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ellemnope 's review for:
Along the Saltwise Sea
by A. Deborah Baker
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
The sequel to Over the Woodward Wall, Along the Saltwise Sea does not disappoint. Though not as magical and whimsical as the original, this is certainly a solid sequel in the series and propels the story of Zib & Avery along an adventurous path.
A. Deborah Baker (AKA Seanan McGuire) has an immense talent for telling stories. These characters are rich and realistic and even the crazy upside-down world feels magically tangible. Written for a middle grade audience, Along the Saltwise Sea keeps the prose relatively straightforward and the plot can be a smidge predictable, but it is fun to read and a story where you consistently root for the protagonists because they are just so darned lovable.
The character writing in these book is just magnificent. Avery & Zib are perfectly written for their age, complete with anxieties, things they need to learn & experience, and some fearlessness. They are incredibly different, but work together so well and present so much of a range in terms of audience access. I love that the author does not shy to have her characters have imperfections. I also enjoy that sometimes these imperfections are shortcoming and sometimes they are strengths. There is just so much wonderful inclusivity in these books.
The plot moves incredibly swiftly and there is always something going on. There is a good recap of the first book at the beginning, which I think will work especially well for middle grade readers but also allows readers to jump in at the second book if they are so inclined (though I don't recommend because you will miss out on some enchanting writing and a wonderful story). The narrative is straight to the point in this installment and it almost felt too short for me. Things just flew by.
These stories remind me very strongly of the Oz series and I love their imaginative style. Though written for middle grade readers, they are easily enjoyable enough for adults. I'm totally here for them and I'm looking forward to what Avery & Zib find next along the Improbable Road.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novella from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
A. Deborah Baker (AKA Seanan McGuire) has an immense talent for telling stories. These characters are rich and realistic and even the crazy upside-down world feels magically tangible. Written for a middle grade audience, Along the Saltwise Sea keeps the prose relatively straightforward and the plot can be a smidge predictable, but it is fun to read and a story where you consistently root for the protagonists because they are just so darned lovable.
The character writing in these book is just magnificent. Avery & Zib are perfectly written for their age, complete with anxieties, things they need to learn & experience, and some fearlessness. They are incredibly different, but work together so well and present so much of a range in terms of audience access. I love that the author does not shy to have her characters have imperfections. I also enjoy that sometimes these imperfections are shortcoming and sometimes they are strengths. There is just so much wonderful inclusivity in these books.
The plot moves incredibly swiftly and there is always something going on. There is a good recap of the first book at the beginning, which I think will work especially well for middle grade readers but also allows readers to jump in at the second book if they are so inclined (though I don't recommend because you will miss out on some enchanting writing and a wonderful story). The narrative is straight to the point in this installment and it almost felt too short for me. Things just flew by.
These stories remind me very strongly of the Oz series and I love their imaginative style. Though written for middle grade readers, they are easily enjoyable enough for adults. I'm totally here for them and I'm looking forward to what Avery & Zib find next along the Improbable Road.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novella from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *