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The Tripods Attack!
Sixteen-year-old Gilbert Chesterton is orphaned and friendless, stuck working a menial job in grimy turn-of-the-century London. Then one night strange lights fill the sky, and a hail of giant meteors crashes into a field outside the city. The next day Gilbert is amazed to find himself hired by a newspaper and rushed out to investigate the scene. Is it a harmless natural phenomenon, or the first wave of a Martian invasion? Gilbert soon learns he s not the only one asking that question, and he's joined by three strangers with their own interest in the fantastic *Herb Wells, journalist for a rival paper. Affable, streetwise, and selfconfident, Herb's only too happy to teach young Gilbert the ways of the world. But when it comes to getting the story (and the fame) he warns it s every man for himself. *An enigmatic bearded man known only as the Doctor. He's suave, cultured, and friendly maybe too friendly. And he knows things about the cosmic visitors. . .things no ordinary man should know. How much he's hiding is anybody's guess. *Father Brown, a short, mild, middle-aged priest with an extraordinary talent for solving mysteries. Gilbert doesn't know much about Christ or the Church, but Father Brown will teach him lessons of faith, love, and courage. The companions fly frantically from danger to danger, battling street thugs from London's underworld and mechanical creatures from another world. As Gilbert is drawn deeper into the threat of the mysterious tripods, he unveils a sinister conspiracy that may hold the key not only to the fate of mankind, but to the accident that took his parents life. And so with only his friends, his wits, and a tattered holy card to help him, Gilbert must race to save the world all the while struggling to reconcile his troubling past with his budding faith in God. The Tripods Attack! is the first volume of the Young Chesterton Chronicles, a delightfully inventive fiction series for teens to adults that re-imagines the famous Catholic author as a young man living in an alternative Edwardian age of steam-driven wonders.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2008
About the author
John McNichol
8 books26 followersJohn McNichol was born in Toronto, Canada, in 1970, and spent the first eighteen years of his life there before attending Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he met his wife, Jeanna. Today, they live with their seven children in Vancouver, Washington, where John earned Master's degrees in English Literature and Education, and teaches middle school.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 9, 2011
Currently rereading this because I've just gotten a copy of the second book in the series and want to be able to judge it in the context of the first.
Update:
Hey, still good the second time around!
In an alternate universe, young G.K. Chesterton meets the young H.G. Wells while on assignment to write about some strange "meteors." Yep, it's the War of the Worlds as the Martians invade England. The two young men are soon joined by Father Brown and a mysterious fellow known only as The Doctor (but not the one you're thinking of) and there's enough action, adventure, gore and slime -- not to mention mysterious secret societies -- to delight the heart of any young boy.
I particularly liked the way the author mashed together the Mars of C.S. Lewis and Edgar Rice Burroughs with the Mars of the real H.G. Wells. And did I mention that it's a steam punk England with analytical engines and air ships? And don't forget the mysterious red-haired girl! She's not only gorgeous; she's quite capable.
The author's love for the real G.K. Chesterton shines through the story. Each chapter is headed with a quote from the works of G.K.C., and he helpfully gives the citations for the quotes at the end of the book -- something I appreciated. And in the course of the novel the author manages to compare and contrast Chesterton's philosophy with that of the fellows he used to argue against. (I know I should be more specific, but it's really late at night.)
Update:
Hey, still good the second time around!
In an alternate universe, young G.K. Chesterton meets the young H.G. Wells while on assignment to write about some strange "meteors." Yep, it's the War of the Worlds as the Martians invade England. The two young men are soon joined by Father Brown and a mysterious fellow known only as The Doctor (but not the one you're thinking of) and there's enough action, adventure, gore and slime -- not to mention mysterious secret societies -- to delight the heart of any young boy.
I particularly liked the way the author mashed together the Mars of C.S. Lewis and Edgar Rice Burroughs with the Mars of the real H.G. Wells. And did I mention that it's a steam punk England with analytical engines and air ships? And don't forget the mysterious red-haired girl! She's not only gorgeous; she's quite capable.
The author's love for the real G.K. Chesterton shines through the story. Each chapter is headed with a quote from the works of G.K.C., and he helpfully gives the citations for the quotes at the end of the book -- something I appreciated. And in the course of the novel the author manages to compare and contrast Chesterton's philosophy with that of the fellows he used to argue against. (I know I should be more specific, but it's really late at night.)
December 29, 2011
I read the second book first just because this original novel was being reprinted at the time. Here I got the backstory for a steampunk world where young Gilbert Chesterton, recently orphaned, went from his home in Minnesota and found himself working in a computer factor in England (they call it something else, but punchcards and machines work everything so these are early computers). Downtrodden, barely making a living, and with no discernibly bright future, Gil is unexpectedly called into the Chairman's office one day and upgraded to journalist. He is sent to Wokking to investigate mysterious happenings, which any science fiction fan worth their salt will recognize as the Martian invasion written of in War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells.
Along the way, Gil meets Herb Wells, a level-headed cleric named Father Brown, and a mysterious Doctor who seems to know more about the Martians than he lets on. There is also a beautiful red-headed woman who seems to always whisk around corners when Gil is just about to be able to speak to her.
The Tripods Attack! is an enjoyable mash-up of real and fictional characters in a vividly portrayed world where anything can happen. I would have enjoyed less time spent in the tunnels where the story seemed to drag on at times. Also, when occasionally told the Martians' thoughts I was jerked out of the story. Their actions spoke for themselves and knowing what they felt didn't further the story any.
As with the second book, The Emperor of North America, here are strains of Catholic worldview that are shown as part of various characters' moral fiber and others are shown espousing different views that are set in opposition. We see how Gil became Catholic and how Herb's "foxhole conversion" affects his life. These weren't preachy or moralistic, and weren't not the main focus of the action, although again they definitely motivated actions. As with all things of this nature, your milage may vary.
This is definitely a fun book and I recommend it.
Along the way, Gil meets Herb Wells, a level-headed cleric named Father Brown, and a mysterious Doctor who seems to know more about the Martians than he lets on. There is also a beautiful red-headed woman who seems to always whisk around corners when Gil is just about to be able to speak to her.
The Tripods Attack! is an enjoyable mash-up of real and fictional characters in a vividly portrayed world where anything can happen. I would have enjoyed less time spent in the tunnels where the story seemed to drag on at times. Also, when occasionally told the Martians' thoughts I was jerked out of the story. Their actions spoke for themselves and knowing what they felt didn't further the story any.
As with the second book, The Emperor of North America, here are strains of Catholic worldview that are shown as part of various characters' moral fiber and others are shown espousing different views that are set in opposition. We see how Gil became Catholic and how Herb's "foxhole conversion" affects his life. These weren't preachy or moralistic, and weren't not the main focus of the action, although again they definitely motivated actions. As with all things of this nature, your milage may vary.
This is definitely a fun book and I recommend it.
June 23, 2010
Despite criticisms from G.K. Chesterton purists, Tripods Attack deserves lauds for a number of reasons. First, it's just a good piece of fiction in its own right. John McNichol incorporates a classic War of the Worlds theme within an alternate universe. The story itself is well-written, gripping and captivating.
Second, the Catholic worldview is woven into the text in a natural, unobtrusive way. It is simply part of the fabric of the story. It very much reminds me of the unique quality of Catholic faith when it is truly lived - woven seamlessly into everyday life, not necessarily worn on the sleeve for everyone to see, but obvious nonetheless. Young Chesterton is just coming to realize the importance of a Catholic perspective in the face of the horrific events of alien invasion. Meanwhile, his partner in the adventure, a young H.G. Wells, stubbornly holds onto a humanistic viewpoint, even though it fails him miserably in the time of crisis.
Even though the young Chesterton does not reveal much of G.K. Chesterton's sage whit, the character is expertly used. Any fan of the Father Brown mysteries will readily recognize pieces of many stories subtly dropped throughout the plot. It is easy to piece together where both young authors, Chesterton and Wells, get the ideas for the stories written by their real-life counterparts.
The Tripods Attack is an enjoyable sci-fi read that organically reviews the weight and value of the Catholic faith. I highly recommend it.
Second, the Catholic worldview is woven into the text in a natural, unobtrusive way. It is simply part of the fabric of the story. It very much reminds me of the unique quality of Catholic faith when it is truly lived - woven seamlessly into everyday life, not necessarily worn on the sleeve for everyone to see, but obvious nonetheless. Young Chesterton is just coming to realize the importance of a Catholic perspective in the face of the horrific events of alien invasion. Meanwhile, his partner in the adventure, a young H.G. Wells, stubbornly holds onto a humanistic viewpoint, even though it fails him miserably in the time of crisis.
Even though the young Chesterton does not reveal much of G.K. Chesterton's sage whit, the character is expertly used. Any fan of the Father Brown mysteries will readily recognize pieces of many stories subtly dropped throughout the plot. It is easy to piece together where both young authors, Chesterton and Wells, get the ideas for the stories written by their real-life counterparts.
The Tripods Attack is an enjoyable sci-fi read that organically reviews the weight and value of the Catholic faith. I highly recommend it.
January 3, 2014
Much better than I thought it was going to be.
Okay, that was my original review. But I thought the book deserved more than that. I am not a G.K. Chesterton scholar. I have only read some of his nonfiction work. I've never read a Father Brown mystery. I am a sci-fi fan. I've read most of H.g. Wells' work. I also love alternative history/steampunk sub-genres of sci-fi. This book fits well into that mold. It was fun, exciting, a bit old-fashioned in style and a good read.
I look forward to reading the second novel in the series.
Okay, that was my original review. But I thought the book deserved more than that. I am not a G.K. Chesterton scholar. I have only read some of his nonfiction work. I've never read a Father Brown mystery. I am a sci-fi fan. I've read most of H.g. Wells' work. I also love alternative history/steampunk sub-genres of sci-fi. This book fits well into that mold. It was fun, exciting, a bit old-fashioned in style and a good read.
I look forward to reading the second novel in the series.
October 27, 2014
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book! Lots of action and fun. The reason for the 3.5 stars is the descriptions of the martians and their...*cough* habits. It was just a little to much for me. Despite that though, I really enjoyed the book.
I definitely recommend the book! A forewarning though if your a little squeamish, be prepared for a few unnerving scenes.
I really enjoyed this book! Lots of action and fun. The reason for the 3.5 stars is the descriptions of the martians and their...*cough* habits. It was just a little to much for me. Despite that though, I really enjoyed the book.
I definitely recommend the book! A forewarning though if your a little squeamish, be prepared for a few unnerving scenes.
February 7, 2011
I'm really excited for the next one to come out. It was a pretty good book that reminded me a lot of "The Man Who Was Thursday," probably because it was written in the style of Chesterton... I thought it was fascinating that the main characters were based off of H.G. Wells, G.K. Chesterton, and Fr. Brown from the Father Brown Mysteries Series (by G.K. Chesterton). Good read. I'd probably have to read it again to catch everything I missed the first time. :)
October 24, 2012
It was okay.
I was never truly interested.
The characters weren't as brilliant as I expected for who they were supposed to be.
The Doctor was a huge letdown. He was cruel and just horrible. I wasn't sure if the author was implying that this "Doctor" was a version of "the Doctor" from "Doctor Who" or what. If so, that would make it doubly worse.
The writing dragged on and on and on.
Plot was iffy at best. Rather a "War of the Worlds" theme.
I probably wouldn't recommend it.
I was never truly interested.
The characters weren't as brilliant as I expected for who they were supposed to be.
The Doctor was a huge letdown. He was cruel and just horrible. I wasn't sure if the author was implying that this "Doctor" was a version of "the Doctor" from "Doctor Who" or what. If so, that would make it doubly worse.
The writing dragged on and on and on.
Plot was iffy at best. Rather a "War of the Worlds" theme.
I probably wouldn't recommend it.
July 26, 2013
I really enjoyed this. Learned about it via Jeff Miller at the Curt Jester, and snatched it up at my local Catholic bookstore. No regrets, I'm now a member of the John McNichol fan club.
Recommended for folks who like fun genre action-adventure, and particularly those with a fondness for GKC. Suitable for middle school and up. Has a couple gory alien battle scenes that squeamish mothers might want to skim, but boys seem to like, go figure.
Recommended for folks who like fun genre action-adventure, and particularly those with a fondness for GKC. Suitable for middle school and up. Has a couple gory alien battle scenes that squeamish mothers might want to skim, but boys seem to like, go figure.
June 11, 2015
What a fun adventure series and a bit scary. I love the steampunk era and this book has some unexpected twists of fate that I haven't encountered before. Great for young adult readers, girls and boys. Hey I'm a mom and I thought it was good too!
February 3, 2009
Amusing, well-written historical fiction that blends Christian and steampunk elements.
February 20, 2015
A wonderful book. Love the mix of sci-fi, adventure, and more. First book in the Young Chesterton Chronicles.
May 29, 2025
I’m not even sure how to describe this book. My best attempt would be to call it an action-packed sci-fi, steampunk adventure.
Set in post WWII England, a young man finds himself, through a series of unique situations, on the adventure of a lifetime. Gilbert Chesterton and a few colleagues he meets along the way, including Fr. Brown, find themselves battling Martians in the countryside of England.
For those who are familiar with Catholic literature, you may be familiar with those names. G.K. Chesterton was a prolific Catholic author who famously penned the Fr. Brown mysteries.
Author, John McNichol,seems to have created this fantasy novel as a tribute to Chesterton. It is a fun ride that reminds me of Jules Verne stories. There are lots of battles and some gore, so this book would be recommended for slightly older teens, or those who would not be bothered by such things.
I enjoyed how Father Brown and young Chesterton keep their moral compass as those around them feel technology and science are the answer to the dangerous situations that are unfolding. This book is not only an entertaining read but offers some great discussion points on moral issues.
Set in post WWII England, a young man finds himself, through a series of unique situations, on the adventure of a lifetime. Gilbert Chesterton and a few colleagues he meets along the way, including Fr. Brown, find themselves battling Martians in the countryside of England.
For those who are familiar with Catholic literature, you may be familiar with those names. G.K. Chesterton was a prolific Catholic author who famously penned the Fr. Brown mysteries.
Author, John McNichol,seems to have created this fantasy novel as a tribute to Chesterton. It is a fun ride that reminds me of Jules Verne stories. There are lots of battles and some gore, so this book would be recommended for slightly older teens, or those who would not be bothered by such things.
I enjoyed how Father Brown and young Chesterton keep their moral compass as those around them feel technology and science are the answer to the dangerous situations that are unfolding. This book is not only an entertaining read but offers some great discussion points on moral issues.
January 7, 2026
I honestly loved the book! It started out a little slow for me and it definitely took me a bit to get into it, but by the end of it, I was loving it! I even put another one of G.K Chesterton's book on my wishlist for Christmas. Thanks to this book, I am now more interested in G.K Chesterton!
January 24, 2023
Loved this story! Just a very good story I enjoyed.
September 12, 2014
In this first book of The Young Chesterton Chronicles, we have a young, skinny (I know, right?) Gil Chesterton, born into a completely foreign universe. I mean, literally foreign: he spent his childhood in Minnesota. We also have his new buddy Herb Wells and this quietly tough little priest… Really, Tripods is a rollicking wooden roller coaster through a number of different fictional universes. Hm. Take that roller coaster and turn it into a “dark ride,” and voila! Tripods. Think fanfic for the Catholic soul.
Some caveats: While I did enjoy The Difference Engine, I’m really not a fan of steampunk (#nerdshaming). I’m also a girl. While I spent a bit of my childhood (more than happily) playing the neighborhood Princess Leia, when things get violent, I do tend to watch through the slits between my fingers or just leave the room. Tripods brought me lots of punchcards, steam power, and there was a considerable body count. So, I admit, I may be more of a King’s Gambit sensibility.
That being said, if you like stuff more on the goggles-and-airships, high-body-count side, and you want to see your Catholic faith held up as a good thing and not a hindrance, Tripods might be just the ticket. Also, if you have a young sci-fi reader who just can’t seem to stomach H. G. Wells straight from the, erm, well, or Chesterton straight from the, erm , chest? I can see Tripods piquing enough interest in the original work of both authors to turn the young reader on to same.
Some caveats: While I did enjoy The Difference Engine, I’m really not a fan of steampunk (#nerdshaming). I’m also a girl. While I spent a bit of my childhood (more than happily) playing the neighborhood Princess Leia, when things get violent, I do tend to watch through the slits between my fingers or just leave the room. Tripods brought me lots of punchcards, steam power, and there was a considerable body count. So, I admit, I may be more of a King’s Gambit sensibility.
That being said, if you like stuff more on the goggles-and-airships, high-body-count side, and you want to see your Catholic faith held up as a good thing and not a hindrance, Tripods might be just the ticket. Also, if you have a young sci-fi reader who just can’t seem to stomach H. G. Wells straight from the, erm, well, or Chesterton straight from the, erm , chest? I can see Tripods piquing enough interest in the original work of both authors to turn the young reader on to same.
January 12, 2013
This book gets an overall meh. Poorly written, cliched, and with in-your-face-but-trying-to-be-subtle-ish Catholicism. However, I did enjoy it. The idea is fun, if silly (a teenaged G. K. Chesterton reimagined running through an alternate version of Edwardian England as an American (!!!) while aliens attack), it's mildly entertaining, has occasional flashes of humor and is edifying in the sense that it is a harmless diversion with Catholic themes. In other words, it's like Regina Doman writing about guys instead of girls, in a genuine scifi universe rather than a universe apparently the same as ours but governed by painfully unbelievable coincidences, and writing much worse with poorer characters and dialogue (she is quite good at lovable characters). In other words: plot is actually more believable in some ways than Doman's, writing is worse. Take your pick.
March 17, 2013
First, be warned that the "Chesterton" of this steampunk novel is not really Chesterton, but an AMERICAN character from an alternate history. And WATSON as a villain! Words fail me.
I was also disappointed by apparent plagiarism from "The League of Extraordinary Gentlement".
I was also disappointed by apparent plagiarism from "The League of Extraordinary Gentlement".
April 13, 2017
I really enjoyed this rollicking steampunk adventure that pairs up a young Gilbert Chesterton with an equally-young Herb Wells as his sidekick, just as the War of the Worlds kicks off. Throw in a mysterious and ruthless figure known only as the Doctor and a chubby little priest who never loses his cool, called Fr. Brown, and you've got an unbeatable team to fend off invading Martians. Read this book and you'll be having so much fun that you'll hardly notice that John McNichol has embedded some serious philosophical themes in this ripping yarn.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews