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The Grandest Bookshop in the World #2
The Bookseller's Apprentice
Return to Amelia Mellor’s magical Melbourne in the prequel to best-seller The Grandest Bookshop in the World.
Twelve-year-old Billy Pyke has a talent for sorting things out, whether it’s his chaotic family home or the busy book stall at Paddy’s Market. In 1871, the market is the loud, smelly, marvellous heart of Melbourne, and Billy is delighted to work at the book stall there for the eccentric Mr Cole. When his new friend Kezia warns him of a sinister magician called the Obscurosmith, Billy can’t believe her stories of magical deals gone horribly wrong – until he sees them happening. And the night that the Obscurosmith crosses a terrifying and dangerous line, Billy realises something: if he wants the Obscurosmith stopped, he’ll have to do it himself.
Award-winning author Amelia Mellor delivers another race-against-time adventure in this action-packed prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World. Loaded with tricks, riddles, magic and mayhem, The Bookseller’s Apprentice is perfect for Mellor fans and newcomers alike.
Twelve-year-old Billy Pyke has a talent for sorting things out, whether it’s his chaotic family home or the busy book stall at Paddy’s Market. In 1871, the market is the loud, smelly, marvellous heart of Melbourne, and Billy is delighted to work at the book stall there for the eccentric Mr Cole. When his new friend Kezia warns him of a sinister magician called the Obscurosmith, Billy can’t believe her stories of magical deals gone horribly wrong – until he sees them happening. And the night that the Obscurosmith crosses a terrifying and dangerous line, Billy realises something: if he wants the Obscurosmith stopped, he’ll have to do it himself.
Award-winning author Amelia Mellor delivers another race-against-time adventure in this action-packed prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World. Loaded with tricks, riddles, magic and mayhem, The Bookseller’s Apprentice is perfect for Mellor fans and newcomers alike.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published September 27, 2022
29 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 7, 2022
The baddy delighted in double meanings and ill repute, but young Billy, the star of the show, is a wordsmith and deals with this with aplomb, as does the author who delivers a magically delightful and delicious tale of spells and lessons and cuteness. Full of spells and tricks and riddles and fun and friendship. Uplifting and fun for wizards and wizardesses of all shapes, ages and sizes!
With thanks to Better Reading for my physical copy to read and review. A most bodacious and sparkly looking book indeed. Magic writing.
A round of applause folks!
With thanks to Better Reading for my physical copy to read and review. A most bodacious and sparkly looking book indeed. Magic writing.
A round of applause folks!
April 19, 2023
There’s something about reading Middle Grade fantasy fiction as an adult. There’s the easy to read language, the picture that writers illustrate with their words, and the simplistic nature of magic for children. And you generally learn something along the way too.
I loved The Grandest Bookshop in the World, not just because of the sibling’s discerned relationship or the magic, which in themselves were wonderful aspects. It was the rich history of the city that I call home.
As a born and bred Melbournian, this book again ignited the fascination with my home’s history. The street names, the locations, and markets.
And yet even I learned something - Queen Victoria market has long been a tourist destination, as well as a place for locals to browse a bargain. I did not know it was originally a temporary location. I did not know that it used to be on Bourke Street under the name of Paddy’s.
However, while reading the story, it was Queen Vic Market that I pictured but placed in the CBD, for the market descriptions. Go figure.
Another beautiful and excellent read from Ms Mellor and I’ll eagerly read any works of hers - even kids books - I just didn’t love it as much as the first one.
I loved The Grandest Bookshop in the World, not just because of the sibling’s discerned relationship or the magic, which in themselves were wonderful aspects. It was the rich history of the city that I call home.
As a born and bred Melbournian, this book again ignited the fascination with my home’s history. The street names, the locations, and markets.
And yet even I learned something - Queen Victoria market has long been a tourist destination, as well as a place for locals to browse a bargain. I did not know it was originally a temporary location. I did not know that it used to be on Bourke Street under the name of Paddy’s.
However, while reading the story, it was Queen Vic Market that I pictured but placed in the CBD, for the market descriptions. Go figure.
Another beautiful and excellent read from Ms Mellor and I’ll eagerly read any works of hers - even kids books - I just didn’t love it as much as the first one.
September 30, 2022
Young Billy Pike, the oldest of all the siblings is the one his parents rely on for almost everything so when the time comes for Billy to get a job he strays from the idea of working in a boring nail factory and tries his luck at a book stall in Paddy's Markets; Cole's books where people can stay and read all they like and not have to buy.
When Billy becomes the successful applicant for the position, he can't wait to start his new job and see what sort of wonderful things he'll get to do on the daily.
Billy meets a quirky young girl named Kezia and soon enough they become good friends and together they battle it out with a local villain known as the Obscurosmith but will they solve his cryptic clues before it's too late and he takes over.
This book was filled with lots of magic and suspense, enough to make your palms sweat. I loved it and every page delivered something new and exciting - I didn't want to put it down!
When Billy becomes the successful applicant for the position, he can't wait to start his new job and see what sort of wonderful things he'll get to do on the daily.
Billy meets a quirky young girl named Kezia and soon enough they become good friends and together they battle it out with a local villain known as the Obscurosmith but will they solve his cryptic clues before it's too late and he takes over.
This book was filled with lots of magic and suspense, enough to make your palms sweat. I loved it and every page delivered something new and exciting - I didn't want to put it down!
November 28, 2022
Thank you to Affirm Press for a review copy in exchange for an honest review!
Intriguing, wonderful and fun.
This prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World was one fun, rollercoaster of a ride! It was full of twists, turns and puzzles around every corner! It had me hooked right from the start and I flew through the pages!
We follow the story of Billy Pyke - one of 7 children who works tooth and nail to help his parents provide food, shelter and love for his family. Set in Melbourne, Australia, in 1871, this is a novel bursting with magic, captivating theories and gripping riddles.
Billy isn’t on his own as Kezia - his new friend - helps Billy navigate the way after the Obscurosmith wreaks havoc at Paddy’s Market. Billy also has the help of the wonderful Mr Cole - owner of the infamous book stall.
This novel is perfect for those who love magic, middle grade fiction and a story that’ll keep you hooked until the end!
Intriguing, wonderful and fun.
This prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World was one fun, rollercoaster of a ride! It was full of twists, turns and puzzles around every corner! It had me hooked right from the start and I flew through the pages!
We follow the story of Billy Pyke - one of 7 children who works tooth and nail to help his parents provide food, shelter and love for his family. Set in Melbourne, Australia, in 1871, this is a novel bursting with magic, captivating theories and gripping riddles.
Billy isn’t on his own as Kezia - his new friend - helps Billy navigate the way after the Obscurosmith wreaks havoc at Paddy’s Market. Billy also has the help of the wonderful Mr Cole - owner of the infamous book stall.
This novel is perfect for those who love magic, middle grade fiction and a story that’ll keep you hooked until the end!
December 31, 2022
I read The Grandest Bookshop in the World last year, so was excited to see the prequel on NetGalley. Honestly, I think I enjoyed this one even more. If you haven’t read either, I think I would read The Bookseller’s Apprentice first. However, both read well as stand-alones.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Billy and Kezia. The clue-solving/ riddle-solving was a lot of fun, and the author kept the tension rising throughout. The atmosphere of Paddy’s Market in the late 19th century seeped off the page and you can almost hear the vendors and feel the hustle and bustle of the crowds.
Highly recommend for children ages 8-12.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of The Bookseller’s Apprentice.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Billy and Kezia. The clue-solving/ riddle-solving was a lot of fun, and the author kept the tension rising throughout. The atmosphere of Paddy’s Market in the late 19th century seeped off the page and you can almost hear the vendors and feel the hustle and bustle of the crowds.
Highly recommend for children ages 8-12.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of The Bookseller’s Apprentice.
August 19, 2022
Fantastic! Fans of Grandest Bookshop are going to love this! It stays true to the dark clue-solving mystery of Bookshop while setting up the stories of a few Bookshop characters we already know, and at the same time being a thoroughly enjoyable tale on its own.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
October 20, 2022
This is a historical fantasy aimed at young readers over about ten years. However, I’m well past that age and thoroughly enjoyed it, and my Miss Nine was also entranced. This is lively and action packed, with a bit to think about as well. An original fantasy story is built around some of the genuine history of Melbourne. It all adds up to a great novel for readers of all ages.
Billy Pyke is not in a good mood. His parents have told him that at 12 years old, it’s time he left school and started earning a wage to help his family. That’s not so bad, but he doesn’t want to work in the match factory with his parents. He wants to do something more interesting.
But there’s not much doubt that he needs to find a job pretty quickly. His parents work hard, but Billy has six younger brothers and sisters. Billy feels that he already does a lot for the family, and although he doesn’t exactly mind doing his bit, he does resent the lack of choice and the sense that his family never really notices all he does.
And then, oh glorious day! Billy somehow gets the job of his dreams, as assistant to Mr Cole the bookseller in Paddy’s Market in Melbourne. It pays comparatively well, and it’s far more interesting than a factory. Mr Cole is happy for him to read in quiet moments, and happy to help him advance his education. Even better, Peter’s good at his job and enjoys the feelings of competence and recognition.
There are many shady and strange characters in Paddy’s Market, however, and not all of them are friendly. Before long Billy finds himself at odds with the Obscurosmith, and before he knows it, he’s engaged in a fight for the safety of himself, his family, his friends, and perhaps all of Paddy’s Market.
The historical setting is genuine, well researched and vividly described. I was fascinated to realise, too, that many of the characters (including Billy) were real historical figures. This no doubt contributes to the sense of a vivid and grounded world. It’s all the easier to believe in magic because so much else feels real.
Billy is a particularly vivid and well drawn character. Although some of his problems are particular to those of a child of his era, his feelings and reactions are recognisable and will strike a chord with many readers. Who hasn’t felt huffy, for example, when they do something good and it’s overlooked by others?
Those around him are well drawn, too. A diverse cast comes to life easily and believably. The good people aren’t perfect, and the bad people… well, okay, some of them are just bad. But others are caught inbetween, meaning well but not always hitting the mark.
This is a well paced and enjoyable story. The action never flags, but nor does it feel rushed. The plot isn’t hard to follow, but also asks young readers to stretch just a little. My Miss Nine enjoyed finding a few new words.
This is, apparently, a prequel to “The Grandest Bookshop in the World”, which I haven’t read – but both I and Miss Nine are now keen to. I imagine that those readers will be pleased to find out more about characters they’re already engaged with.
This is a very well crafted novel for young readers. For long stretches I forgot that I was reading something aimed at younger readers; it was just a good and involving story. And Miss Nine – who’s admittedly a slightly advanced reader – was entranced, and keen to read more in this world.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
Billy Pyke is not in a good mood. His parents have told him that at 12 years old, it’s time he left school and started earning a wage to help his family. That’s not so bad, but he doesn’t want to work in the match factory with his parents. He wants to do something more interesting.
But there’s not much doubt that he needs to find a job pretty quickly. His parents work hard, but Billy has six younger brothers and sisters. Billy feels that he already does a lot for the family, and although he doesn’t exactly mind doing his bit, he does resent the lack of choice and the sense that his family never really notices all he does.
And then, oh glorious day! Billy somehow gets the job of his dreams, as assistant to Mr Cole the bookseller in Paddy’s Market in Melbourne. It pays comparatively well, and it’s far more interesting than a factory. Mr Cole is happy for him to read in quiet moments, and happy to help him advance his education. Even better, Peter’s good at his job and enjoys the feelings of competence and recognition.
There are many shady and strange characters in Paddy’s Market, however, and not all of them are friendly. Before long Billy finds himself at odds with the Obscurosmith, and before he knows it, he’s engaged in a fight for the safety of himself, his family, his friends, and perhaps all of Paddy’s Market.
The historical setting is genuine, well researched and vividly described. I was fascinated to realise, too, that many of the characters (including Billy) were real historical figures. This no doubt contributes to the sense of a vivid and grounded world. It’s all the easier to believe in magic because so much else feels real.
Billy is a particularly vivid and well drawn character. Although some of his problems are particular to those of a child of his era, his feelings and reactions are recognisable and will strike a chord with many readers. Who hasn’t felt huffy, for example, when they do something good and it’s overlooked by others?
Those around him are well drawn, too. A diverse cast comes to life easily and believably. The good people aren’t perfect, and the bad people… well, okay, some of them are just bad. But others are caught inbetween, meaning well but not always hitting the mark.
This is a well paced and enjoyable story. The action never flags, but nor does it feel rushed. The plot isn’t hard to follow, but also asks young readers to stretch just a little. My Miss Nine enjoyed finding a few new words.
This is, apparently, a prequel to “The Grandest Bookshop in the World”, which I haven’t read – but both I and Miss Nine are now keen to. I imagine that those readers will be pleased to find out more about characters they’re already engaged with.
This is a very well crafted novel for young readers. For long stretches I forgot that I was reading something aimed at younger readers; it was just a good and involving story. And Miss Nine – who’s admittedly a slightly advanced reader – was entranced, and keen to read more in this world.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
March 1, 2024
An amazing story, told with much detail, while also weaving in true historical moments and reminding me of a story I've started writing about similar things.
April 8, 2025
Not as Grand as her first book but enjoyable enough. I do like reading where the setting is familiar place; walking around Melbourne in my mind while reading becomes easy.
February 23, 2024
I'm in a reading slump, so this didn't do much for me, but the first book was more enjoyable.
October 25, 2022
I know it’s a kids book but it got me in and made me chuckle and fret about Billy until I just had to finish it to know what happened! Word games and puzzles and interesting characters and friendship and scary people. Brilliant. And Kezia is such an ally. Loved this.
January 22, 2023
Fabulous book. Jam packed with action, and some really good riddles that keep you on your toes. It weaves in some modern inclusivity brilliantly too!
October 8, 2023
La storia si svolge a Melbourne nel 1871, dove Billy Pyke è un ragazzino di 12 anni che ama visitare il mercato della città, il Paddy's Market, ma soprattutto ama trascorrere del tempo insieme al signore Cole, il proprietario della bancarella Libri a buon mercato.
Quando proprio il signor Cole decide di assumere Billy come apprendista libraio sembra che tutti i suoi sogni si siano realizzati.
Al Paddy's Market però si aggira una strana figura, l'Ombromante, un mago che dice di saper realizzare i desideri delle persone.
Billy è il maggiore di sette fratelli, ed è lui che si occupa quasi sempre di loro e della casa perchè entrambi i genitori lavorano. Lui quindi ha poco tempo per sè e quando inizia a lavorare come apprendista libraio è felice di allontanarsi almeno per un po' da
tutte quelle incombenze.
Ma un giorno al Paddy's Market si scontra con l'Ombromante e il loro diventa un duello che coinvolge anche gli altri venditori del mercato, inclusa la sua nuova amica Kezia.
Questa storia si svolge principalmente al Paddy's Market, ma anche se il luogo non cambia, ogni piccolo angolo del mercato nasconde una scoperta. Conosciamo , infatti, tanti personaggi, dal burattinaio al gestore del teatro, che si rivelano pieni di sorprese e che rendono la storia sempre viva e mai noiosa.
Uno dei punti centrali del libro è il duello tra Billy e l'Ombromante, perchè questo non è un duello di spade o lotte, ma è fatto di indovinelli, intelligenza e anche furbizia.
Un insegnamento che ci ricorda questa storia è che ogni libro ci aiuta ad aprire la mente, a conoscere il mondo, e quindi ci arricchisce.
"Libri magici e altre meraviglie" è un libro vario e interessante, che mischia perfettamente l'azione del duello dove si vuole conoscere la prossima mossa dei duellanti, e l'amore per i libri.
Quando proprio il signor Cole decide di assumere Billy come apprendista libraio sembra che tutti i suoi sogni si siano realizzati.
Al Paddy's Market però si aggira una strana figura, l'Ombromante, un mago che dice di saper realizzare i desideri delle persone.
Billy è il maggiore di sette fratelli, ed è lui che si occupa quasi sempre di loro e della casa perchè entrambi i genitori lavorano. Lui quindi ha poco tempo per sè e quando inizia a lavorare come apprendista libraio è felice di allontanarsi almeno per un po' da
tutte quelle incombenze.
Ma un giorno al Paddy's Market si scontra con l'Ombromante e il loro diventa un duello che coinvolge anche gli altri venditori del mercato, inclusa la sua nuova amica Kezia.
Questa storia si svolge principalmente al Paddy's Market, ma anche se il luogo non cambia, ogni piccolo angolo del mercato nasconde una scoperta. Conosciamo , infatti, tanti personaggi, dal burattinaio al gestore del teatro, che si rivelano pieni di sorprese e che rendono la storia sempre viva e mai noiosa.
Uno dei punti centrali del libro è il duello tra Billy e l'Ombromante, perchè questo non è un duello di spade o lotte, ma è fatto di indovinelli, intelligenza e anche furbizia.
Un insegnamento che ci ricorda questa storia è che ogni libro ci aiuta ad aprire la mente, a conoscere il mondo, e quindi ci arricchisce.
"Libri magici e altre meraviglie" è un libro vario e interessante, che mischia perfettamente l'azione del duello dove si vuole conoscere la prossima mossa dei duellanti, e l'amore per i libri.
December 14, 2023
Siamo nella Melbourn del 1871, Billy ha dodici anni e fa parte di una famiglia numerosa. E' sempre lui a fare tutto, pulire casa, prendersi cura di fratelli e sorelle, e, nonostante tutto agli occhi dei genitori sembra essere trasparente, lo cercano solo quando hanno bisogno di lui.
Infatti, nel momento in cui c'è anche un bisogno economico chiedono a Billy di andare a lavorare e lasciare la scuola. Lui non è triste, anzi, gli piace rendersi utile, ma vuole fare un lavoro che gli piace. Viene assunto come apprendista libraio nella bancarella del Signor Cole di "Libri a buon mercato", al Paddy's Market. In questo posto conosce Kezia Nessuno e diventano migliori amici.
Kezia non ha mai conosciuto i suoi genitori, non sa chi siano, per questo motivo si fa chiamare Nessuno, attende il momento di poter finalmente conoscere chi l'ha messa al mondo e avere un cognome. E' una ragazza molto intelligente e una buona amica, nonchè anche una brava maga.
Al Paddy's Market non ci sono solo brave persone, ma anche criminali, tra cui l'Ombromante che attira nella sua trappola venditori approfittando delle loro disgrazie. Billy gli è sfuggito per un pelo, così decide di sfidarlo per farlo allontanare per sempre dal mercato. Riuscirà a vincere, o sarà lui a scomparire per sempre?
Anche in questo romanzo l'autrice si ispira a personaggi e luoghi reali. Il signor Cole lo abbiamo conosciuto nell'altro volume, in questo naturalmente è molto più giovane e Billy è stato il suo collaboratore per anni. Amelia riesce a farci vivere momenti magici tra le pagine di questo meraviglioso romanzo con uno stile coinvolgente e accattivante e ci insegna ad amarci, a vederci per come siamo non per come ci vedono gli altri.
Infatti, nel momento in cui c'è anche un bisogno economico chiedono a Billy di andare a lavorare e lasciare la scuola. Lui non è triste, anzi, gli piace rendersi utile, ma vuole fare un lavoro che gli piace. Viene assunto come apprendista libraio nella bancarella del Signor Cole di "Libri a buon mercato", al Paddy's Market. In questo posto conosce Kezia Nessuno e diventano migliori amici.
Kezia non ha mai conosciuto i suoi genitori, non sa chi siano, per questo motivo si fa chiamare Nessuno, attende il momento di poter finalmente conoscere chi l'ha messa al mondo e avere un cognome. E' una ragazza molto intelligente e una buona amica, nonchè anche una brava maga.
Al Paddy's Market non ci sono solo brave persone, ma anche criminali, tra cui l'Ombromante che attira nella sua trappola venditori approfittando delle loro disgrazie. Billy gli è sfuggito per un pelo, così decide di sfidarlo per farlo allontanare per sempre dal mercato. Riuscirà a vincere, o sarà lui a scomparire per sempre?
Anche in questo romanzo l'autrice si ispira a personaggi e luoghi reali. Il signor Cole lo abbiamo conosciuto nell'altro volume, in questo naturalmente è molto più giovane e Billy è stato il suo collaboratore per anni. Amelia riesce a farci vivere momenti magici tra le pagine di questo meraviglioso romanzo con uno stile coinvolgente e accattivante e ci insegna ad amarci, a vederci per come siamo non per come ci vedono gli altri.
October 16, 2023
The Book-Seller's Apprentice by Amelia Mellor
☀️☀️☀️☀️🌥️ (4.25 rounded down)
▪️This follow up to "Grandest Bookshop" was just as enthralling, nail-biting and harrowing as the original
▪️Billy as a protagonist is wonderfully relatable and his character arc was satisfying to read. His friendship with Kezia felt authentic for their age, though it wasn't quite as compelling to me as the siblings from Grandest Bookshop, and I also enjoyed his working relationship with Cole
▪️ The way we met the varied entertainers and stallholders in advance of their necessity to the quest was very well handled, and the challenges Billy faced were as gripping as they were terrifying. Maximillian was, as always, a fascinating villain!
▪️The pacing of this book felt a bit slower, with the duel not beginning until a way into the book, but the world building before that paid off with how little we needed to focus on those elements during the escalating tension of the quest
▪️Mellor has proven herself not to be a one trick pony, writing another captivating tale that is difficult to put down.
"If Billy couldn't solve the problems no one else would, then what was the point of him? Who would want him around if he wasn't useful anymore?"
"It was a wonderful thing to take up space, to be noticed, to make the world stop for you because you were big enough to matter."
☀️☀️☀️☀️🌥️ (4.25 rounded down)
▪️This follow up to "Grandest Bookshop" was just as enthralling, nail-biting and harrowing as the original
▪️Billy as a protagonist is wonderfully relatable and his character arc was satisfying to read. His friendship with Kezia felt authentic for their age, though it wasn't quite as compelling to me as the siblings from Grandest Bookshop, and I also enjoyed his working relationship with Cole
▪️ The way we met the varied entertainers and stallholders in advance of their necessity to the quest was very well handled, and the challenges Billy faced were as gripping as they were terrifying. Maximillian was, as always, a fascinating villain!
▪️The pacing of this book felt a bit slower, with the duel not beginning until a way into the book, but the world building before that paid off with how little we needed to focus on those elements during the escalating tension of the quest
▪️Mellor has proven herself not to be a one trick pony, writing another captivating tale that is difficult to put down.
"If Billy couldn't solve the problems no one else would, then what was the point of him? Who would want him around if he wasn't useful anymore?"
"It was a wonderful thing to take up space, to be noticed, to make the world stop for you because you were big enough to matter."
September 13, 2022
The Bookseller's Apprentice is a fabulously magical and exciting story set before The Grandest Bookshop in the World.
Here we meet a younger Mr Cole who has a bookstand at Paddy's Markets in Bourke Street, Melbourne. We also meet Billy Pyke, a twelve year old boy who has to leave school to get a job to help his family. Billy gets a job helping Mr Cole on the bookstand. Young Billy feels that his life is not his own and that his parents do not appreciate all that he does for his family.
The Obscurosmith, who we know from The Grandest Bookshop, is also causing havoc in the markets by tempting stallholders with deals that are never quite as they seem. He has his sights set on Billy as Billy's magic interferes with his.
Billy and his new friend Kezia find themselves in a duel with The Obscurosmith. Many of the stallholders in the markets are involved and set out to thwart their efforts to best the magician. What ensues is a lively and magical day of mind games and magic.
Another great book from this author and you must read the Historical Note at the end - this makes the story even better. I recommend looking up information on The Coles Book Arcade, it is amazing and Mr Cole was way ahead of his time in many ways. It is a fascinating snippet of Australian history.
Here we meet a younger Mr Cole who has a bookstand at Paddy's Markets in Bourke Street, Melbourne. We also meet Billy Pyke, a twelve year old boy who has to leave school to get a job to help his family. Billy gets a job helping Mr Cole on the bookstand. Young Billy feels that his life is not his own and that his parents do not appreciate all that he does for his family.
The Obscurosmith, who we know from The Grandest Bookshop, is also causing havoc in the markets by tempting stallholders with deals that are never quite as they seem. He has his sights set on Billy as Billy's magic interferes with his.
Billy and his new friend Kezia find themselves in a duel with The Obscurosmith. Many of the stallholders in the markets are involved and set out to thwart their efforts to best the magician. What ensues is a lively and magical day of mind games and magic.
Another great book from this author and you must read the Historical Note at the end - this makes the story even better. I recommend looking up information on The Coles Book Arcade, it is amazing and Mr Cole was way ahead of his time in many ways. It is a fascinating snippet of Australian history.
September 18, 2022
3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)
I read Mellor's debut, The Grandest Bookstore in the World, last year and completely fell in love. It was unique, fun, mysterious and a little creepy, and so I was super excited to get accepted to read an early digital copy of Mellor's second novel.
The Booksellers Apprentice is a prequel to her debut, and although I highly recommend reading The Grandest Bookstore first, this could also be read as a standalone book.
Just as anticipated, The Booksellers Apprentice is filled with a similar peculiar atmosphere that came with its predecessor. We get to again meet the mysterious Obscurosmith, along with some new characters for him to torment. One of my favourite aspects of Mellor's writing is her characterisation, which she has done beautifully once again. I also really love the puzzles throughout and had fun trying to solve them along with Billy and Kezia.
Whilst I did enjoy this book, it didn't work for me quite as well as the first one. Overall, the story was interesting, however, there were some definite pacing issues. It took awhile to get into the 'action' and I felt my attention waning during periods of the first half.
It was also lacking some of the tension that made The Grandest Bookstore so good. The stakes were much higher in that one, which meant I cared about the outcome a lot more.
Overall, this was still a fun read, but not quite as good as I was expecting.
Thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for an advanced e-copy of this book
I read Mellor's debut, The Grandest Bookstore in the World, last year and completely fell in love. It was unique, fun, mysterious and a little creepy, and so I was super excited to get accepted to read an early digital copy of Mellor's second novel.
The Booksellers Apprentice is a prequel to her debut, and although I highly recommend reading The Grandest Bookstore first, this could also be read as a standalone book.
Just as anticipated, The Booksellers Apprentice is filled with a similar peculiar atmosphere that came with its predecessor. We get to again meet the mysterious Obscurosmith, along with some new characters for him to torment. One of my favourite aspects of Mellor's writing is her characterisation, which she has done beautifully once again. I also really love the puzzles throughout and had fun trying to solve them along with Billy and Kezia.
Whilst I did enjoy this book, it didn't work for me quite as well as the first one. Overall, the story was interesting, however, there were some definite pacing issues. It took awhile to get into the 'action' and I felt my attention waning during periods of the first half.
It was also lacking some of the tension that made The Grandest Bookstore so good. The stakes were much higher in that one, which meant I cared about the outcome a lot more.
Overall, this was still a fun read, but not quite as good as I was expecting.
Thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for an advanced e-copy of this book
October 23, 2022
The Bookseller's Apprentice is an enchanting story of growing up, everyday magic and overcoming bad things (and people!) by Australian author Amelia Mellor. I haven't yet read The Grandest Bookshop in the World as I decided to read this prequel first. I look forward to seeing how the characters and story tie into Book 1.
Mellor as a beautiful writing style that captures the splendour of the magical and fantastical goings on of the imagination and I highlighted so many great quotes which I won't share here to avoid spoilers.
Even though I'm in my late 20s, I really related to Billy's frustrations as the eldest child being lumped with a lot of responsibility and things not being fair to the eldest child, but still having a fierce love for your loved ones. However, Billy goes through great character development and is a role model to younger readers.
Speaking of younger readers, the only reason I didn't give a 5-star rating was that the book didn't grip me in an "I-can't-put-this- book-down" kinda way, and that is probably due to me not being the target audience. However, I reckon that younger me would have loved this book as a quirky cross between a Harry Potter meets Matilda type of book.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the Bookseller's values of "Read for as long as you like. No one asked to buy." Something I would want to have painted on the sign of my own bookshop.
Mellor as a beautiful writing style that captures the splendour of the magical and fantastical goings on of the imagination and I highlighted so many great quotes which I won't share here to avoid spoilers.
Even though I'm in my late 20s, I really related to Billy's frustrations as the eldest child being lumped with a lot of responsibility and things not being fair to the eldest child, but still having a fierce love for your loved ones. However, Billy goes through great character development and is a role model to younger readers.
Speaking of younger readers, the only reason I didn't give a 5-star rating was that the book didn't grip me in an "I-can't-put-this- book-down" kinda way, and that is probably due to me not being the target audience. However, I reckon that younger me would have loved this book as a quirky cross between a Harry Potter meets Matilda type of book.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the Bookseller's values of "Read for as long as you like. No one asked to buy." Something I would want to have painted on the sign of my own bookshop.
January 21, 2024
Evil is nothing but the weakling's word for superiority. I'm simply better than you.
I absolutely fell in love with The Grandest Bookshop in the World two years ago, but for some reason I was hesitant to read this prequel. I think it's because I have a weird belief that prequels are never as good as the original series. But I absolutely adored this book! Mellor's writing has improved so much in that short time, and I loved all the characters; they all felt super fleshed-out and realistic. I especially loved Kezia, who reminded me of myself; Mr Cole, who is a super well-written character and honestly super inspiring; and I especially loved Magnus Maximillian, our kooky villain who gave us that magnificent quote above.
While this book was undeniably better written than its predecessor, nothing can make me love it more than The Grandest Bookshop.
The fact that this series is so proudly Australian makes me love it even more, because I'm more familiar with Australian history than any other kind of history so I fell in love with this! Highly recommend!
I absolutely fell in love with The Grandest Bookshop in the World two years ago, but for some reason I was hesitant to read this prequel. I think it's because I have a weird belief that prequels are never as good as the original series. But I absolutely adored this book! Mellor's writing has improved so much in that short time, and I loved all the characters; they all felt super fleshed-out and realistic. I especially loved Kezia, who reminded me of myself; Mr Cole, who is a super well-written character and honestly super inspiring; and I especially loved Magnus Maximillian, our kooky villain who gave us that magnificent quote above.
While this book was undeniably better written than its predecessor, nothing can make me love it more than The Grandest Bookshop.
The fact that this series is so proudly Australian makes me love it even more, because I'm more familiar with Australian history than any other kind of history so I fell in love with this! Highly recommend!
May 6, 2024
The Bookseller’s Apprentice is the second (but first written) of Amelia Mellor’s middle-grade books set in Cole’s Book Arcade, Melbourne in the late 1800s. They are not linked, so you can read one without the other.
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I loved this one much more than ‘The Grandest Bookshop in the World’ for a number of reasons. Mainly because it didn’t centre around a child’s death- but also the riddles were fun, and it wasn’t as ‘dark’ as the other. There is plenty of educational history woven into the story, about the ‘temporary’ (there for years!) markets in Melbourne, and life on the goldfields during the gold rush. There’s great exposure of family life during these years - including having 8 siblings and having to leave school to find a job at age 12.
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Full of adventure, suspense and riddles- this is a great read (or audio listen) for kids or adults who are adventurous and love an immersive story.
Again, the authors note at the end with the explanation of the history, was just the icing on the cake.
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I loved this one much more than ‘The Grandest Bookshop in the World’ for a number of reasons. Mainly because it didn’t centre around a child’s death- but also the riddles were fun, and it wasn’t as ‘dark’ as the other. There is plenty of educational history woven into the story, about the ‘temporary’ (there for years!) markets in Melbourne, and life on the goldfields during the gold rush. There’s great exposure of family life during these years - including having 8 siblings and having to leave school to find a job at age 12.
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Full of adventure, suspense and riddles- this is a great read (or audio listen) for kids or adults who are adventurous and love an immersive story.
Again, the authors note at the end with the explanation of the history, was just the icing on the cake.
September 27, 2022
I hadn't read the first book of the series but I certainly want to now! I read the blurb and was quite intrigued by the concept and then within a day I had pored over the rest. What a delightful read! I loved the use of language and words that aren't very common, I loved the puzzles and riddles, I loved the way that the author has used characters names that were actually real people and a setting that was very real in its day. I was picturing the Queen Victoria Market in my mind when reading through it and appreciate the snapshots of history woven through the book.
Much better than a lot of children's/young adult books on the shelf.
I have given an honest review in exchange for the temporary copy of the book. My thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher.
Much better than a lot of children's/young adult books on the shelf.
I have given an honest review in exchange for the temporary copy of the book. My thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher.
August 20, 2023
Nagyon vártam már, hogy magyarul is legyen ez a könyv, és elég hamar el is olvastam. Bevallom, annyira nem tetszett, mint A világ legnagyobb könyvesháza, mert túl hosszúnak éreztem a bevezetést, ezért inkább csak 4,5 csillag lenne, de mikor elkezdődött a párbaj, onnantól már nagyon izgalmas volt. Addig sem volt unalmas, sőt, érdekes volt a piaci élet, Billy sorsa, a Billy-Kezia párost meg egyenesen imádtam, érdekes volt figyelni a jóval fiatalabb Mr. Cole-t, de a másik könyvhöz képest picit lassúbb volt az eleje.
A fodítónak most is nehéz dolga lehetett, de ismét elképesztően jól oldotta meg a sok-sok rejtvény magyarítását, le a kalappal előtte!
Mindenetre remélem, a szerző sok-sok ilyen jó könyvet ír még.
A fodítónak most is nehéz dolga lehetett, de ismét elképesztően jól oldotta meg a sok-sok rejtvény magyarítását, le a kalappal előtte!
Mindenetre remélem, a szerző sok-sok ilyen jó könyvet ír még.
April 8, 2023
The book-sellers apprentice took me 2 days to finished, I was hooked on it and the words used in the book made it alluring to read. I didn’t really like the fact how it was set in Australia, there isn’t anything wrong with it, for me since I am from there and currently living there, it made me cringe a lil. Not sure why though. The book was full of action and very entertaining, the fight scenes and everything was describe perfectly. I like the book cover, I find it very adorable. Hopefully in the future I could hand this book to my children and let them have a read at it to see if they enjoy it like I did.
May 31, 2024
Another great book by Amelia Mellor!
This sequel to "The Grandest Bookshop in the World" is actually a prequel, set years before the first, when Mr Cole used to sell his books from a market stall in the middle of Melbourne. The story centres around his first and longest employee, young William Pyke (whom readers of the first book may recognise as future store manager Mr Pyke), his new friend Kezia, and their battle with returning villain Obscurosmith, Magnus Maximillian.
If you (and your child) enjoyed the magical challenges and puzzles of the first book, and the little history about the real characters and locations at the end of the book, you'll love this one.
This sequel to "The Grandest Bookshop in the World" is actually a prequel, set years before the first, when Mr Cole used to sell his books from a market stall in the middle of Melbourne. The story centres around his first and longest employee, young William Pyke (whom readers of the first book may recognise as future store manager Mr Pyke), his new friend Kezia, and their battle with returning villain Obscurosmith, Magnus Maximillian.
If you (and your child) enjoyed the magical challenges and puzzles of the first book, and the little history about the real characters and locations at the end of the book, you'll love this one.
December 15, 2024
I found this book on special at The Warehouse, I really liked the lovely production, a gorgeous, embossed hardback, it called to me. I didn't realise it was the second book in the series, but that didn't matter, I really enjoyed the story. Billy is a cheeky street urchin, poverty-stricken and desperate to become a bookseller. He encounters the sinister Obscurosmith, a terror of a man and is warned off getting involved with him and his dastardly ways by a young girl. Thus an alliance is formed, one which will take done the powers of evil and try to save his parents from poverty and gain him the job of his dreams.
Great fun, a good old-fashioned adventure. Loved it.
Great fun, a good old-fashioned adventure. Loved it.
January 22, 2025
Once again, I cannot tell how much of my enjoyment of this book was due to having grown up with Coles Funny Picture Books and hearing about the Cole's Book Arcade. But I very much enjoyed this prequel to The Grandest Bookshop in the World.
Mr. Cole is operating from a stall at Paddy's Market, his dreams of a special bookshop in the future. This story is about Billy Pyke at 12 years of age, who went on to work for Cole's Book Arcade for over fifty years. I know if I had that job, I would not want to leave either!
This is a story of magic and mayhem, of a magical duel to thwart the evil intentions of the Obscurosmith. With puzzles and riddles to solve, this is my kind of children's book.
Mr. Cole is operating from a stall at Paddy's Market, his dreams of a special bookshop in the future. This story is about Billy Pyke at 12 years of age, who went on to work for Cole's Book Arcade for over fifty years. I know if I had that job, I would not want to leave either!
This is a story of magic and mayhem, of a magical duel to thwart the evil intentions of the Obscurosmith. With puzzles and riddles to solve, this is my kind of children's book.
October 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this read and got too little sleep while reading it. Growing up in North Melbourne and visiting Victoria Market, I could imagine the market as the main characters experienced it. The strong historical basis of the story added interest and richness.
Billy Pyke felt overwhelmed and taken for granted by the responsibilities his parents put on him. Shopping, caring for his six siblings, and now having to work to help the family survive. Determined to avoid working in the nail factory, he wins a job in a second-hand book stall. That job changed his life.
Recommended for readers aged ten years and older, including adults looking for a story that grabs them.
Billy Pyke felt overwhelmed and taken for granted by the responsibilities his parents put on him. Shopping, caring for his six siblings, and now having to work to help the family survive. Determined to avoid working in the nail factory, he wins a job in a second-hand book stall. That job changed his life.
Recommended for readers aged ten years and older, including adults looking for a story that grabs them.
February 11, 2023
Adored reading this book, it was an easy read but so so enjoyable!! Loved the characters and the wordplay, and I loved the magical realism, it was woven so effortlessly into story I didn't feel the need to question it ever.
Only reason this book isn't five stars is because of the action. I found the heavy action parts typically left me a little lost of a bit.
Other than that, a hearty recommendation
Only reason this book isn't five stars is because of the action. I found the heavy action parts typically left me a little lost of a bit.
Other than that, a hearty recommendation
March 4, 2023
It’s 1871 and Billy Pyke is the oldest of 7 children and is sent out to work, at 12. He gets a job with Mr Cole who runs the bookshop at Paddy’s Market. He makes friends with Kezia who warns him about the sinister magician, the Obscurosmith. But one night the Obscurosmith goes too far and Billy decides to stop him.
May 13, 2023
I didn't like this as much as the first as it felt it leaned slightly more historical than fantastical, however it was still a splendid read having all the basic elements I enjoyed the from the first.
It was good and heartbreaking to find out more about Mr Cole and I did get to find more about the Obsurosmith...kinda. Still wondering if he is even human.
It was good and heartbreaking to find out more about Mr Cole and I did get to find more about the Obsurosmith...kinda. Still wondering if he is even human.
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