader.
Archer Helmsley’s grandparents—famous explorers who went missing on an iceberg two years ago—are finally coming home. Archer is overjoyed, but he may be the only one. Rumors are flying that Archer’s grandparents were never really abandoned on the iceberg; that they’re making it all up. Archer knows that the rumors are false. With his best friends, Oliver and Adélaïde, and their new neighbor, Kana, Archer sets out during a snowstorm to rescue his grandparents’ reputation.
In the tradition of Roald Dahl, Lemony Snicket, and Brian Selznick, Nicholas Gannon’s wildly imaginative world of The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse is packed with sly humor, an undeniably charming cast of characters, and the thrill of discovering secrets and adventures right in your own backyard.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2017
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879 people want to read
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January 4, 2018
My video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgiB1...
The Doldrums adventure continues in The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse. While this is a "stand-alone" sequel, meaning you do not have to read the first book to read this, I would still recommend reading it, if not just to see the authors progress as a writer. This is a huge step up from the first one, and I enjoyed the first book. Nicholas Gannon also does all of the illustrations for each book, so you wouldn't want to miss these. The hardcover edition has full-color illustrations as well as smaller black and white ones. I have to mention how beautiful the cover is, it feels very Christmas-y and I'm so glad I read this in winter.
THE STORY:
After coming back from boarding at Raven Wood Academy, Archer finally gets to meet his grandparents; the famous explorers who got lost on an iceberg in the first book. While Archer is ecstatic, the rest of Rosewood is suspicious. The Society has been claiming that the Helmsley's iceberg incident was all a hoax. A snowstorm is on its way and the city of Rosewood is declaring it to be due to the Helmsley curse.
Archer along with Adelaide, Oliver, and their new neighbor Kana set out on an adventure to save their grandparents reputation and expose the truth of what happened in Antarctica.
THE CHARACTERS:
The book follows the main trio from last time, as well as some new faces such as their odd neighbor Kana who can't keep her eyes off Oliver, and Benjamin who was Archer's roommate at boarding school and whose father is a VERY prominent member of the Society. These two new characters along with multiple new side characters creates some fantastic interaction and crafty dialogue that continues to be charming and humorous. There isn't a whole lot of character development or depth to the majority of the cast, but considering this is a middle-grade book I had no problem with it. It's fun to read and that's what matters.
The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse has all the charisma of the first book while also implementing greater pacing, intrigue, mystery, and adventure. It is evident Gannon's writing is stronger in this book and his illustrations never fail to warm your heart. We finally get a look into this adventurers 'Society' that we only got mere mentions of in the first book. From the ending it appears that the third installment will be very promising!
The Doldrums adventure continues in The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse. While this is a "stand-alone" sequel, meaning you do not have to read the first book to read this, I would still recommend reading it, if not just to see the authors progress as a writer. This is a huge step up from the first one, and I enjoyed the first book. Nicholas Gannon also does all of the illustrations for each book, so you wouldn't want to miss these. The hardcover edition has full-color illustrations as well as smaller black and white ones. I have to mention how beautiful the cover is, it feels very Christmas-y and I'm so glad I read this in winter.
THE STORY:
After coming back from boarding at Raven Wood Academy, Archer finally gets to meet his grandparents; the famous explorers who got lost on an iceberg in the first book. While Archer is ecstatic, the rest of Rosewood is suspicious. The Society has been claiming that the Helmsley's iceberg incident was all a hoax. A snowstorm is on its way and the city of Rosewood is declaring it to be due to the Helmsley curse.
Archer along with Adelaide, Oliver, and their new neighbor Kana set out on an adventure to save their grandparents reputation and expose the truth of what happened in Antarctica.
THE CHARACTERS:
The book follows the main trio from last time, as well as some new faces such as their odd neighbor Kana who can't keep her eyes off Oliver, and Benjamin who was Archer's roommate at boarding school and whose father is a VERY prominent member of the Society. These two new characters along with multiple new side characters creates some fantastic interaction and crafty dialogue that continues to be charming and humorous. There isn't a whole lot of character development or depth to the majority of the cast, but considering this is a middle-grade book I had no problem with it. It's fun to read and that's what matters.
The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse has all the charisma of the first book while also implementing greater pacing, intrigue, mystery, and adventure. It is evident Gannon's writing is stronger in this book and his illustrations never fail to warm your heart. We finally get a look into this adventurers 'Society' that we only got mere mentions of in the first book. From the ending it appears that the third installment will be very promising!
Want to read
May 3, 2016I'm so excited for this book, I need it in my hands now!
March 25, 2022
This book was just as whimsical and charming as the first. 'The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse' follows Archer and his friends as they navigate through his grandparents' surprising arrival and the "curse" that follows. This book is definitely one to look out for if you are into middle-grade novels and long to explore the unknown along with some fun, interesting characters. The writing is also so much better in this book than the first, and the story follows so much better in this one. The illustrations, which are my favourite part of these books, are scattered throughout the book and add so much life to the story.
It almost creates this desire in me to seek out my own adventure instead of waiting for it to find me.
3 stars.
It almost creates this desire in me to seek out my own adventure instead of waiting for it to find me.
3 stars.
October 7, 2017
Originally reviewed for YA Books Central: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
The Doldrums are back in this mystery and intrigue-laden Middle Grade continuation. Though it’s definitely a sequel, the story has been crafted in such a way that readers needn’t have discovered book #1 to enjoy and fully comprehend The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse. Here, Archer (and readers by extension) finally meet Archer’s famous/infamous grandparents, and are given their first look into the inner-workings of the exploration society they belong to. But as it turns out, the society has some shady dealings afoot. And the disappearance of Ralph and Rachel Helmsley may not have been an accident at all.
While there are consistent themes of friendship across both books, this one branches out in several varied respects. First, there’s Archer’s chance at a relationship with the grandparents his mother has kept him away from since he was a baby. Will they be everything he’s hoped and longed for, or is there something to the rumors swirling about them? There is the mid-book addition of a possible new female member to Archer’s trio of friends. And then there’s the difficult matter of Archer’s boarding school friend and roommate—who happens to be the son of the man the Helmsley’s suspect of arranging the iceberg incident. It’s this last point where Archer is faced with the difficult task of empathizing with someone he cares for, but believes is being misled. It also presents him with an opportunity to NOT judge someone by their family ties—which is a grace he’s not being afforded by most of his own city.
On that last note, it’s worth mentioning that there is an added conflict thread involving a popular local paper that’s willing to leap to accusatory conclusions about the long-lost Helmsleys. The readiness with which most of the city’s population believe this tabloid-worthy gossip is both timely and sadly believable. It also carries alienating consequences for Archer and his friends.
As it was with the first book, Gannon’s illustrations are a tremendously artful source of charm and vintage ambiance. Whether it’s the full page or small portrait segments, black-and-white or richly colored, the detailing is distinct and affecting.
Archer’s mother is still a controlling, wretched, and borderline emotionally abusive source of side antagonism on the outskirts of the main plot. And unfortunately, we aren’t privileged with much by way of character growth in her, or the reasoning behind why she’s so uncaring toward her own parents. But at the same time, she is perhaps a broad-stroke example to young readers of an irrational and callous misuse of parental authority.
Ultimately this seems a more complex story, but one that’s been executed with the same deft quality as the first book in the series.
The Doldrums are back in this mystery and intrigue-laden Middle Grade continuation. Though it’s definitely a sequel, the story has been crafted in such a way that readers needn’t have discovered book #1 to enjoy and fully comprehend The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse. Here, Archer (and readers by extension) finally meet Archer’s famous/infamous grandparents, and are given their first look into the inner-workings of the exploration society they belong to. But as it turns out, the society has some shady dealings afoot. And the disappearance of Ralph and Rachel Helmsley may not have been an accident at all.
While there are consistent themes of friendship across both books, this one branches out in several varied respects. First, there’s Archer’s chance at a relationship with the grandparents his mother has kept him away from since he was a baby. Will they be everything he’s hoped and longed for, or is there something to the rumors swirling about them? There is the mid-book addition of a possible new female member to Archer’s trio of friends. And then there’s the difficult matter of Archer’s boarding school friend and roommate—who happens to be the son of the man the Helmsley’s suspect of arranging the iceberg incident. It’s this last point where Archer is faced with the difficult task of empathizing with someone he cares for, but believes is being misled. It also presents him with an opportunity to NOT judge someone by their family ties—which is a grace he’s not being afforded by most of his own city.
On that last note, it’s worth mentioning that there is an added conflict thread involving a popular local paper that’s willing to leap to accusatory conclusions about the long-lost Helmsleys. The readiness with which most of the city’s population believe this tabloid-worthy gossip is both timely and sadly believable. It also carries alienating consequences for Archer and his friends.
As it was with the first book, Gannon’s illustrations are a tremendously artful source of charm and vintage ambiance. Whether it’s the full page or small portrait segments, black-and-white or richly colored, the detailing is distinct and affecting.
Archer’s mother is still a controlling, wretched, and borderline emotionally abusive source of side antagonism on the outskirts of the main plot. And unfortunately, we aren’t privileged with much by way of character growth in her, or the reasoning behind why she’s so uncaring toward her own parents. But at the same time, she is perhaps a broad-stroke example to young readers of an irrational and callous misuse of parental authority.
Ultimately this seems a more complex story, but one that’s been executed with the same deft quality as the first book in the series.
September 4, 2020
Another whimsical, charming book for dreamers! I loved it just as much as the 1st, maybe even more! Sooo good!! The core of the 2nd book is also friendship, & its importance. These 3 friends are so amazing together, & I love reading about them on their adventures. They had a whole new one this time, & it was a lot more feasible for them than their last lol I love how willing & determined Oliver & Adélaïde are in helping Archer on his mission. We are also introduced to a character who joins their friend group, Kana. I LOVED her. She was such an interesting, unique character. We have a few characters that are villains, or not very likable. They were all done very well. Each bad in their own ways, & so interesting. Archers mom is still awful in my opinion lol I know she means well, but gesh..she is, however, a LITTLE bit better in this one. I ADORED the grandparents. What cool ones to have!! No wonder he wants to be just like them! This book had a ton of adventure, humor, friendship, & whimsy lol I loved it! I SEARCHED the internet for info, b/c I need a zillion more. I found an interview from Nov ‘17, & the author said he was working on 2 other books (for other authors I believe), & continuing The Doldrums adventure!! It’s been almost 3 years since that interview so🤞🤞🙏🏻🙏🏻 Another gorgeous cover, & absolutely stunning illustrations all throughout this book by the author as well.😍😍So impressed by everything about these books. Highly recommend!!💜💜
Synopsis for the 1st book: Archer B. Helmsley has grown up in a house full of oddities and treasures collected by his grandparents, the famous explorers. He knows every nook and cranny. He knows them all too well. After all, ever since his grandparents went missing on an iceberg, his mother barely lets him leave the house.
Archer B. Helmsley longs for adventure. Grand adventures, with parachutes and exotic sunsets and interesting characters. But how can he have an adventure when he can't leave his house?
It helps that he has friends like Adélaïde L. Belmont, who must have had many adventures since she ended up with a wooden leg. (Perhaps a crocodile ate it. Perhaps not.) And Oliver Glub. Oliver will worry about all the details (so that Archer doesn't have to). And so Archer, Adélaïde, and Oliver make a plan. A plan to get out of the house, out of their town entirely. It's a good plan.
Well, it's not bad, anyway.
But nothing goes quite as they expect.
Synopsis for the 1st book: Archer B. Helmsley has grown up in a house full of oddities and treasures collected by his grandparents, the famous explorers. He knows every nook and cranny. He knows them all too well. After all, ever since his grandparents went missing on an iceberg, his mother barely lets him leave the house.
Archer B. Helmsley longs for adventure. Grand adventures, with parachutes and exotic sunsets and interesting characters. But how can he have an adventure when he can't leave his house?
It helps that he has friends like Adélaïde L. Belmont, who must have had many adventures since she ended up with a wooden leg. (Perhaps a crocodile ate it. Perhaps not.) And Oliver Glub. Oliver will worry about all the details (so that Archer doesn't have to). And so Archer, Adélaïde, and Oliver make a plan. A plan to get out of the house, out of their town entirely. It's a good plan.
Well, it's not bad, anyway.
But nothing goes quite as they expect.
December 26, 2020
This was a lot of fun and I really liked the Christmas atmosphere. But I think the first book was still better. Mainly because the first book was more amusing and humorous. While I enjoyed all the characters, I also felt one of them should have had more of a conclusion. I really hope there will be more books that can wrap things up a bit more.
August 31, 2020
This was the second book in The Doldrums series. I liked this one a lot more than the first. Nicholas Ganon's art work is always spectacular, but the plot in this story was far better than the first book.
January 15, 2018
Such a cute book. The illustrations are utterly gorgeous. I think I enjoyed book 2 even more than the first part. There was more action.
January 15, 2020
It truly IS a dreamy charmer of a book. A truly fantastic and whimsical read with instantly fall-in-love characters. It was so exciting and fun that it became one of my instant all time faves.
January 1, 2021
A cute book and a fantastic start into the new year.
This one had more action than the first book which I really enjoyed.
This one had more action than the first book which I really enjoyed.
January 18, 2018
This was so much fun, and it made me so happy. I'm really glad I picked this up.
July 30, 2018
I picked this book up without realizing right away that it was a young adult book. Even after I realized, the book was still not great. It was apparently a sequel to a book called The Doldrums. In this book, Archer Helmsley who is....I don't know, they never say his age. He is excited because his grandparents are coming home. They have been lost on an iceberg for two years.
But apparently the Helmsley's were part of a society for explorers. And there are people in that society who didn't want them to come back from the iceberg. And those people are determined to cast the Helmsley's out of the society and besmirch their good name. They invent the Helmsley Curse.
It's up to Archer and his friends to clear the Helmsley name.
And the book was ludicrous. You get very little introduction to the characters, learning nothing about their back stories or any real summary of the first book. And I'm not sure if the author was borrowing a bit from Harry Potter.
These characters and their ludicrous adventures!
But apparently the Helmsley's were part of a society for explorers. And there are people in that society who didn't want them to come back from the iceberg. And those people are determined to cast the Helmsley's out of the society and besmirch their good name. They invent the Helmsley Curse.
It's up to Archer and his friends to clear the Helmsley name.
And the book was ludicrous. You get very little introduction to the characters, learning nothing about their back stories or any real summary of the first book. And I'm not sure if the author was borrowing a bit from Harry Potter.
These characters and their ludicrous adventures!
December 28, 2020
I'm a little disappointed that this book is only a 3-star read for me, because it has one of the most gorgeous illustrations I've ever seen. But it fell a bit flat, in my opinion.
In the previous book there were already a lot of unanswered questions and some loose ends/things not explained properly, but seeing how there's a second book, it didn't bother me that much. However, after finishing the sequel I must say I'm still left with tons of questions and barely any answers.
I like the atmosphere of the book and the setting is lovely. The importance of friendship was also shown very well, but ultimately the story didn't grab me. I wish there was more explanations, a bit more worldbuilding and of course, more resolved storylines. Because at this moment, it feels like a "middle" book, but I'm not sure if the series will ever be continued.
I truly enjoyed the illustrations but overall, I think this book might appeal to other readers more.
In the previous book there were already a lot of unanswered questions and some loose ends/things not explained properly, but seeing how there's a second book, it didn't bother me that much. However, after finishing the sequel I must say I'm still left with tons of questions and barely any answers.
I like the atmosphere of the book and the setting is lovely. The importance of friendship was also shown very well, but ultimately the story didn't grab me. I wish there was more explanations, a bit more worldbuilding and of course, more resolved storylines. Because at this moment, it feels like a "middle" book, but I'm not sure if the series will ever be continued.
I truly enjoyed the illustrations but overall, I think this book might appeal to other readers more.
November 16, 2017
After two long-awaited years, I finally got to read it! This one really expanded the plot where the first began. While the first was mostly spent introducing us to the world and growing the characters, (as it rightly should) this one took all that and thrust it into a moving plot. Lovely just as the first was, and perhaps even more so! The descriptions are very rich and the illustrations! Amazing read!
December 6, 2017
A fantastic story about friendship and family. The illustrations are just so amazing. The story line keeps you hooked, no matter your age.
July 10, 2018
I just love these books! The illustrations are gorgeous, and the story is just the right combination of adventure, mystery, and comradery. Super middle grade books, I highly recommend!
November 9, 2017
Oma und Opa Helmsley sind wieder da! Das unerwartete und rasche Auftauchen der beiden lang Vermissten überrascht den Leser gleichermaßen wie den Protagonisten Archer, der sich seit Jahren die fantastischsten Geschichten über den Verbleib seiner Großeltern ausdenkt. Ich fand es klasse, dass mit ihrem Erscheinen zwar das größte Mysterium aus dem ersten Band ein Ende findet, gleichzeitig aber umso mehr Fragen nach dem Warum und Wie aufgeworfen werden. Der rasante Einstieg in die Geschichte hat mir deutlich gemacht, dass der Erzählton in dieser Fortsetzung flotter ist als noch im ersten Buch und man diesmal innerhalb der Geschichte vermutlich noch mehr Spannung erwarten darf. Mich hat der Einstieg positiv überrascht, denn ich war unmittelbar am Ort des Geschehens, in Rosewood, der Heimat von Archer Helmsley und Sitz der mysteriösen Entdecker-Gesellschaft, zu deren Mitgliedern sich Oma und Opa Helmsley vor ihrem mysteriösen Verschwinden zählten.
Zwei Jahre lang hatte er gehofft, dass seine Großeltern noch am Leben waren. Zwei Jahre. Wenn sie nicht auf dem Eisberg gewesen wären, wo dann? (S.54)
Archer und seine beiden besten Freunde Oliver und Adélaïde sind nach ihrer gefährlichen Begegnung mit den Tigern im Museum (wer die Geschichte noch nicht kennt, sollte sie unbedingt in Band 1 nachlesen!) unzertrennlicher denn je. Selbst die Tatsache, dass Archer zur Strafe die Knopffabrik (die Schule, die er gemeinsam mit Oliver und Adélaïde besucht) verlassen und in ein Internat ziehen musste, schweißt die drei umso mehr zusammen und verstärkt ihren Wunsch, die Wahrheit über das Verschwinden von Archers Großeltern herauszufinden, damit Archer wieder nach Hause kommen darf. Was Archers Situation nicht einfacher macht, sind die Gerüchte, die in ganz Rosewood um das plötzliche Wiederauftauchen der Helmsleys kursieren. Als Leserin konnte ich mich sehr gut in den Protagonisten Archer hineinversetzen, der nicht nur bekümmert darüber ist, wie schlecht die Leute über seine Großeltern sprechen, sondern auch, wie sehr seine Eltern versuchen, ihn von all dem fernzuhalten und abzuschotten.
„Wir wollen nicht, dass du dir wegen irgendwas Sorgen machst, das am Ende gar nicht stimmt. Ich weiß nicht, was in Wahrheit vorgefallen ist, aber hoffen wir mal, es ist nicht schlimmer als die Gerüchte.“ (S.58)
Dass sich die drei Kinder den strickten Anweisungen von Archers Eltern wiedersetzen und auf eigene Faust ermitteln, ist bei ihrem unersättlichen Drang nach Abenteuern vorprogrammiert. Nicholas Gannon überzeugt in diesem Band mit einem einzigartigen und fesselndem Plot, indem die Kinder vieles wagen, um die Wahrheit herauszufinden, und sich dadurch in so manch gefährliche Situation hinein katapultieren. Diesmal führt sie ihre Suche nicht nur wieder an ihren geheimen Treffpunkt auf den Dächern ihrer Häuser, sondern auch in einen zauberhaften Süßigkeitenladen und auch zum berüchtigten Barrow’s Bay, an dem sich das prachtvolle Hauptquartier der Entdecker-Gesellschaft befindet. Wie in der Beschreibung von Archers Zuhause, hatte ich auch in dieser Geschichte das Gefühl, mich mit Betreten des verwinkelten Hauses der Gesellschaft, an einen verzauberten Ort zu begeben, an dem jeder Raum ein wunderbares Geheimnis verbirgt. Das Setting ist auch in diesem Fortsetzungsroman einfach wieder grandios, zieht einen in seinen Bann und lädt vor allen Dingen zum Träumen ein.
Gleich würde er die Welt seines Großvaters betreten – eine Welt, in der Forschergeist, Mut und Verwegenheit beste Freundschaft pflegten. (S. 95)
Sprachlich und illustratorisch ist Nicholas Gannon ein wahrer Meister seines Fachs! Mit seinem unglaublichem Gespür für eine bildhafte und sinnliche Sprache, lässt er wunderbare Bilder im Kopf entstehen, die dann von seinen an Schönheit kaum zu übertreffenden Illustrationen noch verstärkt werden. Der einzigartige und farbenprächtige Zeichenstil durchzieht den gesamten Roman und hat mich immer wieder wohlig aufseufzen lassen, wenn ich eine weitere Seite umblättert habe und mich in ein neues unbekanntes Bild verlieren konnte. Ich bin verliebt in Nicholas Gannons wunderbare Welt, die er auf jeder Seite dieses Buches und in jedem einzelnen Satz entstehen lässt und gleichzeitig in jeder Illustration bildlich ausdrückt. Ich kann nicht aufhören zu schwärmen, würde ich mir doch am liebsten die Seiten seiner Geschichten unter das Kopfkissen legen, um auch nachts von ihnen zu träumen.
Ich hoffe sehr, dass dies nicht der letzte Band um Archer Helmsley sein wird, denn ich konnte mich kaum von ihm und seiner Geschichte trennen. Hoffnung macht mir, dass am Ende der Geschichte einige Fragen offen bleiben, die ich hier nur anführe für all jene, die mir vielleicht bei der Beantwortung weiterhelfen können: Was befindet sich in der Truhe, die Adélaïde von Archer geschenkt bekommt? Warum hat Kana eine graue Haarsträhne und was hat Mr Birthwhistle damit zu tun? Wer wird der neue Präsident der Gesellschaft (und hat die Andeutung der Namensänderung von Mr Dalligold etwas damit zu tun)? Was geschieht mit Benjamins und Archers Freundschaft und werden die Kinder wirklich Greenhorns? Wenn einer von euch das Buch gelesen hat und Antworten weiß, dann schreibt sie mir gerne in die Kommentare. Wenn ihr über die Fragen genauso rätselt wie ich, dann lässt das sehr hoffen, das noch eine weitere Fortsetzung erscheinen wird!
Fazit & Bewertung
Die höchst eigenartige Verschwörung von Barrow’s Bay ist schon jetzt mein absoluter Liebling in diesem Monat (und dabei hat der Monat gerade erst begonnen! Doch ich glaube, dass dieses tolle Buch einfach nicht mehr übertroffen werden kann). Ich liebe Nicholas Gannons Geschichte um Archer, Oliver und Adélaïde, die dem Geheimnis um das Verschwinden von Archers Großeltern auf die Spur kommen wollen und sich dabei in große Gefahr begeben. Der wunderbarer Schreibstil des Autors hat mich wieder genauso schwärmen und mich in die Geschichte träumen lassen, wie die wirklich einzigartigen und grandiosen Illustrationen des Autors. Dieses Buch ist für jeden Buchliebhaber ein wahrer Schatz im Bücherregal und kann meiner Meinung nach mit keinem zeitgenössischen anderen Kinderbuchautoren verglichen werden. Es ist grandios!
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Zwei Jahre lang hatte er gehofft, dass seine Großeltern noch am Leben waren. Zwei Jahre. Wenn sie nicht auf dem Eisberg gewesen wären, wo dann? (S.54)
Archer und seine beiden besten Freunde Oliver und Adélaïde sind nach ihrer gefährlichen Begegnung mit den Tigern im Museum (wer die Geschichte noch nicht kennt, sollte sie unbedingt in Band 1 nachlesen!) unzertrennlicher denn je. Selbst die Tatsache, dass Archer zur Strafe die Knopffabrik (die Schule, die er gemeinsam mit Oliver und Adélaïde besucht) verlassen und in ein Internat ziehen musste, schweißt die drei umso mehr zusammen und verstärkt ihren Wunsch, die Wahrheit über das Verschwinden von Archers Großeltern herauszufinden, damit Archer wieder nach Hause kommen darf. Was Archers Situation nicht einfacher macht, sind die Gerüchte, die in ganz Rosewood um das plötzliche Wiederauftauchen der Helmsleys kursieren. Als Leserin konnte ich mich sehr gut in den Protagonisten Archer hineinversetzen, der nicht nur bekümmert darüber ist, wie schlecht die Leute über seine Großeltern sprechen, sondern auch, wie sehr seine Eltern versuchen, ihn von all dem fernzuhalten und abzuschotten.
„Wir wollen nicht, dass du dir wegen irgendwas Sorgen machst, das am Ende gar nicht stimmt. Ich weiß nicht, was in Wahrheit vorgefallen ist, aber hoffen wir mal, es ist nicht schlimmer als die Gerüchte.“ (S.58)
Dass sich die drei Kinder den strickten Anweisungen von Archers Eltern wiedersetzen und auf eigene Faust ermitteln, ist bei ihrem unersättlichen Drang nach Abenteuern vorprogrammiert. Nicholas Gannon überzeugt in diesem Band mit einem einzigartigen und fesselndem Plot, indem die Kinder vieles wagen, um die Wahrheit herauszufinden, und sich dadurch in so manch gefährliche Situation hinein katapultieren. Diesmal führt sie ihre Suche nicht nur wieder an ihren geheimen Treffpunkt auf den Dächern ihrer Häuser, sondern auch in einen zauberhaften Süßigkeitenladen und auch zum berüchtigten Barrow’s Bay, an dem sich das prachtvolle Hauptquartier der Entdecker-Gesellschaft befindet. Wie in der Beschreibung von Archers Zuhause, hatte ich auch in dieser Geschichte das Gefühl, mich mit Betreten des verwinkelten Hauses der Gesellschaft, an einen verzauberten Ort zu begeben, an dem jeder Raum ein wunderbares Geheimnis verbirgt. Das Setting ist auch in diesem Fortsetzungsroman einfach wieder grandios, zieht einen in seinen Bann und lädt vor allen Dingen zum Träumen ein.
Gleich würde er die Welt seines Großvaters betreten – eine Welt, in der Forschergeist, Mut und Verwegenheit beste Freundschaft pflegten. (S. 95)
Sprachlich und illustratorisch ist Nicholas Gannon ein wahrer Meister seines Fachs! Mit seinem unglaublichem Gespür für eine bildhafte und sinnliche Sprache, lässt er wunderbare Bilder im Kopf entstehen, die dann von seinen an Schönheit kaum zu übertreffenden Illustrationen noch verstärkt werden. Der einzigartige und farbenprächtige Zeichenstil durchzieht den gesamten Roman und hat mich immer wieder wohlig aufseufzen lassen, wenn ich eine weitere Seite umblättert habe und mich in ein neues unbekanntes Bild verlieren konnte. Ich bin verliebt in Nicholas Gannons wunderbare Welt, die er auf jeder Seite dieses Buches und in jedem einzelnen Satz entstehen lässt und gleichzeitig in jeder Illustration bildlich ausdrückt. Ich kann nicht aufhören zu schwärmen, würde ich mir doch am liebsten die Seiten seiner Geschichten unter das Kopfkissen legen, um auch nachts von ihnen zu träumen.
Ich hoffe sehr, dass dies nicht der letzte Band um Archer Helmsley sein wird, denn ich konnte mich kaum von ihm und seiner Geschichte trennen. Hoffnung macht mir, dass am Ende der Geschichte einige Fragen offen bleiben, die ich hier nur anführe für all jene, die mir vielleicht bei der Beantwortung weiterhelfen können: Was befindet sich in der Truhe, die Adélaïde von Archer geschenkt bekommt? Warum hat Kana eine graue Haarsträhne und was hat Mr Birthwhistle damit zu tun? Wer wird der neue Präsident der Gesellschaft (und hat die Andeutung der Namensänderung von Mr Dalligold etwas damit zu tun)? Was geschieht mit Benjamins und Archers Freundschaft und werden die Kinder wirklich Greenhorns? Wenn einer von euch das Buch gelesen hat und Antworten weiß, dann schreibt sie mir gerne in die Kommentare. Wenn ihr über die Fragen genauso rätselt wie ich, dann lässt das sehr hoffen, das noch eine weitere Fortsetzung erscheinen wird!
Fazit & Bewertung
Die höchst eigenartige Verschwörung von Barrow’s Bay ist schon jetzt mein absoluter Liebling in diesem Monat (und dabei hat der Monat gerade erst begonnen! Doch ich glaube, dass dieses tolle Buch einfach nicht mehr übertroffen werden kann). Ich liebe Nicholas Gannons Geschichte um Archer, Oliver und Adélaïde, die dem Geheimnis um das Verschwinden von Archers Großeltern auf die Spur kommen wollen und sich dabei in große Gefahr begeben. Der wunderbarer Schreibstil des Autors hat mich wieder genauso schwärmen und mich in die Geschichte träumen lassen, wie die wirklich einzigartigen und grandiosen Illustrationen des Autors. Dieses Buch ist für jeden Buchliebhaber ein wahrer Schatz im Bücherregal und kann meiner Meinung nach mit keinem zeitgenössischen anderen Kinderbuchautoren verglichen werden. Es ist grandios!
https://pantaubooks.wordpress.com/
December 27, 2017
Gannon, Nicholas The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse, 344 pages. HarperCollins, 2017 $18.00. Language: G(0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.
Archer Helmsley wants to be a great adventurer, but his parents do everything they can to keep him away from adventure and thrills. To most he is know as a troublemaker. The people he idolizes are his grandparents, who are worldwide known adventurers. But when his grandparents show up on the front door, he knows that he doesn’t have to worry about what his mother and father think anymore.
This book has a very exciting plot that gets more and more complicated with every event. It has very good morals in it. The characters grow and develop throughout the entire book. It is probably the most detailed and expressive book I have ever read. There is no violence, though there are very suspenseful parts. It is very clean and easy to tell what is going on. I would definitely recommend this book to others, though I suggest you read the first book before you read this one.
EL, MS - ADVISABLE. CH, Student Reviewer, 7th Grade
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
Archer Helmsley wants to be a great adventurer, but his parents do everything they can to keep him away from adventure and thrills. To most he is know as a troublemaker. The people he idolizes are his grandparents, who are worldwide known adventurers. But when his grandparents show up on the front door, he knows that he doesn’t have to worry about what his mother and father think anymore.
This book has a very exciting plot that gets more and more complicated with every event. It has very good morals in it. The characters grow and develop throughout the entire book. It is probably the most detailed and expressive book I have ever read. There is no violence, though there are very suspenseful parts. It is very clean and easy to tell what is going on. I would definitely recommend this book to others, though I suggest you read the first book before you read this one.
EL, MS - ADVISABLE. CH, Student Reviewer, 7th Grade
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
November 25, 2017
3 stars. This book fell somewhat flat compared to the original Doldrums. Still weird, but the plot wasn't as interesting or exciting despite having the potential to be. The main character, Archer, seemed especially bland for a supposed hero and adventurer. In my opinion, Oliver was the star of the book. And I didn't understand the allusions on the final couple pages of the book.
August 19, 2018
I enjoyed The Curse of the Helmsley’s but not quite as much as the first book. This book still had beautiful illustrations but the story meandered quite a bit and took a while to hold my interest. The ending left some unfinished business so I’m wondering if there will be another book in this series. Not a bad book but definitely a bit disjointed and at times the plot was a bit shaky.
February 17, 2018
I couldn't help but pick this book up when I saw it sitting on the shelves at the local library. It's beautifully published with gorgeous illustrations throughout. The story was heartwarming with just the right amount of adventure for kids.
September 6, 2018
I enjoyed reading this sequel with my daughter. There is certainly more action in the second book than in the first. I would recommend reading the first book before picking this one up to understand the backgrounds of most of the characters.
The author dropped plenty of hints of this series continuing. I will likely keep reading it as long as my daughter is engaged. The writing is funny and the illustrations really are wonderful.
My only nitpick is that I wish that the new characters in this book had have received a little more scrutiny (Kana, but particularly Benjamin and how he relates to both his father and Arthur). The book begins with Arthur about to go on Christmas break, about to go home, away from his new boarding school. He is roommates with a boy named Benjamin, and the two like each other. They learn later on that they have more in common than they thought, and they end up somewhat at odds with each other (because of Benjamin's father and his relationship to the Helmsley family), but its complicated. There are some moments in the story where Benjamin acts out in loyalty to both his father and Arthur, but the motives behind his actions are unclear (especially with his father, as the only thing known about that relationship is that Benjamin doesn't spend a lot of time with his father). There's a fair amount of assuming that because Benjamin is his father's son, he automatically sticks up for his dad, and that because Benjamin got to know Arthur as a roommate and liked him, he automatically helps a friend. Perhaps the next book in the series will continue the story of Benjamin.
The author dropped plenty of hints of this series continuing. I will likely keep reading it as long as my daughter is engaged. The writing is funny and the illustrations really are wonderful.
My only nitpick is that I wish that the new characters in this book had have received a little more scrutiny (Kana, but particularly Benjamin and how he relates to both his father and Arthur). The book begins with Arthur about to go on Christmas break, about to go home, away from his new boarding school. He is roommates with a boy named Benjamin, and the two like each other. They learn later on that they have more in common than they thought, and they end up somewhat at odds with each other (because of Benjamin's father and his relationship to the Helmsley family), but its complicated. There are some moments in the story where Benjamin acts out in loyalty to both his father and Arthur, but the motives behind his actions are unclear (especially with his father, as the only thing known about that relationship is that Benjamin doesn't spend a lot of time with his father). There's a fair amount of assuming that because Benjamin is his father's son, he automatically sticks up for his dad, and that because Benjamin got to know Arthur as a roommate and liked him, he automatically helps a friend. Perhaps the next book in the series will continue the story of Benjamin.
January 7, 2018
Archers Großeltern sind endlich zurück. Jedoch bringen sie eine Menge Schnee und Drama mit. Denn die ganze Stadt denkt, die Familie hat die Stadt verflucht und ist gefährlich. Archer und seine Freunde sind auf geheimer Mission und versuchen seine Großeltern zu entlasten und die Wahrheit ans Licht zu bringen.
Das Cover und die Illustrationen im Buch sind mal wieder atemberaubend schön. Sie bezaubern nicht nur mich, sonder auch mehrere meiner Freunde.
Der Schreibstil war ebenfalls wieder toll. Fließend, locker, mitreißend und nie langweilig.
Die Story war toll und ich fand es super endlich mehr über die Society und deren Mitglieder zu erfahren. Auch Archers Großeltern endlich kennen zu lernen war ein Highlight. In diesem Buch erfährt der Leser nicht allzu viel über ihre Abenteuer, aber doch ein kleines bisschen. Am besten sind jedoch immer noch die Stellen, an denen Archer, Oliver und Adelaide etwas zusammen unternehmen und Dinge aushecken. Die drei haben immer viel Spaß miteinander und ergänzen sich sehr gut.
In diesem Buch lernt der Leser einige neue Charaktere kennen, von denen wir hoffentlich in den kommenden Büchern mehr lesen werden. Denn ich finde alle "Guten" wirklich interessant. Auch scheint Archers Mutter etwas von ihrer strengen Anti - "Haltung gegen die Society abzuweichen.
Ich bin super gespannt, was im nächsten Buch passiert und kann das Buch nur empfehlen
Das Cover und die Illustrationen im Buch sind mal wieder atemberaubend schön. Sie bezaubern nicht nur mich, sonder auch mehrere meiner Freunde.
Der Schreibstil war ebenfalls wieder toll. Fließend, locker, mitreißend und nie langweilig.
Die Story war toll und ich fand es super endlich mehr über die Society und deren Mitglieder zu erfahren. Auch Archers Großeltern endlich kennen zu lernen war ein Highlight. In diesem Buch erfährt der Leser nicht allzu viel über ihre Abenteuer, aber doch ein kleines bisschen. Am besten sind jedoch immer noch die Stellen, an denen Archer, Oliver und Adelaide etwas zusammen unternehmen und Dinge aushecken. Die drei haben immer viel Spaß miteinander und ergänzen sich sehr gut.
In diesem Buch lernt der Leser einige neue Charaktere kennen, von denen wir hoffentlich in den kommenden Büchern mehr lesen werden. Denn ich finde alle "Guten" wirklich interessant. Auch scheint Archers Mutter etwas von ihrer strengen Anti - "Haltung gegen die Society abzuweichen.
Ich bin super gespannt, was im nächsten Buch passiert und kann das Buch nur empfehlen
December 17, 2017
I forced myself to finish the first book because I had the second one sitting next on my nightstand. I can't say I didn't enjoy it at all. I did love the illustrations, but the story wandered and whined a bit too much for my liking. However, by the time I had plowed through the first half of this one, I felt like Nicholas Gannon had found his way and was prepared to end somewhat triumphantly at the end of book two. Did my opinion change? Not really. I don't know whether I enjoyed the ending or just enjoyed having reached the end. I won't look for a book three because I think one and two should have finished the story, but I will miss those illustrations and hope that the author/illustrator will find it in his heart to illustrated some picture books that I can add to my collection. By all means, if you enjoy large heavy books with meandering stories that end well, you should read them both!
November 8, 2018
This was a really neat sequel! Gannon does a great job of setting the story up, not telling the ending of book 1, but revealing just the right amount of details so you do not get confused with the new story. I like how he only builds on the slightly eccentric town and its residents. Archer is a really great character, displaying the classic hero traits – his only major fault being that he never wants to involve his friends in his misadventures. Thankfully, his friends force him to involve them – it leads to a fun book! The story Gannon crafts is engaging, humourous, and keeps you wondering what will happen as the plot thickens. One thing I really love is that Gannon marvelously illustrates the novel with several two-page spreads and countless pictures throughout the chapters, adding an entire dimension to the book itself. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! Please note I received a free review copy of this book.
September 6, 2019
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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This is the sequel to ‘The Doldrums’ by Nicholas Gannon. I loved ‘The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse’ just as much as the first book! It’s so much fun and the plot is really exciting and fast moving. I still didn’t connect with the characters as much as I wanted to, but it is a children’s book so is targeted at a younger audience. While I would love a third book, I am happy with how this once wrapped up and I’m satisfied with where we left off.
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“The best you can do is what you think’s right and hope others will do the same.” -222
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“It would appear the Helmsley Curse is far from over.” -245
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“When you turn someone who is very kind into someone terrible, technically you’re the terrible one.” -292
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I’m obsessed with this bookmark (and all the bookmarks in the Etsy store) by @biggerprint! Head over to her Etsy store (link in my Instagram bio) and use the code LATENIGHT for 20% off and a free limited edition dog-themed bookmark!
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This is the sequel to ‘The Doldrums’ by Nicholas Gannon. I loved ‘The Doldrums and the Helmsley Curse’ just as much as the first book! It’s so much fun and the plot is really exciting and fast moving. I still didn’t connect with the characters as much as I wanted to, but it is a children’s book so is targeted at a younger audience. While I would love a third book, I am happy with how this once wrapped up and I’m satisfied with where we left off.
.
“The best you can do is what you think’s right and hope others will do the same.” -222
.
“It would appear the Helmsley Curse is far from over.” -245
.
“When you turn someone who is very kind into someone terrible, technically you’re the terrible one.” -292
.
I’m obsessed with this bookmark (and all the bookmarks in the Etsy store) by @biggerprint! Head over to her Etsy store (link in my Instagram bio) and use the code LATENIGHT for 20% off and a free limited edition dog-themed bookmark!
April 16, 2018
Arthur Hemsley, stuck in a boarding school due to a fiasco w/ tigers & a polar bear (that must have been book 1) is about to return home for the holidays....
His grandparents who are members of an Exploration Society are also on their way home after being lost on an iceberg for the past 10 +/- years; but there are some people who do not want to see elder Hemsleys returning and will do all they can to discredit them.
Arthur's friends Adelaide & Oscar are more than happy to spend time w/ Arthur again & help clear the names of his grandparents.
Adventure, mystery, intrigue, mayhem, good guys vs. bad guys, & excitement....
I found the book to be a bit long and the dialog a bit draggy, which is why I took off 1 ★.
I was impresses by the physical quality of the book, it was sturdy & had heavy paper pages.
His grandparents who are members of an Exploration Society are also on their way home after being lost on an iceberg for the past 10 +/- years; but there are some people who do not want to see elder Hemsleys returning and will do all they can to discredit them.
Arthur's friends Adelaide & Oscar are more than happy to spend time w/ Arthur again & help clear the names of his grandparents.
Adventure, mystery, intrigue, mayhem, good guys vs. bad guys, & excitement....
I found the book to be a bit long and the dialog a bit draggy, which is why I took off 1 ★.
I was impresses by the physical quality of the book, it was sturdy & had heavy paper pages.
December 28, 2025
There is so much more for Archer to learn about his adventurous grandparents’ role in “the society” and the unclear resolution about what exactly happened on the iceberg. Grandma and Grandpa Helmsley are back, but why are they keeping distance? In the meantime, it’s irritating and unfair that most of the town is blaming HIS family for any and all misfortune, including the endless snowstorms. I love Archer’s band of misfit friends, and the unexpected elements that cheer him on as he tries to figure things out. I want to remember: the dumb waiter escape, the chocolate shop, the greenhouse of potentially poisonous plants.
I think there are more doldrums to come from Nicholas Gannon, doubly gifted as author and illustrator. I hope so. His illustrations are among my favorite anywhere!
I think there are more doldrums to come from Nicholas Gannon, doubly gifted as author and illustrator. I hope so. His illustrations are among my favorite anywhere!
December 7, 2017
The second Doldrums book was just as interesting and entertaining as the first one, with a some new characters as well as exciting new mysteries to uncover. Archer, as ambitious as ever, decides to prove his grandparents' innocence not only to the world but to himself, as his best friends, Adelaide and Oliver, tag along for the wild ride. During this book, new characters such as Kana and Benjamin join in the adventure, and their fascinating back stories are revealed piece by piece throughout the story. If you enjoyed the first book, you will enjoy this one just as much. This book is great for 10-13 year olds.
January 1, 2018
The stand-alone sequel (how is that a thing?) to the Doldrums, this book left strands untied and made almost enough sense, but not quite. I finished it but it feels like the author has at least one more story about The Society, a collective of explorers, and Archer Helmsley. It reminds me of how hollow an ending It's a Wonderful Life has, where the bad guy is still loose, and though the good guys are vindicated, not everything is put right in the end. Or even set straight and clear in the final pages. The prose moved slowly so that the 344 pages of text and illustrations felt much longer. I didn't hate this book, but it leaves me irritated and glad to be done with it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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