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The Inkwell Chronicles #1
The Ink of Elspet
Immerse yourself in this fast-paced middle-grade fantasy about magic ink, a secret society, and a boy who yearns to make his mark.
When their father goes missing after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find a curious pen in his belongings, and its magical Ink begins to rewrite their once-ordinary lives. The Ink leads them to a world they never knew existed—one teeming with impossible magic, formidable allies, and villains who are determined to destroy everything they hold dear. Together, Everett and Bea embark on an adventure through secret tunnels in England and Scotland to find and protect the last Inkwell, and ultimately to save their father. But in order to do so, Everett must find a way to tap into the most magical power of all: his courage. Evoking A Wrinkle in Time and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, this classic battle of good and evil pits creativity against the forces that would seek to blot it out for good.
When their father goes missing after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find a curious pen in his belongings, and its magical Ink begins to rewrite their once-ordinary lives. The Ink leads them to a world they never knew existed—one teeming with impossible magic, formidable allies, and villains who are determined to destroy everything they hold dear. Together, Everett and Bea embark on an adventure through secret tunnels in England and Scotland to find and protect the last Inkwell, and ultimately to save their father. But in order to do so, Everett must find a way to tap into the most magical power of all: his courage. Evoking A Wrinkle in Time and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, this classic battle of good and evil pits creativity against the forces that would seek to blot it out for good.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 13, 2022
22 people are currently reading
2496 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Peabody
4 books37 followersJ.D. Peabody has always loved stories, and his career has been spent improving his ability to write and tell them. For nearly two decades, he wrote in the context of advertising and public relations agencies, where he gained an appreciation (or at least a tolerance) for being edited. He then switched fields entirely, attending seminary, helping start a new church and learning the discipline of writing for weekly sermon deadlines.
Along the way, he tried his hand at writing poetry and song lyrics, which met with some success and taught him the difference between connecting emotionally and just being clever with words. He published articles that required attention to word count. He also wrote multiple screenplays that honed his sense of dialog and plot development.
After years of writing and rewriting, his first two books are both arriving on shelves within months of each other in 2022, one for grown-ups and one for young readers (or at least the young at heart).
A friend once told him, "Keep your head down and keep chopping wood." He hopes to keep chopping away at more books.
J.D. is a native of the Pacific Northwest, where he lives with his wife, who offsets the perpetually cloudy skies.
Along the way, he tried his hand at writing poetry and song lyrics, which met with some success and taught him the difference between connecting emotionally and just being clever with words. He published articles that required attention to word count. He also wrote multiple screenplays that honed his sense of dialog and plot development.
After years of writing and rewriting, his first two books are both arriving on shelves within months of each other in 2022, one for grown-ups and one for young readers (or at least the young at heart).
A friend once told him, "Keep your head down and keep chopping wood." He hopes to keep chopping away at more books.
J.D. is a native of the Pacific Northwest, where he lives with his wife, who offsets the perpetually cloudy skies.
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September 16, 2022
About this book:
“Immerse yourself in this fast-paced middle-grade fantasy about magic ink, a secret society, and a boy who yearns to make his mark.
When their father goes missing after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find a curious pen in his belongings, and its magical Ink begins to rewrite their once-ordinary lives. The Ink leads them to a world they never knew existed—one teeming with impossible magic, formidable allies, and villains who are determined to destroy everything they hold dear. Together, Everett and Bea embark on an adventure through secret tunnels in England and Scotland to find and protect the last Inkwell, and ultimately to save their father. But in order to do so, Everett must find a way to tap into the most magical power of all: his courage. Evoking A Wrinkle in Time and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, this classic battle of good and evil pits creativity against the forces that would seek to blot it out for good.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Inkwell Chronicles”.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are remembered; Everett & his family live in a vicarage as his father (Marcus) is a Reverend (He tells Everett and Bea that they “can have greater influence than you know, doing the right thing takes real bravery and integrity. Your actions matter more than any superhero’s”); When their father leaves on a trip, he prays with them; When held hostage, Marcus tries hard to recall a psalms but isn’t able to do so due to the darkness around him that is draining his hope (one comes to his mind shortly after “I will not be afraid” and much later “The Lord sets the prisoners free. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind” is remembered); Bea remembers that her father said to pray when they’re in trouble, so she tries praying for something to appear and is disappointed when she finished and doesn’t see the much-needed water; Everett doesn’t like that he didn’t think of that first, but thinks that “standing motionless with your eyes closed didn’t seem practical when someone’s life hung in the balance.”; Bea remembers a hymn and four lines of it are written out (it boosts her spirits and courage); At a funeral, a bishop mentions the “valley of the shadow” in his “most preacherly voice”; Everett hides in a Catholic church and while he’s never been in one before, he figures that is couldn’t be all that different and should have hiding places; Marcus (thinks, not speaks) that he knows pride is a sin, but can’t help being impressed with the stories and illustrations that emerged from his pen; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches/cathedrals, clergymen/ministers, services, sermons, & singing hymns; Mentions of a nun & a priest; A few mentions of a preacher that used Ink for sermons and someone else says that “Like art, sermons express a greater story. At least those worth their salt.” & reference a quote by Melville “The world’s a ship on its passage out…and the pulpit is its prow”; A couple mentions of a Bible; A couple mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of thinking you’re hearing heavenly hosts and angelic music; A couple mentions of a song that references a monk and his holy book; A couple mentions of a former vicar who wasn’t “the holiest of men” and ran off with a great deal of the church’s money (and left his wife behind); A mention of a nurse saying that she isn’t sure if a Vicar’s pen was blessed or something because injured people who were written on by it (used it to mark those she had taken care of) miraculously recovered; A mention of someone being called an angel;
*Note: The special Ink in this story is what is behind all the greatest creative works (stories, paintings, music, etc.), that it unlocks someone creativity when used (also said to be the source of all the stories where good triumphs over evil); Some people can use Ink to heal others’ injuries (by applying it) and we see that a handful of times; Ink is used in multiple ways, mainly for someone to draw something (typically in the air) to help them on their mission (such as creating stairs to escape and then erase them so the enemies can’t find them, a mine-cart to get away, disguising a group to hide from the enemies (it won’t last long, though) in different clothing and looking older, drawing food to eat, a net to catch you when falling); A character uses hairs from his mustache as a way to connect to Ink (energy) Waves and transport them elsewhere; Ink is said to be “far more powerful” than magic when asked (also said to more like a “living organism than a chemical compound” which is always sending and receiving energy waves that enlightens and inspires); A scientist tries to figure out what Ink is, but says it’s beyond science and cannot recreate it; Muses are able to take on a physical form in very inspiring moments (which looks like a butterfly to some and a loved one with wings (like a fairy) to another) to encourage their artist; “Blotters” are the villains in this story who are creatures that were created by a bishop in the Dark Ages under the command of a king who wanted to rule the world (the king told the bishop that it was a spiritual request and that he wanted a story that would “frighten the masses away from their wickedness” with the most evil creatures imaginable, the king then threatened the bishop to bring the creatures to life, which came from the “realm of imagination into our world” (The bishop did secretly write three safeguards to help defeat these creatures)); Blotters have inhuman eyes, despise the Ink (since they hate all that is good and creative, they called it “the Stink” and their pupils change once they smell it), and some of them have batlike wings between their shoulder blades and can fly; Blotters and other creatures cannot enter into a house of worship as that is a safe place for those trying to flee from them (if they enter, they will instantly become gargoyles); A Blotter checks the church for clues on the children’s whereabouts by sending his shadow into the building (barely-above-not-detailed); It’s a slight Spoiler, but important Content Note: The Commander thinks one of the children has sticks called “Witching Sticks” that would solve a lot of his problems (he calls the child a “Stink Witch” to which Marcus becomes angry and says “We are Christian people. We do not practice witchcraft of any sort.” The sticks are actually called “divining rods” and leads the person holding them to the Ink they need most. No actual witches or such are in this book, it’s seems to be a phrase used by the Blotters for those who can lead them to Ink wells *End of Slight Spoiler*); The Commander (a head Blotter) turns a couple lower rank Blotters into puppies; The Commander wants all to bow to his greatness (which doesn’t happen); There is a special class of beings that are endowed with “special powers to fight evil”; Mentions of secret “pinches” or “wrinkles” in this fictional world which shrink the distance from one place to another (this then alludes to ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeleine L’Engle); Mentions of being hidden in a room that’s in a small pocket of another dimension; A couple mentions of the book “Making Sense of the Universe” by D.L. Sayers (Dorothy Sayers is also a character in this book); A couple mentions of a certain arrogant clergyman being drawn as one of Max Courageous’ enemies; A mention of someone not being a magician; A mention of not detecting any taste of magic in a piece of candy; A mention of someone writing that Ink is “magic or something”; A mention of Icarus and how “man was never meant to fly”; A mention of Norse mythology; A mention of the cursed bishop that created different monsters; A mention of an evil howl; A mention of an evil beast; A mention of an evil man.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘idiot’s, two ‘moron’s, and three ‘stupid’s; Some eye rolling & sarcasm; A bit of sibling arguments between Everett and Bea; Mentions of curses (including a couple “unvicarlike” ones coming from Marcus; said, not written); A giant says the phrase “well, curse me if you two ain’t adorable!”; The housekeeper, Mrs. Crimps, for Everett’s family is spiteful and he calls her “The Cramps”, “the old buzzard”, and also a “mean old cow” (once she rapped him across the shins by a broom when he tracked mud into the house and she also pulls him by his hair, barely-above-not-detailed *Spoiler* ); Fighting wolf-like and eel-like monsters, Being chased by them, & Pain from being bitten by one (up to semi-detailed); Pain, Being shocked, Injuries, & Passing out (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Being drugged (x2, fictional Mind Muck that makes your head feel cloudy), kidnapped/held hostage/tied up (x2), being attacked/pecked by a raven, pain, & blood/bleeding (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Seeing someone being badly attacked by a wolf-like monster & their injuries (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a couple others almost choked/strangled (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing someone & wolf-like monsters turn to stone (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Seeing someone being struck by lightning (they live, barely-above-not-detailed); Being threatened harm (up to semi-detailed); Being run-off the road & a car crash (up to semi-detailed); A bit of fighting & hitting (between adults, barely-above-not-detailed); A fire & setting it (of a church and vicarage, done by the Blotters, up to semi-detailed); An explosion (barely-above-not-detailed); Everett really struggles with feeling inferior/useless to others, jealousy of his sister’s skills, and also does a couple jabs at her (which he isn’t proud of it and feels guilty, also wishing that he could be better at something than her; he does care and protect her though; no adult corrects his behavior/thoughts but he does better and gains confidence in himself by the end); Everett fibs about something when he didn’t want to be shown up by his little sister; Everett shoves another boy & then later pummels him (an adult pulls them apart); Everett steals something, justifying that if the person knew how much he liked it, the person would have given it to him (about sixty pages later, he regrets taking it and wants to confess to the person; once he tells the truth, he knows he deserves to be punished and was ashamed of how he acted, but was glad to have it off of his conscience (there is no punishment from the adult); Everett feels terrible telling a lie in a church (since he “didn’t have time to explain the truth”) and then tells another one since “a second one couldn’t make things much worse”; Everett locks his sister, Bea, in a trunk daring her to get out in under a minute (not done with a cruel intent, she recently read a biography of Harry Houdini); There is a scene of one of the characters drinking a bottle of Ink (which causes them no harm); A few lies are told by the Blotters; A Blotter asks another one if they’ve been “dipping into the pounce (a powder use to dry ink; in this case, what Blotters use to get rid of Ink) again”; Mentions of a train crash, people being trapped, pain, injuries, possible deaths, & a missing body (including Everett’s father, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Mentions of a body (thinking that the person is possibly dead, but they are not), their injuries, & that they might not make it (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of wolf-like and eel-like monsters, fighting them, & turning a few to stone (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of people & monsters being turned to stone (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a battle where the Commander (a Blotter) cut off his own foot to stop from turning into stone (he wants to have revenge on the person who caused it, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of wars & the Nazis; Mentions of counterfeiting money & someone going to prison for doing it; Mentions of stealing; Mentions of a jails, prisons, & dungeons; Mentions of tobacco, pipes, & smoking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hatred; A few mentions of thinking that someone may have drowned; A few mentions of blackmail & threats; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of a sheet being placed over someone like they’ve passed away; A couple mentions of a (bad) guy pushing an elderly man and becoming unconscious because of it & making someone else unconscious (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of an accident a giant caused (no details are given); A couple mentions of a con-man; A couple mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of a former vicar who wasn’t “the holiest of men” and ran off with a great deal of the church’s money (and left his wife behind); A mention of an evil man not caring that he may have killed a child (the child is okay, though); A mention of thinking your trapped in a coffin (but not actually); A mention of torture; A mention of a bomb in a story; A mention of graffiti; A mention of throwing up;
*Note: Mentions of Harry Houdini, Shakespeare, Newton, Rembrandt, Albert Einstein, George MacDonald, da Vinci, & Mephistopheles; Mentions of other books and authors (‘Peter and Wendy’ by J.M. Barrie, ‘The Magical Land of Noom’ by Johnny Gruelle, ‘Alice in Wonderland’ by Lewis Carroll, ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeleine L’Engle); A couple mentions of misunderstanding of thinking an adult is going to eat children like in Hansel and Gretel; A couple mentions of Winnie-the-Pooh and Rabbit.
Sexual Content- A mention of a couple on their honeymoon kissing which makes Everett squirm and gawk at the same time; A woman (a half giant) embraces and kisses a Blotter (described as gross/uncomfortable for the Blotter, barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a woman (a half giant) who is described as “too terrifyingly hideous for even a blotter to find attractive”; A mention of flirtation;
*Note: A mention of Everett’s mother who passed away while giving birth to Bea.
-Everett, age 11
-Marcus
P.O.V. switches between them, Bea, the Commander, & others
Set in 1952
370 pages
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Pre Teens- Three Stars
New Teens- Four Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
{Ratings are based on the content found in the story.}
Full confession: Before I picked up this book, I was quite tired from a long day. But as soon as I opened the book and found fascinating map at the beginning, I was much more intrigued. Then I read the opening page and am instantly sucked into the story because it has my absolute favorite style of middle-grade writing with charm and a narrator-like voice telling the story. Maybe it’s because “The Mysterious Benedict Society” is one of my all-time favorite books, but that charm-filled, whimsical storytelling writing style immediately makes me excited for the story. It’s why I have continued to try out secular middle-grade stories if I see someone mention that the writing style is similar to TMBS (though nothing has ever come close to that beloved book for me personally.)
I took a chance on this novel and I’m so glad that I did. It was such an adventure—literally! The creativity of this story – the villains being called ‘Blotters” and the creativity in what the Ink can do, it was all different but yet fun. I think that it could be classified as “magic” because it’s not something we have in our world (hence being called a middle-grade fantasy), but it isn’t magic as in spells and wands.
I thought it might be more of a good vs. evil, moral-type storyline than have direct Christianity themes, but there were some Scriptures mentioned and prayers said, which I liked seeing, though it was more focused on the good vs. evil plotline.
It’s nice to see those in the church (such as Everett’s father, Marcus) be good as opposed to a few secular middle-grade stories I’ve seen where they poke fun at them or even talk badly about them. (There’s are a couple mentions of a vicar who ran off with the church’s money—and who also left his wife behind when doing said running). I would have preferred the Scriptures mentioned being a little more straightforward (such as “I will not be afraid” from Psalms being remembered but not the first and most important part of hoping in God and trusting Him.) and the few mentions of the “Witching Sticks” be a little clearer, but when I reread those parts, I got the impression that it’s a Blotter term and doesn’t actually have to do with witches or spells. I did dock half a star from my personal rating due to these notes, after thinking more on it.
It was really refreshing to read a fantasy middle-grade story that didn’t have crude humor (or what I call “little boy” humor such as laughing at bodily noises) or “spiritual elements” that go against my faith and values. It was just a fun read.
I think one part I really wasn't a fan of, personally, was that I wish Everett wouldn’t have been so…moody? He had a chip on his shoulder, and I still don’t understand exactly why. I’m hoping that in the next book we won’t see those moody moments again.
On that note, when’s the next book coming out? I’m excited and ready to see what happens next.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Worthy Kids) for this honest review.
“Immerse yourself in this fast-paced middle-grade fantasy about magic ink, a secret society, and a boy who yearns to make his mark.
When their father goes missing after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find a curious pen in his belongings, and its magical Ink begins to rewrite their once-ordinary lives. The Ink leads them to a world they never knew existed—one teeming with impossible magic, formidable allies, and villains who are determined to destroy everything they hold dear. Together, Everett and Bea embark on an adventure through secret tunnels in England and Scotland to find and protect the last Inkwell, and ultimately to save their father. But in order to do so, Everett must find a way to tap into the most magical power of all: his courage. Evoking A Wrinkle in Time and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, this classic battle of good and evil pits creativity against the forces that would seek to blot it out for good.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Inkwell Chronicles”.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are remembered; Everett & his family live in a vicarage as his father (Marcus) is a Reverend (He tells Everett and Bea that they “can have greater influence than you know, doing the right thing takes real bravery and integrity. Your actions matter more than any superhero’s”); When their father leaves on a trip, he prays with them; When held hostage, Marcus tries hard to recall a psalms but isn’t able to do so due to the darkness around him that is draining his hope (one comes to his mind shortly after “I will not be afraid” and much later “The Lord sets the prisoners free. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind” is remembered); Bea remembers that her father said to pray when they’re in trouble, so she tries praying for something to appear and is disappointed when she finished and doesn’t see the much-needed water; Everett doesn’t like that he didn’t think of that first, but thinks that “standing motionless with your eyes closed didn’t seem practical when someone’s life hung in the balance.”; Bea remembers a hymn and four lines of it are written out (it boosts her spirits and courage); At a funeral, a bishop mentions the “valley of the shadow” in his “most preacherly voice”; Everett hides in a Catholic church and while he’s never been in one before, he figures that is couldn’t be all that different and should have hiding places; Marcus (thinks, not speaks) that he knows pride is a sin, but can’t help being impressed with the stories and illustrations that emerged from his pen; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches/cathedrals, clergymen/ministers, services, sermons, & singing hymns; Mentions of a nun & a priest; A few mentions of a preacher that used Ink for sermons and someone else says that “Like art, sermons express a greater story. At least those worth their salt.” & reference a quote by Melville “The world’s a ship on its passage out…and the pulpit is its prow”; A couple mentions of a Bible; A couple mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of thinking you’re hearing heavenly hosts and angelic music; A couple mentions of a song that references a monk and his holy book; A couple mentions of a former vicar who wasn’t “the holiest of men” and ran off with a great deal of the church’s money (and left his wife behind); A mention of a nurse saying that she isn’t sure if a Vicar’s pen was blessed or something because injured people who were written on by it (used it to mark those she had taken care of) miraculously recovered; A mention of someone being called an angel;
*Note: The special Ink in this story is what is behind all the greatest creative works (stories, paintings, music, etc.), that it unlocks someone creativity when used (also said to be the source of all the stories where good triumphs over evil); Some people can use Ink to heal others’ injuries (by applying it) and we see that a handful of times; Ink is used in multiple ways, mainly for someone to draw something (typically in the air) to help them on their mission (such as creating stairs to escape and then erase them so the enemies can’t find them, a mine-cart to get away, disguising a group to hide from the enemies (it won’t last long, though) in different clothing and looking older, drawing food to eat, a net to catch you when falling); A character uses hairs from his mustache as a way to connect to Ink (energy) Waves and transport them elsewhere; Ink is said to be “far more powerful” than magic when asked (also said to more like a “living organism than a chemical compound” which is always sending and receiving energy waves that enlightens and inspires); A scientist tries to figure out what Ink is, but says it’s beyond science and cannot recreate it; Muses are able to take on a physical form in very inspiring moments (which looks like a butterfly to some and a loved one with wings (like a fairy) to another) to encourage their artist; “Blotters” are the villains in this story who are creatures that were created by a bishop in the Dark Ages under the command of a king who wanted to rule the world (the king told the bishop that it was a spiritual request and that he wanted a story that would “frighten the masses away from their wickedness” with the most evil creatures imaginable, the king then threatened the bishop to bring the creatures to life, which came from the “realm of imagination into our world” (The bishop did secretly write three safeguards to help defeat these creatures)); Blotters have inhuman eyes, despise the Ink (since they hate all that is good and creative, they called it “the Stink” and their pupils change once they smell it), and some of them have batlike wings between their shoulder blades and can fly; Blotters and other creatures cannot enter into a house of worship as that is a safe place for those trying to flee from them (if they enter, they will instantly become gargoyles); A Blotter checks the church for clues on the children’s whereabouts by sending his shadow into the building (barely-above-not-detailed); It’s a slight Spoiler, but important Content Note: The Commander thinks one of the children has sticks called “Witching Sticks” that would solve a lot of his problems (he calls the child a “Stink Witch” to which Marcus becomes angry and says “We are Christian people. We do not practice witchcraft of any sort.” The sticks are actually called “divining rods” and leads the person holding them to the Ink they need most. No actual witches or such are in this book, it’s seems to be a phrase used by the Blotters for those who can lead them to Ink wells *End of Slight Spoiler*); The Commander (a head Blotter) turns a couple lower rank Blotters into puppies; The Commander wants all to bow to his greatness (which doesn’t happen); There is a special class of beings that are endowed with “special powers to fight evil”; Mentions of secret “pinches” or “wrinkles” in this fictional world which shrink the distance from one place to another (this then alludes to ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeleine L’Engle); Mentions of being hidden in a room that’s in a small pocket of another dimension; A couple mentions of the book “Making Sense of the Universe” by D.L. Sayers (Dorothy Sayers is also a character in this book); A couple mentions of a certain arrogant clergyman being drawn as one of Max Courageous’ enemies; A mention of someone not being a magician; A mention of not detecting any taste of magic in a piece of candy; A mention of someone writing that Ink is “magic or something”; A mention of Icarus and how “man was never meant to fly”; A mention of Norse mythology; A mention of the cursed bishop that created different monsters; A mention of an evil howl; A mention of an evil beast; A mention of an evil man.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘idiot’s, two ‘moron’s, and three ‘stupid’s; Some eye rolling & sarcasm; A bit of sibling arguments between Everett and Bea; Mentions of curses (including a couple “unvicarlike” ones coming from Marcus; said, not written); A giant says the phrase “well, curse me if you two ain’t adorable!”; The housekeeper, Mrs. Crimps, for Everett’s family is spiteful and he calls her “The Cramps”, “the old buzzard”, and also a “mean old cow” (once she rapped him across the shins by a broom when he tracked mud into the house and she also pulls him by his hair, barely-above-not-detailed *Spoiler* ); Fighting wolf-like and eel-like monsters, Being chased by them, & Pain from being bitten by one (up to semi-detailed); Pain, Being shocked, Injuries, & Passing out (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Being drugged (x2, fictional Mind Muck that makes your head feel cloudy), kidnapped/held hostage/tied up (x2), being attacked/pecked by a raven, pain, & blood/bleeding (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Seeing someone being badly attacked by a wolf-like monster & their injuries (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a couple others almost choked/strangled (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing someone & wolf-like monsters turn to stone (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Seeing someone being struck by lightning (they live, barely-above-not-detailed); Being threatened harm (up to semi-detailed); Being run-off the road & a car crash (up to semi-detailed); A bit of fighting & hitting (between adults, barely-above-not-detailed); A fire & setting it (of a church and vicarage, done by the Blotters, up to semi-detailed); An explosion (barely-above-not-detailed); Everett really struggles with feeling inferior/useless to others, jealousy of his sister’s skills, and also does a couple jabs at her (which he isn’t proud of it and feels guilty, also wishing that he could be better at something than her; he does care and protect her though; no adult corrects his behavior/thoughts but he does better and gains confidence in himself by the end); Everett fibs about something when he didn’t want to be shown up by his little sister; Everett shoves another boy & then later pummels him (an adult pulls them apart); Everett steals something, justifying that if the person knew how much he liked it, the person would have given it to him (about sixty pages later, he regrets taking it and wants to confess to the person; once he tells the truth, he knows he deserves to be punished and was ashamed of how he acted, but was glad to have it off of his conscience (there is no punishment from the adult); Everett feels terrible telling a lie in a church (since he “didn’t have time to explain the truth”) and then tells another one since “a second one couldn’t make things much worse”; Everett locks his sister, Bea, in a trunk daring her to get out in under a minute (not done with a cruel intent, she recently read a biography of Harry Houdini); There is a scene of one of the characters drinking a bottle of Ink (which causes them no harm); A few lies are told by the Blotters; A Blotter asks another one if they’ve been “dipping into the pounce (a powder use to dry ink; in this case, what Blotters use to get rid of Ink) again”; Mentions of a train crash, people being trapped, pain, injuries, possible deaths, & a missing body (including Everett’s father, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Mentions of a body (thinking that the person is possibly dead, but they are not), their injuries, & that they might not make it (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of wolf-like and eel-like monsters, fighting them, & turning a few to stone (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of people & monsters being turned to stone (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a battle where the Commander (a Blotter) cut off his own foot to stop from turning into stone (he wants to have revenge on the person who caused it, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of wars & the Nazis; Mentions of counterfeiting money & someone going to prison for doing it; Mentions of stealing; Mentions of a jails, prisons, & dungeons; Mentions of tobacco, pipes, & smoking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of hatred; A few mentions of thinking that someone may have drowned; A few mentions of blackmail & threats; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of a sheet being placed over someone like they’ve passed away; A couple mentions of a (bad) guy pushing an elderly man and becoming unconscious because of it & making someone else unconscious (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of an accident a giant caused (no details are given); A couple mentions of a con-man; A couple mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of a former vicar who wasn’t “the holiest of men” and ran off with a great deal of the church’s money (and left his wife behind); A mention of an evil man not caring that he may have killed a child (the child is okay, though); A mention of thinking your trapped in a coffin (but not actually); A mention of torture; A mention of a bomb in a story; A mention of graffiti; A mention of throwing up;
*Note: Mentions of Harry Houdini, Shakespeare, Newton, Rembrandt, Albert Einstein, George MacDonald, da Vinci, & Mephistopheles; Mentions of other books and authors (‘Peter and Wendy’ by J.M. Barrie, ‘The Magical Land of Noom’ by Johnny Gruelle, ‘Alice in Wonderland’ by Lewis Carroll, ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ by Madeleine L’Engle); A couple mentions of misunderstanding of thinking an adult is going to eat children like in Hansel and Gretel; A couple mentions of Winnie-the-Pooh and Rabbit.
Sexual Content- A mention of a couple on their honeymoon kissing which makes Everett squirm and gawk at the same time; A woman (a half giant) embraces and kisses a Blotter (described as gross/uncomfortable for the Blotter, barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a woman (a half giant) who is described as “too terrifyingly hideous for even a blotter to find attractive”; A mention of flirtation;
*Note: A mention of Everett’s mother who passed away while giving birth to Bea.
-Everett, age 11
-Marcus
P.O.V. switches between them, Bea, the Commander, & others
Set in 1952
370 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Three Stars
New Teens- Four Stars
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
{Ratings are based on the content found in the story.}
Full confession: Before I picked up this book, I was quite tired from a long day. But as soon as I opened the book and found fascinating map at the beginning, I was much more intrigued. Then I read the opening page and am instantly sucked into the story because it has my absolute favorite style of middle-grade writing with charm and a narrator-like voice telling the story. Maybe it’s because “The Mysterious Benedict Society” is one of my all-time favorite books, but that charm-filled, whimsical storytelling writing style immediately makes me excited for the story. It’s why I have continued to try out secular middle-grade stories if I see someone mention that the writing style is similar to TMBS (though nothing has ever come close to that beloved book for me personally.)
I took a chance on this novel and I’m so glad that I did. It was such an adventure—literally! The creativity of this story – the villains being called ‘Blotters” and the creativity in what the Ink can do, it was all different but yet fun. I think that it could be classified as “magic” because it’s not something we have in our world (hence being called a middle-grade fantasy), but it isn’t magic as in spells and wands.
I thought it might be more of a good vs. evil, moral-type storyline than have direct Christianity themes, but there were some Scriptures mentioned and prayers said, which I liked seeing, though it was more focused on the good vs. evil plotline.
It’s nice to see those in the church (such as Everett’s father, Marcus) be good as opposed to a few secular middle-grade stories I’ve seen where they poke fun at them or even talk badly about them. (There’s are a couple mentions of a vicar who ran off with the church’s money—and who also left his wife behind when doing said running). I would have preferred the Scriptures mentioned being a little more straightforward (such as “I will not be afraid” from Psalms being remembered but not the first and most important part of hoping in God and trusting Him.) and the few mentions of the “Witching Sticks” be a little clearer, but when I reread those parts, I got the impression that it’s a Blotter term and doesn’t actually have to do with witches or spells. I did dock half a star from my personal rating due to these notes, after thinking more on it.
It was really refreshing to read a fantasy middle-grade story that didn’t have crude humor (or what I call “little boy” humor such as laughing at bodily noises) or “spiritual elements” that go against my faith and values. It was just a fun read.
I think one part I really wasn't a fan of, personally, was that I wish Everett wouldn’t have been so…moody? He had a chip on his shoulder, and I still don’t understand exactly why. I’m hoping that in the next book we won’t see those moody moments again.
On that note, when’s the next book coming out? I’m excited and ready to see what happens next.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Worthy Kids) for this honest review.
August 7, 2022
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
TW: (minor) body horror, body shaming (not condemned), injury/injury detail, kidnapping.
This is my third attempt at writing this review because the first two times, my annoyance was getting the best of me.
I’m always careful when reviewing MG books because I know I’m not the target audience and there will always be critical filters that I can’t remove, that children usually won’t have. However, in this case, I can’t genuinely rate this any higher.
Aside from all of my technical problems, such as the choppy writing style or convoluted explanation of the magic system, I don’t feel like this was written with much thought to how kids think?
For example, there’s a scene where a kid drinks an entire bottle of ink. It’s magical so it’s fine, but… including that in a children’s book just seems really dumb.
And then there was one of the most disgusting, blatant examples of body-shaming I’ve read in a long while, and I’m super confused on how someone would think that’s okay to give to children. It’s not condemned, nor is it handled with any kind of nuance. And it doesn’t matter that the character is a giantess, because the negative descriptions are all human in nature.
There’s more I could touch on but truthfully, I just want to be done with this book. I’m thankful for the arc, but this is definitely not one I’ll be recommending in the future.
TW: (minor) body horror, body shaming (not condemned), injury/injury detail, kidnapping.
This is my third attempt at writing this review because the first two times, my annoyance was getting the best of me.
I’m always careful when reviewing MG books because I know I’m not the target audience and there will always be critical filters that I can’t remove, that children usually won’t have. However, in this case, I can’t genuinely rate this any higher.
Aside from all of my technical problems, such as the choppy writing style or convoluted explanation of the magic system, I don’t feel like this was written with much thought to how kids think?
For example, there’s a scene where a kid drinks an entire bottle of ink. It’s magical so it’s fine, but… including that in a children’s book just seems really dumb.
And then there was one of the most disgusting, blatant examples of body-shaming I’ve read in a long while, and I’m super confused on how someone would think that’s okay to give to children. It’s not condemned, nor is it handled with any kind of nuance. And it doesn’t matter that the character is a giantess, because the negative descriptions are all human in nature.
There’s more I could touch on but truthfully, I just want to be done with this book. I’m thankful for the arc, but this is definitely not one I’ll be recommending in the future.
March 10, 2023
When their father goes missing after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find a curious pen in his belongings, and its magical Ink begins to rewrite their once-ordinary lives. The Ink leads them to a world they never knew existed-one teeming with impossible magic, formidable allies, and villains who are determined to destroy everything they hold dear. Together, Everett and Bea embark on an adventure through secret tunnels in England and Scotland to find and protect the last Inkwell, and ultimately to save their father. But in order to do so, Everett must find a way to tap into the most magical power of all: his courage. Perfect for fans of The Silver Arrow, the Bookwanderers, and Inkheart, this classic battle of good and evil pits creativity against the forces that would seek to blot it out for good.
This book was FANTASTIC!!! Peabody has created a magical and fantastical world that I genuinely wanted to be a part of. As an avid reader of middle grade fantasy books sometimes the storylines, worlds and characters can become a little repetitive and predictable but Peabody has created a unique and interesting word with admirable protagonists, nasty bad guys and a heartwarming yet exciting plot that I just couldn’t put down. I fell in love with the characters, particularly Everett and Bea and I just hope that Peabody has more books for this series in the pipeline as I want to read more and more and more.
This book was FANTASTIC!!! Peabody has created a magical and fantastical world that I genuinely wanted to be a part of. As an avid reader of middle grade fantasy books sometimes the storylines, worlds and characters can become a little repetitive and predictable but Peabody has created a unique and interesting word with admirable protagonists, nasty bad guys and a heartwarming yet exciting plot that I just couldn’t put down. I fell in love with the characters, particularly Everett and Bea and I just hope that Peabody has more books for this series in the pipeline as I want to read more and more and more.
October 12, 2022
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient to these things?
2 Cor. 2:15-16
I think this verse does connect well with the plot–particularly a certain moment toward the end– though there aren’t really really references to Christ, in the book.
Spiritual Themes
J.D. Peabody is a Christian author:
The children’s father, Marcus, is a minister and we see him praying at times. I believe I also recall a reference or two to a hymn or Bible verse.
We also see the theme of inspiration, although it isn’t eplicitly divine inspiration. However, there is a clear dilineation between good and bad creative ventures, which I appreciate. There’s also a clear good vs. evil theme, which is fundamental to understanding the Christian faith, with the understanding that good WILL triumph.
The characters demonstrate integrity, even when it would be much more convenient not to. (Or learn from their mistakes).
What I Liked
The brother-sister dynamic between Bea and Everett felt realistic. Although Everett isn’t the most likable character, he’s there for his little sister when it counts. I will say that I liked Bea more. She’s an eight-year-old escape artist who’s both intuitive and optimistic. In all honesty, though, Everett was more relatable. I’ve been guilty of the same sorts of negative behaviors and attitudes.
This is a children’s book and I feel that Peabody did a good job with the villains, making them sinister enough to be threatening, but silly enough that they’re not too scary to read about. On a similar note, I liked that there were clearly good and bad characters. The wealth of literary references in Ink of Elspet reminds me of A Series of Unfortunate Events, but in that series, there’s a bit of discussion on people being “mixed,” as in both good and bad. And while I agree with the nuance of human characters, I like that these nonhuman bad guys are shows to be simply bad (especially with the rise of media that sympathizes with villains).
I did enjoy the literary references, throughout. While I did have some knowledge, beforehand, about what I would be encountering, I think I would have picked up on several of the allusions on my own, albeit a bit slower. I could see these references sparking discussions, for those who are able to recognize them, or interest, for those who investigate further. (I definitely recommend the author’s page of commentary about the historical inspirations behind the characters and settings in the book.)
The plot was highly engaging and captured my interest. The premise was intriguing and I enjoyed the general thrust of the adventure. It was also neat to see so many genre elements combined in one story. It’s speculative and historical, with strong fantasy elements and an underlying “spy story” sort of thread. The whimsy and adventure of the novel also reminded me a bit of The Phantom Tollbooth.
Although the spiritual content is very light, there is a strong good vs. evil emphasis, which is such an important element in children’s books. As Ronald says, “Ink is the source of all the stories where good triumphs over evil.” We know, as Christians, that Christ, “all the fullness of God” (Col. 2:9) is triumphant!
The book is explosively creative, in terms of demonstrating both the author’s and the characters’ creativity. Characters are consistently placed in situations where they must manufacture a way out, whether that is through drawing, writing or innovating. This makes for a very twist-and-turny plotline, and while there were moments that felt a bit too convenient for me, the events of the story (and the many magical properties of the ink) do make sense in the world that Peabody has created.
Content Notes
There is a scene with a completely vile woman behaving flirtatiously and bestowing a gross kiss on an unwilling villain. Although the kiss is presented as being undesirable, this might feel out of place for certain readers, in a children’s book. It was a funny scene, though.
A biracial Indian, British character goes by Trey. His real name is Purushottam. Bea “sympathet[ically]” remarks that “Trey is much easier.” I feel that this is a realistic portrayal of how a child would behave in that situation, though it’s not the most culturally sensitive.
There’s a device alternately referred to as a “witching stick” or a “divining rod.” While Marcus (Bea and Everett’s dad) rejects the idea that this device is used for witchcraft, I felt that the term “divining” also bore negative connotations. As a note to readers who avoid magic, there is magic content in this book, but it tends to stem from the ink– the source of creativity.
Recommendation Status
Although published by a Christian publisher, The Ink of Elspet is not an overtly Christian work. However, it’s a book that I would have no trouble recommending to its intended audience. In addition to having some good themes, it’s also a wholesome read for kids! Recommended especially to highly creative and imaginative children– though the literary references make it a fun choice for adult readers, too.
Scripture Connection
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient to these things?
2 Cor. 2:15-16
I think this verse does connect well with the plot–particularly a certain moment toward the end– though there aren’t really really references to Christ, in the book.
Spiritual Themes
J.D. Peabody is a Christian author:
The children’s father, Marcus, is a minister and we see him praying at times. I believe I also recall a reference or two to a hymn or Bible verse.
We also see the theme of inspiration, although it isn’t eplicitly divine inspiration. However, there is a clear dilineation between good and bad creative ventures, which I appreciate. There’s also a clear good vs. evil theme, which is fundamental to understanding the Christian faith, with the understanding that good WILL triumph.
The characters demonstrate integrity, even when it would be much more convenient not to. (Or learn from their mistakes).
What I Liked
The brother-sister dynamic between Bea and Everett felt realistic. Although Everett isn’t the most likable character, he’s there for his little sister when it counts. I will say that I liked Bea more. She’s an eight-year-old escape artist who’s both intuitive and optimistic. In all honesty, though, Everett was more relatable. I’ve been guilty of the same sorts of negative behaviors and attitudes.
This is a children’s book and I feel that Peabody did a good job with the villains, making them sinister enough to be threatening, but silly enough that they’re not too scary to read about. On a similar note, I liked that there were clearly good and bad characters. The wealth of literary references in Ink of Elspet reminds me of A Series of Unfortunate Events, but in that series, there’s a bit of discussion on people being “mixed,” as in both good and bad. And while I agree with the nuance of human characters, I like that these nonhuman bad guys are shows to be simply bad (especially with the rise of media that sympathizes with villains).
I did enjoy the literary references, throughout. While I did have some knowledge, beforehand, about what I would be encountering, I think I would have picked up on several of the allusions on my own, albeit a bit slower. I could see these references sparking discussions, for those who are able to recognize them, or interest, for those who investigate further. (I definitely recommend the author’s page of commentary about the historical inspirations behind the characters and settings in the book.)
The plot was highly engaging and captured my interest. The premise was intriguing and I enjoyed the general thrust of the adventure. It was also neat to see so many genre elements combined in one story. It’s speculative and historical, with strong fantasy elements and an underlying “spy story” sort of thread. The whimsy and adventure of the novel also reminded me a bit of The Phantom Tollbooth.
Although the spiritual content is very light, there is a strong good vs. evil emphasis, which is such an important element in children’s books. As Ronald says, “Ink is the source of all the stories where good triumphs over evil.” We know, as Christians, that Christ, “all the fullness of God” (Col. 2:9) is triumphant!
The book is explosively creative, in terms of demonstrating both the author’s and the characters’ creativity. Characters are consistently placed in situations where they must manufacture a way out, whether that is through drawing, writing or innovating. This makes for a very twist-and-turny plotline, and while there were moments that felt a bit too convenient for me, the events of the story (and the many magical properties of the ink) do make sense in the world that Peabody has created.
Content Notes
There is a scene with a completely vile woman behaving flirtatiously and bestowing a gross kiss on an unwilling villain. Although the kiss is presented as being undesirable, this might feel out of place for certain readers, in a children’s book. It was a funny scene, though.
A biracial Indian, British character goes by Trey. His real name is Purushottam. Bea “sympathet[ically]” remarks that “Trey is much easier.” I feel that this is a realistic portrayal of how a child would behave in that situation, though it’s not the most culturally sensitive.
There’s a device alternately referred to as a “witching stick” or a “divining rod.” While Marcus (Bea and Everett’s dad) rejects the idea that this device is used for witchcraft, I felt that the term “divining” also bore negative connotations. As a note to readers who avoid magic, there is magic content in this book, but it tends to stem from the ink– the source of creativity.
Recommendation Status
Although published by a Christian publisher, The Ink of Elspet is not an overtly Christian work. However, it’s a book that I would have no trouble recommending to its intended audience. In addition to having some good themes, it’s also a wholesome read for kids! Recommended especially to highly creative and imaginative children– though the literary references make it a fun choice for adult readers, too.
April 8, 2022
Whisked away on a magical inky adventure!
This was such a fast-paced and fun story! Almost immediately, we are pulled into the world of the mysterious and magical Ink, but in a really accessible way that doesn’t overwhelm the reader. I found that it was easy to follow along with all of the whimsical elements that were woven in the storyline; often-times middle grade stories can get so caught up in filling a book with magic that it can be difficult to keep up with the context, but this one did a great job.
I loved following along with Everett and Bea on their journey and learning about all of the magical creatures and quirky characters they met along the way. The world-building was fantastic and I loved how the Ink interacted with each person in a unique way.
Despite being a middle grade, the writing was so robust and vivid. I could picture the story so clearly. I think this would make a fantastic adventure series should J.D. Peabody want to continue with Everett and Bea’s adventures.
Ink aside, it was also wonderful to watch Everetts character growth throughout the story as well. I think that the book covered so many important topics, like remembering to celebrate our differences and what makes each of us special, while also learning to be patient and gentle with ourselves, especially if we aren’t learning things as quickly as those around us. Everett was such a relatable character and I loved watching his mindset shift as his confidence grew throughout the story.
While I think this was a phenomenal book overall, the reason that I knocked off one star was due to some of the verbiage feeling a little out of sync with the rest of the story. For example, some of the words had the pronunciation over-explained when Bea repeats the word i.e. “Inkasement” but in other areas the reader is expected to know more complex words i.e. “Mephistopheles”. There was also some content that I felt was a bit more adult in nature, that I wouldn’t necessarily think would be in a middle-grade novel i.e. the mention of needles, being drugged/sedated and some of the fight scenes were a touch graphic (although nothing kids wouldn’t already be seeing in cartoons at this age so not entirely unexpected.)
I also felt that starting off the story with the father being a minister introduced a somewhat religious undertone, while the rest of the story doesn’t really include much in terms of religion or faith apart from a few moments of prayer. And even in those moments of prayer, it was as though the prayer was answered by the magic of the Ink rather than a higher power. Nothing wrong with this of course, it just confused me a little as to whether the author wanted this to come across as a story revolving around faith/religion or if this was more of a secondary detail. I know magic can be a somewhat taboo subject in some religions, so I don’t often read about the two of them being interwoven together. Perhaps this was why it felt a bit more unusual/unfamiliar to me.
Those very minor critiques aside, I truly felt like this was a wonderful, fast-paced and very entertaining read. I loved dipping my toe into the magical world of Ink and will definitely be keeping an eye out for future works by J.D. Peabody.
Thank you to Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, a truly fantastic read!
This was such a fast-paced and fun story! Almost immediately, we are pulled into the world of the mysterious and magical Ink, but in a really accessible way that doesn’t overwhelm the reader. I found that it was easy to follow along with all of the whimsical elements that were woven in the storyline; often-times middle grade stories can get so caught up in filling a book with magic that it can be difficult to keep up with the context, but this one did a great job.
I loved following along with Everett and Bea on their journey and learning about all of the magical creatures and quirky characters they met along the way. The world-building was fantastic and I loved how the Ink interacted with each person in a unique way.
Despite being a middle grade, the writing was so robust and vivid. I could picture the story so clearly. I think this would make a fantastic adventure series should J.D. Peabody want to continue with Everett and Bea’s adventures.
Ink aside, it was also wonderful to watch Everetts character growth throughout the story as well. I think that the book covered so many important topics, like remembering to celebrate our differences and what makes each of us special, while also learning to be patient and gentle with ourselves, especially if we aren’t learning things as quickly as those around us. Everett was such a relatable character and I loved watching his mindset shift as his confidence grew throughout the story.
While I think this was a phenomenal book overall, the reason that I knocked off one star was due to some of the verbiage feeling a little out of sync with the rest of the story. For example, some of the words had the pronunciation over-explained when Bea repeats the word i.e. “Inkasement” but in other areas the reader is expected to know more complex words i.e. “Mephistopheles”. There was also some content that I felt was a bit more adult in nature, that I wouldn’t necessarily think would be in a middle-grade novel i.e. the mention of needles, being drugged/sedated and some of the fight scenes were a touch graphic (although nothing kids wouldn’t already be seeing in cartoons at this age so not entirely unexpected.)
I also felt that starting off the story with the father being a minister introduced a somewhat religious undertone, while the rest of the story doesn’t really include much in terms of religion or faith apart from a few moments of prayer. And even in those moments of prayer, it was as though the prayer was answered by the magic of the Ink rather than a higher power. Nothing wrong with this of course, it just confused me a little as to whether the author wanted this to come across as a story revolving around faith/religion or if this was more of a secondary detail. I know magic can be a somewhat taboo subject in some religions, so I don’t often read about the two of them being interwoven together. Perhaps this was why it felt a bit more unusual/unfamiliar to me.
Those very minor critiques aside, I truly felt like this was a wonderful, fast-paced and very entertaining read. I loved dipping my toe into the magical world of Ink and will definitely be keeping an eye out for future works by J.D. Peabody.
Thank you to Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, a truly fantastic read!
March 21, 2025
5 stars! My son gave this the highest compliment. He said as soon as he finished this book, he wanted to play out the story. He put this in the same category as Wingfeather and the Green Ember.
I loved the character growth we got from the main character and the imaginative world the author created for us.
I will say that the characters find themselves in perilous situations, so keep that in mind for sensitive readers.
A new family favorite!
I loved the character growth we got from the main character and the imaginative world the author created for us.
I will say that the characters find themselves in perilous situations, so keep that in mind for sensitive readers.
A new family favorite!
June 10, 2022
*****3.5*****
This book is so cute! I really enjoyed Peabody’s creativity in putting this story together. It reminded me of Jasper Fforde’s Thursday Next series where metaphorical or symbolic terms and ideas become literal.
Everett and Bea are the children of Marcus, a reverend and comic book writer! They live in a house next to the church, and they get along pretty well despite being a few years apart. Everett loves to read Max the Courageous (MC, as Ev calls the main character), his dad’s comic series, and Bea loves to practice her escapes, like Houdini. One day, Marcus goes off on a trip, and the children are told of a terrible train crash—their father is presumed dead. The children have to move on with their life, but then, they’re given a briefcase with their dad’s pen and a bottle of ink in it. What happens next begins the main plot and action of the story.
The story is filled with magical and imaginative details and ideas: Ink that does more than write, Blotters who fight the Fomentori and Inklings (which includes Dot, aka Dorothy Sayers, Jack aka C.S. Lewis, and Ronald aka JRR Tolkien), Inkasement, and other fun ideas and concepts.
The story is filled with action as the children go on their quest and meet various characters involved in this centuries-old battle between good (Inklings and Fomentori) and evil (Blotters and other creatures designed by a bishop at the request/demand of an evil king). Along the way, Everett, the main character, learns about himself and to accept his weaknesses as he comes to learn his strengths. Not everyone is the same, and it’s okay to praise others for what they can do without feeling bitter, resentful, or sulky about not being able to do it yourself.
My only two complaints are that the book is a little long with a bit too many episodic mishaps and resolutions and that the ending becomes a summary and sounds more like an adult telling a child a bedtime story than the conclusion to a book featuring MG main characters.
Overall, I liked the book and the lessons/themes. The book is a Christian book—the characters pray and reference Bible verses—but it’s not preachy at all, and anyone can enjoy and appreciate it, whether they’re a Christian or of a different faith or not a believer. I appreciated the references as a Christian myself because there aren’t many contemporary books that give value to faith and include simple actions we take every day without making a big deal out of them or drawing too much attention to them—just like eating, prayer is a part of our lives, and it’s not something to make a big deal out of in one way or the other.
I recommend this book to middle grade readers who like fun and adventure and to adult readers who enjoy books with literary and historical references (the book takes place in the 1950s) and with creativity and imagination.
Thank you to Net Galley and Worthy Publishing for providing me a free digital copy of this book.
This book is so cute! I really enjoyed Peabody’s creativity in putting this story together. It reminded me of Jasper Fforde’s Thursday Next series where metaphorical or symbolic terms and ideas become literal.
Everett and Bea are the children of Marcus, a reverend and comic book writer! They live in a house next to the church, and they get along pretty well despite being a few years apart. Everett loves to read Max the Courageous (MC, as Ev calls the main character), his dad’s comic series, and Bea loves to practice her escapes, like Houdini. One day, Marcus goes off on a trip, and the children are told of a terrible train crash—their father is presumed dead. The children have to move on with their life, but then, they’re given a briefcase with their dad’s pen and a bottle of ink in it. What happens next begins the main plot and action of the story.
The story is filled with magical and imaginative details and ideas: Ink that does more than write, Blotters who fight the Fomentori and Inklings (which includes Dot, aka Dorothy Sayers, Jack aka C.S. Lewis, and Ronald aka JRR Tolkien), Inkasement, and other fun ideas and concepts.
The story is filled with action as the children go on their quest and meet various characters involved in this centuries-old battle between good (Inklings and Fomentori) and evil (Blotters and other creatures designed by a bishop at the request/demand of an evil king). Along the way, Everett, the main character, learns about himself and to accept his weaknesses as he comes to learn his strengths. Not everyone is the same, and it’s okay to praise others for what they can do without feeling bitter, resentful, or sulky about not being able to do it yourself.
My only two complaints are that the book is a little long with a bit too many episodic mishaps and resolutions and that the ending becomes a summary and sounds more like an adult telling a child a bedtime story than the conclusion to a book featuring MG main characters.
Overall, I liked the book and the lessons/themes. The book is a Christian book—the characters pray and reference Bible verses—but it’s not preachy at all, and anyone can enjoy and appreciate it, whether they’re a Christian or of a different faith or not a believer. I appreciated the references as a Christian myself because there aren’t many contemporary books that give value to faith and include simple actions we take every day without making a big deal out of them or drawing too much attention to them—just like eating, prayer is a part of our lives, and it’s not something to make a big deal out of in one way or the other.
I recommend this book to middle grade readers who like fun and adventure and to adult readers who enjoy books with literary and historical references (the book takes place in the 1950s) and with creativity and imagination.
Thank you to Net Galley and Worthy Publishing for providing me a free digital copy of this book.
September 8, 2022
The Inkwell Chronicles – The Ink of Elspet is a fun, magical middle grade story that is unique and adventuresome. Everett (11 years old) and Bea (8 years old) are siblings who hope to find their father after he disappeared on his trip to Scotland. Will their father’s magical ink help?
This story is fairly fast-paced, and there are lots of interesting creatures. Young readers who enjoy fantasy will enjoy this first book of the Inkwell series. Sometimes the setting transitions could be a little smoother and less confusing, but overall, this is an exciting, mystical adventure with Christian themes.
Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
This story is fairly fast-paced, and there are lots of interesting creatures. Young readers who enjoy fantasy will enjoy this first book of the Inkwell series. Sometimes the setting transitions could be a little smoother and less confusing, but overall, this is an exciting, mystical adventure with Christian themes.
Disclosure: #CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
June 1, 2025
This was surprisingly good! I wasn't expecting The Inklings to be involved, and though I don't typically like when real people are cast as characters this one wasn't too bad. I really enjoyed the ink aspect, too, that was pretty creative (pun intended haha). I'll definitely continue the series!
April 8, 2022
What an introduction!
This middle grade fantasy book is full of whimsy, amazing writing and an addictive storyline. Two siblings who go on a quest to find their missing father and learn about the magic of writing and ink while doing so. Something always keeps the reader engaged, whether it's the storyline or the different POV's. It makes for an addictive read that you won't be able to put down!
I will definitely be reading the second book when it comes out. This is the kind of book I wish I had when I was younger and I truly hope it'll reach loads of younger readers
February 25, 2024
Narnia meets Harry Potter! Though it is a kids book, I was delighted to find so many fun details for bibliophile adults (many of the characters are based on historical characters, but you might not know it as they go by nicknames). There’s a new kind of magic special to this book. I’m excited to read it with my adult AND intermediate student book clubs. It has something exciting for everyone. It reminds me of Narnia with a gentle and inspiring hope the characters have in God that helps them through the difficulties they face. I listen to my books, and this one is narrated fantastically. I loved everything about this book!
August 29, 2022
“Everett wondered what all this had to do with his father. And what was the secret behind the Ink?” J.D. Peabody writes in his children’s book, The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet.
~ What ~
The first book in the series, this three-hundred-and-eighty-four-page hardbound with a jacket cover targets children ages eight to twelve years old. Set in England and Scotland, it is the beginning of the adventures of a brother and sister and how they learn courage and bravery. A few scary scenes and topics of drug use and physical abuse may not be appropriate for immature readers.
In this tale, eleven-year-old Everett and his eight-year-old sister, Bea, are on a quest to find their father, who has been abducted by the Commander of the Blotters, a band of creatures that will do anything to get rid of Ink in the world. When the children learn the powers of a special pen and its magical ink, they try to locate their dad and find a new supply of ink.
~Why ~
Those who like an innovative story that is fast-paced as the protagonists stay one step ahead of those seeking them will like this read. It was engaging to learn about Mind Murks, Ink Waves, Inkasement, Ausculators, and the Stink as the Inklings were on the hunt to find their dad. I like the symbolism of Ink being so powerful and creative to humans.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not care for fantasies that include a homing pigeon, raven, wolves, lovebugs, and more may pass on this series. Some may not like the chapters involving being trapped or attacked. This book has complicated wording so would not work for some readers.
~ Wish ~
While I liked the idea of a story that promotes courage and bravery, I did not care for its lack of discipline regarding stealing or its vague concepts of God with its few mentions of Christianity, prayers, psalms, and a hymn.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a creative chapter book series about an insecure boy learning to step out of his shell and an inquisitive girl not being afraid, this would be enjoyed by its targeted age group.
Thanks to Hachette Book Group, WorthyKids, and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
The first book in the series, this three-hundred-and-eighty-four-page hardbound with a jacket cover targets children ages eight to twelve years old. Set in England and Scotland, it is the beginning of the adventures of a brother and sister and how they learn courage and bravery. A few scary scenes and topics of drug use and physical abuse may not be appropriate for immature readers.
In this tale, eleven-year-old Everett and his eight-year-old sister, Bea, are on a quest to find their father, who has been abducted by the Commander of the Blotters, a band of creatures that will do anything to get rid of Ink in the world. When the children learn the powers of a special pen and its magical ink, they try to locate their dad and find a new supply of ink.
~Why ~
Those who like an innovative story that is fast-paced as the protagonists stay one step ahead of those seeking them will like this read. It was engaging to learn about Mind Murks, Ink Waves, Inkasement, Ausculators, and the Stink as the Inklings were on the hunt to find their dad. I like the symbolism of Ink being so powerful and creative to humans.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not care for fantasies that include a homing pigeon, raven, wolves, lovebugs, and more may pass on this series. Some may not like the chapters involving being trapped or attacked. This book has complicated wording so would not work for some readers.
~ Wish ~
While I liked the idea of a story that promotes courage and bravery, I did not care for its lack of discipline regarding stealing or its vague concepts of God with its few mentions of Christianity, prayers, psalms, and a hymn.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a creative chapter book series about an insecure boy learning to step out of his shell and an inquisitive girl not being afraid, this would be enjoyed by its targeted age group.
Thanks to Hachette Book Group, WorthyKids, and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
November 30, 2022
There should be much more hype out there for this novel! The Ink of Elspet is a debut novel and the first in a middle grade fantasy series that needs to get more publicity. It is a fantastic adventure perfect for readers who also enjoyed the Narnia, Artemis Fowl, Percy Jackson, and Keeper of the Lost Cities series.
The writing is fun and charming and the plot is just perfection. There is such amazing creativity to the story and the plot is fast-paced and heavily atmospheric. The characters in the story are so well-balanced and unique. Two siblings, an additional child, some quirky adults, some seriously devious bad guys, and a great helping of magic. There is a slight religious component to the novel (the author is a pastor, as is the father of the children who is the focus of the locus for the story), but this is not a heavy-handed thread and it is very well-handled throughout the read.
I loved nearly everything about this.It will definitely be a middle grade read that you will find me recommending profusely. I will also be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series as I am ready for another fantastic adventure.
The writing is fun and charming and the plot is just perfection. There is such amazing creativity to the story and the plot is fast-paced and heavily atmospheric. The characters in the story are so well-balanced and unique. Two siblings, an additional child, some quirky adults, some seriously devious bad guys, and a great helping of magic. There is a slight religious component to the novel (the author is a pastor, as is the father of the children who is the focus of the locus for the story), but this is not a heavy-handed thread and it is very well-handled throughout the read.
I loved nearly everything about this.It will definitely be a middle grade read that you will find me recommending profusely. I will also be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series as I am ready for another fantastic adventure.
October 3, 2022
The Inkwell Chronicles is a new series for Middle Grade readers from J. D. Peabody. The first book in the series is called The Ink of Elspet.
The Ink of Elspet features 11-year old, Everett and his little sister, Bea, who are left with a big mystery after their father is in a train crash in London. They receive a mysterious pen and magic ink that help them as they face enemies and danger searching for their father.
The Ink of Elspet is a great adventure book for middle-grade readers that focuses on the struggles between good and evil. There is a lot of magic, interesting creatures and adventure to keep tweens turning the pages. I think it is one many kids who enjoy fantasy and magic would enjoy.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
The Ink of Elspet features 11-year old, Everett and his little sister, Bea, who are left with a big mystery after their father is in a train crash in London. They receive a mysterious pen and magic ink that help them as they face enemies and danger searching for their father.
The Ink of Elspet is a great adventure book for middle-grade readers that focuses on the struggles between good and evil. There is a lot of magic, interesting creatures and adventure to keep tweens turning the pages. I think it is one many kids who enjoy fantasy and magic would enjoy.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
November 2, 2024
I thought this book was fun. A little bit of magic, good verses evil, laughter, tears, friends, giant birds and more!
The kids enjoyed this. However, I thought there was a lot going on for being a middle-grade novel. Too many characters, creatures, and locations. It also had a lot of big words that I thought would be too advanced for a lot of kids to read.
It is written by a Christian author and the dad was a vicar and they were safe from bad characters when inside of a church. So I liked symbolism used throughout as well. We will be looking forward to how the story continues in book #2!
I would recommend this book to kids who are advanced readers.
Cautionary content: mentioned that the mother died in childbirth, caretaker who beat the children, being captured, smoking a pipe, characters turned to stone,
The kids enjoyed this. However, I thought there was a lot going on for being a middle-grade novel. Too many characters, creatures, and locations. It also had a lot of big words that I thought would be too advanced for a lot of kids to read.
It is written by a Christian author and the dad was a vicar and they were safe from bad characters when inside of a church. So I liked symbolism used throughout as well. We will be looking forward to how the story continues in book #2!
I would recommend this book to kids who are advanced readers.
Cautionary content: mentioned that the mother died in childbirth, caretaker who beat the children, being captured, smoking a pipe, characters turned to stone,
September 29, 2023
3/5 Stars
So I've got some mixed feelings here. Overall I enjoyed the book and thought it was fun. I enjoyed the concept and had lots of action and adventure. Thought it was fun to have a sibling pair working together. I did find that there were times while reading where things felt a little disjointed. I felt like it jumped around so it just didn't completely flow together, so it brought me out of the book quite a bit. However it was still a fun middle grade read so I would recommend it.
So I've got some mixed feelings here. Overall I enjoyed the book and thought it was fun. I enjoyed the concept and had lots of action and adventure. Thought it was fun to have a sibling pair working together. I did find that there were times while reading where things felt a little disjointed. I felt like it jumped around so it just didn't completely flow together, so it brought me out of the book quite a bit. However it was still a fun middle grade read so I would recommend it.
August 22, 2025
Enjoyable fantasy read aloud with cameo appearances from J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Dorothy Sayers, G.K. Chesterton… hidden literary jewels abound.
So surprised more geeky homeschoolers are not reading and talking about this series.
All of my children aged six and up gave this book a five star rating. Which is high praise…
So surprised more geeky homeschoolers are not reading and talking about this series.
All of my children aged six and up gave this book a five star rating. Which is high praise…
May 19, 2023
A fun, action-packed adventure, perfect for summer reading. I had fun imagining Dorothy Sayers and Jack Lewis astride a motorcycle, with a grinning, be-goggled Ron Tolkien folded into the sidecar. I am looking forward to the next installment!
August 23, 2025
❤️
Literary references everywhere, waiting to be discovered!
Literary references everywhere, waiting to be discovered!
May 28, 2025
Started reading this aloud with my 8 year old granddaughter after seeing it listed on a recommended reading list from Christianity Today. She and her older brother finished all three on their own. Now, I can’t wait to complete the series!
March 3, 2023
Wowza!! What a highly imaginative, unique, amazing story. Absolutely loved this! This has a secret society, magical ink, adventure, family, & more. There are evil villains with a dastardly plot-one villain is 1 of the good turned bad as well! I loved the idea of inklings, & seeing some names I recognized was so great. This has such a charming, magical, classic in the making, even nostalgic feel to it. Everett did get on my nerves at times-but only by acting/feeling like a real life kid that age-some kids just annoy me lol. But he had very relatable reasons. He wanted to make his mark, so to speak. Be as great as his dad & those around him. Give his dad something to be proud of. He had phenomenal character growth/development by the end of the story as well. His sister Bea is a little Houdini in the making, & l adored her. Gilroy probably has my heart though. Like I've said, the ink is such a creatively unique magic system, & such a refreshing idea. So impressed by the writing/storytelling-so engaging, & engrossing. Vivid details, highly imaginative & atmospheric. Phenomenal characters-ALL of them. All the details that make up the magic of this world-the ink & the backstory of it all, the inklings, the Inkwells, the Blotters, conductor-class/courier-class, Fomentori, Inkcase, & so much more. HIGHLY recommend. Can't wait for the next book. STUNNING cover by Kristina Kister too. 💜
July 14, 2022
The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet is a middle grade fiction novel written by J.D. Peabody. It is book one in the Inkwell Chronicles series.
Summary: When Everett and Bea receive a knock at the door telling them their beloved father is dead, they can’t believe it.
They inherit a strange pen from his belongings, and soon after, they find that they are being hunted by strange creatures.
What had their mild-mannered minister father been involved in? Why does everyone want his special pen? And, is he really dead, or is there a slim chance he may have survived after all?
Join Everett and Bea as they meet strange and wonderful characters, use their imaginations to solve problems, and learn how to work together, all while dodging the evil that dogs their every step.
My Thoughts: This book was OK. I read it aloud to my kids, and they enjoyed it. There is definitely plenty of imagination and fantastical creatures involved throughout the book, and that was fun. But, it was a bit disjointed, and dragged a little in parts.
It just wasn’t my favorite, and I am not sure I would read another in the series.
I would like to thank Worthy Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you.
Summary: When Everett and Bea receive a knock at the door telling them their beloved father is dead, they can’t believe it.
They inherit a strange pen from his belongings, and soon after, they find that they are being hunted by strange creatures.
What had their mild-mannered minister father been involved in? Why does everyone want his special pen? And, is he really dead, or is there a slim chance he may have survived after all?
Join Everett and Bea as they meet strange and wonderful characters, use their imaginations to solve problems, and learn how to work together, all while dodging the evil that dogs their every step.
My Thoughts: This book was OK. I read it aloud to my kids, and they enjoyed it. There is definitely plenty of imagination and fantastical creatures involved throughout the book, and that was fun. But, it was a bit disjointed, and dragged a little in parts.
It just wasn’t my favorite, and I am not sure I would read another in the series.
I would like to thank Worthy Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you.
October 3, 2022
I don't think I've been as entertained by a children's/middle-grade fantasy since I re-read the Chronicles of Narnia a few years ago. Excellent first foray into children's literature!
The weaving together of famous writers (a few of the Oxford Inklings) with the thread of a shared resource with other famous creative people throughout history was excellently crafted. Yes, there is danger, adventure, terror, and joy. There is also growth, awareness, inspiration, and courage. A must-read (read-aloud?) for those looking for quality children's literature with a few puns or wordplays for the adults tagging along.
Loved this story! I'm eagerly anticipating a sequel...
I gratefully received an ARC; this is my honest review.
The weaving together of famous writers (a few of the Oxford Inklings) with the thread of a shared resource with other famous creative people throughout history was excellently crafted. Yes, there is danger, adventure, terror, and joy. There is also growth, awareness, inspiration, and courage. A must-read (read-aloud?) for those looking for quality children's literature with a few puns or wordplays for the adults tagging along.
Loved this story! I'm eagerly anticipating a sequel...
I gratefully received an ARC; this is my honest review.
June 22, 2022
What worked:
The existence of Ink is the foundation for this series. It’s a magical resource found in the earth, but its essence is creative energy. It enhances the innovative ideas of Inklings, those able to use it, so you can probably guess famous authors, artists, and inventors in history enjoyed increased levels of creativity using Ink. The main conflict pits blotters bent on eliminating Ink from existence against Inklings scrambling to protect the last Inkwell called Elspet. An additional antagonist is included, but he’s solely hoping to profit from the last remaining Ink on earth. His role forms a subplot that will probably become more prominent in the book’s sequel.
While Everett is the main character, his younger sister Bea is quite interesting. She’s daring and adventurous, and she loves to challenge herself with Houdini-like feats. Her escape talents and lock-picking skills come in handy during sticky situations. She jumps at the chance to ride on the back of a giant homing pigeon. However, the author balances that spirit with the innocence of an 8-year-old child, as her sole motivation is to find her kidnapped daddy. Bea learns she has a rare ability to hear the mysterious Ink that proves to be an asset in the quest to save her father and the last Inkwell. Bea and her brother are joined by several other Inklings with unique personalities and talents that enhance the story.
Everett questions his role in the quest to save Elspet since he’s the only one in the group unable to manipulate Ink. He’s especially upset when he discovers his little sister has a rare Inkling talent, so he tries to mask his inabilities from the others. His self-image drops even more, and his anger grows, when others receive magical pens while he’s given a pair of sticks. It’s so unfair! However, readers will easily predict the sticks are special, and Everett will have a more important role than he ever imagined. His internal conflict with self-worth rages on for most of this book.
What didn’t work as well:
The story switches settings to cover characters in different locations. It can sometimes muddle things and distract from main events, although the author’s desire to cover multiple problems and points of view is clear. The scene changes are typically a few pages long, so the majority of the plot focuses on the adventures of Everett and Bea.
The Final Verdict:
Creativity is magic. The concept of Ink is imaginative and new, so readers will appreciate novel ideas blended with entertaining characters. The line between evil and good is clear, and the end goals to save Elspet and the father are easy to follow. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.
The existence of Ink is the foundation for this series. It’s a magical resource found in the earth, but its essence is creative energy. It enhances the innovative ideas of Inklings, those able to use it, so you can probably guess famous authors, artists, and inventors in history enjoyed increased levels of creativity using Ink. The main conflict pits blotters bent on eliminating Ink from existence against Inklings scrambling to protect the last Inkwell called Elspet. An additional antagonist is included, but he’s solely hoping to profit from the last remaining Ink on earth. His role forms a subplot that will probably become more prominent in the book’s sequel.
While Everett is the main character, his younger sister Bea is quite interesting. She’s daring and adventurous, and she loves to challenge herself with Houdini-like feats. Her escape talents and lock-picking skills come in handy during sticky situations. She jumps at the chance to ride on the back of a giant homing pigeon. However, the author balances that spirit with the innocence of an 8-year-old child, as her sole motivation is to find her kidnapped daddy. Bea learns she has a rare ability to hear the mysterious Ink that proves to be an asset in the quest to save her father and the last Inkwell. Bea and her brother are joined by several other Inklings with unique personalities and talents that enhance the story.
Everett questions his role in the quest to save Elspet since he’s the only one in the group unable to manipulate Ink. He’s especially upset when he discovers his little sister has a rare Inkling talent, so he tries to mask his inabilities from the others. His self-image drops even more, and his anger grows, when others receive magical pens while he’s given a pair of sticks. It’s so unfair! However, readers will easily predict the sticks are special, and Everett will have a more important role than he ever imagined. His internal conflict with self-worth rages on for most of this book.
What didn’t work as well:
The story switches settings to cover characters in different locations. It can sometimes muddle things and distract from main events, although the author’s desire to cover multiple problems and points of view is clear. The scene changes are typically a few pages long, so the majority of the plot focuses on the adventures of Everett and Bea.
The Final Verdict:
Creativity is magic. The concept of Ink is imaginative and new, so readers will appreciate novel ideas blended with entertaining characters. The line between evil and good is clear, and the end goals to save Elspet and the father are easy to follow. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.
March 26, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Ink of Elspet is an exciting and well written adventure fantasy for middle grade readers and the first Inkwell Chronicle by J.D. Peabody. Released 13th Sept 2022 by Hachette on their Worthy Kids imprint, it's 384 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out 2nd quarter 2023 from the same publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is such a rollicking, action driven adventure for all-ages. There's a real and palpable sense of danger throughout and the main protagonists (a brother & sister pair) who are on a mission to save their missing dad, are assisted along the way by some very famous authors, The author has a lot of gently imparted wisdom about the nature of family, loyalty, bravery, honesty, and accepting (and giving) help uncritically.
The writing is exciting and well wrought without being preachy or precious. The kids are appealingly resourceful and creative. Although the publisher's imprint is known for showcasing Christian allied writers, there's no proselytizing here, apart from a short fervent prayer on the part of Bea, the fact that their dad is a vicar, and the inclusion of some fairly famously religious authors, including Tolkien. (The book is set in post WW2 Britain, with short journeys to other locales).
The art is well done and engaging. I loved all of the whimsical touches and creativity (it's a book about creativity). Things like a giant ridable pigeon named Ermengarde, Dorothy Sayers on a motorcycle with a sidecar, and a vicar who draws awesome comic books, added a lot to the read and balanced out some of the scary bits.
Four stars, this would be a wonderful choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, and reading circles.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Ink of Elspet is an exciting and well written adventure fantasy for middle grade readers and the first Inkwell Chronicle by J.D. Peabody. Released 13th Sept 2022 by Hachette on their Worthy Kids imprint, it's 384 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out 2nd quarter 2023 from the same publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is such a rollicking, action driven adventure for all-ages. There's a real and palpable sense of danger throughout and the main protagonists (a brother & sister pair) who are on a mission to save their missing dad, are assisted along the way by some very famous authors, The author has a lot of gently imparted wisdom about the nature of family, loyalty, bravery, honesty, and accepting (and giving) help uncritically.
The writing is exciting and well wrought without being preachy or precious. The kids are appealingly resourceful and creative. Although the publisher's imprint is known for showcasing Christian allied writers, there's no proselytizing here, apart from a short fervent prayer on the part of Bea, the fact that their dad is a vicar, and the inclusion of some fairly famously religious authors, including Tolkien. (The book is set in post WW2 Britain, with short journeys to other locales).
The art is well done and engaging. I loved all of the whimsical touches and creativity (it's a book about creativity). Things like a giant ridable pigeon named Ermengarde, Dorothy Sayers on a motorcycle with a sidecar, and a vicar who draws awesome comic books, added a lot to the read and balanced out some of the scary bits.
Four stars, this would be a wonderful choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, and reading circles.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
April 29, 2022
An ink-tastic rescue story with lots of twists and turns and just as many unexpected helpers.
To fit in doesn’t always mean that you must be like everyone else. Often it means that you must be your true self, find your own talent and accept yourself. Because when you can do all these things, people will feel your confidence and want to be around you. But it is a very hard thing to learn and can take way into adulthood to figure out.
In the first book of The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, we follow the siblings Everett and Bea on their difficult mission to rescue their father from supernatural beings that want to stop creativity in the world. Because what they soon find out is that every great writer, painter, inventor etc., had a little help from magical ink. A substance that nobody knows much about. Only that it will give its user the ability to channel every ounce of talent within them. And their father owned the last bottle of ink in the world before he got captured. Now it is up to them to save the ink and their father. A seemingly impossible endeavour. But along the way, they realize that they aren’t as alone and helpless as they thought. They meet many friends, human and supernatural, that help them along their journey and with their inner battles to find a place in this world.
I really enjoyed this middle-grade story. It was thrilling, captivating and vulnerable. It showed a great sense of inner conflicts that everyone feels from time to time. And how important it is to believe in yourself but also trust others.
I sometimes had to catch my breath because there is so much happening in this book, and often, we were thrown from one obstacle to the next. It’s an absolute rollercoaster. But overall, the story was great, the characters well rounded – although I would like to learn more about Trey in the next book, now that he has his memories back –, and the dynamics well played. At first I was thinking it had one too many counteracts but with this book being the first in the series, I believe it will all make sense later.
I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good and thrilling adventure with a hint of magic.
Thank you to Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
To fit in doesn’t always mean that you must be like everyone else. Often it means that you must be your true self, find your own talent and accept yourself. Because when you can do all these things, people will feel your confidence and want to be around you. But it is a very hard thing to learn and can take way into adulthood to figure out.
In the first book of The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, we follow the siblings Everett and Bea on their difficult mission to rescue their father from supernatural beings that want to stop creativity in the world. Because what they soon find out is that every great writer, painter, inventor etc., had a little help from magical ink. A substance that nobody knows much about. Only that it will give its user the ability to channel every ounce of talent within them. And their father owned the last bottle of ink in the world before he got captured. Now it is up to them to save the ink and their father. A seemingly impossible endeavour. But along the way, they realize that they aren’t as alone and helpless as they thought. They meet many friends, human and supernatural, that help them along their journey and with their inner battles to find a place in this world.
I really enjoyed this middle-grade story. It was thrilling, captivating and vulnerable. It showed a great sense of inner conflicts that everyone feels from time to time. And how important it is to believe in yourself but also trust others.
I sometimes had to catch my breath because there is so much happening in this book, and often, we were thrown from one obstacle to the next. It’s an absolute rollercoaster. But overall, the story was great, the characters well rounded – although I would like to learn more about Trey in the next book, now that he has his memories back –, and the dynamics well played. At first I was thinking it had one too many counteracts but with this book being the first in the series, I believe it will all make sense later.
I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good and thrilling adventure with a hint of magic.
Thank you to Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 29, 2022
An ink-tastic rescue story with lots of twists and turns and just as many unexpected helpers.
To fit in doesn’t always mean that you must be like everyone else. Often it means that you must be your true self, find your own talent and accept yourself. Because when you can do all these things, people will feel your confidence and want to be around you. But it is a very hard thing to learn and can take way into adulthood to figure out.
In the first book of The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, we follow the siblings Everett and Bea on their difficult mission to rescue their father from supernatural beings that want to stop creativity in the world. Because what they soon find out is that every great writer, painter, inventor etc., had a little help from magical ink. A substance that nobody knows much about. Only that it will give its user the ability to channel every ounce of talent within them. And their father owned the last bottle of ink in the world before he got captured. Now it is up to them to save the ink and their father. A seemingly impossible endeavour. But along the way, they realize that they aren’t as alone and helpless as they thought. They meet many friends, human and supernatural, that help them along their journey and with their inner battles to find a place in this world.
I really enjoyed this middle-grade story. It was thrilling, captivating and vulnerable. It showed a great sense of inner conflicts that everyone feels from time to time. And how important it is to believe in yourself but also trust others.
I sometimes had to catch my breath because there is so much happening in this book, and often, we were thrown from one obstacle to the next. It’s an absolute rollercoaster. But overall, the story was great, the characters well rounded – although I would like to learn more about Trey in the next book, now that he has his memories back –, and the dynamics well played. At first I was thinking it had one too many counteracts but with this book being the first in the series, I believe it will all make sense later.
I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good and thrilling adventure with a hint of magic.
To fit in doesn’t always mean that you must be like everyone else. Often it means that you must be your true self, find your own talent and accept yourself. Because when you can do all these things, people will feel your confidence and want to be around you. But it is a very hard thing to learn and can take way into adulthood to figure out.
In the first book of The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, we follow the siblings Everett and Bea on their difficult mission to rescue their father from supernatural beings that want to stop creativity in the world. Because what they soon find out is that every great writer, painter, inventor etc., had a little help from magical ink. A substance that nobody knows much about. Only that it will give its user the ability to channel every ounce of talent within them. And their father owned the last bottle of ink in the world before he got captured. Now it is up to them to save the ink and their father. A seemingly impossible endeavour. But along the way, they realize that they aren’t as alone and helpless as they thought. They meet many friends, human and supernatural, that help them along their journey and with their inner battles to find a place in this world.
I really enjoyed this middle-grade story. It was thrilling, captivating and vulnerable. It showed a great sense of inner conflicts that everyone feels from time to time. And how important it is to believe in yourself but also trust others.
I sometimes had to catch my breath because there is so much happening in this book, and often, we were thrown from one obstacle to the next. It’s an absolute rollercoaster. But overall, the story was great, the characters well rounded – although I would like to learn more about Trey in the next book, now that he has his memories back –, and the dynamics well played. At first I was thinking it had one too many counteracts but with this book being the first in the series, I believe it will all make sense later.
I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good and thrilling adventure with a hint of magic.
May 25, 2022
The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, Book 1 by J.D. Peabody is such a fun story! It has a mix of fantasy, adventures, a bit of spy-like work in there and even some mystery. Being the first book in the The Ink of Elspet Series, we are introduced to Everett, Bea, and their dad, Marcus. Marcus has this super cool yet possibly dangerous magical pen. He is attacked due to it and ends up sending it back to his children before the bad creatures get a hold of it. Everett and Bea are told their dad is dead, but they don’t believe it, so they go on a journey to find him while discovering the power of the pen.
I loved the time period this whole story was taking place. I was thrusted into the 50s England which was an interesting change. Lots of movies and stories take place during that era, but with the magic and creatures added in, it made for a new version of the time period. I also enjoyed the kids having the explorer and adventurer mentality; that knowing or need for proof that kept them going. They were go-getters and made their way to what they needed, even when they were put in the position to be held back.
It is a bit on the longer side of middle grade, but even with it being slightly longer, I highly recommend you grab a copy and experience the magic yourself.
The overall story had such a beautiful flow and perfect pace to it. It kept me fully involved the entire time. This will definitely keep tweens engaged and wanting to know what happened next. This is great for kids 8 or 9+, but keep in mind, the younger readers may need some assistance, as there are some higher difficulty words and phrases in the mix in addition to the length. It’d be fun for the family to read together or tweens and teens reading on their own for fun or for school.
I’m excited to see what other situations the kids will get into in the future!
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of The Inkwell Chronicles from J.D. Peabody via NetGalley
I loved the time period this whole story was taking place. I was thrusted into the 50s England which was an interesting change. Lots of movies and stories take place during that era, but with the magic and creatures added in, it made for a new version of the time period. I also enjoyed the kids having the explorer and adventurer mentality; that knowing or need for proof that kept them going. They were go-getters and made their way to what they needed, even when they were put in the position to be held back.
It is a bit on the longer side of middle grade, but even with it being slightly longer, I highly recommend you grab a copy and experience the magic yourself.
The overall story had such a beautiful flow and perfect pace to it. It kept me fully involved the entire time. This will definitely keep tweens engaged and wanting to know what happened next. This is great for kids 8 or 9+, but keep in mind, the younger readers may need some assistance, as there are some higher difficulty words and phrases in the mix in addition to the length. It’d be fun for the family to read together or tweens and teens reading on their own for fun or for school.
I’m excited to see what other situations the kids will get into in the future!
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of The Inkwell Chronicles from J.D. Peabody via NetGalley
September 16, 2023
Everett loves that his father writes comic books with his favorite superhero, MC. While he loves the comics, what Everett really wants is to go on a wild adventure just like MC. When his father disappears after a mysterious train crash, Everett and his little sister Bea find themselves in possession of their father's pen and a bottle of magical ink. Now, with the help of the local Inklings, a giant, invisible pigeon, and an artistic train conductor, Everett and Bea are racing the clock to save their father from a hoard of Blotters. Can they find their father, protect the last well, and find their own strengths before time runs out?
This is an amazing story. First, the characters are realistic and the perfect little heroes, who grow throughout the story but also struggle with things that most kids find to be struggles in their own lives. The scenes are well described, making them easy to visualize, even during the fast-action scenes. The magic throughout the story is just the right kind of magic, something a young reader would find interesting and believable.
I love how the story doesn’t brush around the difficult parts of life and how there are so many things that don’t go exactly as planned. One thing that I find to be common in children’s and middle grade novels is that everything is always perfectly right in the end. This book embraces the reality of the nightmare that wakes you in the middle of the night. The grief that hurts so bad when you have lost someone you love; the struggle one feels, sometimes, being a sibling; the strength and courage that it sometimes takes to do something that appears to be easy. It makes this story easier for young readers to connect with. Because it can be terrifying to admit that we did something wrong. Or, it might hurt more than we put on when we are feeling different or unimportant.
I really appreciate that there was nothing improper in this book.
I thought that this book was a wonderful addition to my library and to my children’s reading, and I cannot wait to read the second book. I also hope that there are many more books like this to come. I bought my copy of this book from Amazon.com, and the image above is my own.
Find more of my reviews of all levels at: stephanietiner.weebly.com
This is an amazing story. First, the characters are realistic and the perfect little heroes, who grow throughout the story but also struggle with things that most kids find to be struggles in their own lives. The scenes are well described, making them easy to visualize, even during the fast-action scenes. The magic throughout the story is just the right kind of magic, something a young reader would find interesting and believable.
I love how the story doesn’t brush around the difficult parts of life and how there are so many things that don’t go exactly as planned. One thing that I find to be common in children’s and middle grade novels is that everything is always perfectly right in the end. This book embraces the reality of the nightmare that wakes you in the middle of the night. The grief that hurts so bad when you have lost someone you love; the struggle one feels, sometimes, being a sibling; the strength and courage that it sometimes takes to do something that appears to be easy. It makes this story easier for young readers to connect with. Because it can be terrifying to admit that we did something wrong. Or, it might hurt more than we put on when we are feeling different or unimportant.
I really appreciate that there was nothing improper in this book.
I thought that this book was a wonderful addition to my library and to my children’s reading, and I cannot wait to read the second book. I also hope that there are many more books like this to come. I bought my copy of this book from Amazon.com, and the image above is my own.
Find more of my reviews of all levels at: stephanietiner.weebly.com
November 13, 2022
In The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, J.D. Peabody has written a fantasy style book set in a magical world theme. Marcus is a comic book creator of Max Courageous comics. He has two children, Everett and Bea. Their mother died when she was giving birth to Bea. Their father would actively encourage his own children to have bravery and do always do the right thing. Their actions matter more than any superheroes. One day, their father has to travel on a secret mission to Scotland and he instructed Everett that he would become the man of the house if something was to happen to him. Marcus was travelling by train when it crashed from a creature referred to as the blotter with batlike wings. He also thought they took the contains in the briefcase which was an important pen and a bottle. He is believed to be dead but the body was never found. His children set out on a quest to discover what really happened to father eventually figure out the meaning behind the important pen and in the right hands it can create imaginable things. Get ready for a magical quest!
I would recommend this exciting book to tweens around the middle school aged. It is filled with magical creatures and fantasy. I liked how they created the blotters as a represent of a dark angel type who are dead set on stealing all the ink. I loved reading about inking and how it has created amazing stories. Readers will enjoy learning and following the clues and it will keep them on the edge of their seats and engaged with the story line. I also liked the concept of the book and I think middle schoolers will love having a new series to enjoy.
"I received this book free from the publisher, Hachette Book Group/Faithwords for my honest review.”
I would recommend this exciting book to tweens around the middle school aged. It is filled with magical creatures and fantasy. I liked how they created the blotters as a represent of a dark angel type who are dead set on stealing all the ink. I loved reading about inking and how it has created amazing stories. Readers will enjoy learning and following the clues and it will keep them on the edge of their seats and engaged with the story line. I also liked the concept of the book and I think middle schoolers will love having a new series to enjoy.
"I received this book free from the publisher, Hachette Book Group/Faithwords for my honest review.”
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