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Quick Review
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World |
B |
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Plot |
B |
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Character |
B |
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Storyline |
B |
In this, Mr. Jacques’ first novel outside of his Redwall series, he takes the legend of the Flying Dutchman and crafts a hero from it. After a brief opening with the Flying Dutchman, the hero, Ben, and his dog Ned are tossed into the sea. Two hundred years later, these same two characters enter the Nineteenth century village of Chapelvale. A village that is about to be destroyed if the title for all of the land can’t be found. Yes, the boy and his dog are given eternal life so they can help others.
The story parallels the Redwall series in many ways. The heroes are young people. (Yes, the main character is over 200 year old, but he looks and acts young). Puzzles and clues must be followed to solve the quest. Treasure is buried. Food is described and eaten. A Phantom appears to help with a clue.
I enjoyed the character interactions (even the dog “talks” to Ben). In one interesting turn, Ben refuses to fight a bully and just keeps dodging the bully’s fists. Finally, the bully hits a wall and breaks his hand. I thought this was better than just beating up the bully.
Overall, if you like the Redwall series, you will like this one.