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The Jumper Chronicles #1
Quest for Merlin's Map
Charlie is an awkward twelve-year old living a normal life till he is abducted and thrust into a world of ever-looming danger, a world of Magic, of Angry Gods, and Creatures that are should only exist inside of fairytales.
Charlie and his three friends must unravel the mysteries of their new found abilities, save the father Charlie has never known, and uncover a secret that will change their lives forever.
Charlie and his three friends must unravel the mysteries of their new found abilities, save the father Charlie has never known, and uncover a secret that will change their lives forever.
296 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2010
4 people are currently reading
888 people want to read
About the author
W.C. Peever
2 books27 followersW. C. Peever studied creative writing at Bennington College in picturesque Vermont where he began writing about Charlie. He currently lives with his wife and two baby girls on the beautiful North Coast of Massachusetts, where he has just finished writing the second book in the Jumper Chronicles series. When he is not held up in his study, furiously writing, he is facilitating the exploration of this sometimes scary and always exciting new world that his young daughters are toddling around. W. C. Peever's love of writing is apparent, but in his own words his "true love is and always will be [his] family."
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 11, 2010
When Charlie was just a baby, his father disappeared leaving his mother to raise him. Flash forward to the present. Charlie is celebrating his twelve birthday. While ice skating at the pond with his best friend, Bailey; Charlie spots a strange old man watching them. Charlie and Bailey arrive back at his house to find both Charlie and Bailey's mothers talking to the same man at the pond. The old man introduces himself as Professor Henry Grayson. Grayson is Headmaster at the Thornfield School for the Gifted. Professor Grayson informs Charlie and Bailey that they must come with him as the enemies have found them.
Back at the Thornfield, Charlie and Bailey meet other children with special abilities like them. It is at Thornfield that Charlie learns who he really he. During a visit back home, Charlie finds a letter written by his father. In the letter his father talks about Merlin and a object that he hid in between the passage of time. Charlie, Bailey and a few friends must find the object before the evil, Vali can get his hands on it.
The Jumper Chronicles: Quest for Merlin's Map is book one in the Jumper series. The set up at the beginning of this book really got me excited for what was to come. Charlie and Bailey were relatable. I could see young adults cheering for Charlie and Bailey. Other than having special abilities, they are like any other young adult. They like to have fun, make friends and love a good adventure. There was not a dull moment to be found in this book. All of the different characters in this book was cool. The person that surprised me the most was Joelle, the were cat. I was not expecting this. I don't want to give too much away, so if you want to know more about Charlie, Bailey and all their other friends then you should check out this book. Both young and old, fans of Harry Potter will be enthralled by The Jumper Chronicles as well as Charlie and Bailey.
Back at the Thornfield, Charlie and Bailey meet other children with special abilities like them. It is at Thornfield that Charlie learns who he really he. During a visit back home, Charlie finds a letter written by his father. In the letter his father talks about Merlin and a object that he hid in between the passage of time. Charlie, Bailey and a few friends must find the object before the evil, Vali can get his hands on it.
The Jumper Chronicles: Quest for Merlin's Map is book one in the Jumper series. The set up at the beginning of this book really got me excited for what was to come. Charlie and Bailey were relatable. I could see young adults cheering for Charlie and Bailey. Other than having special abilities, they are like any other young adult. They like to have fun, make friends and love a good adventure. There was not a dull moment to be found in this book. All of the different characters in this book was cool. The person that surprised me the most was Joelle, the were cat. I was not expecting this. I don't want to give too much away, so if you want to know more about Charlie, Bailey and all their other friends then you should check out this book. Both young and old, fans of Harry Potter will be enthralled by The Jumper Chronicles as well as Charlie and Bailey.
October 17, 2010
The Quest for Merlin's Map by W. C. Peever is the first of the Jumper Chronicles. It takes two traditional story types: the magical boarding school and the Arthurian legends and blends them together into something refreshingly new.
Twelve year old best friends Charlie Burrows and Bailey Relling are visited by a mysterious man who warns them that they are in grave danger. He can offer them protection and an education to help them hone their awakening magical powers. They are taken by QILT (Quick Instant Light Travel) to Thornfield school (appropriately inside an old castle) where the mysterious Lord Grayson is headmaster.
Quickly Charlie and Bailey learn their part in a history of magic that goes all the way back to Merlin. What fascinated me most about the book was Peever's take on the Arthurian legends. Arthur is so typically a tragic hero, a well meaning boy who is ultimately overwhelmed by the enormity of his role as king, tied magically to his kingdom and his land. Not here. No. Arthur is a very different sort of leader and quite frightening.
Whenever I've described the book, I've been asked if it's like Harry Potter. Yes but I liked this book better. Although Charlie is from a family affected by the last round of attacks, he still has his mother and he's part of a loving extended family, with Bailey being part of that support. Harry's under the stairs experience was contrived to make Hogwarts seem all the more special, when it is in fact, a poorly run and dysfunctional school.
So when I'm asked to compare The Quest for Merlin's Map to other books, I usually go with Diana Wynne Jones's Chrestomanci books with a little bit of Jasper Fforde worked in.
Now that's not to say the book is perfect. There is a lot of exposition to wade through early on. It's interesting but it does put a pause on the action.
I received the book for review.
Twelve year old best friends Charlie Burrows and Bailey Relling are visited by a mysterious man who warns them that they are in grave danger. He can offer them protection and an education to help them hone their awakening magical powers. They are taken by QILT (Quick Instant Light Travel) to Thornfield school (appropriately inside an old castle) where the mysterious Lord Grayson is headmaster.
Quickly Charlie and Bailey learn their part in a history of magic that goes all the way back to Merlin. What fascinated me most about the book was Peever's take on the Arthurian legends. Arthur is so typically a tragic hero, a well meaning boy who is ultimately overwhelmed by the enormity of his role as king, tied magically to his kingdom and his land. Not here. No. Arthur is a very different sort of leader and quite frightening.
Whenever I've described the book, I've been asked if it's like Harry Potter. Yes but I liked this book better. Although Charlie is from a family affected by the last round of attacks, he still has his mother and he's part of a loving extended family, with Bailey being part of that support. Harry's under the stairs experience was contrived to make Hogwarts seem all the more special, when it is in fact, a poorly run and dysfunctional school.
So when I'm asked to compare The Quest for Merlin's Map to other books, I usually go with Diana Wynne Jones's Chrestomanci books with a little bit of Jasper Fforde worked in.
Now that's not to say the book is perfect. There is a lot of exposition to wade through early on. It's interesting but it does put a pause on the action.
I received the book for review.
December 26, 2010
I'd give it 4.5
Charlie Burrows is a normal 12 year old boy with a normal 12 year old best friend named Bailey. The two of them have grown up together in the seaside town of Marblehead, Massachusetts. Both of them have no idea where their dads disappeared to when they were mere toddlers, but the arrival of a strange man shakes up their seemingly normal world as they’re spirited to a far-away castle and a world they never knew existed.
Peever has done something that rivals the likes of J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan. Charlie’s story is vast in nature and magical in its telling. Not only does Charlie discover a world hidden within our world, but he also discovers how pivotal a role he could play.
The students at Thornfield Academy all have special abilities. These abilities can range from being a Guardian, to telekinesis, to the rare power of invisibility, and then to the even rarer ability to Jump from dimensions and maybe even time. I’ll give you one guess at what Charlie’s ability is. Yep, he’s a Jumper, as was his long lost dad. This rare ability may herald the coming of a new age, and for Charlie, that means he will be highly sought after; for both good and evil.
The world that Peever has created is layered in Norse mythology, Arthurian legends, and some sci-fi alternate dimensions/parallel universes. He flawlessly weaves these elements into Charlie’s life and makes it entirely compelling and unputdownable. Not only does the story boast of wonderfully vivid and fantastical elements, but the characters are well-developed with their own nuances and intricacies.
Charlie and Bailey make quite the best friend duo, in that they complement in each other in every which way. They are fiercely loyal to one another and love with a passion. Where Charlie is a more shy boy, Bailey is a brash, in your face kind of girl. She’s one tough cookie and, as it turns out, that is exactly what Charlie needs in his best friend. Thornfield opens up the possibility of new friendships and along comes Mick, a gruff older boy with a tendency to care for the underdog. His new role as Guardian means more to him than just keeping Charlie safe – he makes friends for life. Then there’s Tillie…
The gorgeous girl that Charlie begins eyeing sort of throws a wrench into the workings of this newfound group of friends and I’ll admit that Tillie’s relationship with an older boy really bothered me. She’s twelve and this boy is a seventh year, making him 17ish? But I really did enjoy the tension she brings to the group and how, even though she could easily be viewed as competition to Bailey, that avenue is never explored. Bailey is Charlie’s best friends, no questions asked.
The Jumper Chronicles: Quest for Merlin’s Map is well-written, entertaining and thriving with fantastical elements, Arthurian legends, and several history lessons hidden amongst the adventure. Any fan of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, or fantasy novels in general will be absolutely absorbed in Charlie’s tale. I was and I’m more than excited to see where Charlie’s adventures will lead to next.
Opening line: The wind howled outside the small, colonial-blue, seacoast home of Daniel Burrows, as February bared its teeth in the small New England town of Marblehead. ~ pg. 5
Favorite lines: “Time was never meant to be tampered with. Left alone, it should go on forever. But with many different realities all using the same fabric of time…” ~ pg. 81
Charlie Burrows is a normal 12 year old boy with a normal 12 year old best friend named Bailey. The two of them have grown up together in the seaside town of Marblehead, Massachusetts. Both of them have no idea where their dads disappeared to when they were mere toddlers, but the arrival of a strange man shakes up their seemingly normal world as they’re spirited to a far-away castle and a world they never knew existed.
Peever has done something that rivals the likes of J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan. Charlie’s story is vast in nature and magical in its telling. Not only does Charlie discover a world hidden within our world, but he also discovers how pivotal a role he could play.
The students at Thornfield Academy all have special abilities. These abilities can range from being a Guardian, to telekinesis, to the rare power of invisibility, and then to the even rarer ability to Jump from dimensions and maybe even time. I’ll give you one guess at what Charlie’s ability is. Yep, he’s a Jumper, as was his long lost dad. This rare ability may herald the coming of a new age, and for Charlie, that means he will be highly sought after; for both good and evil.
The world that Peever has created is layered in Norse mythology, Arthurian legends, and some sci-fi alternate dimensions/parallel universes. He flawlessly weaves these elements into Charlie’s life and makes it entirely compelling and unputdownable. Not only does the story boast of wonderfully vivid and fantastical elements, but the characters are well-developed with their own nuances and intricacies.
Charlie and Bailey make quite the best friend duo, in that they complement in each other in every which way. They are fiercely loyal to one another and love with a passion. Where Charlie is a more shy boy, Bailey is a brash, in your face kind of girl. She’s one tough cookie and, as it turns out, that is exactly what Charlie needs in his best friend. Thornfield opens up the possibility of new friendships and along comes Mick, a gruff older boy with a tendency to care for the underdog. His new role as Guardian means more to him than just keeping Charlie safe – he makes friends for life. Then there’s Tillie…
The gorgeous girl that Charlie begins eyeing sort of throws a wrench into the workings of this newfound group of friends and I’ll admit that Tillie’s relationship with an older boy really bothered me. She’s twelve and this boy is a seventh year, making him 17ish? But I really did enjoy the tension she brings to the group and how, even though she could easily be viewed as competition to Bailey, that avenue is never explored. Bailey is Charlie’s best friends, no questions asked.
The Jumper Chronicles: Quest for Merlin’s Map is well-written, entertaining and thriving with fantastical elements, Arthurian legends, and several history lessons hidden amongst the adventure. Any fan of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, or fantasy novels in general will be absolutely absorbed in Charlie’s tale. I was and I’m more than excited to see where Charlie’s adventures will lead to next.
Opening line: The wind howled outside the small, colonial-blue, seacoast home of Daniel Burrows, as February bared its teeth in the small New England town of Marblehead. ~ pg. 5
Favorite lines: “Time was never meant to be tampered with. Left alone, it should go on forever. But with many different realities all using the same fabric of time…” ~ pg. 81
November 15, 2010
The Jumper Chronicles is a thrilling story about a young boy named Charlie and his best friend Bailey. Their fathers disappeared when they were both very young and haven't been seen since. They have bonded as much as two friends could, each watching the others back over the years. As they each turn twelve, they find themselves at Thornfield Academy. Thornfield Academy is a place for the magically gifted, where they will find out what exactly their gift is and how to harness it's power. Soon they are thrust into a war against magical foes that will stop at nothing to bring back the Gods. Charlie is the key to it all. Destiny awaits.
In a fantasy novel, world building is a key element that must be planned and strategically executed to put the reader in the mix alongside the characters and Peever has done just that. The Thornfield Academy is a fantastic magical place. From the classes they attend to the Trials of Tribulation, you are drawn to its magic. The Trials were especially intriguing as Charlie was tested and found to be extremely important to the Order. There is much to imagine in the nine worlds that have been created by the Gods.
The array of magical creatures seems endless with shape-shifters, Seers, Elementalists, Telecons, Guardians, Influencearians and, of course, Jumpers. Readers who enjoy the paranormal and fantasy genres will not be disappointed. Each character brings a depth to the story that livens up the plot. Charlie, Bailey and Mick hold their own amongst a host of experienced magical beings. Lord Grayson is the Dumbledore of The Jumper Chronicles and his role is much the same as well, adding flavor to the story and the castle. My favorite character is Joelle, the shape shifting cat in the library. She is definitely a ball of energy; quite fiesty as well.
I anxiously awaited the arrival of The Jumper Chronicles after reading the summary. It exuded qualities that make fantasy novels come to life. My assumptions were correct. After receiving it, I dove into an adventure that I didn't want to end. I was thrilled, enchanted and mesmerized by the characters and the worlds that they lived in. The Jumper Chronicles is a fine display of true fantasy, providing an adventure like that of "Harry Potter" and "The Magicians." I'm looking forward to the next installment "The Path of the Templar" due out in 2012.
For more information on author W.C. Peever and The Jumper Chronicles check out his website here.
Peever also has an awesome contest going on for budding writers ages 11-18. The contest is simple.
Read the Jumper Chronicles and write the first chapter of the second book in the series. He will publish the winners chapter alongside his own when the book is published. For more details go here.
In a fantasy novel, world building is a key element that must be planned and strategically executed to put the reader in the mix alongside the characters and Peever has done just that. The Thornfield Academy is a fantastic magical place. From the classes they attend to the Trials of Tribulation, you are drawn to its magic. The Trials were especially intriguing as Charlie was tested and found to be extremely important to the Order. There is much to imagine in the nine worlds that have been created by the Gods.
The array of magical creatures seems endless with shape-shifters, Seers, Elementalists, Telecons, Guardians, Influencearians and, of course, Jumpers. Readers who enjoy the paranormal and fantasy genres will not be disappointed. Each character brings a depth to the story that livens up the plot. Charlie, Bailey and Mick hold their own amongst a host of experienced magical beings. Lord Grayson is the Dumbledore of The Jumper Chronicles and his role is much the same as well, adding flavor to the story and the castle. My favorite character is Joelle, the shape shifting cat in the library. She is definitely a ball of energy; quite fiesty as well.
I anxiously awaited the arrival of The Jumper Chronicles after reading the summary. It exuded qualities that make fantasy novels come to life. My assumptions were correct. After receiving it, I dove into an adventure that I didn't want to end. I was thrilled, enchanted and mesmerized by the characters and the worlds that they lived in. The Jumper Chronicles is a fine display of true fantasy, providing an adventure like that of "Harry Potter" and "The Magicians." I'm looking forward to the next installment "The Path of the Templar" due out in 2012.
For more information on author W.C. Peever and The Jumper Chronicles check out his website here.
Peever also has an awesome contest going on for budding writers ages 11-18. The contest is simple.
Read the Jumper Chronicles and write the first chapter of the second book in the series. He will publish the winners chapter alongside his own when the book is published. For more details go here.
January 24, 2011
The Jumper Chronicles: Quest for Merlin's Map has the distinct feel of being a Harry Potter wannabe. There are some inventive differences, but all in all, it feels like a less well written Harry Potter. Also, I feel as though the publisher may be a clearinghouse for self-published works. My copy of the book had its actual date of printing published in the book, which coincided with the day I purchased the book through Amazon. And, there were numerous errors in spelling, punctuation, and word choice that a savvy editor would surely have caught. One or two typos may be passable, but I lost count. If the book is being printed on a per order basis, it would seem that the author and editor could take the time to make the necessary corrections.
All that aside, I think students who are HP and Lightning Thief fans will most likely enjoy the series as it unfolds. Plotting and pacing were an issue for me as was the introduction of the 9 worlds and mythology which I found confusing. Perhaps liner maps would have been a good addition? Or a family tree of the mythology? Just for a visual. I may have my book club create this and send it to the author.
With regards to the pacing and plotting, a lot happens in a very short time frame and it seems to me that made it less believable. On the one hand there was urgent sense of imminent danger for Charlie and yet there was also a "let's not rush" attitude by the headmaster. Also, Charlie and Bailey do not seem at all bewildered or astonished at being plucked out of their very ordinary lives and thrown into a situation that is at once dangerous and completely novel to anything they have experienced. Other than marveling at the quantity and array of food, that is. They seem to accept rather easily the dizzying explanations for the existence of entire realms and dimensions outside of their awareness. Not that the realms aren't plausible, just their reactions.
In summary, I had a few issues with the book as an adult reader. I suspect my student readers will not have the same issues. I will be interested to hear their thoughts and opinions. But at this point, it's not one I can point to and say "This is going to be big! Read it now!"
All that aside, I think students who are HP and Lightning Thief fans will most likely enjoy the series as it unfolds. Plotting and pacing were an issue for me as was the introduction of the 9 worlds and mythology which I found confusing. Perhaps liner maps would have been a good addition? Or a family tree of the mythology? Just for a visual. I may have my book club create this and send it to the author.
With regards to the pacing and plotting, a lot happens in a very short time frame and it seems to me that made it less believable. On the one hand there was urgent sense of imminent danger for Charlie and yet there was also a "let's not rush" attitude by the headmaster. Also, Charlie and Bailey do not seem at all bewildered or astonished at being plucked out of their very ordinary lives and thrown into a situation that is at once dangerous and completely novel to anything they have experienced. Other than marveling at the quantity and array of food, that is. They seem to accept rather easily the dizzying explanations for the existence of entire realms and dimensions outside of their awareness. Not that the realms aren't plausible, just their reactions.
In summary, I had a few issues with the book as an adult reader. I suspect my student readers will not have the same issues. I will be interested to hear their thoughts and opinions. But at this point, it's not one I can point to and say "This is going to be big! Read it now!"
November 28, 2012
Reviewed by Theresa L. Stowell for TeensReadToo.com
Charlie Burrows' twelfth birthday brings a few surprises that concern both himself and his best friend, Bailey Relling.
First, they see a strange man watching them ice skate at the local pond. Then, when they get home, hoping to share a meal and some birthday cake, they overhear their mothers arguing with that same man. He introduces himself as Professor Henry Grayson, and he is the headmaster at a private school where he wants the children to attend. He tells them that their fathers worked for the British government, and he has been sent to take the children into protective custody due to the case that resulted in the disappearance of their fathers ten years earlier.
Overwhelmed by the information and frightened by the idea of leaving their mothers, the children attempt to run away. To their surprise, Professor Grayson appears on the road in front of them. A bright light flashes, and the next thing they know, they have been transported to Thornfield Academy.
Charlie and Bailey adapt quickly to their new environment, meeting a new friend to make their duo a threesome, trying out for new sports (lacrosse), taking on new classes with quirky professors, and learning about the magical world in which they now belong.
The most shocking piece of information they learn is that Norse gods exist and they created nine worlds and that there are different dimensions. The gods, however, have been at war for eons and have closed themselves off from our world. This has not kept the battles between the Asgardians (the good gods) and the Vanari (the jealous lesser gods) from affecting Earth. The lives of Charlie's and Bailey's fathers are at sake as the children search for a magical object that could change the outcome of everything they know.
Readers who enjoy the Harry Potter, Charlie Bone, and Percy Jackson series' will also embrace this new group of youngsters. This combination of magic, Norse mythology, and Arthurian legend is a creative and fun addition to the fantasy genre. Finally, a touch of family, friendship, and conflict keep the characters real enough to allow readers to easily relate. I'm looking forward to a new installment in what is an exciting new series.
Charlie Burrows' twelfth birthday brings a few surprises that concern both himself and his best friend, Bailey Relling.
First, they see a strange man watching them ice skate at the local pond. Then, when they get home, hoping to share a meal and some birthday cake, they overhear their mothers arguing with that same man. He introduces himself as Professor Henry Grayson, and he is the headmaster at a private school where he wants the children to attend. He tells them that their fathers worked for the British government, and he has been sent to take the children into protective custody due to the case that resulted in the disappearance of their fathers ten years earlier.
Overwhelmed by the information and frightened by the idea of leaving their mothers, the children attempt to run away. To their surprise, Professor Grayson appears on the road in front of them. A bright light flashes, and the next thing they know, they have been transported to Thornfield Academy.
Charlie and Bailey adapt quickly to their new environment, meeting a new friend to make their duo a threesome, trying out for new sports (lacrosse), taking on new classes with quirky professors, and learning about the magical world in which they now belong.
The most shocking piece of information they learn is that Norse gods exist and they created nine worlds and that there are different dimensions. The gods, however, have been at war for eons and have closed themselves off from our world. This has not kept the battles between the Asgardians (the good gods) and the Vanari (the jealous lesser gods) from affecting Earth. The lives of Charlie's and Bailey's fathers are at sake as the children search for a magical object that could change the outcome of everything they know.
Readers who enjoy the Harry Potter, Charlie Bone, and Percy Jackson series' will also embrace this new group of youngsters. This combination of magic, Norse mythology, and Arthurian legend is a creative and fun addition to the fantasy genre. Finally, a touch of family, friendship, and conflict keep the characters real enough to allow readers to easily relate. I'm looking forward to a new installment in what is an exciting new series.
December 30, 2010
Quest for Merlin's Map was such a fun, magical read. I didn't except to be so swept up in the fantasy, adventure and lore than made up the story. It's a book that has very minor similarities to other books out there, but enough that it will draw fans of magic, and fantasy in.
Twelve year old Charlie Burrows has a gift that he inherited from the father he never knew, World Jumping. In finding his talent, Charlie is suddenly whisked away from his mother and home, and brought to a magic school in England where kids with special powers attend. Luckily Charlie has his best friend Bailey with them, as the two are about to learn about their father's past, a whole another magical world they never existed and about the powers that they have, and never knew existed until now.
Charlie is a brilliant witty character, and his best friend Bailey is one a character I also really like. She's this bigger than life character, who deep down has a fear for losing Charlie, as she too grew up without a father. Through Charlie and Bailey's dangerous adventures, they learn more about their fathers, their quest and the war that's taken place both in the new world that once laid just beyond their imaginations.
Along with Charlie and Bailey is a cast of great characters who's powers range from a World Jumper to, Shape Shifters, Guardians, Elementalists, Influencearians, Telecons and Seers. Lord Grayson and Joelle (the shape shifting were cat who lives in the library), are two more characters I really enjoyed getting to know. They added a rich history to the story and in getting to know little bits and pieces of their ancient characters. I got to know more of Charlie's destiny, while learning along side Charlie about the history of the new world he's now apart of.
I really liked the way W.C. Peever molded together a fun adventure full of paranormal characters, lore, magic, and a well known historical character like Merlin and gave it his own spin. The Quest for Merlin's Map is a unique and richly detailed story that both middle grade and young adult readers will enjoy. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Twelve year old Charlie Burrows has a gift that he inherited from the father he never knew, World Jumping. In finding his talent, Charlie is suddenly whisked away from his mother and home, and brought to a magic school in England where kids with special powers attend. Luckily Charlie has his best friend Bailey with them, as the two are about to learn about their father's past, a whole another magical world they never existed and about the powers that they have, and never knew existed until now.
Charlie is a brilliant witty character, and his best friend Bailey is one a character I also really like. She's this bigger than life character, who deep down has a fear for losing Charlie, as she too grew up without a father. Through Charlie and Bailey's dangerous adventures, they learn more about their fathers, their quest and the war that's taken place both in the new world that once laid just beyond their imaginations.
Along with Charlie and Bailey is a cast of great characters who's powers range from a World Jumper to, Shape Shifters, Guardians, Elementalists, Influencearians, Telecons and Seers. Lord Grayson and Joelle (the shape shifting were cat who lives in the library), are two more characters I really enjoyed getting to know. They added a rich history to the story and in getting to know little bits and pieces of their ancient characters. I got to know more of Charlie's destiny, while learning along side Charlie about the history of the new world he's now apart of.
I really liked the way W.C. Peever molded together a fun adventure full of paranormal characters, lore, magic, and a well known historical character like Merlin and gave it his own spin. The Quest for Merlin's Map is a unique and richly detailed story that both middle grade and young adult readers will enjoy. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
December 30, 2010
Quest for Merlin's Map was such a fun, magical read. I didn't except to be so swept up in the fantasy, adventure and lore than made up the story. It's a book that has very minor similarities to other books out there, but enough that it will draw fans of magic, and fantasy in.
Twelve year old Charlie Burrows has a gift that he inherited from the father he never knew, World Jumping. In finding his talent, Charlie is suddenly whisked away from his mother and home, and brought to a magic school in England where kids with special powers attend. Luckily Charlie has his best friend Bailey with them, as the two are about to learn about their father's past, a whole another magical world they never existed and about the powers that they have, and never knew existed until now.
Charlie is a brilliant witty character, and his best friend Bailey is one a character I also really like. She's this bigger than life character, who deep down has a fear for losing Charlie, as she too grew up without a father. Through Charlie and Bailey's dangerous adventures, they learn more about their fathers, their quest and the war that's taken place both in the new world that once laid just beyond their imaginations.
Along with Charlie and Bailey is a cast of great characters who's powers range from a World Jumper to, Shape Shifters, Guardians, Elementalists, Influencearians, Telecons and Seers. Lord Grayson and Joelle (the shape shifting were cat who lives in the library), are two more characters I really enjoyed getting to know. They added a rich history to the story and in getting to know little bits and pieces of their ancient characters. I got to know more of Charlie's destiny, while learning along side Charlie about the history of the new world he's now apart of.
I really liked the way W.C. Peever molded together a fun adventure full of paranormal characters, lore, magic, and a well known historical character like Merlin and gave it his own spin. The Quest for Merlin's Map is a unique and richly detailed story that both middle grade and young adult readers will enjoy. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Twelve year old Charlie Burrows has a gift that he inherited from the father he never knew, World Jumping. In finding his talent, Charlie is suddenly whisked away from his mother and home, and brought to a magic school in England where kids with special powers attend. Luckily Charlie has his best friend Bailey with them, as the two are about to learn about their father's past, a whole another magical world they never existed and about the powers that they have, and never knew existed until now.
Charlie is a brilliant witty character, and his best friend Bailey is one a character I also really like. She's this bigger than life character, who deep down has a fear for losing Charlie, as she too grew up without a father. Through Charlie and Bailey's dangerous adventures, they learn more about their fathers, their quest and the war that's taken place both in the new world that once laid just beyond their imaginations.
Along with Charlie and Bailey is a cast of great characters who's powers range from a World Jumper to, Shape Shifters, Guardians, Elementalists, Influencearians, Telecons and Seers. Lord Grayson and Joelle (the shape shifting were cat who lives in the library), are two more characters I really enjoyed getting to know. They added a rich history to the story and in getting to know little bits and pieces of their ancient characters. I got to know more of Charlie's destiny, while learning along side Charlie about the history of the new world he's now apart of.
I really liked the way W.C. Peever molded together a fun adventure full of paranormal characters, lore, magic, and a well known historical character like Merlin and gave it his own spin. The Quest for Merlin's Map is a unique and richly detailed story that both middle grade and young adult readers will enjoy. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
June 15, 2011
When I got a request to review this book, I was uncertain about whether or not it would be something I would enjoy. Whenever I get a request, the first thing I look at it is the cover to see if it attracts me. I know that's not the way I should judge a book by first impression, but that's just how I've always been! With that said, I'm not attracted to the cover. It's a nice cover, but it just doesn't look like my type of book, at first glance. However, The Quest for Merlin's Map, pleasantly surprised me with it's lovely characters and intriguing plot.
During the first 100 pages, the story was moving pretty slow for me (but that might've just been because I was in a reading rut!) Once I got past that point, I became attached to the characters and was finding myself getting nervous for them during their adventures.
Now, some of the reasons why I didn't give The Quest for Merlin's Map 5 butterflies instead of 4: I found the story to be pretty predictable at times. While I was reading I would take a guess of what would happen next, and half the time my guess was correct. I personally just like a bit more of an unpredictable plot. Also, I did find quite a lot of similarities between the characters of The Quest for Merlin's Map and Harry Potter. The characters go to school in a castle very similar to Hogwarts, the three main characters are two boys and a girl, the headmaster is very old and wise, etc. I don't read a whole lot of MG, so maybe these similarities are common among quite a few MG? I'm not sure.
Overall, I did enjoy the story and would recommend it to anyone that likes Harry Potter and/or Percy Jackson. I'm looking forward to the next installment in The Jumper Chronicles.
During the first 100 pages, the story was moving pretty slow for me (but that might've just been because I was in a reading rut!) Once I got past that point, I became attached to the characters and was finding myself getting nervous for them during their adventures.
Now, some of the reasons why I didn't give The Quest for Merlin's Map 5 butterflies instead of 4: I found the story to be pretty predictable at times. While I was reading I would take a guess of what would happen next, and half the time my guess was correct. I personally just like a bit more of an unpredictable plot. Also, I did find quite a lot of similarities between the characters of The Quest for Merlin's Map and Harry Potter. The characters go to school in a castle very similar to Hogwarts, the three main characters are two boys and a girl, the headmaster is very old and wise, etc. I don't read a whole lot of MG, so maybe these similarities are common among quite a few MG? I'm not sure.
Overall, I did enjoy the story and would recommend it to anyone that likes Harry Potter and/or Percy Jackson. I'm looking forward to the next installment in The Jumper Chronicles.
June 27, 2013
First, I want to say how much I love the cover of this book. The artist did a fantastic job.
When Charlie Burrows was two, his father disappeared. So, at a young age he became the "man" of the house, it's just something he has always known. On his twelfth birthday, he and his friend Bailey are instantly transported to Thornfield School, unbeknownst to them until they awake. A man had come to the house earlier wanting to take them to England, saying their fathers had died in honor to the Queen, but Bailey and Charlie didn't trust the man. Now, in a strange school, he learns he is descended from a long line of druids, and may have special abilities.
As his own new abilities emerge, and that of his friends, the school has a contest. Whomever can find Merlin's sword, Excalibur, will get an additional new ability. But the stakes are high and he danger is great, as not only the students want to win it, but so does Vanari, an evil man who wants to use Merlin's secrets for his own agenda.
A young adult adventure with suspense, danger, magic, and great characters and beings, Jumper is a wonderful and entertaining escape to another world. The comradeship between Charlie and his friends is endearing, and watching how the young ones mature is realistic. W.C. Peever's first book in this new series will have young adults and adults alike clamoring for the next in this series. Although it sounds much like the acclaimed Harry Potter books, The Jumper Chronicles has a voice all of it's own. Highly recommend!
When Charlie Burrows was two, his father disappeared. So, at a young age he became the "man" of the house, it's just something he has always known. On his twelfth birthday, he and his friend Bailey are instantly transported to Thornfield School, unbeknownst to them until they awake. A man had come to the house earlier wanting to take them to England, saying their fathers had died in honor to the Queen, but Bailey and Charlie didn't trust the man. Now, in a strange school, he learns he is descended from a long line of druids, and may have special abilities.
As his own new abilities emerge, and that of his friends, the school has a contest. Whomever can find Merlin's sword, Excalibur, will get an additional new ability. But the stakes are high and he danger is great, as not only the students want to win it, but so does Vanari, an evil man who wants to use Merlin's secrets for his own agenda.
A young adult adventure with suspense, danger, magic, and great characters and beings, Jumper is a wonderful and entertaining escape to another world. The comradeship between Charlie and his friends is endearing, and watching how the young ones mature is realistic. W.C. Peever's first book in this new series will have young adults and adults alike clamoring for the next in this series. Although it sounds much like the acclaimed Harry Potter books, The Jumper Chronicles has a voice all of it's own. Highly recommend!
December 8, 2010
I was blown away by Quest for Merlin's Map. I'm not sure exactly what I expected, but it definitely wasn't the perfect blend of boarding school, mythology and Arthurian legend that I was given.
Any young adult book that includes a boarding school for magically inclined students will forever be compared to Harry Potter. While Quest for Merlin's Map brings to mind the Harry Potter series as well as the Percy Jackson series, the similarities are all positive. This first book in The Jumper Chronicles is every bit as enchanting, entertaining and well written as those big name books.
Charlie Burrows is a World Jumper. He can travel into different dimensions, which is a very rare and coveted ability. This ability makes him a target for all those who wish to control his power. That's an awful lot for a 12 year old to deal with, especially since he just learned that abilities like these exist at all.
Quest for Merlin's Map is richly detailed, providing just enough history to understand the meaning behind certain events, but without revealing more than is needed. This is a complete novel, with an epilogue promising much more trouble for Charlie. I'm definitely excited for more adventures from The Jumper Chronicles.
Any young adult book that includes a boarding school for magically inclined students will forever be compared to Harry Potter. While Quest for Merlin's Map brings to mind the Harry Potter series as well as the Percy Jackson series, the similarities are all positive. This first book in The Jumper Chronicles is every bit as enchanting, entertaining and well written as those big name books.
Charlie Burrows is a World Jumper. He can travel into different dimensions, which is a very rare and coveted ability. This ability makes him a target for all those who wish to control his power. That's an awful lot for a 12 year old to deal with, especially since he just learned that abilities like these exist at all.
Quest for Merlin's Map is richly detailed, providing just enough history to understand the meaning behind certain events, but without revealing more than is needed. This is a complete novel, with an epilogue promising much more trouble for Charlie. I'm definitely excited for more adventures from The Jumper Chronicles.
November 24, 2013
I really liked how the author was able to combine Norse mythology and the legend of King Author into this book. I found his reasoning fascinating and it made for a very good story.
Charlie Burrow's is twelve and his world is changed when he finds out that he holds ancient mythical powers handed down from the Norse God's. He is part of an order that protects the world and keeps the "bad" God's from taking over.
He is a descendant of Merlin, and as such, is sought after for his abilities that are passed down from generation to generation. He has trustworthy friends who help him on his quest to restore order.
This book was fun to read. Like I stated above, the author was able to create a reality that made sense and combined to loved themes. This book will be liked by those who love the stories of Author and Merlin, and also by those who love mythology.
I purchased this book a couple of years ago and I am glad that I finally had the opportunity to read it. Once again, I have to question why I waited so long?
Charlie Burrow's is twelve and his world is changed when he finds out that he holds ancient mythical powers handed down from the Norse God's. He is part of an order that protects the world and keeps the "bad" God's from taking over.
He is a descendant of Merlin, and as such, is sought after for his abilities that are passed down from generation to generation. He has trustworthy friends who help him on his quest to restore order.
This book was fun to read. Like I stated above, the author was able to create a reality that made sense and combined to loved themes. This book will be liked by those who love the stories of Author and Merlin, and also by those who love mythology.
I purchased this book a couple of years ago and I am glad that I finally had the opportunity to read it. Once again, I have to question why I waited so long?
January 1, 2016
I was disappointed in the amount of time spent on emphasizing that there are many Gods. I can suspend reality a bit with fantasy books. I even let it slide as poor proofreading in a e-book version that "christian" and "messiah" remained uncapitalized when "Gods" always appeared with caps. But when Moses was said to be in the Order and his staff was an object of power, it left a bad taste in my mouth. Even though my nephew suggested I read this, I'll have to beg his forgiveness and pass on the rest of it.
February 21, 2013
I have to love this book...I wrote it! However I must say I have not read it since it arrived at my house from the publisher! When you edit a book you read it so many times that you just cant pick it up again for a while…but I do plan on reading it again at some point, as I love the story and I will need to follow up on some of the information as I write the series, the second book is done and now in editing…
April 21, 2013
Very good book, the opening kind of takes after the first book in the Percy Jackson series though. You'll most likely love this book, the characters are fun, the plot great, and the twists are amazing. I love how it somewhat incorporates references to other stories.
Great read guys, you won't regret it.
Great read guys, you won't regret it.
Read
December 18, 2010I tried three times to finish the book, but got confused with so much going on with the mythology and numerous worlds. I found myself confused. Other reviews I've read really enjoyed it. Just not a good match for me.
October 8, 2013
I did not expect this book to be as good as it is. I have read the first one now I am on the second one.
It is a book for all ages. I am over 30 and enjoyed it. My nephew is enjoying it now. He is about half way through. I would recommend this book for all ages who just want a good read.
It is a book for all ages. I am over 30 and enjoyed it. My nephew is enjoying it now. He is about half way through. I would recommend this book for all ages who just want a good read.
Want to read
July 19, 2011Can't wait to read this to my boys. It's sitting on our TBR shelf.
August 18, 2011
I enjoyed this almost as much as Fledgling Jason Steed. The character was real life and fun. I love it when these authors make the books fast fun and have action. Awesome book
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