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Groosham Grange #2
Return To Groosham Grange
Author(s): Anthony Horowitz ISBN: 9781406363142 Binding: Paperback Published: 2016-05-01 In the wickedly funny sequel to Groosham Grange by bestselling author Anthony Horowitz, someone is trying to destroy David Eliot's school. A year ago, he'd have been happy to see the end of Groosham Grange and its ghoulish teachers. Now, he's on course to win the Unholy Grail, a cup of magical power presented to the star pupil. But a series of suspicious mishaps sees the gap between David and new boy Vincent King narrow alarmingly. Someone, it seems, is trying to stop David winning - and, worse, threatening Groosham Grange itself! Ages 9+
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1991
53 people are currently reading
811 people want to read
About the author
Anthony Horowitz
345 books20.9k followersAnthony Horowitz, OBE is ranked alongside Enid Blyton and Mark A. Cooper as "The most original and best spy-kids authors of the century." (New York Times). Anthony has been writing since the age of eight, and professionally since the age of twenty. In addition to the highly successful Alex Rider books, he is also the writer and creator of award winning detective series Foyle’s War, and more recently event drama Collision, among his other television works he has written episodes for Poirot, Murder in Mind, Midsomer Murders and Murder Most Horrid. Anthony became patron to East Anglia Children’s Hospices in 2009.
On 19 January 2011, the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle announced that Horowitz was to be the writer of a new Sherlock Holmes novel, the first such effort to receive an official endorsement from them and to be entitled the House of Silk.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/anthon...
On 19 January 2011, the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle announced that Horowitz was to be the writer of a new Sherlock Holmes novel, the first such effort to receive an official endorsement from them and to be entitled the House of Silk.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/anthon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
August 15, 2018
Estimado Anthony Horowitz...¡¿qué carajo le hiciste a esta historia?!
Como muchos de ustedes sabrán, la primera parte de esta bilogía llamada "La Granja Groosham" se publicó en 1988. Habrían de pasar 11 años para que Horowitz se decidiera a escribir una continuación de este librito que fue tan amado por mí en la primaria. Para no hacerles el cuento largo, yo no tenía idea de que había una secuela y cuando me enteré (hace unos meses) casi me muero de emoción y naturalmente corrí a comprarlo.
Algo que amo de la primera entrega de esta serie de libros es que, si bien la historia está pensada para niños, ésta no teme ser tétrica, oscura o incorporar elementos sobre ocultismo y supersticiones que podrían pensarse adecuados para un público mucho más adulto.
Pienso que Horowitz -en los 11 años que tuvo para pensar en una secuela- decidió echar muchísimas de las cosas geniales que había creado totalmente por la borda.
A PARTIR DE AQUÍ HABRÁ SPOILERS. HAN SIDO ADVERTIDOS.
Algo que amo sobre la Granja Groosham es esa especie de final abierto que tiene, ¿David decidirá ser un mago oscuro o uno bueno? Adoro que el autor, lejos de disminuir la trama a un típico negro vs. blanco, opta por mostrarnos que todo es cuestión de percepciones y que lo malo, quizá no sea tan terrible como pensamos.
En este libro todo eso no cuenta para nada. Además, se olvidan cosas geniales de la primera parte, tales como que todos los magos y brujas de la Granja Groosham obtienen un nuevo nombre al pasar su rito de iniciación, ¿por qué demonios David y Julia no tienen un nuevo nombre?; otro ejemplo ¿Qué pasó con Jeffrey?
En lugar de centrarse en el maravilloso material que pudo haber tenido hablando más sobre la escuela y lo que pasaba en ella, la historia se desvía para convertirse en un misterio bastante predecible.
Algo que quizá justifique la decisión de Horowitz es que cuando publicó su primer libro, todavía no existía Harry Potter, por lo que él tenía la completa libertad de hablar de una genial escuela de magia y era un concepto novedoso. Quizá, a la hora de publicar este segundo libro, como ya existían los libros de J.K. Rowling, Horowitz quiso desviarse del tema.
La verdad es que no lo sé y mientras más lo pienso, más coraje me da. La Granja Groosham era como el equivalente de Hogwarts para darketos: con vampiros, momias, fantasmas, hombres lobos, necromancia y, en la cual, en lugar de que te asignaran una casa, tu podías decidir cómo querías ejercer ese gran poder al que ellos te dan acceso.
A pesar de todo esto, El Grial Oculto no es un mal libro. Tiene momentos entretenidos y misteriosos, personajes que se ven obligados a enfrentar sus errores y tomar decisiones difíciles. Es por eso que le doy 3 estrellas, porque lo estoy calificando como un tomo independiente, sin embargo comparado con su predecesor, es un libro que merecería una sola estrella cuando más.
Como muchos de ustedes sabrán, la primera parte de esta bilogía llamada "La Granja Groosham" se publicó en 1988. Habrían de pasar 11 años para que Horowitz se decidiera a escribir una continuación de este librito que fue tan amado por mí en la primaria. Para no hacerles el cuento largo, yo no tenía idea de que había una secuela y cuando me enteré (hace unos meses) casi me muero de emoción y naturalmente corrí a comprarlo.
Algo que amo de la primera entrega de esta serie de libros es que, si bien la historia está pensada para niños, ésta no teme ser tétrica, oscura o incorporar elementos sobre ocultismo y supersticiones que podrían pensarse adecuados para un público mucho más adulto.
Pienso que Horowitz -en los 11 años que tuvo para pensar en una secuela- decidió echar muchísimas de las cosas geniales que había creado totalmente por la borda.
A PARTIR DE AQUÍ HABRÁ SPOILERS. HAN SIDO ADVERTIDOS.
Algo que amo sobre la Granja Groosham es esa especie de final abierto que tiene, ¿David decidirá ser un mago oscuro o uno bueno? Adoro que el autor, lejos de disminuir la trama a un típico negro vs. blanco, opta por mostrarnos que todo es cuestión de percepciones y que lo malo, quizá no sea tan terrible como pensamos.
En este libro todo eso no cuenta para nada. Además, se olvidan cosas geniales de la primera parte, tales como que todos los magos y brujas de la Granja Groosham obtienen un nuevo nombre al pasar su rito de iniciación, ¿por qué demonios David y Julia no tienen un nuevo nombre?; otro ejemplo ¿Qué pasó con Jeffrey?
En lugar de centrarse en el maravilloso material que pudo haber tenido hablando más sobre la escuela y lo que pasaba en ella, la historia se desvía para convertirse en un misterio bastante predecible.
Algo que quizá justifique la decisión de Horowitz es que cuando publicó su primer libro, todavía no existía Harry Potter, por lo que él tenía la completa libertad de hablar de una genial escuela de magia y era un concepto novedoso. Quizá, a la hora de publicar este segundo libro, como ya existían los libros de J.K. Rowling, Horowitz quiso desviarse del tema.
La verdad es que no lo sé y mientras más lo pienso, más coraje me da. La Granja Groosham era como el equivalente de Hogwarts para darketos: con vampiros, momias, fantasmas, hombres lobos, necromancia y, en la cual, en lugar de que te asignaran una casa, tu podías decidir cómo querías ejercer ese gran poder al que ellos te dan acceso.
A pesar de todo esto, El Grial Oculto no es un mal libro. Tiene momentos entretenidos y misteriosos, personajes que se ven obligados a enfrentar sus errores y tomar decisiones difíciles. Es por eso que le doy 3 estrellas, porque lo estoy calificando como un tomo independiente, sin embargo comparado con su predecesor, es un libro que merecería una sola estrella cuando más.
December 13, 2017
Anthony Horowitz is an accomplished and versatile writer who writes perfect books for older children and the young adult age group.
Return to Groosham Grange is typical of his work, if a little bit more off beat than usual. This hilarious adventure is the sequel to Groosham Grange, and follows David - now enjoying his life as a student at the extremely unorthodox school, and battling to win the school's highest (and only) honour, presented to the most outstanding student - the Unholy Grail.
But all is not well, as the school has been infiltrated by someone who wants to destroy it.
Children aged about 8 or 9+ will love this story. At times it is so wacky that it might be a bit too much for teenage readers, but it is still good fun, with a fast and enjoyable plot.
My one reservation - and the reason I will not be lending it out - is that it basically inverts ideas of good and evil. Witches and vampires and werewolves are not exactly evil, but the Christians certainly intend it.
Return to Groosham Grange is typical of his work, if a little bit more off beat than usual. This hilarious adventure is the sequel to Groosham Grange, and follows David - now enjoying his life as a student at the extremely unorthodox school, and battling to win the school's highest (and only) honour, presented to the most outstanding student - the Unholy Grail.
But all is not well, as the school has been infiltrated by someone who wants to destroy it.
Children aged about 8 or 9+ will love this story. At times it is so wacky that it might be a bit too much for teenage readers, but it is still good fun, with a fast and enjoyable plot.
My one reservation - and the reason I will not be lending it out - is that it basically inverts ideas of good and evil. Witches and vampires and werewolves are not exactly evil, but the Christians certainly intend it.
November 13, 2015
A school of magic. The main character is friends with a female student and male student. The school has strange teachers that teach the students many forms of magic. Does this sounds like any series you might know? No, I am not talking about the Harry Potter books that we all know an love. I am talking about the Groosham Grange books. These two books were originally published in England in 1988, way before J.K. Rowling created the character Harry Potter. There are an awful lot of similarities, so it makes me wonder if J.K. Rowling read these books and came up with the idea for her series. Hmmm . . . I wonder . . .
As for Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail, we now see David after he has been at this school of magic for almost a year. He has grown quite a bit and has accepted his fate. But as his world starts to collapse around him, and he struggles to remain in contention for the Unhold Grail, he doesn't stand up for himself whenever he in confronted. This drove me crazy. I wanted him to tell the teachers what was going on, how someone was setting him up to fail . . . but he never did.
The storyline is quick and filled with magic and adventure, although I would have liked to have seen a little more magic. David's parents play a large roll in this story as they come to visit the school for the awards ceremony. I found them to be quite entertaining, even if they are fairly inept at everything they do. They did make me laugh.
I am disappointed that this series ends with only two books. It is too bad that Anthony Horowitz decided not to write any more novels staring David Eliot and his adventures in the magical school of Groosham Grange. We will never know what happens in the rest of his years at this school of magic. Bummer.
Overall, Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail is a a great story and a good ending to this short-lived series. Young readers will enjoy that main characters and get a kick out of the story of the quest for the Unholy Grail.
I rated this book an 8 out of 10.
As for Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail, we now see David after he has been at this school of magic for almost a year. He has grown quite a bit and has accepted his fate. But as his world starts to collapse around him, and he struggles to remain in contention for the Unhold Grail, he doesn't stand up for himself whenever he in confronted. This drove me crazy. I wanted him to tell the teachers what was going on, how someone was setting him up to fail . . . but he never did.
The storyline is quick and filled with magic and adventure, although I would have liked to have seen a little more magic. David's parents play a large roll in this story as they come to visit the school for the awards ceremony. I found them to be quite entertaining, even if they are fairly inept at everything they do. They did make me laugh.
I am disappointed that this series ends with only two books. It is too bad that Anthony Horowitz decided not to write any more novels staring David Eliot and his adventures in the magical school of Groosham Grange. We will never know what happens in the rest of his years at this school of magic. Bummer.
Overall, Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail is a a great story and a good ending to this short-lived series. Young readers will enjoy that main characters and get a kick out of the story of the quest for the Unholy Grail.
I rated this book an 8 out of 10.
March 31, 2024
After a not really good experience with the first book in the series, I had some hope that things were about to change now that David and his friends got used to their powers and adventure was in the air, but no, it was a total deception.
September 14, 2012
This was a very well written book, like most Anthony Horowitz books. it had so many twists it was impossible what was going to happen next!! This was about a boy called David Eliot who was just a boy trying to win the school cup, but without realising it had to actually save the whole of London from complete destruction to earn it!
I decided to read this because i thought it would be a good book that would fit into a hard category.
This fits into the category 'A boom with themes related to those we studied in term 1' because it was heavily linked in to knowledge is power. when David joined the school, he was knowledgeless and all the teachers had power over him. but as it progresses on, David discovers more about the school until he finally realises that he is actually a vital part of a plan to destroy London and he needed to stop it, and he has the most knowledge, and enough power to stop it.
My favourite quote from the book was '"Ja. Sehr gut, Fräulein Fergie," Hitler agreed.' because i know what that means! it means "Yes. Very good, Miss Fergie."
Something new i learnt from this book is that there is much more than ten thousand exhibitions in the British museum.
A setting i found interesting is the British Museum at night, because i imagine that would be very spooky.
I decided to read this because i thought it would be a good book that would fit into a hard category.
This fits into the category 'A boom with themes related to those we studied in term 1' because it was heavily linked in to knowledge is power. when David joined the school, he was knowledgeless and all the teachers had power over him. but as it progresses on, David discovers more about the school until he finally realises that he is actually a vital part of a plan to destroy London and he needed to stop it, and he has the most knowledge, and enough power to stop it.
My favourite quote from the book was '"Ja. Sehr gut, Fräulein Fergie," Hitler agreed.' because i know what that means! it means "Yes. Very good, Miss Fergie."
Something new i learnt from this book is that there is much more than ten thousand exhibitions in the British museum.
A setting i found interesting is the British Museum at night, because i imagine that would be very spooky.
August 2, 2010
In his second year at Groosham Grange, we find David competing for the coveted Unholy Grail. At first a reluctant student, David is ranked first in his class and sure to win until a series of mysterious mishaps jeopardize his standing in the competition. David discovers that the outcome of the contest will determine the future survival of his school.
The prequel to this book, Groosham Grange, came out in 1988, almost 10 years before the first Harry Potter book. David and his schoolmates all have special powers, several are seventh sons/daughters of seventh sons/daughters. The headmaster has 2 heads, the teachers are vampires, werewolves, or some other fantastic creature. Reading this reissued edition with new cover art in 2009, post-Harry Potter readers may find it a bit derivative although it was actually published first. Horowitz does not disappoint in writing a story full of suspenseful moments. As in his Alex Rider series, David must find answers and get himself out of tight spots. This is a quick, engaging read for those who love being taken to a magical place where the unexpected happens regularly.
The prequel to this book, Groosham Grange, came out in 1988, almost 10 years before the first Harry Potter book. David and his schoolmates all have special powers, several are seventh sons/daughters of seventh sons/daughters. The headmaster has 2 heads, the teachers are vampires, werewolves, or some other fantastic creature. Reading this reissued edition with new cover art in 2009, post-Harry Potter readers may find it a bit derivative although it was actually published first. Horowitz does not disappoint in writing a story full of suspenseful moments. As in his Alex Rider series, David must find answers and get himself out of tight spots. This is a quick, engaging read for those who love being taken to a magical place where the unexpected happens regularly.
May 11, 2020
Por alguna razón me gustó más que el primero, supongo que es por no ser tan introductorio.
Estoy de acuerdo con los constantes comentarios sobre la existencia de cosas que no tienen sentido o no siguen el hilo del primer libro, como si el autor (después de tanto tiempo) se hubiera olvidado de lo escrito con anterioridad o no lo hubiera releído antes de escribir esta secuela (cuya trama es totalmente predecible, por cierto).
Estoy de acuerdo con los constantes comentarios sobre la existencia de cosas que no tienen sentido o no siguen el hilo del primer libro, como si el autor (después de tanto tiempo) se hubiera olvidado de lo escrito con anterioridad o no lo hubiera releído antes de escribir esta secuela (cuya trama es totalmente predecible, por cierto).
September 14, 2013
I don't think I really want to return to this incredibly predictable plot given book...
March 22, 2023
David está obsesionado con con ganar el Grial Oculto, pero Vincent King, uno de sus nuevos compañeros está acercándose peligrosamente al primer lugar gracias a extraños sucesos que sabotean constantemente a David, alejándolo del tan anhelado premio. Por otro lado, hay alguien que amenaza con destruir la Granja Groosham, ¿quién será?
Esta es la continuación de La Granja Groosham y no me ha decepcionado, es igual de entretenido que el anterior, e incluso más, ya que se añaden nuevos personajes bastante interesantes.
Acá encontramos un David que debería ser mucho más maduro, pero no hace más que cometer torpezas en su afán de posicionarse en primer lugar para conseguir el Grial Oculto, pero al poco tiempo uno se da cuenta de que en realidad hay alguien que no quiere que el muchacho sea el ganador, y esto tiene su razón de ser. Me pareció que la historia no perdió coherencia en ningún momento y eso se agradece en este tipo de obras.
La historia no pierde la esencia del primer libro y eso me encantó, pues quedé fascinada con la atmósfera y con los personajes retorcidos y divertidos. La competencia por el Grial es emocionante y divertida, creo que fue un acierto.
Por último quiero mencionar que las ilustraciones en este libro mejoraron considerablemente respecto del primero, tienen más detalles y se comprenden mucho mejor, recordemos que estamos ante libros pensados para un público joven.
Esta es la continuación de La Granja Groosham y no me ha decepcionado, es igual de entretenido que el anterior, e incluso más, ya que se añaden nuevos personajes bastante interesantes.
Acá encontramos un David que debería ser mucho más maduro, pero no hace más que cometer torpezas en su afán de posicionarse en primer lugar para conseguir el Grial Oculto, pero al poco tiempo uno se da cuenta de que en realidad hay alguien que no quiere que el muchacho sea el ganador, y esto tiene su razón de ser. Me pareció que la historia no perdió coherencia en ningún momento y eso se agradece en este tipo de obras.
La historia no pierde la esencia del primer libro y eso me encantó, pues quedé fascinada con la atmósfera y con los personajes retorcidos y divertidos. La competencia por el Grial es emocionante y divertida, creo que fue un acierto.
Por último quiero mencionar que las ilustraciones en este libro mejoraron considerablemente respecto del primero, tienen más detalles y se comprenden mucho mejor, recordemos que estamos ante libros pensados para un público joven.
March 21, 2017
This is the second and last book on Groosham Grange. I liked it more as it is packed with mystery and adventure. A spy infiltrates the school wih the sole purpose of take the unholy grail (a cup which is the source of the magic and which maintains GG in existence). A new boy is introduced, Vincent, and it is very enlightening to see the competition between David and Vincent for the first place in the academic year (and the chance to hold the grail for a day).
The plot is deceiving and will keep you thinking Vincent is the spy, a bit on the classical murder thriller style, but in fact it is a new teacher who frames and cheats everyone. He is a converted voodoo magician and intents to take the unholy grail under the shade of Canterbury cathedral, which will make the destruction of GG and all its magic. It will be touch and go but our new hero, David, will save the day. For adults it may be too easy to guess what is going to happen, but it is a very good mystery for junior readers. Despite the witchcraft colours, the ideas behind are those of kids and their school reality. There is a brief excursus on what is good an what is evil, not in depth, as well as a light note on religion (Christian) versus witches, also not deepened.
The plot is deceiving and will keep you thinking Vincent is the spy, a bit on the classical murder thriller style, but in fact it is a new teacher who frames and cheats everyone. He is a converted voodoo magician and intents to take the unholy grail under the shade of Canterbury cathedral, which will make the destruction of GG and all its magic. It will be touch and go but our new hero, David, will save the day. For adults it may be too easy to guess what is going to happen, but it is a very good mystery for junior readers. Despite the witchcraft colours, the ideas behind are those of kids and their school reality. There is a brief excursus on what is good an what is evil, not in depth, as well as a light note on religion (Christian) versus witches, also not deepened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2020
Given how disappointed I was in first book. I read this one because I wanted to finish the series but now I am really sad that series ended with just two books. I need more. 😭😭
So, this books stars David our protagonist from the first one. Now that he had spent almost a year at Groosham Grange he had grown to love it. Story revolves around the competition and exams to win unholy grave. Who will win it?
Apart from that there is also something sinister happening around and David is trying to figure out who is doing that.
It was quick and easy read. With adventure starting almost at the beginning of the novel. There are many twists and turns to keep us at the edge of the seat. I am glad Anthony Horowitz answers all the whys in course of the book.
There are so many scenes it seemed someone copied for theirs well known series. But I like this one more than that one.
#BookwithApurva
So, this books stars David our protagonist from the first one. Now that he had spent almost a year at Groosham Grange he had grown to love it. Story revolves around the competition and exams to win unholy grave. Who will win it?
Apart from that there is also something sinister happening around and David is trying to figure out who is doing that.
It was quick and easy read. With adventure starting almost at the beginning of the novel. There are many twists and turns to keep us at the edge of the seat. I am glad Anthony Horowitz answers all the whys in course of the book.
There are so many scenes it seemed someone copied for theirs well known series. But I like this one more than that one.
#BookwithApurva
May 18, 2017
Hace más de 10 años que leí "La Granja Groosham", el predecesor y primer libro de esta bilogía, el cual en su momento ame y me pareció espectacular, pero hasta hace poco me entere que existía una segunda parte e inmediatamente pensé que tenía que leerlo, saber que le pasaba a David y sus amigos.
Ahora, habiendo terminado este libro puedo decir que fue regresar a mi niñez totalmente al reencontrarme con estos personajes y que seguramente a pesar de que me gusto, estoy completamente seguro que si lo hubiera leído unos años atrás lo habría amado tanto como el otro, y es que es un libro fácil de leer para los niños y que mezcla misterio y fantasía pero dirigido a este público.
Una bilogía perfecta para adentrar a los niños al mundo de la lectura que seguramente les gustara tanto como a mí en su momento.
Ahora, habiendo terminado este libro puedo decir que fue regresar a mi niñez totalmente al reencontrarme con estos personajes y que seguramente a pesar de que me gusto, estoy completamente seguro que si lo hubiera leído unos años atrás lo habría amado tanto como el otro, y es que es un libro fácil de leer para los niños y que mezcla misterio y fantasía pero dirigido a este público.
Una bilogía perfecta para adentrar a los niños al mundo de la lectura que seguramente les gustara tanto como a mí en su momento.
May 1, 2024
El claro ejemplo de como echar a perder una historia.
Decidí leer EL GRIAL OCULTO apenas terminé LA GRANJA GROOSHAM (Primera parte de la historia).
Mis expectativas eran altas, ya que el primer libro es maravilloso y quedé maravillado, desafortunadamente la secuela es aburrida, repetitiva y lo que es más triste, NO RESPETA LOS LINEAMIENTOS BÁSICOS Y LA ESTRUCTURA NARRATIVA.
Una segunda parte para el olvido.
Decidí leer EL GRIAL OCULTO apenas terminé LA GRANJA GROOSHAM (Primera parte de la historia).
Mis expectativas eran altas, ya que el primer libro es maravilloso y quedé maravillado, desafortunadamente la secuela es aburrida, repetitiva y lo que es más triste, NO RESPETA LOS LINEAMIENTOS BÁSICOS Y LA ESTRUCTURA NARRATIVA.
Una segunda parte para el olvido.
March 7, 2023
Super bien, lu d'une traite. Incroyable les similitudes avec Harry Potter alors que ça a été écrit neuf ans avant ! Tout le monde devrait lire L'île du crâne ET Maudit Graal, au moins pour enrichir sa culture personnelle, mais aussi pour découvrir un univers plus sombre et plus retors.
July 8, 2025
Plein d'humour et de magie, j'ai passé un chouette moment en compagnie de David. Je regrette peut-être un peu le manque de présence des personnages secondaires comme les amis de David mais j'adore les interventions de ses parents, loués soient-ils! Le worldbuilding est clairement moindre mais cette duologie n'a presque rien à envier à la saga du célèbre sorcier à la cicatrice en éclair.
February 16, 2017
This book is awesome. There is a lot of mystery and challenges.
May 5, 2016
The book "Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail" is a sequel to the book "Groosham Grange" both these books are by Anthony Horowitz. Anthony Horowitz is my favorite author of all time. This book so far is my favorite book by him. so far I have read four of his book and hope to read more. Anthony Horowitz is my favorite author because he works very hard on his books and puts lots of effort into them. Every time I read an Anthony Horowitz book i change that to my favorite because i just love his books. I don't like to read very much but i love to read any one of these books.
There are a lot of important details in this book that make it complete. The more I think about it the harder it seems he worked. He had to leave small hints and put body language into a book with no pictures. This book was mainly mystery and everything was perfect how he played it out. There was a little bit of confusion but it was a mystery story and that would be hard to avoid.
I think this book is very good and a lot of people would lie, it. This book is a sequel but if you haven't read the first one that is okay. Unlike most of his other books this one is not scary. If you like mystery then you would like this or if you like books with magic.
There are a lot of important details in this book that make it complete. The more I think about it the harder it seems he worked. He had to leave small hints and put body language into a book with no pictures. This book was mainly mystery and everything was perfect how he played it out. There was a little bit of confusion but it was a mystery story and that would be hard to avoid.
I think this book is very good and a lot of people would lie, it. This book is a sequel but if you haven't read the first one that is okay. Unlike most of his other books this one is not scary. If you like mystery then you would like this or if you like books with magic.
January 6, 2016
Fast paced. Plenty of plot twists. It's like a Harry Potter adventure (minus Hermoine, Ron, Hagrid, Dumbledore and Lord Thingy.) David Elliot has learned to love (or not hate) his school which is run by a two-headed man and whose teachers are vampire, werewolf, ghost and similar. David is the best student in the school and wants above all to win the Unholy Grail cup. That starts his adventure and there's a mystery involved.
This book pre-dates the Harry Potter books and I wonder if J.K. Rowling read it. There are some talking portraits of past headmasters and there are some "memory wipe" spells to clean up after the wild finish. I reckon we'll never know. Anyhow, Robert Louis Stevenson was abashed when it was pointed out to him that the story of Treasure Island was similar to previous works of others. Stevenson said "These useful writers had fulfilled the poet's saying: departing, they had left behind them Footprints on the sands of time, Footprints which perhaps another — and I was the other!" (The phrase was used in the seventh stanza of the poem A Psalm of Life by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.)
This book pre-dates the Harry Potter books and I wonder if J.K. Rowling read it. There are some talking portraits of past headmasters and there are some "memory wipe" spells to clean up after the wild finish. I reckon we'll never know. Anyhow, Robert Louis Stevenson was abashed when it was pointed out to him that the story of Treasure Island was similar to previous works of others. Stevenson said "These useful writers had fulfilled the poet's saying: departing, they had left behind them Footprints on the sands of time, Footprints which perhaps another — and I was the other!" (The phrase was used in the seventh stanza of the poem A Psalm of Life by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.)
March 2, 2012
I enjoyed this sequel to 'Groosham Grange' more than the first. Both books were lent to me by a 13-year-old, who said they were better than the Alex Rider teenage spy novels by the same author. Personally I preferred the latter, although the 'Groosham Grange' duet did get more laughs out of me.
It says in the forward,that they were Anthony Horowitz's personal favourite of the children's novels he has written. I couldn't help wondering if he wrote both novels with the intention of publishing them as one volume but then his publishers decided to divide them into two. I won't know the answer to this, without asking him. It would explain why the second volume was much more exciting than the first.
I read the books as research into popular novels for the 9-11 age group, and found it interesting that it was enjoyed by an older child who is an advanced reader. Compared to Philip Pullman's 'Dark Material Trilogy' which, I think, is aimed at children aged 9-13, the level of language in the two Groosham Grange novels is very easy.
It says in the forward,that they were Anthony Horowitz's personal favourite of the children's novels he has written. I couldn't help wondering if he wrote both novels with the intention of publishing them as one volume but then his publishers decided to divide them into two. I won't know the answer to this, without asking him. It would explain why the second volume was much more exciting than the first.
I read the books as research into popular novels for the 9-11 age group, and found it interesting that it was enjoyed by an older child who is an advanced reader. Compared to Philip Pullman's 'Dark Material Trilogy' which, I think, is aimed at children aged 9-13, the level of language in the two Groosham Grange novels is very easy.
May 1, 2012
Much better than the first one. The story was much more focused and had a much better sense of impending doom. The mystery element was also very well thought out and it kept me guessing right up to the end.
Potter fans will find much to love in the Character of David Elliot and his school of witchcraft.
Potter fans will find much to love in the Character of David Elliot and his school of witchcraft.
January 3, 2019
Suite de Lîle au crâne. Série décidément addictive. Horowitz est décidément un très bon conteur !
David est donc désormais sorcier. Et un sorcier doué. En lisse pour le trophée du meilleur élève !
Et voilà qu'un nouvel élève arrive, et les ennuis et les péripéties commencent.
D'un aussi bon niveau que le premier tome, voilà un livre qui se dévore !
David est donc désormais sorcier. Et un sorcier doué. En lisse pour le trophée du meilleur élève !
Et voilà qu'un nouvel élève arrive, et les ennuis et les péripéties commencent.
D'un aussi bon niveau que le premier tome, voilà un livre qui se dévore !
April 4, 2020
Completely changed this term, David is determined to win the unholy grail (the trophy that is awarded to the most hard working student). When the school starts to crumble, David knows that someone has their mind set on destroying the school and he think he knows who it is...
If you are ever looking for an exciting, capturing book, this is the one.
If you are ever looking for an exciting, capturing book, this is the one.
June 14, 2012
This is a really good book, and it is the sequel to Groosham Grange. If you are a fan of Harry Potter, you should read these two books because you will find that Rowling took a lot of her ideas from these two books by Anthony Horowitz, which were written a decade before her series.
November 2, 2017
I wanted to return to Groosham Grange and find out how everything finishes glad I did, sad to have finished the book
March 9, 2018
Scary in a good way and really exciting and i want to read another one.
February 15, 2020
From this book, you can learn multiple lessons, and words you probably didn't even know!
March 23, 2025
Deuxième et dernier tome de la série. Cette suite est égale au premier opus. Peu de magie, peu de descriptions, de détails, une histoire qui avance très vite, de l'action et deux ou trois petites choses, comme un air de déjà vu. Et je maintiens, c'est vraiment très léger et il y a des différences.
Cela fait presque un an qu'Eliot est dans cette école et il se plaît dans les matières liées à la magie. Cependant, il a un rival pour le titre de Maître élève, un garçon dont il a des doutes sur les motivations réelles.
L'ambiance est toujours la même. Je déplore juste que l'on apprenne que Jeffrey (le personnage secondaire de secondaire, alors qu'il y avait du potentiel) est décédé lors d'un accident en cours de chimie. Il y a encore ce manque de magie dans une certaine mesure. Le caractère d'Eliot m'agace toujours autant. Et la cerise sur le gâteau, je vous le donne en mille, les parents de notre héros. Encore plus détestable qu'avant. Heureusement que la tante d'Eliot adoucit un peu ça.
En conclusion, ce second tome est la suite logique du premier, je déplore toujours ces moments loufoques qui n'apportent rien à l'histoire et gâche la lecture. Toutefois, comme pour le précédent volume, j'ai apprécié ma lecture dans l'ensemble. Cela se lit très très vite, mais sera vite oublié aussi.
https://la-bibliotheque-du-labyrinthe...
Cela fait presque un an qu'Eliot est dans cette école et il se plaît dans les matières liées à la magie. Cependant, il a un rival pour le titre de Maître élève, un garçon dont il a des doutes sur les motivations réelles.
L'ambiance est toujours la même. Je déplore juste que l'on apprenne que Jeffrey (le personnage secondaire de secondaire, alors qu'il y avait du potentiel) est décédé lors d'un accident en cours de chimie. Il y a encore ce manque de magie dans une certaine mesure. Le caractère d'Eliot m'agace toujours autant. Et la cerise sur le gâteau, je vous le donne en mille, les parents de notre héros. Encore plus détestable qu'avant. Heureusement que la tante d'Eliot adoucit un peu ça.
En conclusion, ce second tome est la suite logique du premier, je déplore toujours ces moments loufoques qui n'apportent rien à l'histoire et gâche la lecture. Toutefois, comme pour le précédent volume, j'ai apprécié ma lecture dans l'ensemble. Cela se lit très très vite, mais sera vite oublié aussi.
https://la-bibliotheque-du-labyrinthe...
January 6, 2021
I LOVED this book. I can tell J K Rowling was reading this on the train when she 'got the idea for Harry Potter'. The entire plot of the philosopher's stone is in this book and Rowling copied it!
I was so shocked while reading this because, like, how did Rowling get away with it? I mean, seriously?
A teacher with two heads - Quirrel with two faces
Ancient object in school (grail) - the philisopher's stone
Teacher is werewolf - Lupin
Unholy Grail - The goblet of fire
Talking pictures - talking potraits
White haired boy - malfoy
I mean, come on, it's glaringly obvious where Rowling got the idea. Horowitz practically invented the plot to the first Harry Potter right here. Had he not have written this amazing book, I don't think we'd have Harry Potter.
Horrowitz is the only author who can make me laugh. I have severe depression and apathy and I haven't laughed for years; but reading the scene where the parents argue in the car and the mother electrocutes herself and faints onto the dashboard make me laugh hysterically. Horowitz is far better than Rowling.
Swallow your pride and Ego J K Rowling and give this man the credit he deserves! He practically wrote your book for you.
I was so shocked while reading this because, like, how did Rowling get away with it? I mean, seriously?
A teacher with two heads - Quirrel with two faces
Ancient object in school (grail) - the philisopher's stone
Teacher is werewolf - Lupin
Unholy Grail - The goblet of fire
Talking pictures - talking potraits
White haired boy - malfoy
I mean, come on, it's glaringly obvious where Rowling got the idea. Horowitz practically invented the plot to the first Harry Potter right here. Had he not have written this amazing book, I don't think we'd have Harry Potter.
Horrowitz is the only author who can make me laugh. I have severe depression and apathy and I haven't laughed for years; but reading the scene where the parents argue in the car and the mother electrocutes herself and faints onto the dashboard make me laugh hysterically. Horowitz is far better than Rowling.
Swallow your pride and Ego J K Rowling and give this man the credit he deserves! He practically wrote your book for you.
December 31, 2020
Ufff ... Está historia me parece súper original, y aunque suene raro muy bonita, creo que aunado de está temática de terror y cosas extrañas, ya saben maestros que se llaman Oxiso y que tienen dos cabezas lol, trata muy bonito los temas de amistad, y en este libro de competitividad.
Es el final que nos merecemos honestamente, nuestro protagonista vive muchas aventuras e incluso se embarca en salir al mundo exterior.
Conocer estas escuelas es una experiencia, me parece muy interesante como se trata la maldad, e increíblemente el autor se plantea la cuestión que yo puse en mi reseña sobre el final y la desmenuza, me quedé en shock :o porque me parece que todo el tiempo que se tardó en sacar este libro entendió muy bien como se sentían sus lectores lo cual se agradece.
Hay algunas cosas que no me gustaron, como que Jeffrey ya no aparece, o que Julia y David no cambian de nombre, o la disminución de cosas de ocultismo, todo es como más family friendly.
Si creo que es necesario terminar con este libro, porque es un FINAL, incluso me encantaría seguir leyendo más historias de esta granja y de David ❣️
Es el final que nos merecemos honestamente, nuestro protagonista vive muchas aventuras e incluso se embarca en salir al mundo exterior.
Conocer estas escuelas es una experiencia, me parece muy interesante como se trata la maldad, e increíblemente el autor se plantea la cuestión que yo puse en mi reseña sobre el final y la desmenuza, me quedé en shock :o porque me parece que todo el tiempo que se tardó en sacar este libro entendió muy bien como se sentían sus lectores lo cual se agradece.
Hay algunas cosas que no me gustaron, como que Jeffrey ya no aparece, o que Julia y David no cambian de nombre, o la disminución de cosas de ocultismo, todo es como más family friendly.
Si creo que es necesario terminar con este libro, porque es un FINAL, incluso me encantaría seguir leyendo más historias de esta granja y de David ❣️
January 19, 2022
Return to Groosham Grange picks up a year after the events of the first book. David and Jill have settled into school and David is excelling at all his classes. He looks like he's all set to win the Unholy Grail - an award for the new Student Master which means they're the best in the school. The Unholy Grail is a decorative goblet and a powerful artefact that ensures the school's existence. If removed from the school, Groosham Grange will no longer exist. But it seems someone is after the grail and it's up to David to stop them.
I liked the second book a lot more than the first one. The extra 25+ pages or so really helped to smooth out the narrative and allow for a bit more depth and character development. Although I was disappointed that there wasn't more of Jill. There was also an actual mystery in this book and I liked the way the story unfolded the clues and the conclusion. I mean it wasn't particularly hard to guess but it was well written and very enjoyable to read. Plus if the first book missed the mark (for me) for horror, then this second book nailed it. The
Overall a funny, sarcastic read. 4 stars for both me and the target audience.
I liked the second book a lot more than the first one. The extra 25+ pages or so really helped to smooth out the narrative and allow for a bit more depth and character development. Although I was disappointed that there wasn't more of Jill. There was also an actual mystery in this book and I liked the way the story unfolded the clues and the conclusion. I mean it wasn't particularly hard to guess but it was well written and very enjoyable to read. Plus if the first book missed the mark (for me) for horror, then this second book nailed it. The
Overall a funny, sarcastic read. 4 stars for both me and the target audience.
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