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Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie #1
The Kidnap Plot
The first installment in an action-adventure series about a boy on a rescue mission—part Pinocchio, part fantasy, and all fun!
Meet Charlie. He lives a quiet life with his protective father, an inventor and clockmaker.
When Charlie’s father is kidnapped by a shadowy group called the Anti-Human League, it’s up to Charlie to save him. But the league’s plan is much more sinister than Charlie could have imagined. And as he unravels their secrets, he also uncovers his father’s own secrets—about his family, the league, and even himself. . . .
Can Charlie and his gang—a terrifying but well-meaning troll and a pair of high-flying young aeronauts—rescue Charlie’s father from the dastardly villains who have kidnapped him? And will Charlie be able to come to terms with who he really is? The journey begins here!
“Reminiscent of both Pinocchio and The Great Mouse Detective, this novel is tailor-made for young readers who love adventure narratives and steampunk fiction.” — Kirkus
“A page-turning adventure.” — School Library Journal
“The fast-paced plot is action-packed. . . . [ The Kidnap Plot ] should satisfy fans of fantasy and adventure.” — Publishers Weekly
Meet Charlie. He lives a quiet life with his protective father, an inventor and clockmaker.
When Charlie’s father is kidnapped by a shadowy group called the Anti-Human League, it’s up to Charlie to save him. But the league’s plan is much more sinister than Charlie could have imagined. And as he unravels their secrets, he also uncovers his father’s own secrets—about his family, the league, and even himself. . . .
Can Charlie and his gang—a terrifying but well-meaning troll and a pair of high-flying young aeronauts—rescue Charlie’s father from the dastardly villains who have kidnapped him? And will Charlie be able to come to terms with who he really is? The journey begins here!
“Reminiscent of both Pinocchio and The Great Mouse Detective, this novel is tailor-made for young readers who love adventure narratives and steampunk fiction.” — Kirkus
“A page-turning adventure.” — School Library Journal
“The fast-paced plot is action-packed. . . . [ The Kidnap Plot ] should satisfy fans of fantasy and adventure.” — Publishers Weekly
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2016
7 people are currently reading
1136 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 6, 2021
3.5 stars
This is kind of a strange book, and it took me a while to get used to the world. But once I “got” it, I was able to really dive into it.
It’s steampunk London, just days before Queen Victoria’s Jubilee celebration. Trolls, fairies, and who knows what else populate the country side by side with humans.
Clockwork Charlie is a boy who appears real but is actually all mechanical. He doesn’t know it at first and later has a hard time accepting it. But that’s all background to the craziness surrounding him. His father, the genius engineer Rajesh Pondicherry, is kidnapped. Charlie teams up with an eclectic group of customers to rescue him.
It took me a while to figure out who these companions were, what they wanted, and even what they were saying sometimes. That could have been just me.
It’s fast-paced, full of adventure, secrets, and villains. Perfect for all ages.
Disclaimer: I know the author personally, but I think I am hard-hearted enough to stay objective with friends’ books.
Language: None
Sexual Content: None
Violence: Some monster violence and hand-to-hand combat; some maiming and dismemberment
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
This is kind of a strange book, and it took me a while to get used to the world. But once I “got” it, I was able to really dive into it.
It’s steampunk London, just days before Queen Victoria’s Jubilee celebration. Trolls, fairies, and who knows what else populate the country side by side with humans.
Clockwork Charlie is a boy who appears real but is actually all mechanical. He doesn’t know it at first and later has a hard time accepting it. But that’s all background to the craziness surrounding him. His father, the genius engineer Rajesh Pondicherry, is kidnapped. Charlie teams up with an eclectic group of customers to rescue him.
It took me a while to figure out who these companions were, what they wanted, and even what they were saying sometimes. That could have been just me.
It’s fast-paced, full of adventure, secrets, and villains. Perfect for all ages.
Disclaimer: I know the author personally, but I think I am hard-hearted enough to stay objective with friends’ books.
Language: None
Sexual Content: None
Violence: Some monster violence and hand-to-hand combat; some maiming and dismemberment
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
September 12, 2016
If you think a clockwork boy, two young chimney sweeps/aeronauts, a kobald, a troll, and a pixie sound like a good group for a tale, then this steampunk Pinocchio may be the story for you. Although it is geared towards pre-teen/teen readers, I enjoyed this immensely. Charlie is a much better boy/story than Pinocchio ever was, and his adventures prove as much.
Charlie is on a mission to save his father and gathers a brave and devoted group to help. I'd say more but I would hate to give away the ending. This is obviously the first book in the series, and I plan to purchase the next book as soon as it's out.
I also plan to share this with my eight-year-old boys. It will make reading time very exciting for them.
Charlie is on a mission to save his father and gathers a brave and devoted group to help. I'd say more but I would hate to give away the ending. This is obviously the first book in the series, and I plan to purchase the next book as soon as it's out.
I also plan to share this with my eight-year-old boys. It will make reading time very exciting for them.
November 30, 2017
Tintin meet the fantasy world of Harry Potter :)
Absolutely love Bob and Ollie, and of course the very special Charlie.
Anyone of any age would enjoy this great escapade! I would absolutely love to see it on the big screen!
Cannot wait to go on more adventures with the lads!!
Thank you, Dave!!
Absolutely love Bob and Ollie, and of course the very special Charlie.
Anyone of any age would enjoy this great escapade! I would absolutely love to see it on the big screen!
Cannot wait to go on more adventures with the lads!!
Thank you, Dave!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2017
Skip, Mickey, & Bruiser followed Charlie Pondicherry to the Lucky Wu’s Earth Dragon laundry.
It defiantly was not a social call.
Wu was not happy when he arrived.
Charlie had escaped the bully’s but not Wu’s verbal wrath.
His laundry place was a disaster.
Whitechapel, Irongate Lane. Mr. Rajesh Pondicherry owned/worked at the Clockwork Invention & Repair.
Ms. Natalie de Minimis (pixie), & Mr. Grim Grumblesson (troll), who lived at Tumblewain Close came to see if the reading close-reading spectacles were done for him yet.
Rajesh assured them he would have Charlie deliver them tomorrow.
Mr. Henry Clockswain (Rajesh’s CI&R partner) waited on Sir Oliver Chattelsworthy, & Master Bob Micklemuch.
Charlie delivered the close-reading spectacles & told Sir Chattelsworthy his dad had been kidnapped.
Who are the Iron Cog creatures?
Does the anti-human league really exist?
& what about the sinister man?
Will Rajesh be found?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written MS-up age fantasy (steampunk) book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great MS-up age fantasy movie, animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. I would like to have seen some pictures. That said I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Knopf Books for Young Readers; A Yearling book; autographed; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
It defiantly was not a social call.
Wu was not happy when he arrived.
Charlie had escaped the bully’s but not Wu’s verbal wrath.
His laundry place was a disaster.
Whitechapel, Irongate Lane. Mr. Rajesh Pondicherry owned/worked at the Clockwork Invention & Repair.
Ms. Natalie de Minimis (pixie), & Mr. Grim Grumblesson (troll), who lived at Tumblewain Close came to see if the reading close-reading spectacles were done for him yet.
Rajesh assured them he would have Charlie deliver them tomorrow.
Mr. Henry Clockswain (Rajesh’s CI&R partner) waited on Sir Oliver Chattelsworthy, & Master Bob Micklemuch.
Charlie delivered the close-reading spectacles & told Sir Chattelsworthy his dad had been kidnapped.
Who are the Iron Cog creatures?
Does the anti-human league really exist?
& what about the sinister man?
Will Rajesh be found?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written MS-up age fantasy (steampunk) book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great MS-up age fantasy movie, animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. I would like to have seen some pictures. That said I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Knopf Books for Young Readers; A Yearling book; autographed; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Read
May 30, 2017Such a fun story! Lot's of action and adventure. Can't wait to read the second!
June 18, 2016
Add this sure bet to your pre-teen's summer reading list. The Kidnap Plot by Dave Butler is the cure for summer boredom. With cleverly written characters, dangerously intense plots, and colorful and exotic settings, The Kidnap Plot is a great pick for your eight to ten-year old's summer reading list.
In an alternate universe, Victorian Britain is populated by trolls, kobolds, pixies, brownies, and dwarves. Oh, and the diverse mix of humanity populating capitol of the British Empire. Charlie's protective father, Bap, keeps him close to home, safe under his watchful eye. Then one day, Bap is kidnapped, taken by men with sinister motives. Charlie follows the trail of clues left behind. Along the way, he assembles a motley assemblage of friends. The trail takes him into the murky depths under London's streets where pixie politics are cut-throat and ghouls lurk. It pits him against one of the most dangerous minds in 19th century Europe, who has plans that only Charlie will be able to stop. Meanwhile, Charlie will learn as much about himself as about the world his Bap has kept him safe from.
Therefor, it's an adventure story, a Bildungsroman, in a gearpunk world where magic exists alongside the power and might of the British Empire.
As I read The Kidnap Plot, I found myself wishing that my kids were a little older. It's just a little too old for them, but perfect for the 8-12 year old group. With The Kidnap Plot, Dave Butler shows a talent for reimagined or alternate history. Consequently, it has more than enough "what if" magic and fantasy to create a world that would be fascinating to any kid. I look forward to handing to my own kids in a couple of years. (Other alternate history novels by Butler include Crechling, a YA novel set in a dystopian American West, and City of the Saints, an alternate history in 19th century Utah).
To enrich the world's depth, each chapter opens with a selection from an almanac about creatures that populate The Kidnap Plot. They provide background, enhancing the depth of the world building. Every chapter pushes the plot to faster levels. And yet, Charlie's growth never lags behind the plot. Even while The Kidnap Plot feels externally driven, Charlie's character grows, too. He is discovering himself, his place in the world, in pace with the reader's discovery of the world itself.
With The Kidnap Plot, then, Butler has created an exciting world and filled it with interesting characters. The Kidnap Plot is an exciting, fast-paced and enjoyable ride with never a dull moment. This is the first in The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie about Charlie's journey and adventures. If the sequels are anything like The Kidnap Plot, I look forward to reading them. Your pre-teen will, too, and you might want to read along, as well.
In an alternate universe, Victorian Britain is populated by trolls, kobolds, pixies, brownies, and dwarves. Oh, and the diverse mix of humanity populating capitol of the British Empire. Charlie's protective father, Bap, keeps him close to home, safe under his watchful eye. Then one day, Bap is kidnapped, taken by men with sinister motives. Charlie follows the trail of clues left behind. Along the way, he assembles a motley assemblage of friends. The trail takes him into the murky depths under London's streets where pixie politics are cut-throat and ghouls lurk. It pits him against one of the most dangerous minds in 19th century Europe, who has plans that only Charlie will be able to stop. Meanwhile, Charlie will learn as much about himself as about the world his Bap has kept him safe from.
Therefor, it's an adventure story, a Bildungsroman, in a gearpunk world where magic exists alongside the power and might of the British Empire.
As I read The Kidnap Plot, I found myself wishing that my kids were a little older. It's just a little too old for them, but perfect for the 8-12 year old group. With The Kidnap Plot, Dave Butler shows a talent for reimagined or alternate history. Consequently, it has more than enough "what if" magic and fantasy to create a world that would be fascinating to any kid. I look forward to handing to my own kids in a couple of years. (Other alternate history novels by Butler include Crechling, a YA novel set in a dystopian American West, and City of the Saints, an alternate history in 19th century Utah).
To enrich the world's depth, each chapter opens with a selection from an almanac about creatures that populate The Kidnap Plot. They provide background, enhancing the depth of the world building. Every chapter pushes the plot to faster levels. And yet, Charlie's growth never lags behind the plot. Even while The Kidnap Plot feels externally driven, Charlie's character grows, too. He is discovering himself, his place in the world, in pace with the reader's discovery of the world itself.
With The Kidnap Plot, then, Butler has created an exciting world and filled it with interesting characters. The Kidnap Plot is an exciting, fast-paced and enjoyable ride with never a dull moment. This is the first in The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie about Charlie's journey and adventures. If the sequels are anything like The Kidnap Plot, I look forward to reading them. Your pre-teen will, too, and you might want to read along, as well.
June 10, 2016
Dave Butler's THE KIDNAP PLOT is a fast-paced, charming, imaginative adventure story set in a clever alternate London populated by steamwork, pixies, trolls, and more. Charlie Pondicherry has lived a fairly restrictive life: his father doesn't like him to go out much, so his world is mostly bound by travel between home and the local laundry while evading local bullies. But Charlie doesn't mind much, because he has his bap (his father) and theirs is a close, loving relationship. So when trolls (hulder) show up and kidnap his father, Charlie has a rare moment of rebellion. Instead of hiding like his bap told him to, Charlie enlists the aid of some unlikely allies to go in search of his father. His search reveals parts of London he never knew existed (I'm particularly hoping there will be a sequel to take up the question of the underground pixie world), a far-ranging plot against the British crown of which his father is only a small cog in a vast machine, and some truths about himself that he never expected.
While it took me a little while to get oriented at the beginning (things move quickly and the world is quite detailed), I found myself immersed in the story. I loved Charlie's willingness to fight against great odds, and his fellows were colorful and entertaining (Bob, and Gnat, and Grimm). I particularly liked Grim, who was more endearing than you'd expect a troll to be. And the little snippets from Smythson's Almanack that break up the chapters were quite clever. I think my kids will get a kick out of this when it comes out. (NB: the ending might be a little dark for sensitive middle grade readers, so be prepared to discuss with them.)
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While it took me a little while to get oriented at the beginning (things move quickly and the world is quite detailed), I found myself immersed in the story. I loved Charlie's willingness to fight against great odds, and his fellows were colorful and entertaining (Bob, and Gnat, and Grimm). I particularly liked Grim, who was more endearing than you'd expect a troll to be. And the little snippets from Smythson's Almanack that break up the chapters were quite clever. I think my kids will get a kick out of this when it comes out. (NB: the ending might be a little dark for sensitive middle grade readers, so be prepared to discuss with them.)
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2016
Imagine if the old tales were true, that faeries, pixies, trolls, goblins and ghouls existed. But they actually coexisted and even thrived with humans. Imagine how different history would be, what technology we would have now! D.J. Butler has done that, and used his excellent imagination to recreate 18 th & 19 th century London in his new release: The Kidnap Plot, The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie. This fantasy for young adult readers quickly pulls you into the life of Charlie, and the adventure he always wished to have, but was not really prepared for. After seeing his father kidnapped, Charlie enlists the help of two street kids, a pixie, a kobold, and a troll to help him on a rescue attempt that ultimately averts international war. This is an exciting and fast paced read with endearing characters and a fascinating story line that leaves you wanting more. An excellent read for both young and young at heart readers!
October 4, 2020
One of the benefits of having an overwhelmingly huge and ever-growing book pile is that sometimes, when you get bored, you can just dig to the bottom to see what's been hiding there, and sometimes, you find little treasures you'd completely forgotten about.
This is one of those.
I happened upon Dave Butler's The Kidnap Plot (The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie #1) several years ago after a particularly memorable LibertyCon panel which was supposed to be about The Best New YA Books...but, given that none of us had actually read any new YA books that year, ended up being about awesome YA in general (and also ended up being one of the most fun panels at that convention). This has nothing to do with the book, except that fellow panelist Butler was giving out copies at the end, and like heck am I gonna turn down any free steampunk reading, especially when the cover is as adorable as this one's.
Plus, in the con-less semi-apocalyptic landscape that is 2020, it's nice to reflect on con memories, and that panel was one of my favorites.
The London of The Kidnap Plot is one soaked in steam and coated in grease, where airships dominate the sky and beneath them live overlapping cultures of humans, pixies, trolls, kobolds, shape-changers...and Charlie Pondicherry and his Bap. Charlie's father runs Pondicherry's Clockwork Invention and Repair, and never allows Charlie to venture far from it. But when his Bap is kidnapped by the aptly-named Sinister Man and his cronies, Charlie will have to venture further than he's ever gone to rescue him--and in doing so, uncovers a plot that threatens Queen Victoria herself.
If you're in the mood for a charming middle grade steampunk adventure with a whimsical storybook quality, The Kidnap Plot is it. Though some elements toward the end might seem overly familiar to anyone who consumes lots of steampunk, the characters that surround those elements are fun enough that I didn't care (and frankly made me want to re-read/watch the stories it reminded me of, so win-win).
It's the unfamiliar parts that make the book shine, anyway. Charlie's is a setting where educated trolls can be lawyers, pixie duchesses-to-be can be their assistants, and kobolds help out in inventing shops. The aforementioned Grim Grumblesson, Natalie De Minimis, and Henry Clockswain join the ambitious chimney sweeps/potential aeronauts Oliver Chattelsworthy and Heaven-Bound Bob to shape the eclectic party that helps Charlie recover his dad. (Special second mention for Heaven-Bound Bob because I think his name is extra-fun to say.) It's a large cast for such a comparatively simplistic rescue story, but the characters play off each other's strengths and weaknesses with panache in such a way that much of the fun of the novel is not in seeing the characters succeed, but wondering what clever, audacious things they'll have to do to get out of their absurd situations, which often have no obvious solution.
More than once, I actually started thinking of these twists and turns in terms of a Dungeons & Dragons campaign, since so many of their challenges are complicated by the fact that one of them is super tiny, one is a big ol' troll, and other such race-specific details. I doubt that was the author's intent, but frankly now that I think of it, I'm totally down for a Clockwork Charlie RPG.
All in all, rip-roaring adventure and fun characters make The Kidnap Plot a delightful, exciting read. If you like whimsical steampunk stories, give it a try!
This is one of those.
I happened upon Dave Butler's The Kidnap Plot (The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie #1) several years ago after a particularly memorable LibertyCon panel which was supposed to be about The Best New YA Books...but, given that none of us had actually read any new YA books that year, ended up being about awesome YA in general (and also ended up being one of the most fun panels at that convention). This has nothing to do with the book, except that fellow panelist Butler was giving out copies at the end, and like heck am I gonna turn down any free steampunk reading, especially when the cover is as adorable as this one's.
Plus, in the con-less semi-apocalyptic landscape that is 2020, it's nice to reflect on con memories, and that panel was one of my favorites.
The London of The Kidnap Plot is one soaked in steam and coated in grease, where airships dominate the sky and beneath them live overlapping cultures of humans, pixies, trolls, kobolds, shape-changers...and Charlie Pondicherry and his Bap. Charlie's father runs Pondicherry's Clockwork Invention and Repair, and never allows Charlie to venture far from it. But when his Bap is kidnapped by the aptly-named Sinister Man and his cronies, Charlie will have to venture further than he's ever gone to rescue him--and in doing so, uncovers a plot that threatens Queen Victoria herself.
If you're in the mood for a charming middle grade steampunk adventure with a whimsical storybook quality, The Kidnap Plot is it. Though some elements toward the end might seem overly familiar to anyone who consumes lots of steampunk, the characters that surround those elements are fun enough that I didn't care (and frankly made me want to re-read/watch the stories it reminded me of, so win-win).
It's the unfamiliar parts that make the book shine, anyway. Charlie's is a setting where educated trolls can be lawyers, pixie duchesses-to-be can be their assistants, and kobolds help out in inventing shops. The aforementioned Grim Grumblesson, Natalie De Minimis, and Henry Clockswain join the ambitious chimney sweeps/potential aeronauts Oliver Chattelsworthy and Heaven-Bound Bob to shape the eclectic party that helps Charlie recover his dad. (Special second mention for Heaven-Bound Bob because I think his name is extra-fun to say.) It's a large cast for such a comparatively simplistic rescue story, but the characters play off each other's strengths and weaknesses with panache in such a way that much of the fun of the novel is not in seeing the characters succeed, but wondering what clever, audacious things they'll have to do to get out of their absurd situations, which often have no obvious solution.
More than once, I actually started thinking of these twists and turns in terms of a Dungeons & Dragons campaign, since so many of their challenges are complicated by the fact that one of them is super tiny, one is a big ol' troll, and other such race-specific details. I doubt that was the author's intent, but frankly now that I think of it, I'm totally down for a Clockwork Charlie RPG.
All in all, rip-roaring adventure and fun characters make The Kidnap Plot a delightful, exciting read. If you like whimsical steampunk stories, give it a try!
January 7, 2018
The Kidnap Plot is book one in the series The Extraordinary Journeys of Clockwork Charlie for middle grade readers by Dave Butler. Butler takes the reader on a great adventure through a steampunk/fantasy London in the Victorian era. I received a copy of The Kidnap Plot from the author for review purposes.
Charlie Pondicherry is a boy who is small for his age and lives with his father in White Chapel. His bap (dad) doesn’t like him to go out much because he is worried about Charlie’s safety. Then when his bap is kidnapped by the Sinister Man, Charlie has to figure out a way to rescue his dad and a grand adventure ensues.
This leads them into political intrigue within the pixie court, battles with rats, and dealing with the gang side of the city. We get to see the richness of the creations steampunk settings are known for along the way.
The adventure moves along through different neighborhoods of London where Charlie has new experiences. There are policemen riding zebras, and vehicles running on steam or being drawn by the likes of rhinoceroses, elephants, and even horses.
Without giving away the twists set in the story, I will say the characters are well thought out and each has their own story hanging in the wings. We are given bits and pieces from beginning to end for the movement of each of the character.
I have always enjoyed rich sideline characters in a book and The Kidnap Plot has them.
The Kidnap Plot contains interwoven storylines. The presentations are easy enough to be followed by younger readers. They’re not so complex where your younger readers will be wondering what is happening. However, they are deep enough to stimulate conversation about what they are reading.
I highly recommend The Kidnap Plot by Dave Butler. Here is a book that is target for middle grade that can be enjoyed by all ages. There is enough fun in the story to keep younger readers and enough story for the older ones.
The characters are intriguing and each has their own story that could be told.
I give it 4 ½ out of 5.
The full review is originally published on guildmastergaming@blogspot.com.
Charlie Pondicherry is a boy who is small for his age and lives with his father in White Chapel. His bap (dad) doesn’t like him to go out much because he is worried about Charlie’s safety. Then when his bap is kidnapped by the Sinister Man, Charlie has to figure out a way to rescue his dad and a grand adventure ensues.
This leads them into political intrigue within the pixie court, battles with rats, and dealing with the gang side of the city. We get to see the richness of the creations steampunk settings are known for along the way.
The adventure moves along through different neighborhoods of London where Charlie has new experiences. There are policemen riding zebras, and vehicles running on steam or being drawn by the likes of rhinoceroses, elephants, and even horses.
Without giving away the twists set in the story, I will say the characters are well thought out and each has their own story hanging in the wings. We are given bits and pieces from beginning to end for the movement of each of the character.
I have always enjoyed rich sideline characters in a book and The Kidnap Plot has them.
The Kidnap Plot contains interwoven storylines. The presentations are easy enough to be followed by younger readers. They’re not so complex where your younger readers will be wondering what is happening. However, they are deep enough to stimulate conversation about what they are reading.
I highly recommend The Kidnap Plot by Dave Butler. Here is a book that is target for middle grade that can be enjoyed by all ages. There is enough fun in the story to keep younger readers and enough story for the older ones.
The characters are intriguing and each has their own story that could be told.
I give it 4 ½ out of 5.
The full review is originally published on guildmastergaming@blogspot.com.
February 16, 2018
Opening: We begin with establishing the main character as the underdog. I am absolutely REVELLING in the steampunk aesthetic here. Not to mention the waistcoats. I have a thing for waistcoats.
Inciting Incident: Very much like The Blackthorn Key. Very, very much like it, though I suppose there's only so many ways you can have
Well, I stopped recording my responses after that. I give this book a 2.5, rounded down to a 2. I'm going by goodreads' stars here. The book DID NOT SUCK. It was between 'okay' and 'good'. If I was younger I would LOVE this book.
In any case, I definitely want to check out the rest of the series.
Inciting Incident: Very much like The Blackthorn Key. Very, very much like it, though I suppose there's only so many ways you can have
Well, I stopped recording my responses after that. I give this book a 2.5, rounded down to a 2. I'm going by goodreads' stars here. The book DID NOT SUCK. It was between 'okay' and 'good'. If I was younger I would LOVE this book.
In any case, I definitely want to check out the rest of the series.
September 4, 2019
Ten-year-old Charlie Pondicherry is living a sequestered life in Victorian England when his father, an inventor and clockmaker, is kidnapped by the underground Anti-Human League. On a quest to find his father, Charlie bravely enlists the aid of two aeronauts (customers of his father), a gigantic troll, and a pixie. Thrown headfirst into a steampunk adventure, Charlie and his motley crew unexpectedly uncover an even more nefarious scheme against Queen Victoria that they must stop. In this fast-paced adventure, Charlie finds that courage, family, and friendship are necessary for overcoming evil and also discovers something unbelievable about his own identity.
July 22, 2017
Charlie feels trapped in the alley that his protective father forbids him to leave, and longs for adventure. When adventure comes banging on the door, it's a little overwhelming. Still, he bravely sets out to rescue his father, with the help of a troll lawyer, a noble pixie, a picky kobold, and a couple of chimney sweeps with aeronautical ambitions. They wreak a lot of havoc in this interesting steampunk society, and Charlie turns out to have greater strengths than he ever imagined.
December 31, 2017
Neither Steampunk nor fantasy (trolls, fairies, and such) are my usual favorite genres. But Dave Butler has crafted a surprising story that so works! I loved the grunge and the splendor of Victorian England combined with our unique main characters. Charlie Pondicherry, a very sheltered boy, sets off with a diverse group of new friends to save his kidnapped Bap, or father. The action, twists and turns, and Charlie's self-discovery will keep you turning the pages and wanting more when it's over.
March 28, 2019
Charlie has never been allowed far beyond the workshop, but when his father is kidnapped by an evil man wearing an iron cog, he must enlist the help of some trustworthy customers to get him back - and possibly save the entire city. Butler beings an exciting and heartwarming series with this fun, fantastical adventure. What is it about Charlie that has his friends so worried and his enemies so keen to get their hands on him?
January 20, 2025
Charlie's father is kidnapped and he teams up with a troll, a pixie, hhis father's assistant, and some wayward youths to find him and his stolen projects.
This was kind of cute and I liked the format and magical creatures in the steampunk setting. But I think Charlie was kind of...dull? Whatever reason I got bored and decided not to finish the book. I do think a middle-grader or even younger kids would have fun with this. Action-packed and full of creatures!
This was kind of cute and I liked the format and magical creatures in the steampunk setting. But I think Charlie was kind of...dull? Whatever reason I got bored and decided not to finish the book. I do think a middle-grader or even younger kids would have fun with this. Action-packed and full of creatures!
May 7, 2017
Interesting story about friendship and family. Charlie embarks on an adventure to save his kidnapped father with the help of some friends - trolls, pixie, and others. Traveling around the underworld of London, fighting off villains, learning more about himself and his father. Will the secrets destroy Charlie or make him stronger?
August 29, 2020
Fun middle grade adventure set in a steampunk London where humans live side by side with several types of mythical beings. The multiple twists and reveals make this book difficult to discuss without spoilers!
March 28, 2023
A really enjoyable story.
I really liked the characters
and the world.
No spoilers, but a few points
were, in my opinion, revealed
nicely.
Bought the first and second book together so,
on to the sequel.
I really liked the characters
and the world.
No spoilers, but a few points
were, in my opinion, revealed
nicely.
Bought the first and second book together so,
on to the sequel.
May 16, 2017
I love this book. Charlie makes incredibly interesting friends, fights a variety of foes and learns amazing things about himself and his father.
December 2, 2021
2.5 stars
January 25, 2023
Very enjoyable to read.
July 16, 2018
What makes a person? Are you more than the sum of your parts? And what makes a family? Solid story, but no strong desire to pick up the sequel.
October 28, 2016
Are you read for an adventure set in Victorian England adds elements of steampunk and fantasy? Grab your goggles and galoshes, ladies and gents. Butler takes you on a non-stop adventure from the sewers through the alleys, shops and garrets into the skies of London with a number of scruffy humans and fantastical creatures giving chase.
The hero is Charlie, a tween who has lived a sheltered life until a bunch of rough characters come looking for his father. Charlie joins forces with Grim, Bob, Oliver and Gnat. This team of five all have traits and powers that emerge during wild chase scenes and fight scenes held in many interesting venues throughout London.
There's hardly a chance to hold your breath in this one. The book is complex in characters, settings, and action, so older middle grade readers, if not young adult readers, will find this an appealing adventure story. I enjoyed seeing trolls, fairies, brownies and other fantastical creatures inhabit a steampunk landscape of gears, pulleys, levers and gunpowder.
The hero is Charlie, a tween who has lived a sheltered life until a bunch of rough characters come looking for his father. Charlie joins forces with Grim, Bob, Oliver and Gnat. This team of five all have traits and powers that emerge during wild chase scenes and fight scenes held in many interesting venues throughout London.
There's hardly a chance to hold your breath in this one. The book is complex in characters, settings, and action, so older middle grade readers, if not young adult readers, will find this an appealing adventure story. I enjoyed seeing trolls, fairies, brownies and other fantastical creatures inhabit a steampunk landscape of gears, pulleys, levers and gunpowder.
September 28, 2016
Tons of Fun in a Genre-Mixed Steampunk World
I've read many of D.J. Butler's books. I always love his work, full of wit, humor, and plenty of character. But I have to say The Kidnap Plot tops the list. I read this book out loud to my kids. I recommend you do the same, especially if you have young boys. Clockwork Charlie doesn't pretend to be anything but a fun adventure with which boys can relate. Butler leaves self-indulgent prose behind and gets right down into the guts of the yarn. This is not the steampunk world you have grown used to, unless you include kobolds, trolls, goblins, and any number other "anti-human league" creatures. Mix all of this together and put it on the rails of a steam-powered adventure train with plenty of twists and you get Clockwork Charlie. I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series. Buy this one blind, even if you haven't read Butler before. You won't regret it.
I've read many of D.J. Butler's books. I always love his work, full of wit, humor, and plenty of character. But I have to say The Kidnap Plot tops the list. I read this book out loud to my kids. I recommend you do the same, especially if you have young boys. Clockwork Charlie doesn't pretend to be anything but a fun adventure with which boys can relate. Butler leaves self-indulgent prose behind and gets right down into the guts of the yarn. This is not the steampunk world you have grown used to, unless you include kobolds, trolls, goblins, and any number other "anti-human league" creatures. Mix all of this together and put it on the rails of a steam-powered adventure train with plenty of twists and you get Clockwork Charlie. I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series. Buy this one blind, even if you haven't read Butler before. You won't regret it.
June 10, 2016
I won an ARC in a contest, so I had the privilege of reading this book before release.
The cover art is fantastic, but don't let that fool you into thinking only children will enjoy the book.
I was expecting this story to play upon the theme of a steampunk Pinnochio, with the whole mechanical boy thing. It's much better than that. I loved the portrayal of dedication, family, and friendship, and how goodness and a pure heart are assets in overcoming evil.
As the first of a series, don't expect everything to be resolved. He's still got people to rescue and villains in his way. Despite that, it has a satisfying conclusion as a well-balanced action story which will appeal to children and to adults.
The cover art is fantastic, but don't let that fool you into thinking only children will enjoy the book.
I was expecting this story to play upon the theme of a steampunk Pinnochio, with the whole mechanical boy thing. It's much better than that. I loved the portrayal of dedication, family, and friendship, and how goodness and a pure heart are assets in overcoming evil.
As the first of a series, don't expect everything to be resolved. He's still got people to rescue and villains in his way. Despite that, it has a satisfying conclusion as a well-balanced action story which will appeal to children and to adults.
June 13, 2016
I am a big fan of Dave Butler's books for adults, so I was excited to read his first middle grade novel. I received an arc (advanced reader copy) of The Kidnap Plot, and my kids (ages 11 and 8) and I read it together for our bedtime story over the last month. We loved it! This book is full of action and surprises. We loved the steampunk London setting and all the magical creatures. Charlie is a wonderful protagonist, and we all wanted to see him win. This book is awesome for kids of all ages, and we are very much looking forward to the second book!
I asked my kids to share their favorite parts: (Slight spoilers)
Camary: The escape from Underthames
Xander: When the ghouls tried to eat Charlie
I asked my kids to share their favorite parts: (Slight spoilers)
Camary: The escape from Underthames
Xander: When the ghouls tried to eat Charlie
September 28, 2016
I really wanted to like this, but found myself not able to get into the story. Butler wastes no time explaining his world to you. There are helpful encyclopedia entries before each chapter that explain the different magical creatures, but that's about it. From the narrative it's assumed you know how this universe works. Luckily he does it in a way that you don't feel like you've been left behind.
My main problem with the story was the pacing. There is a lot of running for their lives and battle sequences, which are really hard for me to pay attention to as a reader. I'm the type to skim paragraphs if they get really wordy. So this type of writing was lost on me, but I can see those who would really dig it.
My main problem with the story was the pacing. There is a lot of running for their lives and battle sequences, which are really hard for me to pay attention to as a reader. I'm the type to skim paragraphs if they get really wordy. So this type of writing was lost on me, but I can see those who would really dig it.
November 13, 2016
This book focuses on Charlie Pondicherry, whose father is an inventor of many types of things. When Charlie's dad is kidnapped by a group called the Iron Cog, Charlie and some of this father's clients team up to rescue him. This book has many fantasy creatures, such as trolls, pixie's, Kobolds, Ghouls, and more. The book also is very steam punk since there are airships and Charlie's dad can build automatons. The characters in the book are very likeable, and it has a nice pace. The book is left open for another volume in the series, but it does not end on a cliff hanger, which means you will be more than able to peacefully wait for the next book's release.
July 1, 2016
It has been a long time since I picked up a book, and did not put it down until it was finished. A steampunk adventure of the highest order, with a healthy dose of fantasy thrown in for good measure, the Kidnap Plot is fast paced and thoroughly entertaining. This book will appeal not only to younger readers, but also to those older readers like myself, who love a grand adventure story. With clever twists on the old fairly tales, interesting and lovable characters, and the promise of more adventures to come, this book is an outstanding and welcome addition to my library.
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