Hello world! My name is Sarah Chapman and this is my blog all about children's literature (duh). I can't wait to begin the process of exploring this insanely interesting genre in this class.
This book resonated with me because of the tone it was written in. Bobby narrates the whole story because he is writing it all down in journals and sending them back to his friends on earth. Thus, you feel like you are actually a part of the action. It also helps that Bobby is 14 in this book and I was 12 when I read it so I understood his mental state. As I get older and reread the series (because why not?) I have realized that the writing is a little childish and sloppy, but then again the novels are marketed toward ages 10-15. However, MacHale's use of imagery creates such a detailed world in each book, since each book is a new territory that Bobby has to help out of some catastrophe. I get such vivid pictures in my head when I read them that it is like watching a movie. I have wanted this series to become a film series because of this great imagery, but also because of the relatability of all these characters. Even though they are from different universes, they are so well written that you can sympathize with their triumphs and defeats. And because I imagined Morgan Freeman as one of the characters and I am convinced that they need to make these books into films before he dies.
Well written. I would definitely like to see more evidence of the actual imagery. You seem to be most excited about that aspect of the book, which makes me excited about it as well, but I don't see any specific examples of it. Perhaps a short paragraph about one of these alternate universes, or an aspect or two of one of the many catastrophes would help the reader engage in the reading more fully and put him/her in your shoes. -Sean
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sean up there. I know that there are things in YA Fantasy novels that caught my attention and I have images still engraved in my mind from them. I laughed at that Morgan Freeman comment - I know the exact feeling, and you feel like you just want to see this universe that you were a part of during your reading of the book to be shown to you via the big screen.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I almost chose the Pendragon series as my most memorable childhood selection as well! It's funny that you mention someone else getting you into the series, as a friend of mine had done the same for me. I remember him lending me his copy of the Merchant of Death, and starting a few-years-long process of exchanging books. (I returned the favor by introducing him to the Artemis Fowl series.) I also can't help but ask if you're picturing Morgan Freeman as Gunny - because that honestly is one of the best mental images/headcanon ever! I also related to the style in which Bobby's story unfolded, because it was a kid literally trying to process his crazily shifting world and experiences by writing it all out, a practice we are frequently suggested even now if we need to work through our problems. I also appreciated the fact that the theme of supporting one another was always heavily prevalent throughout the series, between both the Travelers themselves, the Travelers and Acolytes, etc. The Pendragon Series is definitely one I have to revisit once I find some time. Thank you for reminding me of it!
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