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The Boggart #3
The Boggart Fights Back
The Boggart is back for a new adventure of magic and mayhem from Newbery winner Susan Cooper.
Magic is in the air when Allie and Jay Cameron visit their ancestors’ ancient Castle Keep in Scotland, tucked in its unspoiled loch. The twins wake the mischievous shape-shifting Boggart and his infamous cousin Nessie, of Loch Ness fame. But a summer of fun-loving trickery with the Old Things is invaded by a dangerous real estate developer called William Trout.
Trout has big plans for a luxury resort on the loch, and little care for its people or the law. Bulldozers get to work. The future of the loch, its seals, and all its beauty are threatened. The twins and Angus Cameron, their grandfather, mobilize to save his shop and the loch, but it’s soon clear they will need help of a different sort…
In a race against time, the Boggarts recruit help from other Old Things of Scotland: hair-raising creatures of the Wild Magic. But are the Blue Men of the Minch and the Nuckelavee too terrifying for humans to handle? How can they drive out the invader? What’s certain is that Mr. Trout is in for a wild ride in this comical, page-turning adventure from Newbery Medalist Susan Cooper.
Magic is in the air when Allie and Jay Cameron visit their ancestors’ ancient Castle Keep in Scotland, tucked in its unspoiled loch. The twins wake the mischievous shape-shifting Boggart and his infamous cousin Nessie, of Loch Ness fame. But a summer of fun-loving trickery with the Old Things is invaded by a dangerous real estate developer called William Trout.
Trout has big plans for a luxury resort on the loch, and little care for its people or the law. Bulldozers get to work. The future of the loch, its seals, and all its beauty are threatened. The twins and Angus Cameron, their grandfather, mobilize to save his shop and the loch, but it’s soon clear they will need help of a different sort…
In a race against time, the Boggarts recruit help from other Old Things of Scotland: hair-raising creatures of the Wild Magic. But are the Blue Men of the Minch and the Nuckelavee too terrifying for humans to handle? How can they drive out the invader? What’s certain is that Mr. Trout is in for a wild ride in this comical, page-turning adventure from Newbery Medalist Susan Cooper.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published February 27, 2018
About the author
Susan Cooper
148 books2,484 followersSusan Cooper's latest book is the YA novel "Ghost Hawk" (2013)
Susan Cooper was born in 1935, and grew up in England's Buckinghamshire, an area that was green countryside then but has since become part of Greater London. As a child, she loved to read, as did her younger brother, who also became a writer. After attending Oxford, where she became the first woman to ever edit that university's newspaper, Cooper worked as a reporter and feature writer for London's Sunday Times; her first boss was James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
Cooper wrote her first book for young readers in response to a publishing house competition; "Over Sea, Under Stone" would later form the basis for her critically acclaimed five-book fantasy sequence, "The Dark Is Rising." The fourth book in the series, "The Grey King," won the Newbery Medal in 1976. By that time, Susan Cooper had been living in America for 13 years, having moved to marry her first husband, an American professor, and was stepmother to three children and the mother of two.
Cooper went on to write other well-received novels, including "The Boggart" (and its sequel "The Boggart and the Monster"), "King of Shadows", and "Victory," as well as several picture books for young readers with illustrators such as Ashley Bryan and Warwick Hutton. She has also written books for adults, as well as plays and Emmy-nominated screenplays, many in collaboration with the actor Hume Cronyn, whom she married in 1996. Hume Cronyn died in 2003 and Ms. Cooper now lives in Marshfield MA. When Cooper is not working, she enjoys playing piano, gardening, and traveling.
Recent books include the collaborative project "The Exquisite Corpse Adventure" and her biography of Jack Langstaff titled "The Magic Maker." Her newest book is "Ghost Hawk."
Visit her Facebook pages: www.facebook.com/SusanCooperFanPage
www.facebook.com/GhostHawkBySusanCooper
Susan Cooper was born in 1935, and grew up in England's Buckinghamshire, an area that was green countryside then but has since become part of Greater London. As a child, she loved to read, as did her younger brother, who also became a writer. After attending Oxford, where she became the first woman to ever edit that university's newspaper, Cooper worked as a reporter and feature writer for London's Sunday Times; her first boss was James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
Cooper wrote her first book for young readers in response to a publishing house competition; "Over Sea, Under Stone" would later form the basis for her critically acclaimed five-book fantasy sequence, "The Dark Is Rising." The fourth book in the series, "The Grey King," won the Newbery Medal in 1976. By that time, Susan Cooper had been living in America for 13 years, having moved to marry her first husband, an American professor, and was stepmother to three children and the mother of two.
Cooper went on to write other well-received novels, including "The Boggart" (and its sequel "The Boggart and the Monster"), "King of Shadows", and "Victory," as well as several picture books for young readers with illustrators such as Ashley Bryan and Warwick Hutton. She has also written books for adults, as well as plays and Emmy-nominated screenplays, many in collaboration with the actor Hume Cronyn, whom she married in 1996. Hume Cronyn died in 2003 and Ms. Cooper now lives in Marshfield MA. When Cooper is not working, she enjoys playing piano, gardening, and traveling.
Recent books include the collaborative project "The Exquisite Corpse Adventure" and her biography of Jack Langstaff titled "The Magic Maker." Her newest book is "Ghost Hawk."
Visit her Facebook pages: www.facebook.com/SusanCooperFanPage
www.facebook.com/GhostHawkBySusanCooper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 5, 2019
Boggart and friends vs Donald William Trump Trout. Can they save Stalker Castle Castle Keep, the Appin coastline and its wildlife from becoming a huge holiday resort for the rich?
Well, it's a book for kids, so you guess.
It's a charming adventure involving the afore-mentioned shape-changing trickster spirit of Scottish folklore, the Boggart of Clan MacDevon and the youngest human members of the Clan - Jay and Allie Cameron (long story). Various other creatures from Scottish folklore also show up, playing into Cooper's strengths as illustrated by her famous Dark is Rising sequence.
Well, it's a book for kids, so you guess.
It's a charming adventure involving the afore-mentioned shape-changing trickster spirit of Scottish folklore, the Boggart of Clan MacDevon and the youngest human members of the Clan - Jay and Allie Cameron (long story). Various other creatures from Scottish folklore also show up, playing into Cooper's strengths as illustrated by her famous Dark is Rising sequence.
January 23, 2018
Cooper-Lite Powers a Familiar Plot
I truly admire Susan Cooper's "Dark is Rising" sequence, and mostly like the Boggart series because it incorporates some of the mystery of the Old Magic into a younger kid-friendly package.
This is the third Boggart story. The series sort of follows one extended family through the generations as various family members have adventures with the same mischievous Boggart. This time around the twins Allie and Jay visit their grandfather at their ancestor's ancient castle, Castle Keep, in Scotland. The Castle, grandpa's little store, and the surrounding countryside are all being threatened by a rapacious developer. So, it's up to the twins, grandpa, the Boggart, and the Boggart's cousin, (Nessie of Loch Ness fame), to thwart the villain.
Some of this is very familiar, some is unique to Cooper, and some is a bit unfortunate. The familiar part, of course, is kids versus developer, and it plays out about as you would expect. The unique Cooper touch is how well developed the Boggart is as a character. This Boggart takes childish delight in pranks and jokes, but also has a deep attachment to the Castle and the family attached to it and a keen sense of loyalty, justice and fair play. The Boggart is almost pure "goodness" and joy, and that's certainly a fine hero for a younger kid's book. Further, Cooper mixes all this up with ancient Scottish myths and tales and creatures. The Boggart seeks help from the "Old Things" in its battle against the villain, and while the nature of Old Magic and Old Things is left appropriately vague, the mystical atmosphere at which Cooper excels shines throughout the book.
There is one aspect that struck me as a bit unfortunate. It probably seemed clever and harmless at the time to model the figure of the evil developer, Willie Trout, after Donald Trump. This man is a boastful, ("all of my branded resorts are huuuuge successes"), lying, exaggerating, publicity hungry, bullying con artist with a penchant for ignoring or denying inconvenient truths. As he and his cowed subordinates march around in black jackets emblazoned with oversized "T's", you can't escape the Trumpness. I think this is unfortunate because I think Trump has stopped being funny, or even interesting. That may just be me, and would probably not be a problem for young readers, but there it is for what it's worth.
So, my bottom line is that this is a fine Cooper book for younger readers. It doesn't break new ground or set any new standards, but it serves quite honorably as a fine old school entertainment with a cheerful and upbeat vibe.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
I truly admire Susan Cooper's "Dark is Rising" sequence, and mostly like the Boggart series because it incorporates some of the mystery of the Old Magic into a younger kid-friendly package.
This is the third Boggart story. The series sort of follows one extended family through the generations as various family members have adventures with the same mischievous Boggart. This time around the twins Allie and Jay visit their grandfather at their ancestor's ancient castle, Castle Keep, in Scotland. The Castle, grandpa's little store, and the surrounding countryside are all being threatened by a rapacious developer. So, it's up to the twins, grandpa, the Boggart, and the Boggart's cousin, (Nessie of Loch Ness fame), to thwart the villain.
Some of this is very familiar, some is unique to Cooper, and some is a bit unfortunate. The familiar part, of course, is kids versus developer, and it plays out about as you would expect. The unique Cooper touch is how well developed the Boggart is as a character. This Boggart takes childish delight in pranks and jokes, but also has a deep attachment to the Castle and the family attached to it and a keen sense of loyalty, justice and fair play. The Boggart is almost pure "goodness" and joy, and that's certainly a fine hero for a younger kid's book. Further, Cooper mixes all this up with ancient Scottish myths and tales and creatures. The Boggart seeks help from the "Old Things" in its battle against the villain, and while the nature of Old Magic and Old Things is left appropriately vague, the mystical atmosphere at which Cooper excels shines throughout the book.
There is one aspect that struck me as a bit unfortunate. It probably seemed clever and harmless at the time to model the figure of the evil developer, Willie Trout, after Donald Trump. This man is a boastful, ("all of my branded resorts are huuuuge successes"), lying, exaggerating, publicity hungry, bullying con artist with a penchant for ignoring or denying inconvenient truths. As he and his cowed subordinates march around in black jackets emblazoned with oversized "T's", you can't escape the Trumpness. I think this is unfortunate because I think Trump has stopped being funny, or even interesting. That may just be me, and would probably not be a problem for young readers, but there it is for what it's worth.
So, my bottom line is that this is a fine Cooper book for younger readers. It doesn't break new ground or set any new standards, but it serves quite honorably as a fine old school entertainment with a cheerful and upbeat vibe.
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
November 27, 2019
This series, guys! 😍 I JUST found out there's a third book, which released last year, and I immediately went to the library and got it out and devoured it, even though it was the middle of NaNoWriMo. 😂 That's how excited I was!
This series is fun and hilarious and Celtic and has great characters (Tommy Cameron, though!) and magical shenanigans in modern times, and it's basically everything I love!
The Boggart (1993) is a delightful then-contemporary fantasy set in Scotland and Toronto, about a mischievous invisible magical creature called a Boggart, whose purpose in life is to play tricks on people and is set loose in modern-day Toronto. It's one of my favorites! (I actually just re-read it last month and I've heard the audiobook two other times.)
The Boggart and the Monster (1997) follows Candian siblings Emily and Jessup from book 1, as they return to Scotland and get mixed up in trying to save the Loch Ness Monster, who is a cousin of the Boggart, and shenanigans ensue!
The Boggart Fights Back (2018) is set years later, about Emily's twin children who go to Scotland to visit their grandfather, and they and the Boggart and Nessie will try to save the loch area around Castle Keep from becoming a resort. I don't usually like sequels that move to a new generation but this one did it right. 😀
THEY ARE SUCH FUN BOOKS!! I totally recommend them! I don't even always like urban fantasy books but these were SO fun. (Find the first one on audiobook if you can--it's a blast. XD) The Celtic aspect makes me happy!
It's just a perfect blend of everything and so fun and I'm so happy Susan Cooper wrote another one and that I found it. 😍
Have you met the Boggart yet? You should!
(I wrote this for an Instagram post and decided it was review-ish enough to share here! Even though it's about all three instead of just this one, but anywayyy.)
This series is fun and hilarious and Celtic and has great characters (Tommy Cameron, though!) and magical shenanigans in modern times, and it's basically everything I love!
The Boggart (1993) is a delightful then-contemporary fantasy set in Scotland and Toronto, about a mischievous invisible magical creature called a Boggart, whose purpose in life is to play tricks on people and is set loose in modern-day Toronto. It's one of my favorites! (I actually just re-read it last month and I've heard the audiobook two other times.)
The Boggart and the Monster (1997) follows Candian siblings Emily and Jessup from book 1, as they return to Scotland and get mixed up in trying to save the Loch Ness Monster, who is a cousin of the Boggart, and shenanigans ensue!
The Boggart Fights Back (2018) is set years later, about Emily's twin children who go to Scotland to visit their grandfather, and they and the Boggart and Nessie will try to save the loch area around Castle Keep from becoming a resort. I don't usually like sequels that move to a new generation but this one did it right. 😀
THEY ARE SUCH FUN BOOKS!! I totally recommend them! I don't even always like urban fantasy books but these were SO fun. (Find the first one on audiobook if you can--it's a blast. XD) The Celtic aspect makes me happy!
It's just a perfect blend of everything and so fun and I'm so happy Susan Cooper wrote another one and that I found it. 😍
Have you met the Boggart yet? You should!
(I wrote this for an Instagram post and decided it was review-ish enough to share here! Even though it's about all three instead of just this one, but anywayyy.)
April 30, 2018
Let me clear: there is one specific reason I am giving this five stars. It is the splendid way Ms. Cooper shows Donald trump, AKA Trout, in this book! The writing is not comparable to her Dark is Rising Sequence, but the story of the victory of the Scots over trump, I mean Trout, is just wonderful. We need the hope that Trout, err, trump, can be defeated!
In terms of real grading, I'd likely give this a 3.5 upgraded to 4 stars. However, we need the hope so I'm sticking with five stars. Will children agree with this being a 4 star title? I think so. The boggart series by Cooper is popular. There is a gentleness in this that isn't in the Dark is Rising sequence. I would suggest any child who perhaps found that series too intense, will enjoy the boggart series. They are much lighter but still respectful of the old folk tales and beliefs.
The boggart and his cuz, Nessy, wakes up again and discovers that their own castles and land are being invaded by Trout. What will they do to protect their land and their people, the final generation of whom are the twins Allie and Jay? Read and enjoy! It can be read on its own but readers will enjoy the book more having read the prior books. Unless, of course, you are reading this for the hope that trump, err, Trout can be defeated. Then you can certainly read this by itself. Highly recommended for whichever reason you decide to read this delightful fantasy!
In terms of real grading, I'd likely give this a 3.5 upgraded to 4 stars. However, we need the hope so I'm sticking with five stars. Will children agree with this being a 4 star title? I think so. The boggart series by Cooper is popular. There is a gentleness in this that isn't in the Dark is Rising sequence. I would suggest any child who perhaps found that series too intense, will enjoy the boggart series. They are much lighter but still respectful of the old folk tales and beliefs.
The boggart and his cuz, Nessy, wakes up again and discovers that their own castles and land are being invaded by Trout. What will they do to protect their land and their people, the final generation of whom are the twins Allie and Jay? Read and enjoy! It can be read on its own but readers will enjoy the book more having read the prior books. Unless, of course, you are reading this for the hope that trump, err, Trout can be defeated. Then you can certainly read this by itself. Highly recommended for whichever reason you decide to read this delightful fantasy!
February 4, 2018
A boggart (a shape-shifting and mischievous magical creature) and his cousin, long asleep at Castle Keep in the Scottish Highlands, awaken when a soulless, tasteless narcissist of an American real estate tycoon tries to alternately manipulate and bully his way into buying the castle in order to create an American hotel and condo development. (Any resemblances to New York City’s most tacky real-estate developer is surely coincidental, although in William Trout’s defense and in respect to The Boggart Fights Back being a children’s book, he is much less vulgar and more coherent.) Ten-year-old Canadian twins Allie and Jay Cameron are visiting their cantankerous Scottish grandfather, and the three of them join forces with other disenchanted locals to try to upset tycoon William Trout’s short-sighted plans. What can they do when Mr. Trout is so rich? And where will The Boggart and his cousin Nessie take a stand?
The Boggart Fights Back is the third in a series that began in 1993 with The Boggart and more than 20 years after the series had ended with The Boggart and the Monster. I’ve not read either of the other books in the series, and I was able to enjoy the third. So if you’re new to the series, don’t let that put you off. I found this book by Susan Cooper (best known for her Darkness Is Rising series) a sheer delight: comical, a bit suspenseful, and a fun twist on the haunted house/poltergeist subgenre. And it won’t be a spoiler in a children’s book to note that tacky, bullying Mr.Trump Trout gets a satisfying comeuppance in the end. Definitely recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing, and Margaret K. McElderry Books in exchange for an honest review.
The Boggart Fights Back is the third in a series that began in 1993 with The Boggart and more than 20 years after the series had ended with The Boggart and the Monster. I’ve not read either of the other books in the series, and I was able to enjoy the third. So if you’re new to the series, don’t let that put you off. I found this book by Susan Cooper (best known for her Darkness Is Rising series) a sheer delight: comical, a bit suspenseful, and a fun twist on the haunted house/poltergeist subgenre. And it won’t be a spoiler in a children’s book to note that tacky, bullying Mr.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing, and Margaret K. McElderry Books in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2018
I've always had a soft spot for the Boggart stories and was so excited to hear about this new third book. I read it in a gulp and loved every single word!
If you are a Trump fan, this book is not for you. But for me the character of William Trout was one of the chief pleasures of the book. Cooper uses a wickedly sly hand depicting this greedy arrogant developer and anyone dismayed by his activities and behaviors will be as gleefully pleased by his comeuppance here. That part was really a hoot!
For kids all the rest will be a delight - kids taking on a land-grabber adult, wonderful legendary characters, practical jokes, a magical setting and family working together. The Boggart and Nessie may be old friends but even if this is the first encounter, kids' hearts will love their antics.
A lovely funny triumphant story and one that I thoroughly enjoyed!
If you are a Trump fan, this book is not for you. But for me the character of William Trout was one of the chief pleasures of the book. Cooper uses a wickedly sly hand depicting this greedy arrogant developer and anyone dismayed by his activities and behaviors will be as gleefully pleased by his comeuppance here. That part was really a hoot!
For kids all the rest will be a delight - kids taking on a land-grabber adult, wonderful legendary characters, practical jokes, a magical setting and family working together. The Boggart and Nessie may be old friends but even if this is the first encounter, kids' hearts will love their antics.
A lovely funny triumphant story and one that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Read
July 26, 2024When Castle Keep is in danger of being sold off to a money-hungry and tone-deaf American who plans to develop it into a hotel, the Boggarts and their human friends team up to drive them off. Aka The Boggart: Next Generation. I was initially a bit annoyed that this isn't about the original kids, and I do wish there was more of those characters, but this is a fun story in the series, with the message that taking direct political action, including pushing forklifts into lakes if necessary, is effective.
April 30, 2022
Twin siblings Allie and Jay Cameron visit their grandad's castle in Scotland only to discover that an American real estate developer, William Trout is out to purchase their ancestor's land and castle and turn it into a tourist resort. They turn to Boggart, and his cousin Nessie to help thwart Mr. Trout's evil plans. Full of Scottish folk lore and myth this humorous tale leads Mr. Trout to change his mind after the trickery and magic the Boggart displays.
March 26, 2020
I struggled getting into the story, mainly because it is not my typical genre to read. It is a fantasy with mystical creatures, set in present day, in Scotland. It was in chapter 4, when we meet Mr. Trout, the American real estate tycoon, that my interest grew and I was anxious to see what lay ahead for this greedy character who so coincidently resembles another American real estate tycoon, reality star, and current POTUS. I was not disappointed.
Allie and Jay are staying with their grandfather at Loch Linnhe in Scotland while their father is on business. They discover that the beloved Castle Keep and all surrounding area is in jeopardy of being destroyed through a real estate development plan. They enlist the assistance of the mischievous shape shifting Boggart and his cousin Nessie, who intern recruit other Old Things of Scotland, and they begin a campaign to change the obnoxious, dishonest developer's plan. They are racing against the clock. Will they be able to save Castle Keep, their grandfathers store, the Seal Rocks?
A smooth reading fantasy filled with adventure , mystery, and magical creatures. Perfect for 3rd and 4th graders.
Allie and Jay are staying with their grandfather at Loch Linnhe in Scotland while their father is on business. They discover that the beloved Castle Keep and all surrounding area is in jeopardy of being destroyed through a real estate development plan. They enlist the assistance of the mischievous shape shifting Boggart and his cousin Nessie, who intern recruit other Old Things of Scotland, and they begin a campaign to change the obnoxious, dishonest developer's plan. They are racing against the clock. Will they be able to save Castle Keep, their grandfathers store, the Seal Rocks?
A smooth reading fantasy filled with adventure , mystery, and magical creatures. Perfect for 3rd and 4th graders.
April 29, 2018
My rating: 2.5/5
The Boggart Fights Back follows the story of Allie and Jay, who visit their "Granda" in Scotland. They quickly discover that William Trout, an American who is known for developing five-star resorts, wants to take over their grandfather's land and ruin Scotland's beloved Castle Keep. Allie, Jay, and their family team up with the Boggart, Nessie, and several other mythological creatures to try to keep Trout from destroying their home (but not without playing some tricks on him and his crew along the way).
Although the Boggart Fights Back reads as a stand-alone, I'd suggest reading The Boggart and The Boggart and the Monster to help give you more context before diving into this middle-grade, fantasy novel. While I typically enjoy fantasy books, this one was not easy for me to get through. But I did enjoy reading about some of the creatures from Scotland's folklore. Another positive is that, at its core, it's a book that reminded me that if you believe in something, you should never give up fighting for it!
The Boggart Fights Back follows the story of Allie and Jay, who visit their "Granda" in Scotland. They quickly discover that William Trout, an American who is known for developing five-star resorts, wants to take over their grandfather's land and ruin Scotland's beloved Castle Keep. Allie, Jay, and their family team up with the Boggart, Nessie, and several other mythological creatures to try to keep Trout from destroying their home (but not without playing some tricks on him and his crew along the way).
Although the Boggart Fights Back reads as a stand-alone, I'd suggest reading The Boggart and The Boggart and the Monster to help give you more context before diving into this middle-grade, fantasy novel. While I typically enjoy fantasy books, this one was not easy for me to get through. But I did enjoy reading about some of the creatures from Scotland's folklore. Another positive is that, at its core, it's a book that reminded me that if you believe in something, you should never give up fighting for it!
December 12, 2021
Written 25 years after the first book, the characters are the extended family of the first book's characters. As in the other books, I liked the characters from Scottish and Celtic history also.
The villain here is development and greed - building a golf course and complex and in stage two tearing down the family castle to replace it with a castle hotel and resort. The personification of this greed is Mr Trout, whose mannerisms and giant "T" logo are clearly meant to remind us of another greedy mogul.
I enjoyed the history and characters, but the plot was a little thin. Reacting against the villain only goes so far. The closing chapter wraps things up a bit too neatly. Still, this was a fairly quick read (just over two hours, much of it on a plane). I'd like to look into something else by the author - her young adult The Dark is Rising series is pretty highly rated.
The villain here is development and greed - building a golf course and complex and in stage two tearing down the family castle to replace it with a castle hotel and resort. The personification of this greed is Mr Trout, whose mannerisms and giant "T" logo are clearly meant to remind us of another greedy mogul.
I enjoyed the history and characters, but the plot was a little thin. Reacting against the villain only goes so far. The closing chapter wraps things up a bit too neatly. Still, this was a fairly quick read (just over two hours, much of it on a plane). I'd like to look into something else by the author - her young adult The Dark is Rising series is pretty highly rated.
April 27, 2018
The Boggart is back, with his friend Nessie, determined to save their little corner of Scotland from a mega-rich real estate developer whose name and personality will be instantly recognizable as a thinly disguised poke at you-know-who. Tommy Cameron's children are the main characters in this third book in Cooper's loosely linked fantasy series; visiting from Canada, they are happy to be back with their grandfather and are distressed by the dangers of development threatening Castle Keep and the loch. It seems like an impossible situation, until the rich ancient magic of Scotland comes to the rescue. It's a treat to have a new Cooper. Middle grades.
April 24, 2018
I love Susan Cooper, and love her Boggart stories. This one was not quite as satisfying or wondrous as the other two, but I loved seeing Cooper’s Trout/Trump caricature, and loved reading about Boggart and Nessie again. The new magical beings were not quite as wondrous as I wanted them to be. There was also never a scene that approached the beauty of when the Boggart discovers the light and sound tech in the Toronto theater in the first book. Fun to read, if not as magical as other books by Susan Cooper.
April 20, 2018
Castle Keep on Loch Linnhe is a charming, quiet, peaceful corner of Scotland. Although no one currently lives in the castle, Angus Cameron keeps an eye on it. A local shopkeeper, Angus is perhaps best known as the journalist who took the one good photo of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, that has been used for decades. He's also the grandfather of twins Jay and Allie, who are visiting for 2 weeks while their father goes to Edinburgh for business.
But the twins' enjoyment of their week is cut short by loud American William Trout. With plans to create a large resort near the castle, Trout uses his millions to buy up land around the lake and almost immediately starts demolishing. But he doesn't own all the land yet--Angus is holding out, with no intention of selling. And Trout doesn't yet own the castle. He's renting it, but only one of the brothers who own it want to sell it. Angus is working with the other brother, encouraging him to hold out.
And fortunately, Angus has help. The twins are all in, as is his assistant in the shop, Portia. And the twins' father, Tom, cuts his trip to Edinburgh short to help. Their mother, stuck at work in Ottawa, Canada, pitches in. Even though she's far away, she's a lawyer, so she knows how to get things done. And even better, the boggart and his cousin Nessie join in to help the cause.
The boggart is one of the Old Things, the creatures that have been a part of Scotland throughout the centuries, and they are willing to help their clan fight against enemies. And Boggart and Nessie can tell right away that Trout is an enemy. So they decide to bring all their shape-shifting tricks, all their mischievousness to the party. And if for some reason that's not enough firepower to get rid of Trout, then they have more Old Things they can turn to for help.
The Boggart Fights Back is Susan Cooper's third Boggart book, and it's so perfectly delightful. Her mix of humor and magic, of family and personality, of future and past takes this adorable middle grade fiction book to a new level of excellence. Cooper's mastery of story blends beautifully with her expertise in legends and myths, and her hard work definitely pays off in this remarkable children's book.
I am a big fan of good, charming middle grade books. There is just some part of my soul that never grew up from those elementary school years. And that part of me adored this book and wanted to curl up and read it over and over. But I'm also an adult who reads a lot of books in my spare time. And that part of me adored this book and laughed out loud at the characters and caricatures in this tiny book. It packs a wallop for readers of all ages, and I recommend this one for anyone who needs some adorable escapism from a noisy, stressful world.
Galleys for The Boggart Strikes Back were provided by Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing through NetGalley, with many thanks.
But the twins' enjoyment of their week is cut short by loud American William Trout. With plans to create a large resort near the castle, Trout uses his millions to buy up land around the lake and almost immediately starts demolishing. But he doesn't own all the land yet--Angus is holding out, with no intention of selling. And Trout doesn't yet own the castle. He's renting it, but only one of the brothers who own it want to sell it. Angus is working with the other brother, encouraging him to hold out.
And fortunately, Angus has help. The twins are all in, as is his assistant in the shop, Portia. And the twins' father, Tom, cuts his trip to Edinburgh short to help. Their mother, stuck at work in Ottawa, Canada, pitches in. Even though she's far away, she's a lawyer, so she knows how to get things done. And even better, the boggart and his cousin Nessie join in to help the cause.
The boggart is one of the Old Things, the creatures that have been a part of Scotland throughout the centuries, and they are willing to help their clan fight against enemies. And Boggart and Nessie can tell right away that Trout is an enemy. So they decide to bring all their shape-shifting tricks, all their mischievousness to the party. And if for some reason that's not enough firepower to get rid of Trout, then they have more Old Things they can turn to for help.
The Boggart Fights Back is Susan Cooper's third Boggart book, and it's so perfectly delightful. Her mix of humor and magic, of family and personality, of future and past takes this adorable middle grade fiction book to a new level of excellence. Cooper's mastery of story blends beautifully with her expertise in legends and myths, and her hard work definitely pays off in this remarkable children's book.
I am a big fan of good, charming middle grade books. There is just some part of my soul that never grew up from those elementary school years. And that part of me adored this book and wanted to curl up and read it over and over. But I'm also an adult who reads a lot of books in my spare time. And that part of me adored this book and laughed out loud at the characters and caricatures in this tiny book. It packs a wallop for readers of all ages, and I recommend this one for anyone who needs some adorable escapism from a noisy, stressful world.
Galleys for The Boggart Strikes Back were provided by Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing through NetGalley, with many thanks.
February 3, 2018
Those who have read Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban will remember the boggart that Professor Lupin used in his Dark Arts class. It was a shapeshifter that took on the form of the worst fear of whoever faced it. So readers may think this boggart will be the same, but it is rather different.
Boggart is able to change shape, but it is more of a prankster than something fearful. And it has a history of association with the MacDevon family. So when Castle Keep, the family seat of the MacDevon clan is threatened by a greedy developer, Boggart and his cousin Nessie take action. While the descendants of MacDevon work on petitions to stop the construction and meetings with the local council, Boggart and Nessie call on other "ancient creatures of the Wild Magic" for help. The results are not always what they expect, but they don't give up the fight.
Susan Cooper's books often include elements of legend and myth from the British Isles. In this story we have beings from Scottish legend such as the boggarts, the Caointeach, the Each Uisge, the Blue Men of Minch, and the Nuckelavee. Raeders will also see what it is like to be part of a community that is being invaded, so to speak, by a corporation intent on changing everything for its own purposes and how that impacts the environment, the local economy, and even things as mundane as the water lines.
Seeing the struggle against corporate powers and the wonder of the boggarts and other legendary creatures from the viewpoint of the children (Jay and Allie), adds to the feeling of powerlessness in the first case and the awesome thrill of the second. And for those who already read the original appearance of The Boggart, this will be a welcome return of a favorite character. Either way, I highly recommend this for middle grade readers who enjoy a mix of magic into everyday world.
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through Net Galley.
Boggart is able to change shape, but it is more of a prankster than something fearful. And it has a history of association with the MacDevon family. So when Castle Keep, the family seat of the MacDevon clan is threatened by a greedy developer, Boggart and his cousin Nessie take action. While the descendants of MacDevon work on petitions to stop the construction and meetings with the local council, Boggart and Nessie call on other "ancient creatures of the Wild Magic" for help. The results are not always what they expect, but they don't give up the fight.
Susan Cooper's books often include elements of legend and myth from the British Isles. In this story we have beings from Scottish legend such as the boggarts, the Caointeach, the Each Uisge, the Blue Men of Minch, and the Nuckelavee. Raeders will also see what it is like to be part of a community that is being invaded, so to speak, by a corporation intent on changing everything for its own purposes and how that impacts the environment, the local economy, and even things as mundane as the water lines.
Seeing the struggle against corporate powers and the wonder of the boggarts and other legendary creatures from the viewpoint of the children (Jay and Allie), adds to the feeling of powerlessness in the first case and the awesome thrill of the second. And for those who already read the original appearance of The Boggart, this will be a welcome return of a favorite character. Either way, I highly recommend this for middle grade readers who enjoy a mix of magic into everyday world.
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through Net Galley.
December 27, 2017
Canadian siblings Allie and Jay are looking forward to vacationing with their Scottish Granda by Loch Linnhe. Unfortunately, William Trout, a greedy, obnoxious developer has purchased the neighboring farm and plans to build a large upscale resort. Living up to his reputation as someone who cares little for the environment, he starts to tear up the land, and remove a large number of old trees. The children are upset when they learn of his unannounced plans to "improve" the old castle on the island in the middle of the loc, and are horrified at all the destruction Trout is bringing to a beautiful, peaceful and historic place.
The disturbances in the environment stir the local Boggart, an "Old Thing", one of few beings that are from ancient times, who is full of magic and mischief. With his friend Nessie they aid Allie, Jay, their father and Granda as they attempt to put a halt the resort being built. As Boggart reveals himself to the family, the children learn secrets about their parent's past and their own special connection to Boggart.
Although this is a "next-generation" sequel to Susan Cooper's previous Boggart stories I felt it could easily be a stand-alone book. The characters were contemporary and relatable to today's readers. With it's message of preserving the environment and appreciation of nature, history and the "simple-life" the story was current and timely.
Thank you Net Galley for the book to review.
The disturbances in the environment stir the local Boggart, an "Old Thing", one of few beings that are from ancient times, who is full of magic and mischief. With his friend Nessie they aid Allie, Jay, their father and Granda as they attempt to put a halt the resort being built. As Boggart reveals himself to the family, the children learn secrets about their parent's past and their own special connection to Boggart.
Although this is a "next-generation" sequel to Susan Cooper's previous Boggart stories I felt it could easily be a stand-alone book. The characters were contemporary and relatable to today's readers. With it's message of preserving the environment and appreciation of nature, history and the "simple-life" the story was current and timely.
Thank you Net Galley for the book to review.
July 19, 2020
Tom Cameron and his two children twins Jay and Allie return to Scotland to visit Tom’s father in his home and general store on the shores of Loch Linnhe in Scotland. It’s within sight of Castle Keep. Castle Keep is the ancestral home of the MacDevon clan, for a brief time it belonged to Jay and Allie’s mother’s family. When she and her brother had first visited it, they discovered that although the last MacDevon had died and they inherited the small fortress, what they thought was an empty abode still contained an inhabitant, but not a human one. Sleeping on a shelf in its library was a boggart. The boggart was an ancient spirit, not a ghost, but a mischievous sprite who loved nothing better than playing practical jokes on humans. Although usually invisible, it could ring bells or rattle chains in the middle of the night, snatch food off your plate, and make itself visible sometimes shape-shifting into the form of a seal to play in the water or sun itself on the rocks on the shore of Loch Linnhe with the real seals.
When he was a boy, Tom had known the last MacDevon, and had become acquainted with the boggart. Now his children would also meet it and its cousin Nessie and become caught up in the fight to save their clan’s castle from the greedy plans of a rich and powerful American land developer.
Cooper has added a timely and updated sequel to her delight filled series of supernatural high jinxes.
When he was a boy, Tom had known the last MacDevon, and had become acquainted with the boggart. Now his children would also meet it and its cousin Nessie and become caught up in the fight to save their clan’s castle from the greedy plans of a rich and powerful American land developer.
Cooper has added a timely and updated sequel to her delight filled series of supernatural high jinxes.
April 13, 2018
When twins Allie and Jay Cameron accompany their father on a trip to his hometown in Scotland, they are wowed by the seals in the loch, Castle Keep on a little island, and the beauty of the village where their grandfather lives. But trouble is also in the air, caused by a man called Trout, a mega-rich real estate developer who has his eyes on the town for a new hotel resort and golf course.
The Camerons try to stop Trout by appealing to the local planning commission, but they have little hope until they discover that two of the ancient things, a magical being called the Boggart and his cousin Nessie, have decided to help them out.
The old legends of Scottish magical beings meld with a modern-day fight to keep a way of life and a place pristine and peaceful in Susan Cooper’s The Boggart Fights Back. The Boggart and his cousin like nothing more than to play tricks, but Trout is used to dealing with resistance from the locals. He simply puts more money and people into his project so the work will go faster. To change Trout’s mind, the Boggart will need the help of other magical beings.
A parable for our times, The Boggart Fights Back champions the old ways and the underdog. I recommend it for readers aged 9 to 12.
The publisher provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Camerons try to stop Trout by appealing to the local planning commission, but they have little hope until they discover that two of the ancient things, a magical being called the Boggart and his cousin Nessie, have decided to help them out.
The old legends of Scottish magical beings meld with a modern-day fight to keep a way of life and a place pristine and peaceful in Susan Cooper’s The Boggart Fights Back. The Boggart and his cousin like nothing more than to play tricks, but Trout is used to dealing with resistance from the locals. He simply puts more money and people into his project so the work will go faster. To change Trout’s mind, the Boggart will need the help of other magical beings.
A parable for our times, The Boggart Fights Back champions the old ways and the underdog. I recommend it for readers aged 9 to 12.
The publisher provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 8, 2019
It's been twenty-five years since The Boggart was published. I remember listening to the audio book and being moved to tears by the lyrical beauty of the passages in Gaelic. It was disappointing to see this new book wasn't in audio in my library system.
A boggart is a part of the Old Things, the old magic told of in the folklore and legends of Scotland. He's a mischievous creature and loyal to his clan. In this story he partners with his shape-shifting cousin - sometimes called the Loch Ness Monster - and clan members living on the shores of Loch Linnhe to thwart development plans. A loathsome American billionaire intent on building a massive resort and golf club threatens the business of the remaining MacDevons and livability of the beautiful coastline on which Castle Keep stands. Three generations of family band together, along with the two magical creatures and a few other Old Things they call to their aid to convince Mr. Trout to move on.
Very satisfying ending!
The cover art is dreadful. The original artwork by Trina Schart Hyman was beautiful, dark and mysterious but showed desktop computers which are, of course, totally passe. Going from that to the garish, cartoonish-style illustrations used now is like going from the sublime to the ridiculous.
A boggart is a part of the Old Things, the old magic told of in the folklore and legends of Scotland. He's a mischievous creature and loyal to his clan. In this story he partners with his shape-shifting cousin - sometimes called the Loch Ness Monster - and clan members living on the shores of Loch Linnhe to thwart development plans. A loathsome American billionaire intent on building a massive resort and golf club threatens the business of the remaining MacDevons and livability of the beautiful coastline on which Castle Keep stands. Three generations of family band together, along with the two magical creatures and a few other Old Things they call to their aid to convince Mr. Trout to move on.
Very satisfying ending!
The cover art is dreadful. The original artwork by Trina Schart Hyman was beautiful, dark and mysterious but showed desktop computers which are, of course, totally passe. Going from that to the garish, cartoonish-style illustrations used now is like going from the sublime to the ridiculous.
April 24, 2023
"The Caointeach (pronounced kane-chuch with the second 'ch' a soft sound, like loch) looked at them without enthusiasm, but she sat down on a rock, spreading her green skirt around her, and she put her bare feet into the water.
'Nobody listens these days for the Caointeach. No clan cares for a warning. Half of them have never even heard of an Old Thing.'
Nessie said, 'Do you not scream out as you used to, before a disaster comes to a clan?'
'I could scream my head off,' said the Caointeach bitterly, 'and they'd not hear. They have little machines with screens in their hands, and things in their ears, and that's all they listen to and see. The clans are not what they were. And nor am I.'"
While this passage makes me a wee bit sad, the book was a fun adventure with the Old Things and a family working together to save their castle and their beautiful island. While not my favorite of the boggart series, it is still worth the read and made a nice side pathway as I am currently making my way through The Dark is Rising series. (Yes, again, don't judge me!)
'Nobody listens these days for the Caointeach. No clan cares for a warning. Half of them have never even heard of an Old Thing.'
Nessie said, 'Do you not scream out as you used to, before a disaster comes to a clan?'
'I could scream my head off,' said the Caointeach bitterly, 'and they'd not hear. They have little machines with screens in their hands, and things in their ears, and that's all they listen to and see. The clans are not what they were. And nor am I.'"
While this passage makes me a wee bit sad, the book was a fun adventure with the Old Things and a family working together to save their castle and their beautiful island. While not my favorite of the boggart series, it is still worth the read and made a nice side pathway as I am currently making my way through The Dark is Rising series. (Yes, again, don't judge me!)
March 2, 2018
The Boggart Fights Back was a really fun read. We hadn't read the first two books in the series and this book doesn't require that you do; in fact it makes you curious to read them after you read this one. Ages 9 and up- think upper elementary school through middle school will enjoy this book that combines European folklore with family adventure. The Boggart is a shape-shifting Loch Ness creature whose cousin is much more famous. He's been friends with the Cameron family since they inherited a castle on this rustic loch in Scotland.
The difference is now that a developer is intent on developing parts of the area including a massive castle themed hotel, golf course and moree. The Cameron kids are back in town and team up with the Boggart and other mythical creatures to hopefully keep their area undeveloped.
There are political elements in The Boggart Fights Back that will fly under the radar of most young readers. This is a quickly paced book with each chapter having about 14 pages.
The difference is now that a developer is intent on developing parts of the area including a massive castle themed hotel, golf course and moree. The Cameron kids are back in town and team up with the Boggart and other mythical creatures to hopefully keep their area undeveloped.
There are political elements in The Boggart Fights Back that will fly under the radar of most young readers. This is a quickly paced book with each chapter having about 14 pages.
September 19, 2019
The Boggart Fights Back is about two kids named Jay and Allie. Their parents own a store along the bay. When Mr. Trout wants to buy all of the land around Castle Keep, an old castle that has been around for a long time, they find out he will demolish the store with it.
The Boggart is a mischief-making, shape-shifting, and invisible creature. He likes to keep “his people” safe. When he sees all the problems Mr. Trout is causing, what will he do?
The Boggart Fights Back is a great book that you can read in a group or by yourself. It is full of adventure and wonder. You will find that you can see yourself as a character. You won't be daydreaming, and time will fly past you. Once I started reading, I could not stop! I recommend this book for 10-12-year-olds who love to read adventure books.
The Boggart is a mischief-making, shape-shifting, and invisible creature. He likes to keep “his people” safe. When he sees all the problems Mr. Trout is causing, what will he do?
The Boggart Fights Back is a great book that you can read in a group or by yourself. It is full of adventure and wonder. You will find that you can see yourself as a character. You won't be daydreaming, and time will fly past you. Once I started reading, I could not stop! I recommend this book for 10-12-year-olds who love to read adventure books.
August 14, 2026
Very disappointing. Merely a political piece to push environmentalism and denounce modernization. Anti American attitudes fill the story, and Trout is an overblown caricature. And how ironic that a book against modernization is steeped in it. Emily has become a working mother too busy to attend to her children, Cooper randomly plonks in gay characters, and the "wealthy" are criticized.
Sure, tearing down trees and an old castle is not desirable. I myself do not especially like large, fancy resorts and prefer more natural settings. But I am weary of these themes being pushed. They are not innovative, and in this book especially they are heavy handed. I wanted another story about the boggart himself, not one with a distinct political agenda. But none of the charm of the first book is found in this one.
Sure, tearing down trees and an old castle is not desirable. I myself do not especially like large, fancy resorts and prefer more natural settings. But I am weary of these themes being pushed. They are not innovative, and in this book especially they are heavy handed. I wanted another story about the boggart himself, not one with a distinct political agenda. But none of the charm of the first book is found in this one.
March 24, 2021
I had admittedly high expectations given how much I loved the original, but this fell flat for me. Probably mainly because the villain was so Trumpy and I read it in campaign season 2020 when overwhelmed by the real thing. But overall I missed the mysticism of the original, the exploration of emotions in a non-human living among humans. For me, the Boggart + Nessie's voices were too human, too snarky, without the gravitas I wanted from the "old things" that came through in the original. The original book was such a love letter to Scotland, to the theatre, to Canada, and it was about something bigger than the incidents in the story; this one didn't do that for me.
July 8, 2023
This review copy has been sitting on my shelf for (wow!) five years. Here's to reading the books we already own. I have loved this series ever since 1993. For (wow!) thirty years.
It was a hard book to read. The developer who is wrecking Loch Linnhe and Castle Keep, who is making promises that aren't kept and working so fast that facts can't keep pace with his destruction of a beautiful old place is just too real. Too Donald Trumpish. And in real life, we don't have access to Boggarts and their friends to fight against the nonsense that is destroying every beautiful old place in the name of profit.
It was a hard book to read. The developer who is wrecking Loch Linnhe and Castle Keep, who is making promises that aren't kept and working so fast that facts can't keep pace with his destruction of a beautiful old place is just too real. Too Donald Trumpish. And in real life, we don't have access to Boggarts and their friends to fight against the nonsense that is destroying every beautiful old place in the name of profit.
August 26, 2017
Enjoyed this sequel to "The Boggart." The main characters are persistent and don't give up. They fail, but try again, and they do things that they aren't supposed to and apologize for it. Great lessons for readers. I also appreciate that the Boggarts, although tricksters who cause damage to property and equipment, draw the line at hurting people physically. Another good lesson for my readers.
Would make a great read aloud and lead to much discussion about developing land, environmental issues, habits, etc.
Would make a great read aloud and lead to much discussion about developing land, environmental issues, habits, etc.
April 21, 2018
The Cameron children visit the castle of their ancestors in a remote Scottish loch and meet its guardian, the Boggart. To their dismay, they discover that Mr. Trout, a dangerous real-estate developer, intends to build a resort and tourist destination on the site. The Boggart and Nessie fight back with their usual mischief but are forced to recruit the chilling Blue Men of the Minch and the terrifying Nuckelavee before time runs out for Castle Keep. A great introduction to Scottish folklore for children!
June 18, 2018
The Boggart series returns with a new generation of Camerons visiting Scotland. During their visit, Mr. Trout, a bombastic American real estate developer, announces that he will buy the castle and build a Trout resort on the loch. He begins development despite mounting local opposition. When he learns that a Nessie has been spotted in the loch, he goes hunting for it. But he does not count on supernatural opposition from Nessie, the Boggart and other Old Things of Scotland to his nefarious schemes!
September 17, 2018
Susan Cooper absolutely nails Trump's speech in this book. In particular, the comment about how tourists will love to swim with the seals had everyone laughing. Sadly, the rest of the book cannot live up to this outstanding opening.
If this were nothing but a children's story, I suppose it would be fine. There's magic, plucky kids, and zany hi-jinks. But setting the book up with such an obvious caricature makes me read this book as something more than a fairy tale. And I'm pretty convinced nationalistic fervor is NOT the solution.
If this were nothing but a children's story, I suppose it would be fine. There's magic, plucky kids, and zany hi-jinks. But setting the book up with such an obvious caricature makes me read this book as something more than a fairy tale. And I'm pretty convinced nationalistic fervor is NOT the solution.
October 13, 2018
Delighted to finally read the final book in the series. I love the light mystery novels that Cooper writes. She make fantasy seem real without the darkness of her other series. You will love finding out how the characters learn about the Boggart and his friend Nessie. The setting is exemplary with contemporary themes. Don't bring in the politics of the villain, just think about developers trying to bully their way into settled historic communities similar to the novels of Carl Hiassen. Have fun with this book.
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