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The Frogbottom Trilogy #1
Frogbottom Sound: Between the Beginning and the End is the Riddle
In an obscure corner of Australia called Woop Woop, things have gone a bit the laws of nature aren’t obeying themselves anymore and history keeps throwing up chunks of itself that shouldn’t exist.So when the adopted, twelve-year-old Sing discovers a cryptic, century-old message seemingly addressed directly to her, she and her cousin, Oggi Frogbottom sneak off to try and figure out what’s going on.They further they get from home, the more they realise that everything they’ve been told is a lie, and when they discover a betrayal at the very heart of the family, it threatens to split their world apart.The story they uncover seems unbelievable, then again, so do electric seeds, talking mushrooms and vicious attack eyeballs that eat by osmosis.
523 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2019
8 people are currently reading
429 people want to read
About the author
Steph Győry
3 books14 followersAs a child the author was influenced by Enid Blyton; ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ in particular.
Dr Who then veered him of into Fantasy/Sci-Fi, from where he launched into the harder Speculative Fiction of Clarke, Asimov, Heinlein, Dick, Vonnegut, Stephenson & Banks. He did — along the way — immerse himself completely in Tolkien's 'Hobbit' and 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy, once spending an entire holiday cross-referencing the Appendix of 'Return of the King' with the 'Silmarillion'.
He also dabbled briefly with Clive Barker, but horror was not for him. His writing style has been described as Enid Blyton meets Lewis Carol as narrated by the Stephen Fry. There is definitely an element of P.G Wodehouse’s humour in there as he skirts the intersection of the wonder of the natural world, with the science that lies beneath it.
Shortly after comencing a psychology degree in his early twenties he realised he knew almost nothing about the outside world and stopped reading fiction to start soaking up thinks like history and science. He went on to discover that he is aphantasic (has a non-visual imagination) and now enjoys consuming fiction in visual form.
His novels are neither Fantasy nor Science Fiction; they are not 'kids' books or 'adult'. They are a fusion of his literary influences and real life studies, and a replica of none.
Dr Who then veered him of into Fantasy/Sci-Fi, from where he launched into the harder Speculative Fiction of Clarke, Asimov, Heinlein, Dick, Vonnegut, Stephenson & Banks. He did — along the way — immerse himself completely in Tolkien's 'Hobbit' and 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy, once spending an entire holiday cross-referencing the Appendix of 'Return of the King' with the 'Silmarillion'.
He also dabbled briefly with Clive Barker, but horror was not for him. His writing style has been described as Enid Blyton meets Lewis Carol as narrated by the Stephen Fry. There is definitely an element of P.G Wodehouse’s humour in there as he skirts the intersection of the wonder of the natural world, with the science that lies beneath it.
Shortly after comencing a psychology degree in his early twenties he realised he knew almost nothing about the outside world and stopped reading fiction to start soaking up thinks like history and science. He went on to discover that he is aphantasic (has a non-visual imagination) and now enjoys consuming fiction in visual form.
His novels are neither Fantasy nor Science Fiction; they are not 'kids' books or 'adult'. They are a fusion of his literary influences and real life studies, and a replica of none.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 13, 2021
I thought Frogbottom Sound was a fun story. Sometimes the riddle style writing was a bit much for my taste, but overall I really enjoyed it. I'll definitely be checking out #2.
The characters are well developed, allowing the reader to care about each character and become invested in the story. The two main characters, Sing and Oggie, are very likable. And their family situation and all the secrets makes you want to keep reading to learn more.
This would be a great book for advanced middle grade readers, young adults, and even some adults who still like to read fantasy stories for younger readers. If you like The Hobbit, you'll likely enjoy this book as well.
The characters are well developed, allowing the reader to care about each character and become invested in the story. The two main characters, Sing and Oggie, are very likable. And their family situation and all the secrets makes you want to keep reading to learn more.
This would be a great book for advanced middle grade readers, young adults, and even some adults who still like to read fantasy stories for younger readers. If you like The Hobbit, you'll likely enjoy this book as well.
September 18, 2019
I got given an advance copy by the author and I absolutely loved it! The interweaving of mystery and magic with science and a topsy turvy world is brilliant. Made me laugh and smile more times than I could count. Definitely worth a read.
March 20, 2020
Buy this book for your children, it will expand their vocab, tickle their inquisitive minds, tease them with science and stretch their imagination…take them somewhere different!
I come from a family of publishers and have worked in the industry for over 20 years, from publisher and author to running my own children’s publishing business. I obviously love books.
The downside of this life is that everybody has an Uncle or a neighbour or son or a friend that ‘has written a great book’, and so part of your role is always trying to guide the budding author. In all my years and out of the hundreds of manuscripts that have been sent to me there have only ever been a handful that got me excited.
The Sound was one.
Back in the 2000s when I first read Stephan Györy’s novel, I knew it was diamond in the rough. It was his love affair with wordcraft, the science stuff, the visuals, the fresh angle, I know all these characters, this place, I love the romp of it all.
As it turned out it was the start of a long friendship and a wonderful journey watching the Podean Sprial twist and turn and contort, fleshing out and transforming into these three books.
They are a satisfying read, they have been honed within an inch of their lives. Stephan’s amazing brain has tied all the intricate parts together, the wonderful editor Avril Janks has done her magic to ensure everything is always correct without changing the voice or the music of the tale.
I believe in this project, obviously, because each book has taken years to perfect and yet I’ve never tired of it, for the simple reason that it just kept getting better.
The Sound will get you in the groove and train you for the journey, but it's only the start . . .
I come from a family of publishers and have worked in the industry for over 20 years, from publisher and author to running my own children’s publishing business. I obviously love books.
The downside of this life is that everybody has an Uncle or a neighbour or son or a friend that ‘has written a great book’, and so part of your role is always trying to guide the budding author. In all my years and out of the hundreds of manuscripts that have been sent to me there have only ever been a handful that got me excited.
The Sound was one.
Back in the 2000s when I first read Stephan Györy’s novel, I knew it was diamond in the rough. It was his love affair with wordcraft, the science stuff, the visuals, the fresh angle, I know all these characters, this place, I love the romp of it all.
As it turned out it was the start of a long friendship and a wonderful journey watching the Podean Sprial twist and turn and contort, fleshing out and transforming into these three books.
They are a satisfying read, they have been honed within an inch of their lives. Stephan’s amazing brain has tied all the intricate parts together, the wonderful editor Avril Janks has done her magic to ensure everything is always correct without changing the voice or the music of the tale.
I believe in this project, obviously, because each book has taken years to perfect and yet I’ve never tired of it, for the simple reason that it just kept getting better.
The Sound will get you in the groove and train you for the journey, but it's only the start . . .
December 13, 2019
Part Alice in Wonderland, part The Secret Garden, part Lord of the Rings, part New Scientist magazine and part useful English lesson. Stayed up all night reading this all in one go. Can’t wait for my young son to be old enough to enjoy it!
One of my favourite parts were the footnotes. I wish they were a bit more consistent throughout the book. It felt like there was a lot at the start and then they appeared randomly after that, sometimes with big gaps between. It was an unusual technique that made me pause my normal speed-reader style and reflect more on what was happening in the story, but also with useful facts and additional insights. I particularly liked the fun ‘Milo vs Oggi’ thread.
I enjoyed the friendship between Sing & Oggi. Loyal but with its own faults.
Main feedback is that I wanted the story to stretch out for a bit longer at the end. I wanted more info on the past and how everyone ended up alive/dead/ghost/magically reappeared baby etc. I could have happily read on for another hour or so.
I liked the glossary too - definitely learnt a few new meanings and words I didn’t know before, but with kindle estimating the time needed just to read the glossary at 1hr 36 mins I have to admit that I didn’t make it right through before losing interest. Probably would have been better in a physical copy of the book though I imagine - easier to flip through and pick out random words.
Looking forward to Book 2 already!
One of my favourite parts were the footnotes. I wish they were a bit more consistent throughout the book. It felt like there was a lot at the start and then they appeared randomly after that, sometimes with big gaps between. It was an unusual technique that made me pause my normal speed-reader style and reflect more on what was happening in the story, but also with useful facts and additional insights. I particularly liked the fun ‘Milo vs Oggi’ thread.
I enjoyed the friendship between Sing & Oggi. Loyal but with its own faults.
Main feedback is that I wanted the story to stretch out for a bit longer at the end. I wanted more info on the past and how everyone ended up alive/dead/ghost/magically reappeared baby etc. I could have happily read on for another hour or so.
I liked the glossary too - definitely learnt a few new meanings and words I didn’t know before, but with kindle estimating the time needed just to read the glossary at 1hr 36 mins I have to admit that I didn’t make it right through before losing interest. Probably would have been better in a physical copy of the book though I imagine - easier to flip through and pick out random words.
Looking forward to Book 2 already!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2019
I wish I could read it for the first time again!
The author provided me with an advance copy.
This book was so refreshing! The story takes you on an adventure with the characters but also creates a kind of relationship between you and the narrator - like a wizened, magical guide showing you all the brilliant secrets of the world.
It was interesting and clever, without being exhausting. It was fun and silly without any dumbing down, and the somewhat fantastical world was so well-wrought it never became ridiculous. A total delight
The author provided me with an advance copy.
This book was so refreshing! The story takes you on an adventure with the characters but also creates a kind of relationship between you and the narrator - like a wizened, magical guide showing you all the brilliant secrets of the world.
It was interesting and clever, without being exhausting. It was fun and silly without any dumbing down, and the somewhat fantastical world was so well-wrought it never became ridiculous. A total delight
January 22, 2020
I read it and loved it. Already ordered the next instalment.
My 13 year old read it and asks me every day when the next one will arrive (should have paid for expedited post). She wrote her own review:
The sound was a very entertaining story that had me hooked on the third page. It is a great combination of mystery, fantasy and adventure. The book lets you see into the minds of the characters, making it even more interesting. Every chapter leaves you with new questions and it leaves you wanting more, even in the last chapter, I am really excited to read the next book!
My 13 year old read it and asks me every day when the next one will arrive (should have paid for expedited post). She wrote her own review:
The sound was a very entertaining story that had me hooked on the third page. It is a great combination of mystery, fantasy and adventure. The book lets you see into the minds of the characters, making it even more interesting. Every chapter leaves you with new questions and it leaves you wanting more, even in the last chapter, I am really excited to read the next book!
September 25, 2021
I enjoyed this book immensely it was a beautiful, exciting adventure with the brave and curious Sing and Oggi. They have a complex but genuine relationship and you really feel for them when things start to go pear shaped. Their adventures remind me of my own childhood living in a big old house with secret rooms and lots of excitement and mystery.
There are so many layers that both kids and adults will find so much in it. Was ideal to read to my nephew and niece.
It’s a perfect adventure for parents, aunts or uncles and their tweens. Funny, smart and fiercely original.
There are so many layers that both kids and adults will find so much in it. Was ideal to read to my nephew and niece.
It’s a perfect adventure for parents, aunts or uncles and their tweens. Funny, smart and fiercely original.
September 27, 2019
as a 13 year old girl, The Sound is one of the most captivating books i’ve read. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy and I was instantly drawn in by the clever plot, with twists and turns, the funny characters that really touch the reader and make sure you can’t put the book down, and finally the beautiful writing. the dialogue is so well done and the style of writing throughout the book is so unique and interesting, and it makes you want the book to go on forever.
March 20, 2020
I Love this book!!
I was lucky enough to be given an advance copy of this book by the author. This book filled me with laughter, excitement, and it was full of adventure in many dimensions which had me captivated from the first chapter. I loved the relationship between the main characters Sing and Oggi plus all the shenanigans between the crew. Sci-Fi mixed in with humour and smarts all on the backdrop of some crazy Aussie town called woop woop.
I was lucky enough to be given an advance copy of this book by the author. This book filled me with laughter, excitement, and it was full of adventure in many dimensions which had me captivated from the first chapter. I loved the relationship between the main characters Sing and Oggi plus all the shenanigans between the crew. Sci-Fi mixed in with humour and smarts all on the backdrop of some crazy Aussie town called woop woop.
August 14, 2020
Great read! There is something about this that works - I brought a copy for one of my children (12) and he then insisted I needed to buy a copy for each of his cousins as a Christmas present... so guess what the summer holidays chatter was all about this summer past!? I would encourage you to grab this if you want to get your teenagers to read more and enjoy story telling... Children aside, I even took the plunge during locked down and really enjoyed it!
November 2, 2019
An amazing tale of adventure and discovery for the curious mind. I really enjoyed the writing style; footnotes provided a side narrative, creating a bond between reader and author. I loved discovering music lyrics intertwined throughout the book, clearly a nod to the author's musical background. Such an amazing world he's created in this novel, I can't wait to see what's in store for book two!
March 15, 2020
If it weren't for my 2 year old son, I would not have put the book down! Every page was intriguing and I desperately wanted to find out what happened next and then what happens next...I have the 2nd book and buying the 3rd so I don't have to wait to know what happens next. Love the escape from reality 😁
April 3, 2021
Magic, fantasy and adventure all wrapped up in one hugely entertaining journey of the weird and wonderful. The descriptive narrative pulls you right in from the get go transporting you to the magical world of Sing, Oggy and friends . An action-packed tale guaranteed to entertain and delight. Oh and as an added bonus, you’ll learn more about the Engligh language than you ever did at school!
May 15, 2021
The Sound...written by a someone I have known since he was born.
Loved it I was truly enchanting …not sure if I it was written for children or adults ,...however as an adult in my advanced years....I loved it ..could not put it down .
exciting, amusing, and a great base story running through it.
I could not wait to read volume two.
Loved it I was truly enchanting …not sure if I it was written for children or adults ,...however as an adult in my advanced years....I loved it ..could not put it down .
exciting, amusing, and a great base story running through it.
I could not wait to read volume two.
January 9, 2020
The Sound is a well-paced adventure that tiptoes the line between fantasy and science fiction! I enjoyed the quirky characters and their witty exchanges, especially Sing and Oggi's cousin-ly bickering. Looking forward to unravelling more of the mysteries of Frogbottom Downs in Book 2.
September 27, 2019
Fantastic book, really intriguing I couldn't put it down. I loved that the science parts were broken down and explained really well. Can't wait to see where the rest of the series goes!!
January 10, 2020
Fantastic book! Both adults and teenagers will love this wonderfully written and creative novel! Can't wait to start the second one.... Unlike anything else I have read before!
September 16, 2021
This is a kid's book for adults, perfect for, or to read with, 8-11 year-olds (and, of course, anyone in touch with their inner child).
The reading level is slightly advanced. I've been careful not to use words as cudgels to show off, but rather as invitations to explore our crazy language. I sneak in lots of ideas and facts to discuss, but never to the detriment of the story.
I was inspired to write it by the books I read as a kid, and also the amount of hectic dark media we're bombarded with these days. What happened to the light?
I feel that too many authors and writers rely on taboo and mayhem and that that's the easy way out. So, following in the footsteps of authors like Enid Blyton and Douglas Adams, I set about writing an adventure that revels in the weirdness of the word we live in, without resorting to shock-value.
When I think about the voices in my head and the tone of the words that drip out the end of my fingers, think: The Magic Faraway Tree meets Alice Wonderland as narrated by The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy.
It's not all rosy of course, but the intrigue and tension don't rely on blood and guts, rather brains and heart and the understanding that terribly big bad things can happen when people are not honest with each other. And, of couse, when you throw a mad scientist into the mix ;)
This first book is necessarily light, in terms of setting up the story, but don't be fooled, it goes right down the rabbit hole by the end of the trilogy; which is in 3.14 parts. Maths nerds will understand ;)
NJOI
The reading level is slightly advanced. I've been careful not to use words as cudgels to show off, but rather as invitations to explore our crazy language. I sneak in lots of ideas and facts to discuss, but never to the detriment of the story.
I was inspired to write it by the books I read as a kid, and also the amount of hectic dark media we're bombarded with these days. What happened to the light?
I feel that too many authors and writers rely on taboo and mayhem and that that's the easy way out. So, following in the footsteps of authors like Enid Blyton and Douglas Adams, I set about writing an adventure that revels in the weirdness of the word we live in, without resorting to shock-value.
When I think about the voices in my head and the tone of the words that drip out the end of my fingers, think: The Magic Faraway Tree meets Alice Wonderland as narrated by The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy.
It's not all rosy of course, but the intrigue and tension don't rely on blood and guts, rather brains and heart and the understanding that terribly big bad things can happen when people are not honest with each other. And, of couse, when you throw a mad scientist into the mix ;)
This first book is necessarily light, in terms of setting up the story, but don't be fooled, it goes right down the rabbit hole by the end of the trilogy; which is in 3.14 parts. Maths nerds will understand ;)
NJOI
September 9, 2021
I enjoyed this book immensely it was a beautiful, exciting adventure with the brave and curious Sing and Oggi. They have a complex but genuine relationship and you really feel for them when things start to go pear shaped. Their adventures remind me of my own childhood living in a big old house with secret rooms and lots of excitement and mystery.
There are so many layers that both kids and adults will find so much in it. Was ideal to read to my nephew and niece.
It’s a perfect adventure for parents, aunts or uncles and their tweens. Funny, smart and fiercely original.
There are so many layers that both kids and adults will find so much in it. Was ideal to read to my nephew and niece.
It’s a perfect adventure for parents, aunts or uncles and their tweens. Funny, smart and fiercely original.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews