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The Time Cavern
THE MYSTERY BEGAN A HUNDRED YEARS AGO. IT WAS NEVER SOLVED. NOW IT'S HAPPENING AGAIN.
Ten-year-old Aaron moved from the big city to the country where he met a know-it-all farm girl who said his house is haunted. The Amish boy who had lived there before disappeared after claiming to hear the wind call his name. Aaron knew she was just trying to scare him--she was doing a good job too because the night before Aaron heard the wind call his name.
Ten-year-old Aaron moved from the big city to the country where he met a know-it-all farm girl who said his house is haunted. The Amish boy who had lived there before disappeared after claiming to hear the wind call his name. Aaron knew she was just trying to scare him--she was doing a good job too because the night before Aaron heard the wind call his name.
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First published January 1, 2008
15 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Todd A. Fonseca
3 books69 followersGrowing up in the northern Indiana city of Mishawaka, Todd A Fonseca learned of the Amish culture through frequent family Sunday drives to rural Nappanee Indiana. This small town is home to a large Amish community. Those visiting the area experience the Amish through the town’s shops and nearby Amish Acres.
During these early years, Fonseca’s interest in the arts began with music. He became an accomplished accordionist participating in national competitions leading to a #4 placement in 1983. Fonseca has also performed in New York’s Carnegie Recital Hall.
His high school career added drama to his resume. Having the role of curmudgeon Mr. Hassler in The Pajama Game, led to being cast as the lead in the production Jack and the Beanstalk.
At Marquette University, Fonseca received a Biomedical Engineering graduate degree. His professional career includes numerous positions in medical device companies. He is currently a senior clinical research director for a company researching deep brain stimulation for treating conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease.
It is this eclectic mix of experiences with the Amish, the Arts, and Science that Fonseca has drawn upon to create The Time Cavern.
For more information visit Todd A Fonseca’s website www.thetimecavern.com.
During these early years, Fonseca’s interest in the arts began with music. He became an accomplished accordionist participating in national competitions leading to a #4 placement in 1983. Fonseca has also performed in New York’s Carnegie Recital Hall.
His high school career added drama to his resume. Having the role of curmudgeon Mr. Hassler in The Pajama Game, led to being cast as the lead in the production Jack and the Beanstalk.
At Marquette University, Fonseca received a Biomedical Engineering graduate degree. His professional career includes numerous positions in medical device companies. He is currently a senior clinical research director for a company researching deep brain stimulation for treating conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease.
It is this eclectic mix of experiences with the Amish, the Arts, and Science that Fonseca has drawn upon to create The Time Cavern.
For more information visit Todd A Fonseca’s website www.thetimecavern.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 10, 2009
Delightful, wholesome, and intelligent reading for young and not-so-young adults. I remain charmed and delighted after finishing Todd Fonseca’s The Time Cavern. As other reviewers point out, this is the story of two youngsters, a brilliant boy who has recently relocated from the city to the country and an adventurous farm girl. Tom Sawyer-style, they embark upon adventures that lead them to very unexpected places. I don’t want to reveal more of the story, though the title reveals that a time cavern is involved. It’s a great read, and the ending is an amazing surprise.
This isn’t simply a sci-fi thriller, though both terms describe it. The author sets the tale in Amish farm country, unfamiliar territory to this reader. The gentle Amish culture provides a backdrop for the story, adding a haunting dimension. It’s also farm country––more unfamiliar territory for me. The only thing I knew about corn was how to eat it; the story teaches us about threshing and combines and other rural mysteries as part of the farm cycle.
Charming is the only word I can think of to describe this book. The Amish element, the two cute kids, their families, the old barn, and, of course, what they discover in the woods is a compelling blend. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
The values dimension of this book must be emphasized. When I was in graduate school in counseling, we counselors-to-be would sit around with our professors and talk about the decline in social values that we saw in the mass culture around us. We’d wring our hands and moan, “What’s it all about?” The state of mass culture has gotten more alarming since my school days. This book embodies personal health. It stars two bright, inquisitive kids from intact families. Both families have moms and dads devoted to strong and positive parenting. They know where there kids are. Or at least they try to: these kids are a handful. The book weaves its spell with no violence, monsters, explosions, strong language––and not a single vampire! I’d recommend it to all YA fans and their parents. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Stepping Off the Edge Learning & Living Spiritual Practice
This isn’t simply a sci-fi thriller, though both terms describe it. The author sets the tale in Amish farm country, unfamiliar territory to this reader. The gentle Amish culture provides a backdrop for the story, adding a haunting dimension. It’s also farm country––more unfamiliar territory for me. The only thing I knew about corn was how to eat it; the story teaches us about threshing and combines and other rural mysteries as part of the farm cycle.
Charming is the only word I can think of to describe this book. The Amish element, the two cute kids, their families, the old barn, and, of course, what they discover in the woods is a compelling blend. I’m looking forward to the sequel.
The values dimension of this book must be emphasized. When I was in graduate school in counseling, we counselors-to-be would sit around with our professors and talk about the decline in social values that we saw in the mass culture around us. We’d wring our hands and moan, “What’s it all about?” The state of mass culture has gotten more alarming since my school days. This book embodies personal health. It stars two bright, inquisitive kids from intact families. Both families have moms and dads devoted to strong and positive parenting. They know where there kids are. Or at least they try to: these kids are a handful. The book weaves its spell with no violence, monsters, explosions, strong language––and not a single vampire! I’d recommend it to all YA fans and their parents. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Stepping Off the Edge Learning & Living Spiritual Practice
November 8, 2009
One word comes to mind after reading Todd Fonseca's Time Cavern...charming. It is a wholesome fun tale with a lot of heart.
While I love YA books, the audience of this book is a bit younger than I'm used to. The main character is 10-years old. I thought this might make the book a bit boring for a 40-something but on the contrary. I was engrossed.
This book reminds me of Scooby-Do and the Hardy boys and I love the way Todd weaves the life lessons and science lessons seemlessly in his book without dragging down the story...in fact they enhance the story.
If you have a nephew, niece, grand child, of child of your own in the 8 - 12 age group ... Get this for them for Christmas - trust me you'll thank me!
Robin (The Crown Conspiracy | Avempartha | Nyphron Rising)
While I love YA books, the audience of this book is a bit younger than I'm used to. The main character is 10-years old. I thought this might make the book a bit boring for a 40-something but on the contrary. I was engrossed.
This book reminds me of Scooby-Do and the Hardy boys and I love the way Todd weaves the life lessons and science lessons seemlessly in his book without dragging down the story...in fact they enhance the story.
If you have a nephew, niece, grand child, of child of your own in the 8 - 12 age group ... Get this for them for Christmas - trust me you'll thank me!
Robin (The Crown Conspiracy | Avempartha | Nyphron Rising)
February 10, 2009
On the surface, “The Time Cavern,” appears to be an average, YA Sci-Fi adventure tale. The plot initially simplistic: A young boy (Aaron) and his tomboy girlfriend (Jake), discover an ancient mystery of the universe, a time machine. Yet, the story is more than a fiction-adventure for young boys (and girls). It is also a learning tool. For, nestled within the pages of his story, Todd Fonseca subtly weaves an abundance of life-lessons.
I was pleasantly surprised to find “The Time Cavern” overflowing with factoids involving astronomy, science, history, religious acceptance, and family tolerance...all intertwined into an intriguing tale of mystery, discovery and suspense.
One of my favorite chapters involved a brief, but heartfelt, father-son talk...climaxing with ten-year-old Aaron’s realization that he indeed needed to take responsibility in his being grounded. Sprinkled throughout the book, precious gems of knowledge and wisdom are as abundant as the hidden clues propelling Aaron and Jake’s quest to solve the ancient mystery.
I highly recommend “The Time Cavern,” for parents that are looking for an intellectual story that neither talks over the heads of its readers, or talks down to them. It is easy to tell from Todd Fonseca’s tale, that he possesses the wisdom of the ancients, and the soul of eternal youth.
Dee Marie ~ author of “Sons of Avalon: Merlin’s Prophecy”
I was pleasantly surprised to find “The Time Cavern” overflowing with factoids involving astronomy, science, history, religious acceptance, and family tolerance...all intertwined into an intriguing tale of mystery, discovery and suspense.
One of my favorite chapters involved a brief, but heartfelt, father-son talk...climaxing with ten-year-old Aaron’s realization that he indeed needed to take responsibility in his being grounded. Sprinkled throughout the book, precious gems of knowledge and wisdom are as abundant as the hidden clues propelling Aaron and Jake’s quest to solve the ancient mystery.
I highly recommend “The Time Cavern,” for parents that are looking for an intellectual story that neither talks over the heads of its readers, or talks down to them. It is easy to tell from Todd Fonseca’s tale, that he possesses the wisdom of the ancients, and the soul of eternal youth.
Dee Marie ~ author of “Sons of Avalon: Merlin’s Prophecy”
November 8, 2008
Todd A. Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" is a fantastic read for children and adults alike. Todd has a knack for making the characters realistic and likeable, whether they be Aaron's parents or the main characters, 10 year old friends Aaron and Jake. I laughed many times while reading the book at the way Todd skillfully phrased certain things.
For the adult, the read takes you back to a time when the world is filled with adventure and mystery, begging to be discovered.
For the young reader, both boys and girls would appreciate the excitement of this book, certainly inspiring them to explore the wonders of our world beyond the television.
The Time Cavern is definitely an enjoyable page-turning read and could easily be turned into a series of books. It incorporates the various degrees of friendship and trust, and makes us able to appreciate what we learned in school...ie: history, the Amish culture, farming corn, constellations, and uncovering mysteries through the wonders of science.
I could go on but I don't want to spoil it! Enjoy!!!
J.R. Reardon
author of "Confidential Communications"
www.jrreardonconfidentialcommunicatio...
For the adult, the read takes you back to a time when the world is filled with adventure and mystery, begging to be discovered.
For the young reader, both boys and girls would appreciate the excitement of this book, certainly inspiring them to explore the wonders of our world beyond the television.
The Time Cavern is definitely an enjoyable page-turning read and could easily be turned into a series of books. It incorporates the various degrees of friendship and trust, and makes us able to appreciate what we learned in school...ie: history, the Amish culture, farming corn, constellations, and uncovering mysteries through the wonders of science.
I could go on but I don't want to spoil it! Enjoy!!!
J.R. Reardon
author of "Confidential Communications"
www.jrreardonconfidentialcommunicatio...
July 30, 2021
Great book for science fiction loving middle schoolers. It kept me guessing right up to the end.
March 28, 2015
This book transported me back in time to when I was an avid 10-year old reader, which is both ironic and apt since it features 10-year old time travelers. But I’ve gotten ahead of myself (yet more time traveling) as I pen this review about a most wonderful young adult novel – The Time Cavern by Todd A. Fonseca. I typically do not read much fiction geared towards pre-teens and those in their early teenage years, having left that period of my life decades behind. Prior to The Time Cavern I suppose the last book I read that fit this bill was the first Harry Potter book. There was a tiny bit of buzz about Ms. Rowling’s wizardry series (perhaps you’ve heard of it too) so I decided to check out Part I and found it to be an enjoyable read, though it did not inspire me to pick up additional titles in the saga. I appreciate the ultimate achievement of the Harry Potter books beyond making Rowling a gazillionaire and launching a number of movie star careers. Millions of young people in their formative years who may not otherwise have been turned on by reading in a day and age where one’s phone provides as much entertainment as an arcade decided to check out a book (and then another and then another) because tremendous buzz made it a trendy thing to do. No doubt a good many of them moved beyond the Potter books and became lifelong readers, just as the Jules Verne books I read as a grade school kid sparked my addiction to books, not only as a vociferous reader but also as a writer. Young people lucky enough to stumble into The Time Cavern will be similarly affected. In it, a bright, curious, mechanically inclined boy named Aaron moves to a new house in a rural area with his family. Initially he feels like a fish out of water but his acclimation to a new home is sped up when he befriends Jake, a classmate who is not crazy about her real name “Jacqueline” or about being passive and stereotypically “girlish”. She has a spirit nearly as adventurous as Aaron’s, which is a good thing because they soon find themselves on an adventure upon discovery of a century old diary page that eventually leads them to a most extraordinary tree. Throughout the course of this briskly told tale Aaron and Jen become detectives on the trail of a case that is simultaneously ancient and futuristic. Their interest in scholastics, particularly science, serves them well as they unearth clues in a number of inventive ways, including a most ingenious use of a tanning bed. The backdrop to their caper (which also put me in mind of the Dan Brown blockbusters but featuring considerably younger protagonists and minus the violent aspect of adult thrillers) is an Amish community, people who Aaron comes to learn have basically suspended time with their lifestyle choices rather than joining the progressive march of technology. Whether it’s a trip to a cornfield or to a planetarium, each experience throughout the narrative is learned from and the knowledge is used to propel Aaron and Jake’s progress into uncharted territory. Fonseca cleverly intertwines the following of time honored traditions with science fiction elements to generate an enthralling plot that is sure to lure any young reader away from his wii game system. As this book shows, kids today may be considerably different than kids of even just one generation prior, but what kids of all generations and all ages have always been drawn to is the opportunity to embark on a thrilling adventure. The Time Cavern showcases masterful storytelling that will immediately be passed forward to one of my nephews. I highly recommend picking up a copy for the young explorers that you love.
December 6, 2008
pleasant, informative, fun
Todd Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" is a story of how a 10 year old boy named Aaron, freshly transplanted from Minneapolis to the Pennsylvania Amish countryside and his new friend Jake (a know-it-all girl something like Hermione Granger without the wand) stumble across a hidden time machine and find out how it sparked a spooky legend of a young Amish boy disappearing a century before.
Fonseca tells the story mostly from Aaron's point of view. His story hits on some YA-friendly topics: moving to a new city, making new friends, dealing with younger brothers, asking for independence, making mistakes, and exploration. Lots of exploration, which is good, because the reader ends up learning a bit about corn combines, the Internet, the Amish way of life, ultraviolet lights, and railroad tracks. Lots of other stuff too, which should make the book interesting to 10 year old boys.
Fonseca has Aaron and Jake put into a lot of problem solving situations as they attempt to unravel the mystery of the missing boy. I found myself rooting for them as they struggle to put the clues together.
In a sense, there's two time travels in the book: the 100-year trip that the Amish boy took, and the "time travel" that Aaron took when his family moved into horse-buggy and buttonless Amish country. It gave a nice parallel and theme to the book: I got to see how both Aarons dealt with time differences--one going back to the past, and one coming up to the future.
"The Time Cavern" ends with the promise of future adventures of Aaron and Jake, and I'm looking forward to traveling through time with them again.
Todd Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" is a story of how a 10 year old boy named Aaron, freshly transplanted from Minneapolis to the Pennsylvania Amish countryside and his new friend Jake (a know-it-all girl something like Hermione Granger without the wand) stumble across a hidden time machine and find out how it sparked a spooky legend of a young Amish boy disappearing a century before.
Fonseca tells the story mostly from Aaron's point of view. His story hits on some YA-friendly topics: moving to a new city, making new friends, dealing with younger brothers, asking for independence, making mistakes, and exploration. Lots of exploration, which is good, because the reader ends up learning a bit about corn combines, the Internet, the Amish way of life, ultraviolet lights, and railroad tracks. Lots of other stuff too, which should make the book interesting to 10 year old boys.
Fonseca has Aaron and Jake put into a lot of problem solving situations as they attempt to unravel the mystery of the missing boy. I found myself rooting for them as they struggle to put the clues together.
In a sense, there's two time travels in the book: the 100-year trip that the Amish boy took, and the "time travel" that Aaron took when his family moved into horse-buggy and buttonless Amish country. It gave a nice parallel and theme to the book: I got to see how both Aarons dealt with time differences--one going back to the past, and one coming up to the future.
"The Time Cavern" ends with the promise of future adventures of Aaron and Jake, and I'm looking forward to traveling through time with them again.
December 9, 2011
1. Science Fiction
2. A centuries-old mystery was left unsolved, and now ten year old Aaron finds himself in the midst of it! At first, Aaron thought Jake was only pulling his leg about a boy who lived in his house years ago, and who disappeared without a trace after some peculiar phenomenon. It is not long, however, before Aaron begins to think Jake may be telling the truth…
3. Critique:
a. The strength of this book is the story line
b. This is a gripping and exciting novel that blends not only science fiction but also some historical elements as well, due to the time-travel that occurs within the book. The elements of the story are perfect for readers who are just beginning to get into chapter books. Both boys and girls would be interested due to the mysterious nature of the book, everyone loves a scary story!
c. Right off the bat, the book draws the reader in with an immediately tense situation as Aaron is camping. By page four the reader’s heart rate has increased with little Aaron’s as we wait to find out what is making the noise outside of his tent, and we admire him as he bravely goes outside to investigate this noise. With no one living on the property for years, who would have made a path or be walking about? Join Aaron as he discovers more than he ever imagined about his new country home.
4. This book can be used as a class read aloud over time, or as individual reading. The story elements are vivid and students can easily point out the supporting elements and the climax of the story. This would be a good book to use to illustrate detail and suspense.
2. A centuries-old mystery was left unsolved, and now ten year old Aaron finds himself in the midst of it! At first, Aaron thought Jake was only pulling his leg about a boy who lived in his house years ago, and who disappeared without a trace after some peculiar phenomenon. It is not long, however, before Aaron begins to think Jake may be telling the truth…
3. Critique:
a. The strength of this book is the story line
b. This is a gripping and exciting novel that blends not only science fiction but also some historical elements as well, due to the time-travel that occurs within the book. The elements of the story are perfect for readers who are just beginning to get into chapter books. Both boys and girls would be interested due to the mysterious nature of the book, everyone loves a scary story!
c. Right off the bat, the book draws the reader in with an immediately tense situation as Aaron is camping. By page four the reader’s heart rate has increased with little Aaron’s as we wait to find out what is making the noise outside of his tent, and we admire him as he bravely goes outside to investigate this noise. With no one living on the property for years, who would have made a path or be walking about? Join Aaron as he discovers more than he ever imagined about his new country home.
4. This book can be used as a class read aloud over time, or as individual reading. The story elements are vivid and students can easily point out the supporting elements and the climax of the story. This would be a good book to use to illustrate detail and suspense.
June 17, 2009
While camping in the backyard of his new home, ten-year-old Aaron Logan thinks he hears someone call his name. As he tries to find the source, he comes across an old barn at the back of the property. In the barn is a trunk containing curious objects. Aaron’s new friend Jake informs him that the farm the Logans now own is haunted by an Amish boy, also named Aaron, who disappeared from this same farm a hundred years ago. Discovery of a map and a page from the missing boy’s diary, launch Aaron and Jake on a quest to figure out what happened to the boy.
The Time Cavern is a well-written story blending mystery and fantasy in an Amish setting. Author, Todd Fonseca, provides a welcome balance of narrative description and dialogue which provides readers with a strong sense of place and great character development. Both Jake and Aaron are quite articulate for their age, but it’s necessary in this story because the mystery solving requires intelligence and resourcefulness, not to mention bravery.
Time travel is commonplace in children’s books and given this book’s title I thought this would be a time travel story. In a way it is, but with a really interesting twist. One of the most compelling things about The Time Cavern is the suspense created by the possibility of time travel for our heroes. Kudos to Fonseca for creating a satisfying ending, yet opening the door for new adventures.
The Time Cavern is a well-written story blending mystery and fantasy in an Amish setting. Author, Todd Fonseca, provides a welcome balance of narrative description and dialogue which provides readers with a strong sense of place and great character development. Both Jake and Aaron are quite articulate for their age, but it’s necessary in this story because the mystery solving requires intelligence and resourcefulness, not to mention bravery.
Time travel is commonplace in children’s books and given this book’s title I thought this would be a time travel story. In a way it is, but with a really interesting twist. One of the most compelling things about The Time Cavern is the suspense created by the possibility of time travel for our heroes. Kudos to Fonseca for creating a satisfying ending, yet opening the door for new adventures.
April 4, 2012
I realize this book was written more for a young adult audience, but it kept popping up whenever I searched for new time travel e-books for my kindle. So I decided to give it a try. I must admit that I was pleasantly suprised. The story is engaging and entertaining, even for an adult reader, and I found the characters to be interesting and intelligent. I will say that I was a little disappointed that Aaron and Jake never had the opportunity to travel through time. As the story progressed, I kept wondering where they would go once they figured out how the cavern worked. However, this first book in the "Time Cavern" series is more about the discovery rather than the adventure of time travel. So now I'm left to eagerly await the next book in the series so I can see where the cavern will take our young heroes. From the sample chapter that was included at the end of book one, it looks like it will be an adventure indeed.
December 9, 2009
Presumably, this is targeted at pre- and early-teens. Also, it appears to be the first in an open-ended series (assuming it sells enough to endure).
If it is a series, I'd rate it higher. If not, I'd rate it lower.
It spends a lot of time in establishing and setting up. The payoff at the end seems abbreviated, if not a series, or a big teaser for the series.
The ending was good, it is complete, and moves quickly. I like books that end this way (complete, yet open) and don't feel sequels are needed, when done right (which I feel this is). From the write up, where I got the idea to read the book, it implies it is to be a series.
The vocabulary is a bit much for early-/pre-teens occasionally, but other than that, well suited. It covers some scientific facts as part of the story, which never hurts. For an adult, it isn't a bad read either.
If it is a series, I'd rate it higher. If not, I'd rate it lower.
It spends a lot of time in establishing and setting up. The payoff at the end seems abbreviated, if not a series, or a big teaser for the series.
The ending was good, it is complete, and moves quickly. I like books that end this way (complete, yet open) and don't feel sequels are needed, when done right (which I feel this is). From the write up, where I got the idea to read the book, it implies it is to be a series.
The vocabulary is a bit much for early-/pre-teens occasionally, but other than that, well suited. It covers some scientific facts as part of the story, which never hurts. For an adult, it isn't a bad read either.
April 14, 2012
What a great, unique book! The writing was polished, the subject matter was engaging, and the learning was interesting and integral to the story line.
I should mention that I received a free (signed!) copy of this book from Mr. Fonseca as the result of a Time Travel group giveaway. Also, I debated about classifying the book as children's or young adult; in the end, I used the protagonist's age (10) as the deciding factor.
My one issue with the book was that it took so long to get to the titular time cavern. However, the book does perfectly set up the coming series!
I should mention that I received a free (signed!) copy of this book from Mr. Fonseca as the result of a Time Travel group giveaway. Also, I debated about classifying the book as children's or young adult; in the end, I used the protagonist's age (10) as the deciding factor.
My one issue with the book was that it took so long to get to the titular time cavern. However, the book does perfectly set up the coming series!
December 22, 2009
The time Cavern was awesome. I read it quickly but enjoyed it a lot. I am really looking forward to the sequel. I like stories that have adventure and good characters. I will recommend this book to my friends.
October 5, 2019
Missing content.
This sounded like an interesting book. However, it didn't download properly. It downloaded the title page then skipped to the last page with that authors photo. I deleted the book and tried to reload it. It said I had already purchased it. I pushed the open button, it opened to the same missing pages. Needless to say I'm very disappointed.😕
This sounded like an interesting book. However, it didn't download properly. It downloaded the title page then skipped to the last page with that authors photo. I deleted the book and tried to reload it. It said I had already purchased it. I pushed the open button, it opened to the same missing pages. Needless to say I'm very disappointed.😕
October 26, 2009
I just loved this story
I know that this is a book recommended for 9-12 year olds, I’m an adult, and I thoroughly enjoyed every page of this story. Not just from trying to appreciate it from a young person’s perspective, but simply as a reader. The author, Todd Fonseca, has a wonderful gift for storytelling and he obviously put a lot of love into crafting this tale and bringing his characters to life. They seem as real as any characters I’ve ever read. There are many touching moments; the author has a perfect grasp of the dynamics within a young family and the motivations and thoughts of a young boy pushing the boundaries to gain some independence and his desire to explore his new surroundings.
The plot of The Time Cavern is very engaging and had me rapidly turning pages eager to get to the core of the mystery presented. The young protagonists stumble across the story of an Amish child who went missing a hundred years ago, and find clues that might relate to the missing boy. Some spooky and supernatural events lead them to a strange place that they cannot resist investigating. What unfolds is an enticing, exciting, slightly scary secret place that is at once highly advanced and possibly otherwordly.
The Time Cavern is a wonderful adventure story that allows the reader to really feel for and identify with the characters. I can certainly remember what it was like to be that age, eager to explore, my mind rife with imagination. The mystery of The Time Cavern is clever, well-thought out, nicely researched in its details, and leaves me wanting more. I would love to read more of this story, so I hope a sequel will be forthcoming. Very well-written & highly recommended to readers of all ages!
Rai Aren, co-author of Secret of the Sands
I know that this is a book recommended for 9-12 year olds, I’m an adult, and I thoroughly enjoyed every page of this story. Not just from trying to appreciate it from a young person’s perspective, but simply as a reader. The author, Todd Fonseca, has a wonderful gift for storytelling and he obviously put a lot of love into crafting this tale and bringing his characters to life. They seem as real as any characters I’ve ever read. There are many touching moments; the author has a perfect grasp of the dynamics within a young family and the motivations and thoughts of a young boy pushing the boundaries to gain some independence and his desire to explore his new surroundings.
The plot of The Time Cavern is very engaging and had me rapidly turning pages eager to get to the core of the mystery presented. The young protagonists stumble across the story of an Amish child who went missing a hundred years ago, and find clues that might relate to the missing boy. Some spooky and supernatural events lead them to a strange place that they cannot resist investigating. What unfolds is an enticing, exciting, slightly scary secret place that is at once highly advanced and possibly otherwordly.
The Time Cavern is a wonderful adventure story that allows the reader to really feel for and identify with the characters. I can certainly remember what it was like to be that age, eager to explore, my mind rife with imagination. The mystery of The Time Cavern is clever, well-thought out, nicely researched in its details, and leaves me wanting more. I would love to read more of this story, so I hope a sequel will be forthcoming. Very well-written & highly recommended to readers of all ages!
Rai Aren, co-author of Secret of the Sands
February 22, 2010
The Time Cavern is a concise, well-written, and endearing story. It's highly suitable for young adult readers: it was mature and clever, yet not overly complex. As an adult, I also enjoyed the book quite a bit -- it reminded me of the Encyclopedia Brown books I used to read when I was a kid, where the hero won the day through intellect and keen observation.
The story is one of exploration and friendship, as Aaron and Jake investigate the source of mysterious voices on the wind, and become entangled in the associated legend of an Amish boy who disappeared one hundred years ago. The story takes place in the quiet farmlands of Amish country, and Aaron learns about the Amish as he plays junior detective. The two friends' adventures are challenged by everything from the rural expansiveness of the country (how does a ten year old kid get all the way into town to look up a census report?) to various riddles involving chemistry, astronomy, mechanics, and history. While the plot might seem a bit obvious to an adult reader, there are definite twists to keep younger audiences enthralled. The characters are well defined and extremely likable, and reading the book invoked a feeling of tense exploration, just like what Aaron and Jake must have felt as they first entered the Time Cavern.
In a nutshell: wonderful, creative, and inspiring!
Character: 5
Creativity: 5
Plot: 4
Setting / Descriptions: 5
Entertainment: 5
Suitability to Audience: 5
Overall rating: 5 stars
An additional note for time-travel enthusiasts (I'm one myself, having written my own time travel novel) -- the Time Cavern introduces us to what might just be the most original time machine concept ever - not to give anything away, but if you're a nut about time-travel, this is worth for that alone.
The story is one of exploration and friendship, as Aaron and Jake investigate the source of mysterious voices on the wind, and become entangled in the associated legend of an Amish boy who disappeared one hundred years ago. The story takes place in the quiet farmlands of Amish country, and Aaron learns about the Amish as he plays junior detective. The two friends' adventures are challenged by everything from the rural expansiveness of the country (how does a ten year old kid get all the way into town to look up a census report?) to various riddles involving chemistry, astronomy, mechanics, and history. While the plot might seem a bit obvious to an adult reader, there are definite twists to keep younger audiences enthralled. The characters are well defined and extremely likable, and reading the book invoked a feeling of tense exploration, just like what Aaron and Jake must have felt as they first entered the Time Cavern.
In a nutshell: wonderful, creative, and inspiring!
Character: 5
Creativity: 5
Plot: 4
Setting / Descriptions: 5
Entertainment: 5
Suitability to Audience: 5
Overall rating: 5 stars
An additional note for time-travel enthusiasts (I'm one myself, having written my own time travel novel) -- the Time Cavern introduces us to what might just be the most original time machine concept ever - not to give anything away, but if you're a nut about time-travel, this is worth for that alone.
June 19, 2009
When the heart of a father and the mind of a talented writer join forces to create a story that will hold the interest of an inquisitive son, other young people fortunate enough to read the book will benefit. In many books I have favorite sentences underlined. In THE TIME CAVERN by Todd Fonseca I’ve marked full passages.
For example on page 56, the description of how each individual strand of silk on a corncob is pollinated to determine the color of each individual kernel of corn is educational, interesting, and entertaining. On page 106, the two main characters are in their school library to do an Internet Google search. Like many children, they wonder what Google means. So, they type into the search box, WHAT DOES GOOGLE MEAN? I’m not telling. Google it yourself or read this book. Fonseca has a three-part foundation throughout this story. He educates readers about interesting things while entertaining them.
This book was clearly written with one intelligent boy in mind, the author’s son. Fascinating that particular boy and inspiring him to turn each page was the goal. Fonseca is so terrifically successful that he compels us all to keep turning the pages until the conclusion of this spectacular tale where what we hope will happen does, but with an unexpected twist. THE TIME CAVERN will stimulate and captivate the imagination of young readers, girls and boys alike. I urge parents and teachers to add this book to their libraries.
For example on page 56, the description of how each individual strand of silk on a corncob is pollinated to determine the color of each individual kernel of corn is educational, interesting, and entertaining. On page 106, the two main characters are in their school library to do an Internet Google search. Like many children, they wonder what Google means. So, they type into the search box, WHAT DOES GOOGLE MEAN? I’m not telling. Google it yourself or read this book. Fonseca has a three-part foundation throughout this story. He educates readers about interesting things while entertaining them.
This book was clearly written with one intelligent boy in mind, the author’s son. Fascinating that particular boy and inspiring him to turn each page was the goal. Fonseca is so terrifically successful that he compels us all to keep turning the pages until the conclusion of this spectacular tale where what we hope will happen does, but with an unexpected twist. THE TIME CAVERN will stimulate and captivate the imagination of young readers, girls and boys alike. I urge parents and teachers to add this book to their libraries.
July 6, 2009
The Time Cavern,
Todd Fonseca.
It is a long time since I have read a book written specifically for children. I started this one with caution expecting it to be juvenile and perhaps a bit boring. Not a bit of it! I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The main story of the adventures of ten-year-old Aaron, and his new friend, a girl called Jake, tested my knowledge of science and astronomy. The putting together of the clues was cleverly done. I loved the idea that the kids went out and did their own research. I found the relationship between the parents and the two children refreshing. Under a caring parental voice, the children learnt their life lessons, as in chores that have to be done, and tolerance with those of differing viewpoints to mention just a few.
Aaron and Jake’s colourful adventure in opening up the secrets of the hidden cavern held plenty suspense and surprise, and the ending, though satisfying, made me wonder if there was more to come. Truly, a good read. Now, I’ll pass it on to my ten-year-old granddaughter. I’m sure she will enjoy it just as much as I did.
Todd Fonseca.
It is a long time since I have read a book written specifically for children. I started this one with caution expecting it to be juvenile and perhaps a bit boring. Not a bit of it! I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The main story of the adventures of ten-year-old Aaron, and his new friend, a girl called Jake, tested my knowledge of science and astronomy. The putting together of the clues was cleverly done. I loved the idea that the kids went out and did their own research. I found the relationship between the parents and the two children refreshing. Under a caring parental voice, the children learnt their life lessons, as in chores that have to be done, and tolerance with those of differing viewpoints to mention just a few.
Aaron and Jake’s colourful adventure in opening up the secrets of the hidden cavern held plenty suspense and surprise, and the ending, though satisfying, made me wonder if there was more to come. Truly, a good read. Now, I’ll pass it on to my ten-year-old granddaughter. I’m sure she will enjoy it just as much as I did.
March 31, 2009
Now only if I knew of a tree like the tree in "The Time Cavern." I must admit that I'm attracted to the idea of time travel and Tom Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" portrays a new twist on this mode of make-believe (or is it?) transport. I thought the description of how to get from here to there to be perfectly believable. Using the stars and light years—that only makes sense. How else would one travel in time?
The two main characters are likable and I also liked the idea of involving the Amish in the story. I thought this worked well with linking the present with the past as well as creating a variation of perspective from a unique way of life. Perhaps we'll see more of this in another installment?
The "Time Cavern" is an adventure mixed with riddle-solving scenarios that many kids of this age group will find appealing.
R. M.
The two main characters are likable and I also liked the idea of involving the Amish in the story. I thought this worked well with linking the present with the past as well as creating a variation of perspective from a unique way of life. Perhaps we'll see more of this in another installment?
The "Time Cavern" is an adventure mixed with riddle-solving scenarios that many kids of this age group will find appealing.
R. M.
March 24, 2010
My daughter and I fought over who would read The Time Cavern first. I lost. She loved it, and when it was my turn, I did too.
This is a fantastic book. Mr. Fonseca's carefully crafted mystery, characters and setting will capitvate readers of all ages right from the start. They'll enjoy getting to know Aaron and his friend and neighbor, Jake (short for Jacqueline); they'll be scared (in a good way) and intrigued immediately when Aaron camps outside his new home and hears his name in the wind; they'll be eagerly uncovering the mystery right along with Aaron and Jake; and they'll be learning about the solar system, another culture (the Amish), another lifestyle (farming), chemistry, and so much more without even realizing it. We can't wait for the next book to come out.
This is a fantastic book. Mr. Fonseca's carefully crafted mystery, characters and setting will capitvate readers of all ages right from the start. They'll enjoy getting to know Aaron and his friend and neighbor, Jake (short for Jacqueline); they'll be scared (in a good way) and intrigued immediately when Aaron camps outside his new home and hears his name in the wind; they'll be eagerly uncovering the mystery right along with Aaron and Jake; and they'll be learning about the solar system, another culture (the Amish), another lifestyle (farming), chemistry, and so much more without even realizing it. We can't wait for the next book to come out.
June 12, 2013
Ghosts, time travel, and life on the farm.
Aaron is new in town. He's the kid whose family just moved into the haunted old farm house. But as Aaron and his new friend, Jake, dig deeper, there's more to that old ghost story than anyone realized, and it's up to them to set the record straight on a mystery that has puzzled the community for a hundred years.
Told in an direct and engaging style, Fonseca manages to convey the quiet urgency of life in the country for adventure-hungry pre-teens, and stirs it up with equal helpings of mystery and science fiction. For readers who like The Hardy Boys, The Three Investigators, or Tom Swift, this should fit right in.
Aaron is new in town. He's the kid whose family just moved into the haunted old farm house. But as Aaron and his new friend, Jake, dig deeper, there's more to that old ghost story than anyone realized, and it's up to them to set the record straight on a mystery that has puzzled the community for a hundred years.
Told in an direct and engaging style, Fonseca manages to convey the quiet urgency of life in the country for adventure-hungry pre-teens, and stirs it up with equal helpings of mystery and science fiction. For readers who like The Hardy Boys, The Three Investigators, or Tom Swift, this should fit right in.
March 15, 2009
Those adults enamored with the old television show "The Twilight Zone"
of years past will be delighted to place Todd Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" into a young person's hands.
Fonseca combines science with a brilliant imagination to connect with the young as well as the older reader.
Well on his way t top seller, Fonseca's work is fresh and imaginative.
This book is worthy of your 'keeper'shelf.
Kudos to Fonseca and Happy Reading!
Sincerely.
Shirley Bullock, author of Forever Promised.
of years past will be delighted to place Todd Fonseca's "The Time Cavern" into a young person's hands.
Fonseca combines science with a brilliant imagination to connect with the young as well as the older reader.
Well on his way t top seller, Fonseca's work is fresh and imaginative.
This book is worthy of your 'keeper'shelf.
Kudos to Fonseca and Happy Reading!
Sincerely.
Shirley Bullock, author of Forever Promised.
February 12, 2013
It was a really good book. It was so interesting; every chapter was exciting and it was hard to stop reading because there were many things that were going on. It wasn't one of those book that started out
really slow. Those kind of books just get me frustrated how slow they are.
Anyway, I really recommend this book for future reference. I hope to read the second book soon for more information about this series.
really slow. Those kind of books just get me frustrated how slow they are.
Anyway, I really recommend this book for future reference. I hope to read the second book soon for more information about this series.
March 7, 2013
The Time Cavern by Todd A. Fonseca is a fun book to read. WARNING! Do not read the back of the book as it spoils the ending! This book was fun to read because it is very light, unlike many books I read. In it you get to learn about Amish people, which is something I never learned or even really heard about before. I can't give much explanation about the story because that would spoil it but I recommend it for ages 7+.
April 15, 2011
We just finished this for readaloud before bed. I was disappointed with how slowly the plot moved. We were 60% into it before the story was really rolling, and the chapters were a little long. It was well written, and their were great hooks at the end of each chapter. Eli always groaned when I put it down. I think Eli enjoyed it.
August 24, 2011
This was a cute book and we will likely read the next one.
My 8 year old and I read it together and his comment was 'Mom, kids don't talk like that'. There were times I had to agree. The 'you could learn a lesson here' moments were too obvious sometimes.
Overall we liked it and want to see more of Aaron.
My 8 year old and I read it together and his comment was 'Mom, kids don't talk like that'. There were times I had to agree. The 'you could learn a lesson here' moments were too obvious sometimes.
Overall we liked it and want to see more of Aaron.
November 9, 2011
What a great read! Todd Fonseca's book would grab the attention of any reader of any age. He quite artfully pits the inquisitive minds of his main characters against the mystery of an ancient machine. The plot is a fresh and exciting telling of the time travel paradox. This is a highly recommended read for anyone.
October 30, 2012
Aaron moves to a farm with his family. He meets Jake, a girl. Aaron hears his name called on the wind. He and Jake explore and find a tree that opens into a cavern. They learn about lots of things as they try to find their way further into the cavern. They discover that the cavern allows time travel.
December 22, 2009
I bought this book for my 13 year old. He is an avid reader. He devoured the book quickly and is now waiting eagerly for the sequel. I love books like this that engage my kid and get them to participate in conversations about literature.
January 22, 2012
A well thought out children's book on time travel, built around solving a series of puzzles about how to get the time machine to work, but little left to discuss the consequences of time travel, which looks like it will be left for the sequel.
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