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Ivan's Tests
Ivan is a ten-year-old boy who is moving to the city of Santiago, Chile. There, he will cope with the separating of his parents, adjusting to a new place to live, and going to a new school. Ivan makes friends and experiences new adventures that give him the strength to face his family problems. For example, Ivan meets Javier, a classmate from fifth grade who tells him about a group of brave boys in the Club 1. But, to be part of the club, Ivan must pass a series of tests that call for bravery and craftiness. Ivan is inspired to pass these tests by a comic book series to which his grandfather, Serapio, has introduced him. "The Warrior of the Night" depicts a brave character Ivan comes to admire as much as his grandfather does.While Ivan navigates his conflicts as son and student, he also seeks to answer his questions about the comic Is the Warrior real, or is he just another crazy idea of his grandfather Serapio? If the Warrior is real, could he possibly be the gym teacher at school, or even Serapio himself? Do Ivan and the Warrior have the same protector, God? Join Ivan as he searches for these and other answers in a story full of new experiences, comic books, and friends.Ivan’s Tests is a novel for ages 8 to 12 years. However, the story, about children and family, can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 20, 2021
Ivan's Tests is about a ten-year-old boy who suddenly finds himself lost due to his parents' separation. Ivan's life turns upside down one day when he learns that his parents are separating, that he has to move to another city with his mother, and go to a new school where he knows no one, not to mention that he won't be able to see his dad as often as he likes anymore. When he arrives at his grandfather Serapino's house, all hope is lost for Ivan, except that Serapino doesn't let his only grandson fall into despair. He gives Ivan a comic book whose origins are as mysterious as the hero of the comic book. Reading the adventures of the crime-fighting hero of the book, Ivan himself finds courage, friendship, and belief in something so much bigger than he is.
If you've always been a bookworm who went through the bumps and the hardships that life put in your path by only reading books, it is easy to empathize with Ivan. Because his story tells us about the magic of reading, how losing ourselves in beautiful stories helps us cope with sad things such as losing people, feeling all alone, being afraid of living on and/or starting a new life. The author successfully captures this notion from the eyes of a boy, reminding us how being a child who loves to read is a magical time of our lives, no matter what.
If you've always been a bookworm who went through the bumps and the hardships that life put in your path by only reading books, it is easy to empathize with Ivan. Because his story tells us about the magic of reading, how losing ourselves in beautiful stories helps us cope with sad things such as losing people, feeling all alone, being afraid of living on and/or starting a new life. The author successfully captures this notion from the eyes of a boy, reminding us how being a child who loves to read is a magical time of our lives, no matter what.
October 2, 2022
A Story of Schooling and Real Life
Considering author's background in educational psychology, one might expect the book to be filled with lots of scientific terms and maybe some dry theories.
In fact, I was pleasantly surprised that it was actually a children's book with a very easy-to-follow story. The plot follows a 10-year-old boy, called Ivan, along his path, facing new challenges/tests both at school and in life, i.e. a new environment, friends, school; experiencing some hard times, family struggles etc.
Quite a relatable protagonist for middle graders and pre-teens, or kids in general.
The read sounds educational, but at the same time adventurous, immersive and realistic.
Overall, it is an enjoyable and fairly short book.
Recommended to kids and their parents.
Considering author's background in educational psychology, one might expect the book to be filled with lots of scientific terms and maybe some dry theories.
In fact, I was pleasantly surprised that it was actually a children's book with a very easy-to-follow story. The plot follows a 10-year-old boy, called Ivan, along his path, facing new challenges/tests both at school and in life, i.e. a new environment, friends, school; experiencing some hard times, family struggles etc.
Quite a relatable protagonist for middle graders and pre-teens, or kids in general.
The read sounds educational, but at the same time adventurous, immersive and realistic.
Overall, it is an enjoyable and fairly short book.
Recommended to kids and their parents.
August 15, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed Celso Montemar's novella - 'Ivan's Tests'! It is a book of courage and bravery in achieving one's goals with determination and faith in God's strength and love.This book is unique because it can be enjoyed by both young and older readers. I enjoyed the thrill I got watching Ivan get through his 5 tests and indirectly getting to know about trusting God in the process. Readers will be amazed to learn what it takes a child like Ivan to go through just to ensure that his parents do not separate!! This emphasizes how much family unity is important. I love the way the writer created very realistic characters in a fast paced plot. This is a book you pick up and read all the way to the end. But best of all, this story will stay with me. It is unforgettable, enjoyable and worth its 5 stars!
October 29, 2022
This follows Ivan a 10 year old boy who's parents are separated. This so light book and it teaches how to face hardships in life.
Ivan learns about how to overcome life's hardship.
Perfect book.
Ivan learns about how to overcome life's hardship.
Perfect book.
August 12, 2021
This is a great book mainly for boys roughly age 7-12 but can speak to a broader range as well. I am going to give it to my stepson to read and I am sure he will love it! It's about a young boy who delves into a fantasy world of a comic book hero while he is going through his parent's separation. It also explores what it is like to start over at a new school and trying to fit in. It is easy to read and I love how it gently touches on having faith in God as our protector. Our children are exposed to too much violence, so it is refreshing to see a book that maintains the spirit of action and adventure while being clean and wholesome.
October 12, 2021
This is a middle grade aged book, which I was thoroughly excited to dive into and gain a sense of childhood reimbursement. Luckily, this book accomplished just that.
Ivan is a ten-year-old going through a difficult time, parent divorce. No child should have to go through that experience, or the externalities it brings along with it. But Ivan handles it quite well. He is very intelligent for a child, with many thoughts and conversations aligned with the sophistication of a high school student. From the initial introduction, it is obvious that this character has a wild imagination and collected thoughts packed tightly in his youthful mind.
With the divorce of his parents, Ivan makes a move with his mother to Santiago, where he will live with this grandfather, or Serapio as the man prefers to be entitled to. Serapio is a great character. He brings the joy into a lot of the book, which I find fascinating since he is the elderly character and in most novels their roles involve sophistication and high levels of maturity. This story implements the cool grandpa, however, who pops up through a window to present himself to his grandson. Read this book to behold these amazing characters. The development is outstanding.
Going back to Ivan and his character development, I appreciate how the author unfolds this child as a sophisticated personality, but levels it down by having him ask curious questions that a normal child would such as meanings of words and about his surroundings.
The structure of the book is well-put. Since this is a middle grade story, the short chapters are necessary to keep a kid intact with the story and have continuous interest. The short chapters may help to bring a sense of accomplishment to someone as they finish one with ease. These short chapters also help to divide the story into clear scenes for a young reader to thoroughly understand what is going on.
The Warrior of the Night stories within ‘Ivan’s Tests’ are the key aspects that build Ivan and his grandfather’s bond. These comic books spark interest in Ivan and help him make friends and form connections with his family members. While his mother and father are skeptical about what they consider folklore stories, Ivan’s imagination only keeps growing. I will not give any details to the Warrior of the Night, for this is a non-spoiler review, but the story within the book’s story is definitely fascinating. While it draws in Ivan to want to read more of the comic books, it lures in me as a reader as well which helps me connect to Ivan.
Overall, the intertwining of Ivan, the Warrior of the Night, and the boy’s quest to become a hero develops the theme. As the title refers to ‘Ivan’s Tests’, read this book to find out just what those consist of that the ten-year-old boy goes through. The theme that I produced from this clever plot is that heroes do not always wear capes, and anyone can uphold the title if deemed worthy.
I definitely recommend this book to not only middle-grade aged kids, but anyone in the mood to escape to a fun and adventurous book that is so easy to read.
Ivan is a ten-year-old going through a difficult time, parent divorce. No child should have to go through that experience, or the externalities it brings along with it. But Ivan handles it quite well. He is very intelligent for a child, with many thoughts and conversations aligned with the sophistication of a high school student. From the initial introduction, it is obvious that this character has a wild imagination and collected thoughts packed tightly in his youthful mind.
With the divorce of his parents, Ivan makes a move with his mother to Santiago, where he will live with this grandfather, or Serapio as the man prefers to be entitled to. Serapio is a great character. He brings the joy into a lot of the book, which I find fascinating since he is the elderly character and in most novels their roles involve sophistication and high levels of maturity. This story implements the cool grandpa, however, who pops up through a window to present himself to his grandson. Read this book to behold these amazing characters. The development is outstanding.
Going back to Ivan and his character development, I appreciate how the author unfolds this child as a sophisticated personality, but levels it down by having him ask curious questions that a normal child would such as meanings of words and about his surroundings.
The structure of the book is well-put. Since this is a middle grade story, the short chapters are necessary to keep a kid intact with the story and have continuous interest. The short chapters may help to bring a sense of accomplishment to someone as they finish one with ease. These short chapters also help to divide the story into clear scenes for a young reader to thoroughly understand what is going on.
The Warrior of the Night stories within ‘Ivan’s Tests’ are the key aspects that build Ivan and his grandfather’s bond. These comic books spark interest in Ivan and help him make friends and form connections with his family members. While his mother and father are skeptical about what they consider folklore stories, Ivan’s imagination only keeps growing. I will not give any details to the Warrior of the Night, for this is a non-spoiler review, but the story within the book’s story is definitely fascinating. While it draws in Ivan to want to read more of the comic books, it lures in me as a reader as well which helps me connect to Ivan.
Overall, the intertwining of Ivan, the Warrior of the Night, and the boy’s quest to become a hero develops the theme. As the title refers to ‘Ivan’s Tests’, read this book to find out just what those consist of that the ten-year-old boy goes through. The theme that I produced from this clever plot is that heroes do not always wear capes, and anyone can uphold the title if deemed worthy.
I definitely recommend this book to not only middle-grade aged kids, but anyone in the mood to escape to a fun and adventurous book that is so easy to read.
January 9, 2022
THE MAGIC OF CHILDHOOD
Ivan’s Tests captures the magic and adventure that are childhood. Are superheroes real? Could someone I know be a superhero in disguise?
We follow Ivan through the experiences that are those of so many children today: a home is broken up, a new place to live, new people, a new school must all be adjusted to. Plucky Ivan is not one to let circumstances get him down. Far from it – he embraces his new surroundings and even sets his sights on joining the boys’ club in his school – the initiation tests of which the book is name after.
Ivan’s mother tries to discourage him from the fanciful obsession he has with a comic book character, as his grandfather gleefully nudges him in the other direction. A problem solver at heart, Ivan just happens to find a new best friend who needs help with his reading. He uses the stories in the comic books to tutor his friend, while subtly encouraging him to believe, as he does, in the super-hero.
The five tests of the boys’ club are by no means the only ones Ivan must pass in his new life, but he does so without ever giving up, always sure that, somehow, there must be a way.
If that doesn’t capture the magic of childhood, I don’t know what does.
Melissa Lea Leedom is the author of To Forgive, Divine.
Ivan’s Tests captures the magic and adventure that are childhood. Are superheroes real? Could someone I know be a superhero in disguise?
We follow Ivan through the experiences that are those of so many children today: a home is broken up, a new place to live, new people, a new school must all be adjusted to. Plucky Ivan is not one to let circumstances get him down. Far from it – he embraces his new surroundings and even sets his sights on joining the boys’ club in his school – the initiation tests of which the book is name after.
Ivan’s mother tries to discourage him from the fanciful obsession he has with a comic book character, as his grandfather gleefully nudges him in the other direction. A problem solver at heart, Ivan just happens to find a new best friend who needs help with his reading. He uses the stories in the comic books to tutor his friend, while subtly encouraging him to believe, as he does, in the super-hero.
The five tests of the boys’ club are by no means the only ones Ivan must pass in his new life, but he does so without ever giving up, always sure that, somehow, there must be a way.
If that doesn’t capture the magic of childhood, I don’t know what does.
Melissa Lea Leedom is the author of To Forgive, Divine.
December 31, 2021
Boys' world is more complicated than I can imagine. As an elementary teacher, Ivan's test was a fantastic read, as I experienced life from a boy's POV. The imagination, determination and coping mechanism that Ivan had were realistic and an eye opener.
Facing a sudden divorce between his parents, and having to change cities and schools, Ivan had the chance to learn about the epic Warrior of the Night that his grandpa Serapio introduced him to. The question of who is this mysterios warrior will keep following Ivan, his new friend and the reader to the last page. Not to mention that the inspiration of that warrior and Serapio's weird wisdom will get Ivan through hard tests to prove he's tough and worthy of joining the Fire Boys.
Ivan, like any other boy we might know, is growing and fighting against bullies and for his family. Everyone should read Ivan's tests, young and old.
Facing a sudden divorce between his parents, and having to change cities and schools, Ivan had the chance to learn about the epic Warrior of the Night that his grandpa Serapio introduced him to. The question of who is this mysterios warrior will keep following Ivan, his new friend and the reader to the last page. Not to mention that the inspiration of that warrior and Serapio's weird wisdom will get Ivan through hard tests to prove he's tough and worthy of joining the Fire Boys.
Ivan, like any other boy we might know, is growing and fighting against bullies and for his family. Everyone should read Ivan's tests, young and old.
October 4, 2022
Good read for all! Different genre reader, parents, children, teachers and I guess for everyone.
This story is about a ten year old boy Ivan who faces separation of his parents and cope with that anxiety, despair with the help of a book given by his grandpa. Warrior of the Night that his grandpa Serapio introduced to him via this book. Eventually Ivan builds faith in friendship, courage, and power of belief. I found this book useful for not only elementary graders but also for the teachers pov it is important to understand child's pov in such situations so this can book help. Beside that curiosity of Ivan shown beautifully throughout the story . Character development of Ivan can be helpful for the parenting for today's modern age parents. It could be a friend guide for children. I have already recommend this book to my students and colleagues. Happy reading!
This story is about a ten year old boy Ivan who faces separation of his parents and cope with that anxiety, despair with the help of a book given by his grandpa. Warrior of the Night that his grandpa Serapio introduced to him via this book. Eventually Ivan builds faith in friendship, courage, and power of belief. I found this book useful for not only elementary graders but also for the teachers pov it is important to understand child's pov in such situations so this can book help. Beside that curiosity of Ivan shown beautifully throughout the story . Character development of Ivan can be helpful for the parenting for today's modern age parents. It could be a friend guide for children. I have already recommend this book to my students and colleagues. Happy reading!
November 28, 2025
Celso Montemar, author of Ivan's Tests...My hat is off to you! Bravo!
This story is so well put together. The plot has a wonderful progression and the ending is superb!
This is SUCH A GOOD BOOK!
My heart ached for Ivan and his predicament with having to leave his dad, his home, his school...to live with his Grandfather Serapio. Divorce is so hard on kids. They lose their sense of security and self-worth. And having taught kids Ivan's age, I know that losing a parent or grandparent, or even a treasured pet is so traumatic for them.
THE WARRIOR OF THE NIGHT - Serapio Domingo - Sunday Angel! Magnificent! I think my favorite part of the book is the relationship Ivan had with his grandfather. I loved Serapio's caginess with the details...encouraging Ivan to be patient and keep reading! And Serapio wouldn't tell Ivan what was coming or answer his questions. Haha, I used to do this with my students. It works...they get hooked which is what every teacher wants.
Again, so, so, good!
This story is so well put together. The plot has a wonderful progression and the ending is superb!
This is SUCH A GOOD BOOK!
My heart ached for Ivan and his predicament with having to leave his dad, his home, his school...to live with his Grandfather Serapio. Divorce is so hard on kids. They lose their sense of security and self-worth. And having taught kids Ivan's age, I know that losing a parent or grandparent, or even a treasured pet is so traumatic for them.
THE WARRIOR OF THE NIGHT - Serapio Domingo - Sunday Angel! Magnificent! I think my favorite part of the book is the relationship Ivan had with his grandfather. I loved Serapio's caginess with the details...encouraging Ivan to be patient and keep reading! And Serapio wouldn't tell Ivan what was coming or answer his questions. Haha, I used to do this with my students. It works...they get hooked which is what every teacher wants.
Again, so, so, good!
September 5, 2021
It is a very well crafted and an eye opener for parents who go through separation. It not only affects the individuals separately, but it also affects the child. They go through several transformations and seeing their parents apart, the pessimism creates and shapes their mind. But a ray of light guides them and they have to find it themselves. Ivan is on the quest of finding nightlife warrior. He had to go through several tests to conquer his fears. And the reunion of his parents made it all justifiable.
December 11, 2025
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude🙏 to Celso Montemar and BookTasters for the opportunity to read and review Ivan's Tests.
This story was a wonderful surprise.😮 I was deeply touched by how the book balanced the heavy reality of Ivan’s parents' separation with the adventurous whimsy of childhood. Ivan’s journey to prove his bravery to "Club 1" was engaging, but his relationship with his grandfather, Serapio, was what truly stole the show for me. Serapio's lessons about faith, the "Protector, and the way he used The Warrior of the Night comics to bond with his grandson were heartwarming and emotional.
Thank you, 🙏 Celso Montemar, for writing a character as memorable as Serapio and for showing that true bravery comes in many forms. And thank you to BookTasters for connecting me with this hidden gem.
Ivan’s Tests is a heart-touching children’s adventure story that mixes real-life struggles with imagination, bravery, and hope. The book follows Ivan, a young boy who is suddenly forced to deal with big changes: his parents' separation, moving to a new city, starting a new school, and learning to live with his unusual grandfather, Serapio. Even though the story begins with sadness, the author quickly turns it into something meaningful, fun, and full of mystery.
Main Characters:
1. Ivan: A ten-year-old boy who loves tennis and reading. He is brave and creative, using ideas from comic books to solve real-world problems.
2. Serapio: Ivan's grandfather. He is sick with cancer but stays joyful. He mentors Ivan and teaches him about faith and trusting in a "Protector" (God).
3. Javier: Ivan’s new best friend at school. Although he is easily scared, he stays loyal to Ivan and helps him with his plans.
4. The Fire Boys (Felipe and Nicholas): The school bullies who run Club 1. They try to scare Ivan with impossible challenges.
The Five Tests:
The book's core excitement comes from the challenges Ivan must face to join the club. The bullies invent these tests to scare him, but Ivan faces them bravely.
The Candle: Ivan must withstand hot wax dripped on his hand without showing pain.
Mr. Mirror: He must greet a mirror in a dark bathroom without getting scared.
The Statue: He has to touch the hand of an "angel" statue at night, which rumour says will trap him forever.
The Sausage: He must sneak into the school kitchen and steal a sausage.
The Bookshelf: The final and hardest test. Ivan must move a heavy iron bookshelf that no one can budge. He succeeds by using physics and teamwork, causing a giant crash that alerts the principal.
A Story About Change, Pain, and Growing Up:
At the start, Ivan’s world falls apart. His parents break up, and he moves away from his hometown and his father. This emotional confusion is described in a simple, relatable way, especially for children. But the book does something clever: instead of drowning in sadness, Ivan is slowly guided into a new, exciting world, one shaped by his grandfather’s strange habits and a mysterious comic book hero called “The Warrior of the Night.”
Ivan’s Tests is a touching story that mixes schoolyard adventures with serious life lessons. It shows that even though life can be sad, like when Serapio passes away, there is always hope for new beginnings. By the end, Ivan doesn't just pass the tests to get into a club; he proves to himself and his father that he isn't just a daydreamer, but a capable "champ. The story ends on a hopeful note, with Ivan reunited with both his parents at the funeral, feeling that his plan to bring them together might have worked.
It captures childhood fears and fantasies beautifully, showing how even the smallest kid can be brave in a big world.
It is simple enough for children, yet emotionally rich enough for adults to enjoy.
This story was a wonderful surprise.😮 I was deeply touched by how the book balanced the heavy reality of Ivan’s parents' separation with the adventurous whimsy of childhood. Ivan’s journey to prove his bravery to "Club 1" was engaging, but his relationship with his grandfather, Serapio, was what truly stole the show for me. Serapio's lessons about faith, the "Protector, and the way he used The Warrior of the Night comics to bond with his grandson were heartwarming and emotional.
Thank you, 🙏 Celso Montemar, for writing a character as memorable as Serapio and for showing that true bravery comes in many forms. And thank you to BookTasters for connecting me with this hidden gem.
Ivan’s Tests is a heart-touching children’s adventure story that mixes real-life struggles with imagination, bravery, and hope. The book follows Ivan, a young boy who is suddenly forced to deal with big changes: his parents' separation, moving to a new city, starting a new school, and learning to live with his unusual grandfather, Serapio. Even though the story begins with sadness, the author quickly turns it into something meaningful, fun, and full of mystery.
Main Characters:
1. Ivan: A ten-year-old boy who loves tennis and reading. He is brave and creative, using ideas from comic books to solve real-world problems.
2. Serapio: Ivan's grandfather. He is sick with cancer but stays joyful. He mentors Ivan and teaches him about faith and trusting in a "Protector" (God).
3. Javier: Ivan’s new best friend at school. Although he is easily scared, he stays loyal to Ivan and helps him with his plans.
4. The Fire Boys (Felipe and Nicholas): The school bullies who run Club 1. They try to scare Ivan with impossible challenges.
The Five Tests:
The book's core excitement comes from the challenges Ivan must face to join the club. The bullies invent these tests to scare him, but Ivan faces them bravely.
The Candle: Ivan must withstand hot wax dripped on his hand without showing pain.
Mr. Mirror: He must greet a mirror in a dark bathroom without getting scared.
The Statue: He has to touch the hand of an "angel" statue at night, which rumour says will trap him forever.
The Sausage: He must sneak into the school kitchen and steal a sausage.
The Bookshelf: The final and hardest test. Ivan must move a heavy iron bookshelf that no one can budge. He succeeds by using physics and teamwork, causing a giant crash that alerts the principal.
A Story About Change, Pain, and Growing Up:
At the start, Ivan’s world falls apart. His parents break up, and he moves away from his hometown and his father. This emotional confusion is described in a simple, relatable way, especially for children. But the book does something clever: instead of drowning in sadness, Ivan is slowly guided into a new, exciting world, one shaped by his grandfather’s strange habits and a mysterious comic book hero called “The Warrior of the Night.”
Ivan’s Tests is a touching story that mixes schoolyard adventures with serious life lessons. It shows that even though life can be sad, like when Serapio passes away, there is always hope for new beginnings. By the end, Ivan doesn't just pass the tests to get into a club; he proves to himself and his father that he isn't just a daydreamer, but a capable "champ. The story ends on a hopeful note, with Ivan reunited with both his parents at the funeral, feeling that his plan to bring them together might have worked.
It captures childhood fears and fantasies beautifully, showing how even the smallest kid can be brave in a big world.
It is simple enough for children, yet emotionally rich enough for adults to enjoy.
November 29, 2022
This is a book about a boy named Ivan who, due to the separation of his parents, goes with his mother to live with her father, Serapio. Serapio draws Ivan into a fantasy world by giving him his comic books about a hero who saves those in need. This world of imagination gives Ivan new courage and the possibility to face everyday life challenges, but also to find the faith he desperately needs.
I really liked this book because it shows a life situation that is common in a completely different way. He shows it from the children's corner, and I think that all adults should read something like this. The separation of his parents hit Ivan very hard, because in his world he lived in a perfect family. That family provided him with refuge and now he is suddenly without it. He moved with his mother to another city to his grandfather. New house, new school, new friends...everything new. It's a big shock for the children, and through Ivan we see what's going on in his head. When will he see his father, will he see him, will mother and father reconcile, is he to blame for this? His grandfather gave him the greatest refuge by giving him his comic books, which in a way were an escape for Ivan from all the changes. But those comics, those stories also gave him the courage to fight against changes, to find a new friend and above all to find courage in himself. It is fascinating how Ivan set himself the task that all his actions lead to the reconciliation of his mother and father, that he opposes bullying, that he himself becomes the hero of his story. His grandfather also showed him the way to God and religion through comics and stories. He showed him that there is always someone watching over him and protecting him.
The book itself simply takes you on and you just turn from page to page. The text is excellently written in a simple way. While reading this you can become Ivan and that is very important. We forget how brave our children can be and how sometime we forget that they are important and that we always need to talk with them and try to explain the world to them. Not to mention, we could learn from them and be as brave as they are.
I really liked this book because it shows a life situation that is common in a completely different way. He shows it from the children's corner, and I think that all adults should read something like this. The separation of his parents hit Ivan very hard, because in his world he lived in a perfect family. That family provided him with refuge and now he is suddenly without it. He moved with his mother to another city to his grandfather. New house, new school, new friends...everything new. It's a big shock for the children, and through Ivan we see what's going on in his head. When will he see his father, will he see him, will mother and father reconcile, is he to blame for this? His grandfather gave him the greatest refuge by giving him his comic books, which in a way were an escape for Ivan from all the changes. But those comics, those stories also gave him the courage to fight against changes, to find a new friend and above all to find courage in himself. It is fascinating how Ivan set himself the task that all his actions lead to the reconciliation of his mother and father, that he opposes bullying, that he himself becomes the hero of his story. His grandfather also showed him the way to God and religion through comics and stories. He showed him that there is always someone watching over him and protecting him.
The book itself simply takes you on and you just turn from page to page. The text is excellently written in a simple way. While reading this you can become Ivan and that is very important. We forget how brave our children can be and how sometime we forget that they are important and that we always need to talk with them and try to explain the world to them. Not to mention, we could learn from them and be as brave as they are.
December 28, 2025
Ivan’s Tests by Celso Montemar is a heartfelt and imaginative coming of age story that blends everyday childhood struggles with the quiet power of myth and heroism. Through Ivan’s move to a new city, his fractured family life, and his fascination with The Warrior of the Night, the novel captures the emotional turbulence of growing up with honesty and warmth.
What makes the story compelling is how it treats heroism, not as superhuman strength, but as courage, empathy, and moral choice in ordinary situations. The relationship between Ivan and his grandfather Serapio adds depth and tenderness, grounding the fantasy elements in wisdom, faith, and love.
Montemar’s simple yet evocative prose makes the book accessible to young readers while still offering meaningful reflections for adults. The tests Ivan faces, both real and symbolic linger long after the final page, reminding readers that becoming brave is often painful, confusing, and deeply human.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, engaging novel that celebrates imagination as a guide through fear, loss, and change.
What makes the story compelling is how it treats heroism, not as superhuman strength, but as courage, empathy, and moral choice in ordinary situations. The relationship between Ivan and his grandfather Serapio adds depth and tenderness, grounding the fantasy elements in wisdom, faith, and love.
Montemar’s simple yet evocative prose makes the book accessible to young readers while still offering meaningful reflections for adults. The tests Ivan faces, both real and symbolic linger long after the final page, reminding readers that becoming brave is often painful, confusing, and deeply human.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, engaging novel that celebrates imagination as a guide through fear, loss, and change.
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October 12, 20225 WONDERFUL STARS!!!
this book was really good and I would recommend this a thousand times to kids of all ages.
It brings us into an imaginary world of Ivan and can I say he's an amazing character? He's really bold and we see how much kids need 'books' in daily lives. It helps them become heroes, like how the protagonist became the head of the fire boys while surpassing every challenge thrown at him.
When he wrote a letter to his mom, that showed how much he wants them back together and what I got there was, two partners separating affects a child but I'm glad the parents made it out in the end.
There are a lot of mysteries that would keep readers flipping so what are you waiting for? Go grab a copy of this immersive book right now and enjoy the kind of experience I had because I promise you won't regret this.
Thanks to BOOKSTASTERS and the author for a free copy of the book.
this book was really good and I would recommend this a thousand times to kids of all ages.
It brings us into an imaginary world of Ivan and can I say he's an amazing character? He's really bold and we see how much kids need 'books' in daily lives. It helps them become heroes, like how the protagonist became the head of the fire boys while surpassing every challenge thrown at him.
When he wrote a letter to his mom, that showed how much he wants them back together and what I got there was, two partners separating affects a child but I'm glad the parents made it out in the end.
There are a lot of mysteries that would keep readers flipping so what are you waiting for? Go grab a copy of this immersive book right now and enjoy the kind of experience I had because I promise you won't regret this.
Thanks to BOOKSTASTERS and the author for a free copy of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2022
A great book with full of adventures.
Basically, this is a story of a 10 years old kid who's name is Ivan. He got upset when he found that his parents are separating and he has to moved to another city where he rarely met with his father. He went to new school where he didn't know anyone. His grandpa,Serapio, helped Ivan a lot in his new journey and gave a comic book to him. Ivan got inspired from the hero of the comic book.
I liked that how author has described the importance of family and the bond of kid with his God, parents, grandparent and friend. Author has also described the importance of reading.
I recommend this book to everyone. This book is not only for kids, even elders will enjoy this book too.
Basically, this is a story of a 10 years old kid who's name is Ivan. He got upset when he found that his parents are separating and he has to moved to another city where he rarely met with his father. He went to new school where he didn't know anyone. His grandpa,Serapio, helped Ivan a lot in his new journey and gave a comic book to him. Ivan got inspired from the hero of the comic book.
I liked that how author has described the importance of family and the bond of kid with his God, parents, grandparent and friend. Author has also described the importance of reading.
I recommend this book to everyone. This book is not only for kids, even elders will enjoy this book too.
April 10, 2023
The plot has a lot of potential but wasn't utilised to the fullest. There were tasks to perform which were hazardous (candle and match stick to face) and also didn't have good ethics to them (stealing, lying, celebration for creating ruckus). Secondly the amount of content dedicated to the warrior night in the story didn't match its importance within the plot.
The book had potential to add so many learning curves with being fun to read but failed to do so.
The book had potential to add so many learning curves with being fun to read but failed to do so.
January 20, 2026
This book takes the reader on a journey with several stops. From Ivan doing everything a 10-year-old could possibly think to do to keep his parents from separating, to finding hope in an unlikely and "unremarkable" superhero, to overcoming different challenges and troubles from bullies at school, amongst other wonderful stops.
Ivan grows from a helpless kid into a more assured kid, with stronger principles honed through the fire that only experience can give.
A wonderful read!
Ivan grows from a helpless kid into a more assured kid, with stronger principles honed through the fire that only experience can give.
A wonderful read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2022
This book is really amazing. I can find out what is in the minds of young children, and also how they imagine. I really like when Ivan always wants to know about The Warrior of the Night. Serapio character is very wise and also funny at the same time, that makes his character more prominent for children. i had a good time reading this book
September 2, 2023
This was a short but fun read. At the very beginning of the story, I felt a connection with Ivan because it seemed he was in a situation that was daunting for him, and as a reader, I sympathised. The story was entertaining to read, and parts of it made me chuckle. I think that readers aged 10-12 might like this book and possibly be able to relate to the characters.
November 11, 2025
I first discovered Ivan’s Tests thanks to a thoughtful email from Ally Beatrice, who has done a fantastic job promoting this book. Celso Montemar’s storytelling is heartfelt and authentic, perfectly capturing the emotional struggles of a young boy dealing with family changes and a new environment. The blend of imagination and real-life challenges makes it a meaningful and engaging read.
November 11, 2025
Thanks to Ally Beatrice’s excellent promotion efforts, I had the pleasure of reading Ivan’s Tests. Celso Montemar beautifully portrays Ivan’s journey through change, family separation, and adaptation to a new city with a warmth and honesty that truly resonated with me. The book’s pacing and storytelling style make it accessible for younger readers while still offering depth for older ones.
November 11, 2025
I want to thank Ally Beatrice for introducing me to Ivan’s Tests by Celso Montemar through her thoughtful email recommendations. The book offers a touching story of resilience and imagination as Ivan navigates the ups and downs of his new life in Santiago. I appreciated how the author balances difficult themes with humor and creativity, making the story heartfelt and approachable.
November 11, 2025
Ally Beatrice’s promotion led me to discover Celso Montemar’s Ivan’s Tests, a wonderful story about a boy facing the challenges of family separation and moving to a new city. The author’s vivid portrayal of Ivan’s inner world, including his vivid imagination and struggles, made the book both relatable and inspiring. It’s a beautiful read about courage and growth.
November 11, 2025
I’m grateful to Ally Beatrice for sharing Ivan’s Tests with me. Celso Montemar’s writing wonderfully captures the complexity of a young boy’s emotional world as he adjusts to significant changes in his life. The story’s blend of everyday challenges and imaginative escapes creates a warm, authentic narrative that left a lasting impression on me.
November 11, 2025
Thanks to Ally Beatrice’s excellent promotion, I had the chance to read Ivan’s Tests by Celso Montemar. The book’s portrayal of Ivan’s courage and resilience amid family upheaval and a new environment is both moving and realistic. I particularly enjoyed how the author uses Ivan’s imagination as a powerful tool for coping and growth.
December 17, 2025
The book was captivating till the very end and it's a really good read for children especially since they loose interest in things easily. Who stood out most for me was Ivan despite being small, he wasn't afraid and showed resilience and bravery. It's a very good read for both children and young adults.
December 30, 2025
This book talks about self-confidence and determination. I liked how simple the language was and how the story went.some parts felt fast,but it didn't spoil the story for me and gave me the passion to continue. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys meaningful stories.
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