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The Legends of Eerie-on-Sea #2
Gargantis
There's a storm raging in Eerie-on-Sea. Has the mighty Gargantis come back from the deep...?
When an ancient bottle is found washed up on the beach after a ferocious electrical storm, all the residents of Eerie-on-Sea seem to want it ... but should they in fact fear it? Legend has it that the bottle contains an extraordinary secret that spells doom for the whole of Eerie-on-Sea. Could it be true that the vast sea creature Gargantis has awoken from her slumbers, and is causing the large cracks that are appearing all across the town? Finding themselves entrusted with the bottle, Herbie and Violet discover they will need to ride the terrible storm and pacify the creature if they want to save Eerie-on-Sea from sliding into the ocean and being lost for ever.
When an ancient bottle is found washed up on the beach after a ferocious electrical storm, all the residents of Eerie-on-Sea seem to want it ... but should they in fact fear it? Legend has it that the bottle contains an extraordinary secret that spells doom for the whole of Eerie-on-Sea. Could it be true that the vast sea creature Gargantis has awoken from her slumbers, and is causing the large cracks that are appearing all across the town? Finding themselves entrusted with the bottle, Herbie and Violet discover they will need to ride the terrible storm and pacify the creature if they want to save Eerie-on-Sea from sliding into the ocean and being lost for ever.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2020
110 people are currently reading
2306 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Taylor
24 books273 followersThomas Henry Taylor is a British children's writer and illustrator.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_...
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_...
Librarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Thomas^^^^^Taylor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 518 reviews
May 14, 2020
”A book is like a mirror. We always see ourselves inside.”
September 15, 2020
A gargantic sequel to an already brilliant novel, Malamander's follow-up is a daring, maritime middle grade mystery that will have you clamming for the next one.
Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma are back and Eerie-on-Sea is more dangerous than ever! A storm is threatening to destroy their seaside town and it's up to them to dig into fisherman folklore and monstrous legends to put a stop to the freak weather... before everything ends up at the bottom of the ocean.
What an exciting and memorable sequel this is! From page one, we get a sense of terrific danger that never lets up until the thrilling climax. There is a real sense of danger here for our characters, especially Herbie, as it appears it's not just the weather that wants to claim his life. I won't spoil anything but he needs Violet now more than ever! His friendship with Violet is so pure and entertaining to watch. Violet is such a brilliant protagonist too, and she is definitely a blessing to Herbie, who is really just a big cinnamon roll.
The plot is very fast-paced and is constantly moving due to the impending doom of Eerie-on-Sea. It was hard to predict where the story would go, but it had a fantastic atmosphere of a seaside setting mixed with ancient local folklore. It felt very genuine to this small town and it was interesting to learn more about it. It does leave me with a whole ton of questions which is why I feel so eager and impatient to get my hands on the third book whenever that comes out. This one will definitely leave you wanting more. The Malamander series is perfect for people who love exciting mysteries set in a seaside town dripping with myths and legends.
Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma are back and Eerie-on-Sea is more dangerous than ever! A storm is threatening to destroy their seaside town and it's up to them to dig into fisherman folklore and monstrous legends to put a stop to the freak weather... before everything ends up at the bottom of the ocean.
What an exciting and memorable sequel this is! From page one, we get a sense of terrific danger that never lets up until the thrilling climax. There is a real sense of danger here for our characters, especially Herbie, as it appears it's not just the weather that wants to claim his life. I won't spoil anything but he needs Violet now more than ever! His friendship with Violet is so pure and entertaining to watch. Violet is such a brilliant protagonist too, and she is definitely a blessing to Herbie, who is really just a big cinnamon roll.
The plot is very fast-paced and is constantly moving due to the impending doom of Eerie-on-Sea. It was hard to predict where the story would go, but it had a fantastic atmosphere of a seaside setting mixed with ancient local folklore. It felt very genuine to this small town and it was interesting to learn more about it. It does leave me with a whole ton of questions which is why I feel so eager and impatient to get my hands on the third book whenever that comes out. This one will definitely leave you wanting more. The Malamander series is perfect for people who love exciting mysteries set in a seaside town dripping with myths and legends.
November 20, 2020
Unfortunately this didn't grab me like I thought it would, and I spent a lot of time in the latter half of the story skimming through the plot. Even skimming it took me 8 days to finish, which is never a good sign. I just never felt compelled to come back to the story. I like the idea of a dead end seaside town filled with strange characters and monsters, but I just couldn't connect with Herbie and Violet at all. I think it's also a bit of a personal thing - I'm not really that interested in stories set around the coast, so this may have always been doomed to fail for me.
That said, I do think my children will enjoy this. It's full of action and mystery. It just wasn't for me.
That said, I do think my children will enjoy this. It's full of action and mystery. It just wasn't for me.
March 28, 2022
якщо якісь мутні персонажі наполегливо намагаються вас від чогось визволити, варто придивитися, чи те, від чого визволяють, бува, не життєво для вас важливе — попри чорний піар і розлогі дезінформаційні кампанії.
серйозно, дуже актуальна книжка.
серйозно, дуже актуальна книжка.
September 8, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Lost-and-Founder Herbert Lemon and his friend Violet are back in another adventure set within the seaside town of Eerie-on-Sea. This time a massive storm is shaking the town violently and there seems to be no end to it. If it continues it could cause the whole town to crumble into the sea.
The fishermen have a tale of a creature, Gargantis, awakening and that is the cause of the storm, but could their tale be true and what’s with the fish-shaped bottle that has washed up on the shore during an electrical storm that everyone in the town is trying to lay claims to?
Herbie and Violet are on a quest to discover the truth and save their adopted home before it is too late.
Gargantis is the second book in the Eerie-on-Sea series for middle-graders, although it is that exciting that I can see plenty of YA readers enjoying it too. The first book, Malamander, introduced us to this unlikely pair, both found by locals when they were babies and given homes within the town. Herbie is still working at the local hotel, Grand Nautilus, as the Lost-and-Founder, whilst Violet is working at the bookshop.
The book is continuous action the whole way through and the plot explosive has you hanging on every page and not wanting to put the book down. There is even a mysterious hooded man who hides his face and wants what Herbie has and resembles an Octopus when he’s in the water.
I love the characters and being back in the town, which is certainly a one-off. I was intrigued the whole way through to see if Gargantis was real and was it coming for Eerie. I can see this series being a big hit and I’m not surprised. Both books have been amazing and I hope that there will be more visits to Eerie-on-Sea in the future. I’m sure more adventures are waiting to be had!
Lost-and-Founder Herbert Lemon and his friend Violet are back in another adventure set within the seaside town of Eerie-on-Sea. This time a massive storm is shaking the town violently and there seems to be no end to it. If it continues it could cause the whole town to crumble into the sea.
The fishermen have a tale of a creature, Gargantis, awakening and that is the cause of the storm, but could their tale be true and what’s with the fish-shaped bottle that has washed up on the shore during an electrical storm that everyone in the town is trying to lay claims to?
Herbie and Violet are on a quest to discover the truth and save their adopted home before it is too late.
Gargantis is the second book in the Eerie-on-Sea series for middle-graders, although it is that exciting that I can see plenty of YA readers enjoying it too. The first book, Malamander, introduced us to this unlikely pair, both found by locals when they were babies and given homes within the town. Herbie is still working at the local hotel, Grand Nautilus, as the Lost-and-Founder, whilst Violet is working at the bookshop.
The book is continuous action the whole way through and the plot explosive has you hanging on every page and not wanting to put the book down. There is even a mysterious hooded man who hides his face and wants what Herbie has and resembles an Octopus when he’s in the water.
I love the characters and being back in the town, which is certainly a one-off. I was intrigued the whole way through to see if Gargantis was real and was it coming for Eerie. I can see this series being a big hit and I’m not surprised. Both books have been amazing and I hope that there will be more visits to Eerie-on-Sea in the future. I’m sure more adventures are waiting to be had!
May 2, 2020
I Loved Malamander, and this was a very worth sequel. Set in seaside village Eerie-on-sea our heroes have to deal with a massive storm and save the town from the Gargantis. Another perfect blend of atmosphere, folklore and unique people.
Eerie-on-sea has so much character. The people with their odd jobs and wonderful names as well as the quirky shops and restaurants they run make for a unique setting. In this book we see more interaction between the townspeople, and the fisherman have come to land as well because of the storm, bringing in another fun layer to the story.
The main characters Herbert and Violet are such a joy to follow as well. Their friendship is spot on, and the complement each other incredibly well. Violet throws herself into everything head first, while Herbert tends to be overcautious. By balancing these traits the author has created a very well paced plot with great moments of tension and real danger, but without the reader being annoyed by the 'stupid' things the characters do. Taylor doesn't dumb the story down for his audience, and the great level of intrigue, mystery and danger make it perfect for readers of all ages. Add to this wonderful writing that perfectly creates the haunting atmosphere, and you have the recipe for a book you cannot put down.
My only issues with the book was a reference to Disney princesses. I really cannot think of anything else that wasn't absolutely perfect. Seriously, do yourself a favour and pick this series up. I am so so intrigued for the third book.
Eerie-on-sea has so much character. The people with their odd jobs and wonderful names as well as the quirky shops and restaurants they run make for a unique setting. In this book we see more interaction between the townspeople, and the fisherman have come to land as well because of the storm, bringing in another fun layer to the story.
The main characters Herbert and Violet are such a joy to follow as well. Their friendship is spot on, and the complement each other incredibly well. Violet throws herself into everything head first, while Herbert tends to be overcautious. By balancing these traits the author has created a very well paced plot with great moments of tension and real danger, but without the reader being annoyed by the 'stupid' things the characters do. Taylor doesn't dumb the story down for his audience, and the great level of intrigue, mystery and danger make it perfect for readers of all ages. Add to this wonderful writing that perfectly creates the haunting atmosphere, and you have the recipe for a book you cannot put down.
My only issues with the book was a reference to Disney princesses. I really cannot think of anything else that wasn't absolutely perfect. Seriously, do yourself a favour and pick this series up. I am so so intrigued for the third book.
December 24, 2022
Slatka dječija priča, ali mi uvijek nešto fali za čistu 5⭐️, a nikad ne znam šta 🤷🏼♀️! Nadam se da ću imati više sreće sa trećim dijelom 🐡!
July 21, 2022
4.2 ⭐
Možda je malo ponovljena avantura, ali meni nije smetalo ni najmanje 😍
Nisam ni primetila kojom brzinom sam došla do kraja, a baš sam htela sporo da čitam 😂
Mačak i Herbi apsolutni favoriti.
Jedva, ali jedva, čekam da prevedu nastavak!
Možda je malo ponovljena avantura, ali meni nije smetalo ni najmanje 😍
Nisam ni primetila kojom brzinom sam došla do kraja, a baš sam htela sporo da čitam 😂
Mačak i Herbi apsolutni favoriti.
Jedva, ali jedva, čekam da prevedu nastavak!
May 4, 2020
3.5 stars!
I want to preface this review by stating that my rating is 3.5 stars because I just felt there was a little something missing in the book. I did thoroughly enjoy it and thought it was a great adventurous story but there was something about it that just didn't wow me enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Gargantis is the story of Herbert Lemon, the Lost and Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel in Eerie-on-Sea. Herbet and his best friend Violet team up to solve a magical mystery that is risking the safety of their lovely seaside town. Herbie and Violet must figure out what to do with the lost items that have turned up to Herbie's Lost and Foundery and somehow get stuck in the middle of a magical, confusing battle between different people in town.
Gargantis has an amazing narration style which honestly sold it to me straight away. Herbert Lemon's narration of the adventure is fun, realistic and transporting.
This is a perfect story for someone looking for a fast read where you will escapee's reality for a bit and live in a great seaside town with secretive and interesting characters.
I want to preface this review by stating that my rating is 3.5 stars because I just felt there was a little something missing in the book. I did thoroughly enjoy it and thought it was a great adventurous story but there was something about it that just didn't wow me enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Gargantis is the story of Herbert Lemon, the Lost and Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel in Eerie-on-Sea. Herbet and his best friend Violet team up to solve a magical mystery that is risking the safety of their lovely seaside town. Herbie and Violet must figure out what to do with the lost items that have turned up to Herbie's Lost and Foundery and somehow get stuck in the middle of a magical, confusing battle between different people in town.
Gargantis has an amazing narration style which honestly sold it to me straight away. Herbert Lemon's narration of the adventure is fun, realistic and transporting.
This is a perfect story for someone looking for a fast read where you will escapee's reality for a bit and live in a great seaside town with secretive and interesting characters.
May 7, 2020
No doubt about it, Gargantis is a highly sea-worthy book. Filled with its quirks and oddities, the Eerie-on-Sea series is just what the middle grade fantasy genre needs. Instead of wizards and magic, you get sea monsters and tall tales and legends. So, batten down the hatches because this story brings you a whale of a time!
I’ll admit it – I would love to visit this crazy and peculiar town that Eerie-on-Sea is. I want to smell the salt in the air and see Mrs. Kraken’s cameraluna in action or take a peek at Herbie Lemon’s Lost and Foundery cellar items dating 99.9 years back or consult the mermonkey for a book that is just perfect for me! I want to tell Mr. Mollusc at the Grand Nautilus Hotel that Herbie is here to stay and he needs to just get over it already. And I want to know where I can get fish and chips because reading this book really makes me want to go down to Seegol’s Diner and get some.
Gargantis is the second book in the Eerie-on-Sea middle grade series. It definitely doesn’t suffer from second book syndrome because I almost believe I might like it better than the first one, but it’s really a toss up because they are both terrific. Featuring Herbert Lemon, the Lost and Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, and his friend Violet Parma, together they face “Deep Hood,” monster storms, an electrical fishing boat with a windmill, an inescapable whirlpool, and a fun take off of the Millennium Falcon’s kessel run quote, and many more that I would mention, but don’t want to spoil anything.
The story begins when Mrs. Fossil finds “the greatest beachcombing treasure.” It was an ancient looking bottle with an inscription on it that uses old Eerie script. Although Mrs. Fossil found it, when Dr. Thalassi sees it he decides he wants it for the local museum instead. A bit of fuss ensues about who has rightful claim to it when it is decided that Herbie should be the ultimate decider of who gets to keep it. After all, it was a ‘found’ item and he is the official Lost and Founder. So Herbie and Violet take on the quest to learn more about it, which of course leads them into more and more danger.
All in all this is a terrific addition to the series and one I recommend to anyone looking for a fun sea-faring and sea-side adventure type story that has come through with flying colors.
Thanks to Netgalley and Candlewick Press/Walker Books for the advanced reader copy and opportunity to provide an honest review.
Rating: 5 stars
I’ll admit it – I would love to visit this crazy and peculiar town that Eerie-on-Sea is. I want to smell the salt in the air and see Mrs. Kraken’s cameraluna in action or take a peek at Herbie Lemon’s Lost and Foundery cellar items dating 99.9 years back or consult the mermonkey for a book that is just perfect for me! I want to tell Mr. Mollusc at the Grand Nautilus Hotel that Herbie is here to stay and he needs to just get over it already. And I want to know where I can get fish and chips because reading this book really makes me want to go down to Seegol’s Diner and get some.
Gargantis is the second book in the Eerie-on-Sea middle grade series. It definitely doesn’t suffer from second book syndrome because I almost believe I might like it better than the first one, but it’s really a toss up because they are both terrific. Featuring Herbert Lemon, the Lost and Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, and his friend Violet Parma, together they face “Deep Hood,” monster storms, an electrical fishing boat with a windmill, an inescapable whirlpool, and a fun take off of the Millennium Falcon’s kessel run quote, and many more that I would mention, but don’t want to spoil anything.
The story begins when Mrs. Fossil finds “the greatest beachcombing treasure.” It was an ancient looking bottle with an inscription on it that uses old Eerie script. Although Mrs. Fossil found it, when Dr. Thalassi sees it he decides he wants it for the local museum instead. A bit of fuss ensues about who has rightful claim to it when it is decided that Herbie should be the ultimate decider of who gets to keep it. After all, it was a ‘found’ item and he is the official Lost and Founder. So Herbie and Violet take on the quest to learn more about it, which of course leads them into more and more danger.
All in all this is a terrific addition to the series and one I recommend to anyone looking for a fun sea-faring and sea-side adventure type story that has come through with flying colors.
Thanks to Netgalley and Candlewick Press/Walker Books for the advanced reader copy and opportunity to provide an honest review.
Rating: 5 stars
April 15, 2020
Netgalley approved me for Gargantis, so I made the 2 books priority. I finished this last night, & OMG!! I loved it so much! I don’t know which one I like more, this one or the first book... maybe this one. That’s a big accomplishment for a second book in a series! Herbie still has my heart! Violet is still awesome of course..she’s so spunky, brave, & SMART! They face a whole new adventure this time & this story was so creative & so thought out. This authors brain is just amazing! Lol like the first one, the descriptions were so good! I could visualize everything perfectly. Loved seeing our MG cat Erwin again too.💜 I just love this whole town of characters, & even the hotel, the museum, & all the other little amazing shops. So unique and wonderful. Highly recommend! This book comes out on May 26th!
Synopsis of the 1st book:Nobody visits Eerie-on-Sea in the winter. Especially not when darkness falls and the wind howls around Maw Rocks and the wreck of the battleship Leviathan, where even now some swear they have seen the unctuous malamander creep…
Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, knows that returning lost things to their rightful owners is not easy – especially when the lost thing is not a thing at all, but a girl. No one knows what happened to Violet Parma’s parents twelve years ago, and when she engages Herbie to help her find them, the pair discover that their disappearance might have something to do with the legendary sea-monster, the Malamander. Eerie-on-Sea has always been a mysteriously chilling place, where strange stories seem to wash up. And it just got stranger...
Synopsis of the 1st book:Nobody visits Eerie-on-Sea in the winter. Especially not when darkness falls and the wind howls around Maw Rocks and the wreck of the battleship Leviathan, where even now some swear they have seen the unctuous malamander creep…
Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, knows that returning lost things to their rightful owners is not easy – especially when the lost thing is not a thing at all, but a girl. No one knows what happened to Violet Parma’s parents twelve years ago, and when she engages Herbie to help her find them, the pair discover that their disappearance might have something to do with the legendary sea-monster, the Malamander. Eerie-on-Sea has always been a mysteriously chilling place, where strange stories seem to wash up. And it just got stranger...
May 17, 2023
O jeny, jakie to jest fajne! Patrząc z perspektywy czasu, to jednak pierwszy tom tak mocno mnie nie porwał, dopiero tutaj wciągnęłam się na maksa i byłam mega ciekawa, co będzie dalej. Uwielbiam ten klimat nadmorskiego miasteczka będącego w centrum fantastycznych wydarzeń! Non stop się uśmiechałam i parokrotnie udało się jej mnie zaskoczyć. To zdecydowanie jedna z tych historii, którą pokochałam jako dorosły i zdecydowanie pokochałabym za dzieciaka i już nie mogę się doczekać, aż sięgnę po trzeci tom (:
May 3, 2023
найдобріша дитяча серія✨
обожнюю-обожнюю-обожнюю!
обожнюю-обожнюю-обожнюю!
December 11, 2021
Serinin üçüncü kitabını bir an önce alıp okuyacağım. Öğrendim ki seri beş kitaptan oluşacakmış. Yazar şuan dördüncü kitabını yazıyormuş. Merakla bekliyorum bu seriyi tamamlamasını. :)
April 28, 2020
I really adore this series. it's filled with quirky people and so far each book has featured some legendary monstrous creature, the Malmander and now Gargantis. I found the latest creature was way more creepy and absolutely loved it. Another thing I particularly enjoyed about this newest book was the additions of Blaze and his Uncle Squint Westerly. Their fisherfolk who are tied to Gargantis and Blaze is instrumental in helping Herbert to overcome one of his fears. Deep Hood or the man who declares he also has claims to the fish bottle was also a fun addition. The illustrations by Tom Booth really make him look creepy and sinister, just loved them. Violet is so adventurous and headstrong while Herbert is more of a thinker, somewhat timid. They compliment each other so well. I feel like there is still so much to learn about the disappearance of their parents, still so many unresolved questions that I was hoping to get answers to. There were a few more clues or hints as to what happened to them, but I'm really hoping to learn more about them in future adventures. Overall this is an exciting adventure filled with folklore and legends and wonderful characters. Be sure to not miss out on the lovely black and white illustrations by Tom Booth too.
**A huge thank you to Walker Books for the review copy.**
**A huge thank you to Walker Books for the review copy.**
November 22, 2021
I really enjoyed returning to Eerie-on-Sea and joining Herbie and Violet on one of their adventures. Although the first one is the best in my opinion, this one was pretty good and I will be reading book three very soon. - R.
May 24, 2020
I loved Malamander....so had to continue reading this magical middle grade series! Gargantis continues the legend of Eerie-on-Sea, with the awesome quirky characters from the first book! Eerie-on-Sea is a magical place....a place where folklore and legends are part of every day life. Herbie Lemon is at the Grand Nautilus Hotel where he takes pride in being the resident Lost and Founder. Herbie finds things....and keeps them in his Lost & Foundery until claimed. He's joined by his friend Violet in this newest adventure. Something has awoken an ancient, legendary creature -- the Gargantis. The creature seeks its stolen treasure. If anyone can find out who took the treasure and figure out the mystery, it's Herbie and Violet!!
Another magical story in this series! The town, its inhabitants, and its folklore are quirky and wonderful! This tale is just as entertaining and fun as Malamander! The books are written for middle grade children....but as an adult, I love them too! I'm definitely eagerly awaiting the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Candlewick Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Another magical story in this series! The town, its inhabitants, and its folklore are quirky and wonderful! This tale is just as entertaining and fun as Malamander! The books are written for middle grade children....but as an adult, I love them too! I'm definitely eagerly awaiting the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Candlewick Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
November 24, 2020
A book is like a mirror. We always see ourselves inside.
An interesting sequel to Malamander. A different story, though the town & its residents stay the same. This time we explored the mythology surrounding this little town and it just worked very well. My kids were so excited to hear the story!
An interesting sequel to Malamander. A different story, though the town & its residents stay the same. This time we explored the mythology surrounding this little town and it just worked very well. My kids were so excited to hear the story!
April 24, 2020
After continuously reading grown up books for a very long while, I decided to shift my reading gear in reverse and read something from the middle grade genre instead - and I started that by reading Gargantis. I couldn’t have been happier with that choice.
This story was so brilliantly written that I literally got sucked into their adorable little town near the sea called Eerie-on-Sea as I kept reading. The atmosphere of this town was so comfy, I wanted to go there in person and live inside the warm and cozy Grand Nautilus Hotel, and also visit the Mermonkey - a monkey in a bookstore who gifts you the book that your soul NEEDS - not something you want – during my stay.
I absolutely loved Erwin, the talking cat. That’s right, there was a cute white kitty WHO COULD TALK ABOUT WISDOM in this magical book. My expressions automatically got twisted in ecstatic amazement the moment I found out the cat could speak! The characters Herbert and Violet were really interesting. They were children, and they weren’t annoying at all! In fact, I would’ve loved being their friend.
The writing was simple, profound and beautiful. Gargantis is perfect for children AND grown-ups with a childish heart - just like me!
5 out of 5 stars for this adventurous novel. 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
This story was so brilliantly written that I literally got sucked into their adorable little town near the sea called Eerie-on-Sea as I kept reading. The atmosphere of this town was so comfy, I wanted to go there in person and live inside the warm and cozy Grand Nautilus Hotel, and also visit the Mermonkey - a monkey in a bookstore who gifts you the book that your soul NEEDS - not something you want – during my stay.
I absolutely loved Erwin, the talking cat. That’s right, there was a cute white kitty WHO COULD TALK ABOUT WISDOM in this magical book. My expressions automatically got twisted in ecstatic amazement the moment I found out the cat could speak! The characters Herbert and Violet were really interesting. They were children, and they weren’t annoying at all! In fact, I would’ve loved being their friend.
The writing was simple, profound and beautiful. Gargantis is perfect for children AND grown-ups with a childish heart - just like me!
5 out of 5 stars for this adventurous novel. 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
November 18, 2025
Think monsters. Think myths. Think madness and a smidge of mayhem. Think MALAMANDER.
You’ll just have to read the book if you want to know what THAT is. Trust me, it will give you the willies. In a fun way.
Although I love the first book MORE, this was still an intriguing sequel in the same fun and spooky vein as Malamander. Herbie Lemon and his friend Violet are still charming and captivating narrators that are sure to hold your attention through this adventure’s entirety.
Note: This is essentially horror for kids. Even for an adult, it was really pushing the limit on the amount of creepy I am willing to read.
You’ll just have to read the book if you want to know what THAT is. Trust me, it will give you the willies. In a fun way.
Although I love the first book MORE, this was still an intriguing sequel in the same fun and spooky vein as Malamander. Herbie Lemon and his friend Violet are still charming and captivating narrators that are sure to hold your attention through this adventure’s entirety.
Note: This is essentially horror for kids. Even for an adult, it was really pushing the limit on the amount of creepy I am willing to read.
September 27, 2025
The legends of Eerie-on-Sea continue....
✏️ Review ✏️
While Gargantis is still a good story, I enjoyed Malamander, the first book in this series, a lot more. Gargantis didn't seem to have the same level of intrigue as the previous book; but this book nonetheless does have its exciting parts. And that plot twist at the end? Scaaaary! 😧 I'm glad I returned to Eerie-on-Sea for another visit and hope to return for many more in the near future.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• Most of the plot — provides for an intriguing storyline.
• The deeper look at the world, legends, and secrets of Eerie-on-Sea.
• The minor characters — they add an array of various personalities to the story.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• A few parts of the plot — seemed a bit slow and lacking in intrigue.
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❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes.*
— To whom? To those who have read and enjoyed Malamander, the first book in the Legends of Eerie-on-Sea series.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
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📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A few scenes of mild peril and mild action-adventure violence including a couple of illustrations of hideous creatures/individuals that could be disturbing for younger readers.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
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📣 Random Comments 📣
• Magic content: Pixie/fairy creatures called sprightnings play a prominent part in the plot of Gargantis. These creatures can shoot bolts of lightning and electrify individuals or objects. While these creatures themselves are seen as magical, they're ability to use electricity is viewed as a natural part of nature for Eerie-on-Sea.
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💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• "A book is like a mirror.... We always see ourselves inside." (p. 172)
✏️ Review ✏️
"'What was that?'...
'Gargantis.... Not the storm... but a creature that causes it. A storm fish from the lost tales of creation, obscured... but obscured no more. It is the calamity that will destroy Eerie-on-Sea.'"
While Gargantis is still a good story, I enjoyed Malamander, the first book in this series, a lot more. Gargantis didn't seem to have the same level of intrigue as the previous book; but this book nonetheless does have its exciting parts. And that plot twist at the end? Scaaaary! 😧 I'm glad I returned to Eerie-on-Sea for another visit and hope to return for many more in the near future.
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📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• Most of the plot — provides for an intriguing storyline.
• The deeper look at the world, legends, and secrets of Eerie-on-Sea.
• The minor characters — they add an array of various personalities to the story.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• A few parts of the plot — seemed a bit slow and lacking in intrigue.
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❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓
— Would I recommend this book? Yes.*
— To whom? To those who have read and enjoyed Malamander, the first book in the Legends of Eerie-on-Sea series.
*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📈 Plot: 3/5
— 📝 Writing: 3.5/5
— 👥 Characters: 3/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 0/5
— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5
• A few scenes of mild peril and mild action-adventure violence including a couple of illustrations of hideous creatures/individuals that could be disturbing for younger readers.
— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Magic content: Pixie/fairy creatures called sprightnings play a prominent part in the plot of Gargantis. These creatures can shoot bolts of lightning and electrify individuals or objects. While these creatures themselves are seen as magical, they're ability to use electricity is viewed as a natural part of nature for Eerie-on-Sea.
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💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• "A book is like a mirror.... We always see ourselves inside." (p. 172)
May 22, 2021
Okay, I straight up don't know where to begin when it comes to professing my love for Gargantis by Thomas Taylor. I loved Malamander and I think I loved this book even more. Eerie on Sea is a whimsical, gloomy, and utterly enchanting seaside town full of legendary monsters and mystery. Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma are brilliant protagonists, and all the characters of Eerie of Sea who they encounter are unique and wonderful.
The monster in this book, and a small cast of other magical (and mechanical) critters, are just wickedly good. I loved the world building and the lore in this book, and the introduction of Eerie Script (super cool). I really enjoyed the way that this book explored bravery and courage, facing your fears, and making your own meaning. Well worth the read!
I can't wait for Shadowghast - just take my money already! 😜
The monster in this book, and a small cast of other magical (and mechanical) critters, are just wickedly good. I loved the world building and the lore in this book, and the introduction of Eerie Script (super cool). I really enjoyed the way that this book explored bravery and courage, facing your fears, and making your own meaning. Well worth the read!
I can't wait for Shadowghast - just take my money already! 😜
January 26, 2021
Herbert Sitruksen ja Orvokki Parman seikkailut saavat jatkoa tässä jännittävässä sarjan kakkosassa. Pidimme lasten kans valtavasti Malamanterista ja Gargantis jatkoi samalla linjalla. Paitsi että Gargantis oli astetta pelottavampi seikkailu - aikuiset pelottelevat lapsia, mystinen kasvonsa piiloon jättävä Syvä Huppu jahtaa lapsia ja taivaalla kiemurtelee valtava merihirviö. Mutta lapset antoivatkin kehuja juuri siitä, että kirja oli sopivan jännittävä, iltasatuhetkeä odotettiin kuin kuuta nousevaa. Ihan herkimmille lapsille tai pienille lapsille en kuitenkaan lukisi tätä iltasatuna, saattaa tulla painajaisia.
May 30, 2021
A fun, little kid story about a boy who works at the Lost and Found shop at a special beachside location.
A mysterious glass bottle washes up on shore. The locals are acting weird. Everyone is trying to claim it. Luckily Herbert Lemon is in charge of determining who it belongs to.
The town is set on a spectacular site. There are shipwrecks and strangely-oriented rocky crags offshore and some interesting creatures. A mythical storm threatens to destroy the town and it has something to do with the washed up bottle. What could it mean?
The story is very much a mariners tale. It is all seafaring and big on ancient scripts and fisher lingo.
There were lots of twists and turns and interesting developments. I deliberately didn’t try to solve it seeing as it was a kids book (for ages 9+). Ahem (why couldn’t I solve it?!?).
This book was a fun read. I think readers from most ages would enjoy it. It is a bit like Scooby-Doo but could also be an escape.
A mysterious glass bottle washes up on shore. The locals are acting weird. Everyone is trying to claim it. Luckily Herbert Lemon is in charge of determining who it belongs to.
The town is set on a spectacular site. There are shipwrecks and strangely-oriented rocky crags offshore and some interesting creatures. A mythical storm threatens to destroy the town and it has something to do with the washed up bottle. What could it mean?
The story is very much a mariners tale. It is all seafaring and big on ancient scripts and fisher lingo.
There were lots of twists and turns and interesting developments. I deliberately didn’t try to solve it seeing as it was a kids book (for ages 9+). Ahem (why couldn’t I solve it?!?).
This book was a fun read. I think readers from most ages would enjoy it. It is a bit like Scooby-Doo but could also be an escape.
December 18, 2020
I loved this one even more than the first! I love the atmosphere and the continued adventures and discoveries in the story! This will be read again in my home and will, I’m sure be a favorite for a long time. The characters are so much fun and I can’t get enough of them. Can not wait for the third book!!
zzzz
February 12, 2021#1) Malamander ★★★★☆
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July 1, 2023
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December 10, 2024
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