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The Traitors' Gate
John Huffam is sure the tall man's beard is false. He's sure of little else in November 1849, the year he is fourteen, the year his father is sentenced to London's Whitecross Street Prison.
Maybe the man following John -- who claims to be one Inspector Copperfield -- can explain why. Surely, Pa isn't prepared to reveal the truth, any more than the jovial bailiff, Mr. Tuckum, who knows something, but remains mum. Or the little Frenchman, Mr. Farquatt, who courts John's sister but seems most keen on Pa's work at the Naval Ordinance Office. Or Mr. O'Doul, the Irishman who insists Pa owes him the unimaginable sum of three hundred pounds.
Or what of the one-legged, single-mindedly fierce Sergeant Muldspoon, John's teacher? What about the boy's great-great-aunt, Lady Euphemia Huffam, who could pay the debt but won't for reasons of her own? What about the secretive Mr. Snugsbe of All Hallows Church, who hides himself away in the City's most voluminous coat?
Then there's Chief Inspector Ratchet of Scotland Yard, who is after somebody for some crime or other. True, John has a new friend and ally in Sary the Sneak...but what has even she got up her sleeve?
What John learns on his own is that there's a traitor on the loose, somewhere. And he must uncover the villain -- no matter who it might be.
Maybe the man following John -- who claims to be one Inspector Copperfield -- can explain why. Surely, Pa isn't prepared to reveal the truth, any more than the jovial bailiff, Mr. Tuckum, who knows something, but remains mum. Or the little Frenchman, Mr. Farquatt, who courts John's sister but seems most keen on Pa's work at the Naval Ordinance Office. Or Mr. O'Doul, the Irishman who insists Pa owes him the unimaginable sum of three hundred pounds.
Or what of the one-legged, single-mindedly fierce Sergeant Muldspoon, John's teacher? What about the boy's great-great-aunt, Lady Euphemia Huffam, who could pay the debt but won't for reasons of her own? What about the secretive Mr. Snugsbe of All Hallows Church, who hides himself away in the City's most voluminous coat?
Then there's Chief Inspector Ratchet of Scotland Yard, who is after somebody for some crime or other. True, John has a new friend and ally in Sary the Sneak...but what has even she got up her sleeve?
What John learns on his own is that there's a traitor on the loose, somewhere. And he must uncover the villain -- no matter who it might be.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
18 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Avi
346 books1,716 followersAvi is a pen name for Edward Irving Wortis, but he says, "The fact is, Avi is the only name I use." Born in 1937, Avi has created many fictional favorites such as
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle,
Nothing but the Truth,
and the Crispin series. His work is popular among readers young and old.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
April 30, 2011
Avi's The Traitors' Gate is a Dickensian-feeling middle-grade mystery. By the end, I was completely caught up in it. I gave it only four stars because of a slow start, but when Avi starts gathering up the plot threads, everything is interconnected.
What I liked best about this book was the richness of the language. Avi uses words and images deliberately. There's some lovely stuff near the end about coats being like fates that we grow into (or don't), so on my next read-through, I'll be paying closer attention to the way that images is worked throughout the book.
His characters are larger-than-life, and deliciously distinct from one another. There's the old-fashioned Mr. Tuckum, whose Picadilly Weepers (face whiskers) are described, at one point, as "nearly radiant." There's the teacher, Sergeant Muldspoon, who bugles into a handkerchief and cannons a cough into it, who rams his handkerchief back into his pocket and commands his students to be vigilant in their war against ignorance. And Sary the Sneak, the narrator's friend, who along with everyone else in this book has secrets of her own.
The Traitors' Gate is a good read in its own right, but should be required reading for any writer. It shows how playing with language can bring world richly, fully to life.
What I liked best about this book was the richness of the language. Avi uses words and images deliberately. There's some lovely stuff near the end about coats being like fates that we grow into (or don't), so on my next read-through, I'll be paying closer attention to the way that images is worked throughout the book.
His characters are larger-than-life, and deliciously distinct from one another. There's the old-fashioned Mr. Tuckum, whose Picadilly Weepers (face whiskers) are described, at one point, as "nearly radiant." There's the teacher, Sergeant Muldspoon, who bugles into a handkerchief and cannons a cough into it, who rams his handkerchief back into his pocket and commands his students to be vigilant in their war against ignorance. And Sary the Sneak, the narrator's friend, who along with everyone else in this book has secrets of her own.
The Traitors' Gate is a good read in its own right, but should be required reading for any writer. It shows how playing with language can bring world richly, fully to life.
November 3, 2013
This marks the end of my Avi reads kick! It's been a fun ride. I know he has written a lot more novels but, sadly, I do not have any more with me... yet. >:3 One day, I hope to re-visit Avi's works and enjoy other stories he has created. However, for now, I shall call it a day and review this book.
This book was... okay. I hate to say this because Avi truly has become one of my favorite authors, but this is not among my favorites. Not to say it is a bad book... I just didn't like it as much as I liked his other work, like Nothing But The Truth. This one is a lot slower paced and not as thought-out, in my opinion. I felt as if some of the characters weren't fleshed out, the plot was a bit slow moving, and the ending was just... unsatisfying. It's a shame because the premise of the story was so promising.
The writing was good. Avi's writing usually is good to begin with. I have no complaints there. My complaints has to do with the pacing. I felt that a lot of the book was slow-moving, leaving a lot of what happens in the story coming across as dull. However, when it picks up, it picks up well! I just wished it was like that all the time because, I am not going to lie, there were parts of the book (that I won't talk about because of spoilers) that I just had to force myself through because I felt it was a bit boring. Still, Avi is a great writer so I knew that, even though parts of the book wasn't that exciting, once you got to the meat of the story, it was going to be great (and it was).
The characters were all okay but a lot of the side characters just got pushed to the back burner and weren't developed much at all. I think, aside from John (main character), no one really got character development. All of John's family members; from his father, mother, sister, and great-great-aunt; stood the same from the beginning to end. The same thing could be said about Sary, who plays a key role in this story. Every one of these characters were one-dimensional... kinda disappointing really. I would have liked to see more of them than was shown. Especially with Sary. She seemed to be a character that had a lot of depth to her but, for whatever reasons, her character was never explored.
The ending was just a huge disappointment. I felt like it ended abruptly. In fact, only a few things got answered whilst the rest was left to the reader's interpretation. As I've said in the past, I don't mind that... as long as it brings the feeling of closure... which this book did not. I wanted to know a little bit more. A LITTLE bit more would have been nice. Also, I know I am being vague but I don't want to ruin the book for you just in case you decide to read it.
Which I think you should do. It's not a BAD book. It just leaves a lot to be desired. The writing was good and a lot of the story was engaging. Just don't expect it to be a fantastic read where the characters grow and the ending was satisfying... because it wasn't. Give it a try anyway! You might enjoy the story a lot more than I did. We all have different reading tastes, after all~
This book was... okay. I hate to say this because Avi truly has become one of my favorite authors, but this is not among my favorites. Not to say it is a bad book... I just didn't like it as much as I liked his other work, like Nothing But The Truth. This one is a lot slower paced and not as thought-out, in my opinion. I felt as if some of the characters weren't fleshed out, the plot was a bit slow moving, and the ending was just... unsatisfying. It's a shame because the premise of the story was so promising.
The writing was good. Avi's writing usually is good to begin with. I have no complaints there. My complaints has to do with the pacing. I felt that a lot of the book was slow-moving, leaving a lot of what happens in the story coming across as dull. However, when it picks up, it picks up well! I just wished it was like that all the time because, I am not going to lie, there were parts of the book (that I won't talk about because of spoilers) that I just had to force myself through because I felt it was a bit boring. Still, Avi is a great writer so I knew that, even though parts of the book wasn't that exciting, once you got to the meat of the story, it was going to be great (and it was).
The characters were all okay but a lot of the side characters just got pushed to the back burner and weren't developed much at all. I think, aside from John (main character), no one really got character development. All of John's family members; from his father, mother, sister, and great-great-aunt; stood the same from the beginning to end. The same thing could be said about Sary, who plays a key role in this story. Every one of these characters were one-dimensional... kinda disappointing really. I would have liked to see more of them than was shown. Especially with Sary. She seemed to be a character that had a lot of depth to her but, for whatever reasons, her character was never explored.
The ending was just a huge disappointment. I felt like it ended abruptly. In fact, only a few things got answered whilst the rest was left to the reader's interpretation. As I've said in the past, I don't mind that... as long as it brings the feeling of closure... which this book did not. I wanted to know a little bit more. A LITTLE bit more would have been nice. Also, I know I am being vague but I don't want to ruin the book for you just in case you decide to read it.
Which I think you should do. It's not a BAD book. It just leaves a lot to be desired. The writing was good and a lot of the story was engaging. Just don't expect it to be a fantastic read where the characters grow and the ending was satisfying... because it wasn't. Give it a try anyway! You might enjoy the story a lot more than I did. We all have different reading tastes, after all~
July 25, 2019
I did enjoy this book. I have read quite a number of books by Avi and have enjoyed them. It is basically a children's book but has a good plot that keeps you reading.
November 28, 2011
I'm afraid that, despite my respect for Avi as an author, this story didn't work for me. The pacing is slow, the reveals felt forced, and the ending felt artificial. I'm sorry but it just wasn't worth the time I put into it. The kids & teens in my community don't get excited about historical fiction, and this book would not convert them.
July 11, 2012
John Huffman has always been told that he should be proud to be the last Huffman. His father considers himself a gentleman, until he ends up in debtors jail for owing a mysterious man 400 pounds. His father claims he has never met the man. Is his father telling the truth? John is not so sure.
September 16, 2010
I usually love period pieces set in the Victorian era, but this one was extremely flat. The plot was slow-moving, the characters were uninteresting, and the writing was mediocre.
December 11, 2013
I really didn't think this was that great. In theory, the plot should've been interesting and suspenseful, but it just wasn't. I suppose everyone has to have a book that isn't as good as the others.
July 24, 2018
The Traitor's Gate is the arched and gated entrance to the Tower of London through which prisoners enter the Tower. It is easily spotted from across the river and even more easily from the paved walk above it.
The year is 1849 and 14 year old John Huffam arrives home from school to find all of his family's possessions being loaded up on a cart and his father being served with an order to repay a 300 pound debt which he says he doesn't owe. His father is very vague and dismissive about it all, his mother is weeping and wailing and his sister is in hysterics over the inevitable loss of her chances of marriage.
John discusses things with the bailiff, who tells him Mr. Huffam has three days to repay the debt or he will go to prison, and his family with him if they have nowhere else to go.
John pokes around trying to see what he can find out and discovers facts about his father he had not expected. He also discovers what a Scotland Yard inspector is and what it feels like to be followed. He befriends a girl called Sary the Sneak who makes her living following people and selling the information. It all becomes very complex, especially as John can't really trust anyone, especially not his father, and he has to confirm everything with his own eyes and ears.
Many of the names are drawn from Dickens and the chapters are named the way Dickens did. The narration reads like simplified Dickens in that it moves more quickly than Dickens and doesn't get bogged down in extended explanations. I enjoyed it.
The year is 1849 and 14 year old John Huffam arrives home from school to find all of his family's possessions being loaded up on a cart and his father being served with an order to repay a 300 pound debt which he says he doesn't owe. His father is very vague and dismissive about it all, his mother is weeping and wailing and his sister is in hysterics over the inevitable loss of her chances of marriage.
John discusses things with the bailiff, who tells him Mr. Huffam has three days to repay the debt or he will go to prison, and his family with him if they have nowhere else to go.
John pokes around trying to see what he can find out and discovers facts about his father he had not expected. He also discovers what a Scotland Yard inspector is and what it feels like to be followed. He befriends a girl called Sary the Sneak who makes her living following people and selling the information. It all becomes very complex, especially as John can't really trust anyone, especially not his father, and he has to confirm everything with his own eyes and ears.
Many of the names are drawn from Dickens and the chapters are named the way Dickens did. The narration reads like simplified Dickens in that it moves more quickly than Dickens and doesn't get bogged down in extended explanations. I enjoyed it.
November 2, 2021
This is like Charles Dickens "light". It is set in 1800's London, about a 14-year-old boy who tries to solve the mystery of who has framed his father. He gets help from a varied cast of interesting characters, with much sneaking around foggy or rainy London nights. In the author's note at the back, Avi reveals all the inspirations he drew from Charles Dickens as he was writing this tale. I gave it 4 stars because the beginning was rather slow, but if you hang in there to about 1/3, the pace picks up a lot and there are fun plot twists for the rest of the book. This is a good one for students who want to read classics, but find the language too dense (Bonus: Traitor's Gate has pictures!).
Motifs: Shades of Truth, trust, loyalty, family, friendship
Motifs: Shades of Truth, trust, loyalty, family, friendship
July 9, 2019
Another excellent middle school book from Avi, this time set in 1849 London. John Huffam's father is in trouble. He owes 300 pounds he can't pay back and is suspected of treason. He's in debtor's prison. John is the family's sole hope for relief. Can he solve the mystery? Can he free his father? Who can he trust?
Great period detail. The descriptions of the sponging house and debtor's prison are outstanding. The twists and turns of the plot confused me until the very end. Wonderful minor characters. The book is inspired by Charles Dicken's work and the parallels are easily spotted.
Interior black and white illustrations, 354 pages.
Great period detail. The descriptions of the sponging house and debtor's prison are outstanding. The twists and turns of the plot confused me until the very end. Wonderful minor characters. The book is inspired by Charles Dicken's work and the parallels are easily spotted.
Interior black and white illustrations, 354 pages.
February 24, 2018
The main character in this story is asked to do what no child should have to. He is told by many people that he is the only hope for his family gaining their freedom. He is given a huge task to shoulder and must decide if he is going to help his family or not.
Avi did an excellent job researching the time period for this book. It talks about sponging houses and other common things. I liked the story because it showed the importance of being a good person and not just saying you're a good person.
Avi did an excellent job researching the time period for this book. It talks about sponging houses and other common things. I liked the story because it showed the importance of being a good person and not just saying you're a good person.
March 19, 2021
This book was astonishing. The type that's ending was so utterly unexpected that you have to read and reread it again to ensure your eyes don't betray you. I loved it, just as I did the other book, "Crispin" I'd read by Avi. They're an amazing author, one I hope to live up to be as great as someday.
August 24, 2023
Delightful collection of quirky characters in the tradition of Charles Dickens, whom the author is trying to imitate. Characters are even reading the original serialized edition of David Copperfield, but in the end, I suspect that the antiquated style keeps young readers from relating to this book. You have to be old enough to have read and enjoyed the original to see the humor of it.
October 18, 2017
A little predictable, buuuut it's a kids book. I think Thomas will like it.
November 21, 2017
Plot twist, huh?
May 5, 2019
Audiobook
May 26, 2019
Avi's homage to Dickens. I'm more a fan of Avi than Dickens, but I prefer Dickens' original language and characters. Seemed overlong and I was not involved. Historical details were interesting.
November 5, 2019
A fun, fairly light derivative of Dickens. If you love Charles Dickens, or the City of London, you will probably like this book.
April 19, 2020
Good little mystery and good main character and good author’s name.
May 10, 2020
okay. didn't love it.
November 5, 2022
I had totally forgotten who ended up being the criminal mastermind in the end. It was totally worth the reread.
April 27, 2024
It started slowly, then only got interesting at the introduction of Sarah. The end was not satisfying: I hope for a sequel.
September 22, 2024
A bit predictable, but still enjoyable historical fiction.
April 11, 2012
In this interesting work of historical fiction we meet the Huffam family; Wesley John Louis Huffam (the father), Leticia (the mother), Clarissa (age 17) and John Horatio Huffam (age 14) and the narrator of this interesting story of deception, mystery, and intrigue set in 1849 London. As the story opens Wesley announces to his family that it is very likely that by the end of the week he will be in prison which causes no small uproar among the women of the family. Leticia responds by shrieking, sobbing, and scolding while Clarissa bemoans her likely fate as a spinster, for who would want to marry a young lady whose father is in prison. As it turns out Mr. Huffam is correct as he is thrown into debtor's prison for owing the unheard of sum of 300 pounds, an amount which is many times greater than a year's income. When the "complaint" is read Mr. Huffam not only denies that he owes such a large sum of money but also he completely denies any knowledge of, or association with, the person filing the complaint. As the story progresses the reader is introduced to a long and interesting cast of characters, many of whom could be equally responsible for the predicament that Mr. Huffam finds himself in. The experiences young Master Huffam has as he tries to figure out who is lying and who is telling the truth makes for a very enjoyable read.
As I read I couldn't help but think about another book which I have read, The Man Who Was Poe, also by Avi. The striking similarity between these two books is Avi's ability to write in such a way as to make you think of another, more well know author. In The Man Who Was Poe the style of writing is strikingly similar to many of the works of Edgar Allan Poe. In this book, the mood, and setting are so well developed that one cannot help but make comparisons to the works of Charles Dickens. With a London of the "have's" and the "have not's" we find ourselves drawn into the depths of the debtor's prison as well as the run down, ne'er do well neighborhood of those easily ignored and forgotten.
I was first introduced to Avi nearly eight years ago as I was completing my teacher preparation program. Since then I have been a huge fan and this book doesn't disappoint. In fact, in my opinion, this is one of the best of his books which I have read. Having said this one might expect that I would enthusiastically recommend this book to my students. Unfortunately, I cannot say that I will. Although I believe that my more advanced readers will enjoy it, I'm fairly confident that many average or below average readers, if they even begin to attempt it, will quickly set it aside. There are three factors which I believe will cause this to happen. First, there were several times as I read that I needed to use my eReader's dictionary to understand what some of the objects mentioned in the book were. Since they are no longer in use, and I am unfamiliar with them, this was an invaluable help throughout my reading. Second, the vocabulary may, quite often, be above that of my students. Thus, an advanced reader may choose to look up words that are unfamiliar or which they don't understand while many other readers will either just skip over the word, or try guessing, many times unsuccessfully, at its true meaning. Either way, I believe that they will eventually become frustrated with the volume of difficult words and quit. Third, the dialogue, at times, although true to form with that one would expect of Londoner's, may be difficult for the students to read, let alone be able to understand. All this being said, if you are apt to give the book a try I would highly recommend it as an enjoyable read which will likely keep you always wanting to turn the pages to find out what comes next. The ending, although surprising, should not have been unexpected. Finally, although I am not always one to read the author's notes at the end, I highly recommend you do so with this book as it gives you some additional insights into the story.
Rating: For the first time ever I'll give this book two ratings. For readability (for 5th graders) 3 out of 5 stars. For the quality and interest level of the book: 5 out of 5 stars.
As I read I couldn't help but think about another book which I have read, The Man Who Was Poe, also by Avi. The striking similarity between these two books is Avi's ability to write in such a way as to make you think of another, more well know author. In The Man Who Was Poe the style of writing is strikingly similar to many of the works of Edgar Allan Poe. In this book, the mood, and setting are so well developed that one cannot help but make comparisons to the works of Charles Dickens. With a London of the "have's" and the "have not's" we find ourselves drawn into the depths of the debtor's prison as well as the run down, ne'er do well neighborhood of those easily ignored and forgotten.
I was first introduced to Avi nearly eight years ago as I was completing my teacher preparation program. Since then I have been a huge fan and this book doesn't disappoint. In fact, in my opinion, this is one of the best of his books which I have read. Having said this one might expect that I would enthusiastically recommend this book to my students. Unfortunately, I cannot say that I will. Although I believe that my more advanced readers will enjoy it, I'm fairly confident that many average or below average readers, if they even begin to attempt it, will quickly set it aside. There are three factors which I believe will cause this to happen. First, there were several times as I read that I needed to use my eReader's dictionary to understand what some of the objects mentioned in the book were. Since they are no longer in use, and I am unfamiliar with them, this was an invaluable help throughout my reading. Second, the vocabulary may, quite often, be above that of my students. Thus, an advanced reader may choose to look up words that are unfamiliar or which they don't understand while many other readers will either just skip over the word, or try guessing, many times unsuccessfully, at its true meaning. Either way, I believe that they will eventually become frustrated with the volume of difficult words and quit. Third, the dialogue, at times, although true to form with that one would expect of Londoner's, may be difficult for the students to read, let alone be able to understand. All this being said, if you are apt to give the book a try I would highly recommend it as an enjoyable read which will likely keep you always wanting to turn the pages to find out what comes next. The ending, although surprising, should not have been unexpected. Finally, although I am not always one to read the author's notes at the end, I highly recommend you do so with this book as it gives you some additional insights into the story.
Rating: For the first time ever I'll give this book two ratings. For readability (for 5th graders) 3 out of 5 stars. For the quality and interest level of the book: 5 out of 5 stars.
November 4, 2012
Reviewed by Lynn Crow for TeensReadToo.com
THE TRAITORS' GATE is everything you'd expect from an Avi novel--a well-realized historical adventure, plenty of suspense, and lots of surprises along the way. Whether you're intrigued by Victorian England, you like a good mystery, or you're just looking for a book that will keep you guessing right until the final chapter, you'll find something to enjoy here.
It is the mystery of THE TRAITORS' GATE that will keep readers turning the pages. If 14-year-old John Huffam wants to save his family from destitution, he must find a scheming traitor, who engineered his father's arrest in order to force Mr. Huffam to sell the military secrets he has memorized. Unfortunately for John, he has more suspects than he can count, and every piece of information he learns raises as many questions as answers. Even with the help of a Scotland Yard inspector and a scruffy street girl who knows all the secrets of London, the task seems close to impossible. Yet John pushes on, through multiple twists and turns, to an ending that is satisfying yet unpredictable.
Underneath the mystery, however, there is a lot more to the story. At heart, it is a tale of lost innocence and growing up. John must come to terms with the fact that many of the adults in his life, including his father, are deeply flawed. It is up to him to choose: allow himself to sink to the levels of his role models, or do his best to hold himself above them and be the best person he can be, despite his circumstances. He must also decide who to turn away from, and, more importantly, who to forgive. For nothing in THE TRAITORS' GATE is completely black and white. Every character has virtues as well as vices, and most are simply doing what they think is best for them, with believable (if not always sympathetic) motives. This depth with stick with readers long after they've discovered the answer to the mystery.
Making the story even more engaging is the vivid depiction of Victorian London. Descriptions are full of detail and life. Readers will feel as though they've taken a trip there rather than just reading about it. Avi reveals the full range of London experiences, from the lush homes of the rich to the squalid rooms of the very poor, and everything in between. Though some of the laws and customs of this period will be unfamiliar to readers, explanations are easily worked into the story as John learns things about his society even he didn't realize.
If you have a chance to pick this one up, don't hesitate. THE TRAITORS' GATE will stir the mind and the heart equally, and entertain readers along the way.
THE TRAITORS' GATE is everything you'd expect from an Avi novel--a well-realized historical adventure, plenty of suspense, and lots of surprises along the way. Whether you're intrigued by Victorian England, you like a good mystery, or you're just looking for a book that will keep you guessing right until the final chapter, you'll find something to enjoy here.
It is the mystery of THE TRAITORS' GATE that will keep readers turning the pages. If 14-year-old John Huffam wants to save his family from destitution, he must find a scheming traitor, who engineered his father's arrest in order to force Mr. Huffam to sell the military secrets he has memorized. Unfortunately for John, he has more suspects than he can count, and every piece of information he learns raises as many questions as answers. Even with the help of a Scotland Yard inspector and a scruffy street girl who knows all the secrets of London, the task seems close to impossible. Yet John pushes on, through multiple twists and turns, to an ending that is satisfying yet unpredictable.
Underneath the mystery, however, there is a lot more to the story. At heart, it is a tale of lost innocence and growing up. John must come to terms with the fact that many of the adults in his life, including his father, are deeply flawed. It is up to him to choose: allow himself to sink to the levels of his role models, or do his best to hold himself above them and be the best person he can be, despite his circumstances. He must also decide who to turn away from, and, more importantly, who to forgive. For nothing in THE TRAITORS' GATE is completely black and white. Every character has virtues as well as vices, and most are simply doing what they think is best for them, with believable (if not always sympathetic) motives. This depth with stick with readers long after they've discovered the answer to the mystery.
Making the story even more engaging is the vivid depiction of Victorian London. Descriptions are full of detail and life. Readers will feel as though they've taken a trip there rather than just reading about it. Avi reveals the full range of London experiences, from the lush homes of the rich to the squalid rooms of the very poor, and everything in between. Though some of the laws and customs of this period will be unfamiliar to readers, explanations are easily worked into the story as John learns things about his society even he didn't realize.
If you have a chance to pick this one up, don't hesitate. THE TRAITORS' GATE will stir the mind and the heart equally, and entertain readers along the way.
February 5, 2017
I enjoyed reading The Traitors' Gate by Avi. Edward Irving Wortis, whose pen name is Avi, has written over 75 books, and has won the Newbery Medal. This book, The Traitors' Gate, takes place in London, during November, 1849. The main character, John Huffman, is only 14 years old when his dad is sent to debtors' prison. John Huffman's father owes an Irish foreigner, Mr. O'Doul, a large amount of money. While John struggles to make enough money to release his father's charge, he finds out that his father's problem is much more than debt. He learns that his father has a gambling problem, and to pay what he owes, he will manipulate others. John's father plans an selling the secret design of England's superior weapons to spies from other nations. However, Mr. Huffman will secretly give the spies a false design. England has figured out Mr. Huffman's plans, and both the local bailiff and an inspector from the Scotland Yard seem to be using him to catch traitors of Enland. While his father is in jail, many people offer to pay the 300 pounds for him. John finds out that both the bailiff and the inspector suspect that the people are spies, trying to buy the secret from his father.
This mystery book also shows a common theme, "Don't judge a book by its cover." Unlike most cases, where someone appears bad but does something good, John learns that he cannot trust someone unless he knows all of their secrets. Even then, John remains a bit uncertain of who could be the traitor.
This book is told in first person from John's point of view. Avi uses all five senses to describe London, making it seem as if I was in London on November in 1849. I started reading this book because I enjoyed his books, as they were very descriptive. I especially like this book because there was a complex mystery, with vivid details painting the setting in my mind. Avi created a ton of suspense in the story, and it almost never stopped. When John started to figure out a part of the mystery or a way to figure it out, another piece of evidence would come up and either prove him wrong or change his thoughts on the mystery. People who would enjoy The Traitors' Gate are readers who like mystery books that are very complex and descriptive.
This mystery book also shows a common theme, "Don't judge a book by its cover." Unlike most cases, where someone appears bad but does something good, John learns that he cannot trust someone unless he knows all of their secrets. Even then, John remains a bit uncertain of who could be the traitor.
This book is told in first person from John's point of view. Avi uses all five senses to describe London, making it seem as if I was in London on November in 1849. I started reading this book because I enjoyed his books, as they were very descriptive. I especially like this book because there was a complex mystery, with vivid details painting the setting in my mind. Avi created a ton of suspense in the story, and it almost never stopped. When John started to figure out a part of the mystery or a way to figure it out, another piece of evidence would come up and either prove him wrong or change his thoughts on the mystery. People who would enjoy The Traitors' Gate are readers who like mystery books that are very complex and descriptive.
December 31, 2010
Another of my "historical mystery for teens" research books. Although I give it a four, it's actually more like a three and a half. John Huffam is a fourteen year old boy in mid 1800s London. His father is a ne'er-do-well, a gambler, and a man who, in typical Dickensian fashion, lives in a world of elaborate self-deception and rationalization. When his gambling addiction lands him in debtor's prison, his son is forced to try to rescue him and is pulled into an exciting, complex mystery that involves stolen state secrets. What I liked: interesting plot, good characters, outcome I didn't guess, well set up potential for emotional development, rich descriptions of the society of the time. What disappointed me: the ending. Although I did not guess the villain, and therefore experienced that satisfying moment of Agatha Christie shock when he was revealed, I felt very emotionally let down. I realize it may be unrealistic to give readers a happy ending, but it seems to me that Avi, since he is channeling Dickens and furthermore writing a book for children, might have done so. The wealthy aunt you feel sure will appreciate and reward our hero at the end, does not; various other characters you expect to see grow (Mr. Snugsbee, for instance) fail to do so. Although the hero's father is sprung from jail, he experiences no epiphany and is the same pathetic self-indulgent person he always was, with consequences for his son one can sadly imagine. In short, all that potential for satisfying catharsis is dashed in the name of realism. Avi may have been planning a second book to tie up all the loose ends and bring emotional closure to his characters; but I'm not sure he has brought his readers along with him sufficiently to ensure that they will read a second volume.
Beyond the Western Sea and The True Adventures of Charlotte Doyle were much better. A great opportunity wasted.
Beyond the Western Sea and The True Adventures of Charlotte Doyle were much better. A great opportunity wasted.
August 1, 2011
“”By the end of this week,” said my father, as if speaking of a change in weather, “there’s a possibility I shall be sent to prison.”” - John Horatio Huffam
With these few words, spoken with his characteristic mildness, John Huffam’s father ignites a veritable firestorm within the household - and John finds himself at the very center. With his father locked away in debtor’s prison, it seems that everyone turns to fourteen-year-old John to make things right. But, as John quickly learns, there is a great deal more to this business that his father’s (albeit alarmingly large) gambling debt. Intrigue, confusion, family squabbles and the possibility that his father might be involved in treason all face John as he attempts to do what is best for his family. Ranked against him? A cantankerous old great-aunt, a vindictive solicitor/failed amateur actor, his sister’s French suitor, a mysterious Irishman, a bully of a schoolmaster and not one, but two, Scotland Yard Inspectors. On his side? No one, except a streetwise and cocky orphan known as Sary the Sneak. Surely John is in over his head, but he can only do what he must and leave the rest to fate.
In his homage to Charles Dickens, Avi brings to vivid life the mid-nineteenth century London the great author knew so well and clearly loved. The city is resplendent is its fog, coal smoke, twisted alleys and cobbled streets. In young John Huffam, the reader discovers a character that can truly claim to be the natural heir to David Copperfield, Philip Pirrip and Oliver Twist. Even the style of the narrative of this skillfully rendered novel brings Dickens to mind. Wonderfully done, thoroughly engaging and a delight from beginning to end.
September 5, 2015
TCL CALL #: J AVI (One Click Digital)
Chris’s Rating: 3 Stars
When John Huffman’s father, a self professed gentleman and actor is arrested for owing 300 pounds to a single creditor, he is facing a long stint in debtors prison, if nothing can be done to clear his name. This same father is a clerk responsible for recording British cannon designs that are sure to revolutionize warfare. This bit of information is likely to be worth a lot of money…but selling it to anyone is certain treason. John doesn’t know who to trust or even what is going on…it takes quite a while before he can even get a straight answer from his illusive, less than honest father. But he knows it may be up to him to solve the mystery…and find an adequate solution.
Set back in the time of Charles Dickens, the style of The Traitor’s Gate reminds me a lot of Terry Pratchett’s Dodger. Both books were enjoyable to “listen to” but generally not fast paced or overly suspenseful. Sure there is action in both books, but it didn’t come off as “scary” perhaps because of the writing style or reader. The obsessive good-willed properness between “gentlemen” gets a bit tiring, but John’s conflicted loyalty to his father and trying to sort out who his true friends are keep the mystery interesting enough. There were a few unanswered questions, one in particular I would have liked to be answered, but such is life with not everything coming to light on our own timetables. This is likely to be a good read for youth 10+ who like 19th century mysteries which, while not consistently fast paced, remain interesting.
Chris’s Rating: 3 Stars
When John Huffman’s father, a self professed gentleman and actor is arrested for owing 300 pounds to a single creditor, he is facing a long stint in debtors prison, if nothing can be done to clear his name. This same father is a clerk responsible for recording British cannon designs that are sure to revolutionize warfare. This bit of information is likely to be worth a lot of money…but selling it to anyone is certain treason. John doesn’t know who to trust or even what is going on…it takes quite a while before he can even get a straight answer from his illusive, less than honest father. But he knows it may be up to him to solve the mystery…and find an adequate solution.
Set back in the time of Charles Dickens, the style of The Traitor’s Gate reminds me a lot of Terry Pratchett’s Dodger. Both books were enjoyable to “listen to” but generally not fast paced or overly suspenseful. Sure there is action in both books, but it didn’t come off as “scary” perhaps because of the writing style or reader. The obsessive good-willed properness between “gentlemen” gets a bit tiring, but John’s conflicted loyalty to his father and trying to sort out who his true friends are keep the mystery interesting enough. There were a few unanswered questions, one in particular I would have liked to be answered, but such is life with not everything coming to light on our own timetables. This is likely to be a good read for youth 10+ who like 19th century mysteries which, while not consistently fast paced, remain interesting.
July 6, 2017
John Horatio Huffam lives in Victorian London with his father, mother and older sister. Into his life comes the misfortune of his father owing a great deal of money. So much, that he has to go to debtor's prison. But the mystery is that John's father is sure he doesn't owe that much money to the man whose name is on the writ, Mr. O'Doul. Is there treachery involved? John's father tells him he must go to his great, great Aunt Euphemia and get the money he needs to pay back the writ. But Aunt Euphemia isn't a fan of John's father and promises only to help John find employment so that he may make his way in the world. As John continues to investigate, he finds that his father isn't who John thought he was. A gambler and a liar to say the least.
As he continues to investigate the debt, he sees connections between Mr. Farquatt, his sister's fiance, and Sgt Muldspoon (headmaster of Muldspoon's Militantly Motivated Academy, John's school.) Then there's the stranger claiming to be someone called Inspector Copperfield and Mr. Tuckum, the bailiff. Finally, he meets up with Sarry the Sneak, a young girl paid to follow John. But by who and why?
Mystery abounds and every time John thinks he's getting close to an answer, he ends up with more questions and problems to solve. A novel in the spirit of Charles Dickens. The setting, the characters and the style are all wonderfully influenced by Dickens.
As he continues to investigate the debt, he sees connections between Mr. Farquatt, his sister's fiance, and Sgt Muldspoon (headmaster of Muldspoon's Militantly Motivated Academy, John's school.) Then there's the stranger claiming to be someone called Inspector Copperfield and Mr. Tuckum, the bailiff. Finally, he meets up with Sarry the Sneak, a young girl paid to follow John. But by who and why?
Mystery abounds and every time John thinks he's getting close to an answer, he ends up with more questions and problems to solve. A novel in the spirit of Charles Dickens. The setting, the characters and the style are all wonderfully influenced by Dickens.
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