Book Description

Little Alfred has run away to the Dark Unchanted Forest--and he's being followed by none other than Sinister the Bobcat. Can Hank rescue his master's son...before it's too late?

USA Today calls the hilarious Hank the Cowdog series "...the best family entertainment in years."

Hank is a scruffy, smart-alecky supersleuth with a nose for danger and an eye for the ladies. And as Head of Ranch Security on a West Texas ranch, he's usually up to his ears in all kinds of amusing trouble. Whether he's called upon to bark up the sun, investigate suspicious goings-on, or defend the ranch against marauders, Hank's hilarious, hair-raising adventures will delight readers young and old alike.

"Rip-roaring fun...[a] marvelous situation comedy." --School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (2)

One of hanks funnyest and wild adventure yet.
Hank finds that he is unwanted or so he thinks and leaves the ranch. Only to come back andbe a hero.

Wonderful!
This is another great book from The Hank The Cowdog series!
Little Alfred, has gotten himself lost IN THE DARK UNCHANTED FOREST!! Little Alfred thinks that his mother (Sally May) likes his new sister Molly better then him. He decides to run away, to the forest. Hank sees him so he dose what a blue ribbon Head of Ranch Security dog dose and follows him. But hank gets lost and is in trouble with Rip and Snort the two coyote brothers. Can Hank pull this one off? Will he be lost to fate? Well read the book! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A charming tale
I purchased this cassette for my younger brother and he just loves it.He loved the music, the story and looking at the picture book while listening to the narration.He enjoyed the colorful paintings and the stagecoach. It sparked his interest in the Gold Country history.

The Crystal Palace: A Tale from the Gold Country
I believe Amazon got the age wrong. It is appropriate for children younger than 9 years. My 8-year-old daughter loves this book! The pictures are imaginative, colorful and detailed. The fanciful prose allows kids to usetheir imaginations, and the history lessons are fun. Delightful book. Iheartily recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

When Little Billy ignores his mother's warnings about the wild beasts in the Forest of Sin, he meets the Minpins, miniature people who own the forest and live in the trees. Little Billy vanquishes the worst monster of all and becomes a hero to the Minpins. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great book!
We love this book. One of my daughters, who loves fantasy, asks us to read this to her about once a week. The story totally captures a childs imagination. A child will never look at the trees in their yard the same way again.

Wonderful Ronald Dahl Imagination!!!
My 6 year old loves this book! Brought it home from the library again and it was the first one she picked up. This is typical of Ronald Dahl's amazing imagination, the little people with homes inside the trees and using the birds to travel; it's wonderful! I would recommend this book for most children, though for some, the beast at the beginning may be a little scary. It's a great "read to" book.

Just lovely to imagine when you look at the trees
I really like the idea of postage stamp-sized windows and doors opening in a huge tree, and tiny people in suction-cup boots walking out and strolling through the ceiling of the forest. I like the idea of a swan big enough to carry a not-so-small boy while flying. "And above all, watch with glittering eyes the world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it."

This is a great fantasy book!
This book starts with a mother forbidding her son to enter the "Forest of Sin." Will he find monsters, friends or both? Many interesting things happen on the night adventures that young Billy takes. Does anyone know about them? This is Roald Dahl's only picture book. It has been beautifully illustrated by Patrick Benson who resides in England. Let this book take you on a trip with little people and an adventure you will not soon forget.

great interesting reading for young and old
The travels of little billy are exciting. The developing story leaves you amazed by his adventures and the urge to get behind billy and save the min pins from the terrible grunger. ... Read more

Book Description

Elizabeth is the loneliest only child in the whole US of A until she discovers Jennifer. Of course, Jennifer isn't a friend, really. Witches don't make friends, and Jennifer is a witch. Elizabeth becomes her apprentice, however, and in the process of learning how to become a witch herself, she also learns how to eat raw eggs, how to cast short spells, and how to get along with Jennifer, among other things.

The relationship lasts from fall into spring. The girls meet each Saturday at the library and go from there to the park where they hold special ceremonies and read books on Witchcraft. The climax of their joint effort is to be a flying ointment, but it is here that trouble crops up.

Though this story is set in suburban New York City, it could happen anywhere, for Elizabeth's problem, and Jennifer's problem, the need for a friend, can happen to anyone. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Faviorite book of all time
I first read this book when I was in third grade (27 years ago!).Then, I was proud of just learning the name of the title by heart!It is definitely one of my favorite books from childhood.I can't wait to share it with my daughter (who is only 2 years old now).I recommend it for all young girls.

Jennifer and Elizabeth
This story was about Elizabeth, the new girl that just moved in town. On Halloween, while Elizabeth was walking to school, she met Jennifer, a strange and weird witch. Elizabeth became Jennifer's witch apprentice. They met at the library every Saturday. Elizabeth became a journeyman (the next step to being a witch). They were trying to make a flying ointment. One day, Elizabeth gets invited to Cynthia's birthday party. Her mom makes her go to the party. She got permission from Jennifer to go. At the end, Elizabeth and Jennifer fight, but they became friends again.

Jennifer and Elizabeth
The story is about two girls. One girl is a witch and the other girl has just moved to the town. Elizabeth was walking to school one day and saw a shoe hanging off a tree. The shoe looks very old and Elizabeth's shoes' look new. So Elizabeth told Jennifer your shoe is about to come off. Jennifer jumped off the tree and talked to Elizabeth. Jennifer and Elizabeth would meet every Saturday at the library first and then they would go to the park. Elizabeth became Jennifer's helper. Jennifer would tell Elizabeth to eat a weird food every day of the week. At the end of the story of the story Elizabeth finds out that Jennifer isn't a witch she just wants to be one. Elizabeth and Jennifer are best friends

Jennifer and Elizabeth
The story is about Elizabeth moving in this town where she knows no one, but one day she meets a girl named Jennifer. Jennifer says she is a witch but Elizabeth doesn�t believe her. Through out the beginning of the story Elizabeth learns its true. Jennifer teaches Elizabeth to be a witch an apprentice witch. Every Saturday Elizabeth and Jennifer meet in the park to learn witchcraft. Elizabeth has to eat one thing every day a week such as an onion, or a raw hotdog. One Saturday, Jennifer and Elizabeth start to make a flying ointment, it will take them about 5 months. One day Jennifer and Elizabeth got in a fight, and Elizabeth came down with a cold. Then one gloomy afternoon Elizabeth thought that she would go and apologize. After that they were the best of friends.

Aprpentice Witch!
Despite the title which implies a cast of thousands, this story revolves around the intense relationship betweent two fifth-grade girls, both seeking to be Needed.Black Jennifer is a loner of a character, while white Elizabeth is new to the neighborhood.The author refers to Hecate, the head witch in MACBETH, which may stimulate some discussion of Shakespeare's plays.

On Halloween day Elizabeth is walking through a park, when she spies an old-fashoined shoe dangling from a tree--a shoeon the foot of a self-proclaimed junior witch. Jennifer never smiles or laughts; in fact this curious girl walks with her head skyward--never at the ground. Her abrupt manner lacks social skills, but immediately fascinates the impressionable Elizabeth.Unique and possessive, Jennifer decies to make the girl her Apprentice--without even asking if she'd like this honor!Suddenly Elizabeth must eat certain foods and refrain from eathing others, while leaving food "offerings" for her mentor.Is this a clever scam or a serious attempt to achieve supernatural power; they both start collecting odd ingredients to compound a Flying Ointment. How far will this Game be taken?

Totally dominated by Jennifer's will Elizabeth starts acting strangely both at home and in school. Alas, she learns more than witchcraft when she is promoted to Journeyman witch, but must she sacrifice everything that normal girls enjoy, just to win Jennifer's occult favor? Is it friendship or something more sinister which she seeks? What is the attraction of Power over others?She actually discovers that she enjoys being Different from other girls; that it is exhilarating to behave in a difficult manner, which puzzles concerned adutls.What kind of underground game has their social symbiosis become, if she has to sneak, lie, dissemble and deny her own personality? Elizabeth is convinced that Jennifer's esteem is worth it all.It takes a special toad (as in TUCK EVERLASTING) to teach her an important life lesson: that no joy comes from wishing ill on others.Elementary girls will enjoy this cute BOO! read. ... Read more

Book Description

Leon and the Spitting Image is about a hotel full of animals. It's about an evil ice maker. It's about glass eyeballs and human catapults. It's about really old panty hose and Possibly Fake Hair.

But mostly it's about Leon Zeisel and his epic quest to survive fourth grade. What's stopping him? Two things. First, there's Miss Hagmeyer. She's a supernaturally strict teacher with ears that resemble giant rotting mushrooms. And then there is Leon's archenemy, Lumpkin the Pumpkin, a human tank with a deadly dodgeball throw known to all as the sidewinder.

Luckily, Leon has two friends, Lily-Matisse and P.W., who will stand by him no matter what -- even if his magical, mysterious plans for rescue and revenge involve . . . SPIT!

Reviews (10)

Needles Ready!
Needing a book to read at the end of the year to my kids, I e-mailed a trustworthy librarian friend of mine, and this book was on the top of her list. That afternoon, the book was in my hand, and the next day, it was finished. Leon and the Spitting Image was an imaginative, drop-dead funny book that I can't wait to read to my class.

Written by Allen Kurzweil, who's better known for writing adult fiction like the wonderful "A Grand Complication", this book is all about Leon, a rather inept, un-dexterous lad who gets the misforunate of being assigned to Mrs. Hagmeyer's class. The Hag, as she is affectionately known, loves sewing above all else, much to the chagrin of Leon. As if in a labor camp, her students are forced to sew "animiles", little animals stuffed with her old panty hose. Leon's cohorts, P.W. and Lily-Matisse, engage in the mystery throughout the book, who is this horrible teacher Hagmeyer, and what can she possibly be doing with the creations?

The book is funny on two levels: children will love it for it's low-base humor (although I must admit to chuckling from time to time as well!), and smarter kids and adult will love it for it's sly, occasional puns, and situational humor (like a group of mimes, staying at the hotel that's Leon's home, complaining that their microphone isn't working). Writing a children's book is challenging because you must cover both arenas for a truly entertaining book, but Kurzweil holds up well. It is hardly reminiscent of Harry Potter, but much more in the vein of Roald Dahl.

By the end of the story, you don't necessarily want it to be over. Hopefully Kurzweil has in himself a few more books, so we can spend more time with Leon, his pals, a maid, an ice machine, and Napoleon!

Somewhat Potteresque, With Notable Differences
Yes, Leon is another down-and-outter, and yes, the other two main characters are his best friends, a brainy girl (like Hermione) and a fun-loving boy (like Ron Weasley), but the plot is still worthy of a good read. In fact, I couldn't put it down, and I am a middle-aged fuddy-duddy!
One could make the point that there is even a Hagrid-like cab driver who is a beneficent helper, but really, there are more differences than similarities. For one thing, Leon's mother is a presence, and a kind, loving, if harried one. Also, unlike Voldemoort the Irredeemably Evil, the antagonist in this story has some...well, if not *likable,* at least tolerable character traits. In other words, Not All Bad, like most people a ten-year-old meets in Real Life.
A most satisfactory ending has Justice Prevailing, Good Triumphing Over Evil, and the requisite Laughs to go along with it all.
Every 9-12 year old, boy or girl, should read LEON AND THE SPITTING IMAGE. It's *that* good.

The Best Book I Have Ever Read
Leon and The Spitting Image was the best book I have ever read. There is no way I could ever find a better book. I loved the story line. The characters were also very cool. I loved it so much that I am looking for a book with a simlar story line!

Don't wait for paperback READ THIS NOW!
This is a must read children's book.

Very smart. Witty. On target. Yes, it is mixed w/fantasy but if I told you what made it fantasy it would ruin the book. Dodge ball is the game played in gym class. There is the ultimate bully. Issues w/the 4th grade teacher. The ice machine. Hotel. Cabbies and so much more. Plus the added perk of three friends sticking together trying to over come ...

I will be buying this for my nieces and nephews this year. Great, cannot put down read.

Leon is Great
I liked Leon and the Spitting Image a-lot. Whoever that other reviewer is, who says that this book is boring and that the author is a Rowling Wannabe, clearly needs their head examined. This book has nothing in common with Harry Potter and the story easily stands on its own. The story is funny and exciting and kept me laughing out loud - and I read a-lot of books. I am getting this book for my cousin Leon for his birthday. I think that this story would make a good movie. I recommend that you read this story, I think you will like it. - Jack ... Read more

Book Description

When his parents are kidnapped, what’s ten-year-old Charlie Ashanti to do? Rescuethem, that’s what! He doesn’t know who has taken his parents, or why. But he does knowthat one special talent will aid him on his journey—his amazing ability to speak Cat.Charlie calls on his clever feline friends—from stray city cats to magnificent cagedlions—for help. With them by his side, Charlie uses wit and courage to try to find hisparents before it’s too late.

With its whirlwind action and suspense, Lionboy is a nonstop page-turner.Already being compared to J. K. Rowling, this mother-daughter writing team willfascinate readers of all ages with their Cat-speaking hero! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

An inventive new world and exciting story
A world where cars have been banned for all but the most powerful and rich because of concerns over asthma, and featuring a boy who can speak to cats, this is an inventive book that marches to the beat of its own drummer. Charlie knows that his parents do important work, but never imagines that anyone would want to harm them, until he comes home one day and discovers them kidnapped. Charlie runs away from his parents kidnappers and sets out to find his parents. With major parts of the book taking place on a floating circus, the streets of Paris, and aboard a train, the book has numerous delightful subplots while never losing focus of Charlie's overall goal. The book ends somewhat abruptly and will lead many readers to wait somewhat impatiently for the next book.

Lionboy
This book is wonderful!! My husband and I just finished reading this to our seven year old (bi-racial) boy. Alll three of us couldn't wait for the next chapter. A clever tale about a bi-racial child who can talk to cats. We are always searching for quality reading that has multi racial main characters or racial at all - let's face it Harry Potter is an all white crowd as are most of the exciting and well written books for children. BIG HUGE PRAISE FOR THIS BOOK. We loved the story and identify with the character. THANK YOU Zizou Corder!

A lovely book
This is a delightful story about a young boy on a quest to rescue his parents. He can talk to all species of cats and uses this ability on his journey. He helps and is helped by a group of lions. I enjoyed reading this novel. It is short and just took an afternoon. I was dissapointed that the ending was "to be continued..." because there is no sequel yet available. If things weren't left hanging I might not feel so cheated at the end. I would recomend this book for children but you might want to wait for the next book to be published before starting this one.

WHAT?!! To be continued?!
You've got to be kidding me. A book that ends in mid-stream, with the words "To be continued"? This book contains a cardinal sin in publishing. I have absolutely no problem with continuing action across several volumes, but like the Harry Potter series, at least make each of the volumes capable of standing alone. There is absolutely no resolution at the end of this volume. Maddening. And if it was well-written, I would have at least given it 3 or 4 stars, the "to-be-continued" transgression notwithstanding. But the author ("authors" if you count the child) repeats words within sentences and between sentences (those must have been the sentences written by the child) to maddening effect, relies heavily on trite statements and cliches, and has no sense of pacing. It's as if someone sat down with a list of things children like -- "Well, they like circuses, they like lions, they like big boats, they like choo-choo trains, they like chases, and they like kings! Let's put together a book with all these ingredients!" Although my two sons, ages 7 and 9, to whom I was reading this, are not bothered by repeated words and cliches, they were very upset with the pseudo ending. ("Keep reading!" "Well, sorry boys, the only thing left are the acknowledgements." "Oh.") Charlie and his silly escapades will have to be taken up by other readers. This is where we get off the train.

Lionboy!!!
Lionboy is the story of an African boy named who loses his parents to a sneaky teenager named Rafi. The coolest part is Charlie can speak Cat! A feature like that really makes a difference in a book. I love how the lions have such a nice relationship with Charlie. It gives lions a better name than just vicious and scary because they're really not. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As young Tammo dreams of joining the Long Patrol--the legendaryarmy of fighting hares that serves the Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, Ruler ofSalamandastron--the brutal reality of a battle with Damug Warfang'smighty battalion of savage Rapscallions fast approaches.

Brian Jacques has proved time and time again his ability to transportreaders into a world of fantasy and adventure that many writers ofadult books would love to emulate. The Long Patrol certainlyproves the point yet again, but distinguishes itself by being perhapsthe very best of all the Redwall books so far. Relying less and less onthe old, familiar Redwall characters and more and more on the ingenuityand passion of younger blood, The Long Patrol will certainly winJacques a fresh following while continuing to delight his existing armyof fans. --Susan Harrison ... Read more

Reviews (190)

superb
These books are mostly about rodents fighting each other for conquest or freedom using primitive or otherwise medieval weapons.Great humor, delicious feasting.Recommended for all ages.

The reader a writer becomes...
I will say nothing against Jaques, because his books provided me with an exciting and worthwhile escape from the everyday world during my childhood. My regret is that, now I'm an adult, I can't help but notice his shallow characters, irritating songs, predictable plotlines and unthreatening villains. I wish I could stop noticing these things, but I can't.
...In any case I'm now a writer, and writing books which are rather Jaques-like in that they're about battles fought by animal characters, but which are for an older audience. If anyone wants to read them, they're available free on this website:

www.kjtaylor.com

I only have two warnings to make: These stories are not for little kids, and they won't be free of charge forever. Read them while you've got the opportunity, you've got nothing to lose.

the long patrol
its not as good as the bellmaker, or mossflower, but its still good beacause its redwall!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The first I read and still the best
I read this book when I was in fifth grade and I am now a junior in high school. This was the first Redwall book I read and it is still the best, by far.
Why Read this?
Reason's to read are because the characters are realistic, I could relate to them, most readers will be able to. I also thought that the 'Rapscallion' were pretty cool. The stroyline was the traditional redwall quest, bad guy, final battle to save the people of redwall sort of thing. He also puts a bit of history in the backround to give the book more spice. There are no reasons not to read this, its a great stroy about a young hare trying to make his mark in the Long Patrol.
Great job Master Jacques!

Greatest Book I Have Ever Read And I Have Read A Lot
A great book by Brian Jaques it has all the aspects to keep you reading. In it a young hare Tamello De Fformello Tussock (Tammo)
is a determined hare trying to get into the long Patrol with the most Perilous hares ever.His father ofcourse won't let him but his mother tells him to run away with her old friend Russa NoDrey a squirrel. She takes him to Redwall an abbey at wich the Long Patrol goes to alot. Yet the Abbey is unsafe the Rapscallions lead by Damug Warfang are going to attack. Over in Salamndastron The badger lord Lady Cregga Rose Eyes hears of it and sends aid. Do they win find out.I also beleive he should right a sequel. ... Read more

Book Description

Recommended for kids 7 & up

Audio read-along books for children based on folktales from different regions of India. The narration by renowned singer Usha Uthup in English is highly entertaining and expressive.The book illustrate authentic folklore characters and regional artwork in vibrant colors. Children can sing along with the music. Several songs are presented in a world music format, concluding with a key take home message.

The stories are written by Dr. Vayu Naidu, internationally renowned storyteller and writer.She is the founder and artistic director of Brumhalata Intercultural Storytelling Company based in Birmingham, UK.A glossary of key ethnic words and a learning guide accompanies each title.The audio book is a joint production of Sky Music (India) and Tulika Books (India).

A folktale from the State of Bihar, India.Kalia and Swapan are poor villagers who make shoes.After many years of living in poverty Swapan tells her husband that she wants money, and a lot of it.So, Kalia asks the holy man to grant him a ghost (genie) that will always get money for him.Bhootram, the ghost then appears, but warns that he will gobble up him and his wife, unless Kalia always gives him work to do.After only a few days, Kalia and Swapan run out of things for Bhootram to do, so once again the Kalia turns to the holi man to help him save his family.

One full colour soft bound (8.5x7)22-page book, one 22- minute audio tape, lyrics to the songs and a special learning insert ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Winning Series that offers cultural opportunities
Beautifully read by singer Usha Uthup.... Mugdha Shah's artwork is the result of a study of traditional and folk designs.... The result is a cultural lesson that entertains and enlightens listeners.... The stories have a familiar ring to them, but a distinct Indian tone that transports listeners to faraway lands.... The traditional style music in the background is well done and not distracting, ...This is a winning series for libraries wishing to offer cultural opportunities to young readers. ... Read more

Book Description

Audio read-along books for children based on folktales from different regions of India. The narration by renowned singer Usha Uthup in English is highly entertaining and expressive. The book illustrate authentic folklore characters and regional artwork in vibrant colors. Children can sing along with the music. Several songs are presented in a world music format, concluding with a key take home message.

This is a folktale from the State of Rajasthan, India. Peacock becomes leader of the forest, and because of his beauty, Surya the daughter of the Sun king wants to marry him. Even after they marry, Peacock is concerned with his looks and makes his wife simply cook and clean. After being sent back to earth by the angry king, Peacock is replaced by another leader and learns that looks alone are not what matter.

One full colour soft bound 22-page book, one 22-minute audio tape, lyrics to the songs, and a special learning insert. Narrated by Usha Uthup. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Winning Series that offers cultural opportunities
Beautifully read by singer Usha Uthup.... Mugdha Shah's artwork is the result of a study of traditional and folk designs.... The result is a cultural lesson that entertains and enlightens listeners.... The stories have a familiar ring to them, but a distinct Indian tone that transports listeners to faraway lands.... The traditional style music in the background is well done and not distracting, ...This is a winning series for libraries wishing to offer cultural opportunities to young readers. ... Read more

Book Description

In his latest case, Hank finds himself up against a creature he's never seen before-and boy is it scary! Someone-or rather something-with beady eyes and a full suit of armor is digging up the garden. Hank is on the case immediately, but before he can put an end to the digging robot's antics, he gets blamed for the crime. Can Hank dig his way out of this mess, or has he burrowed too deep? Find out in the newest adventure starring everyone's favorite Head of Ranch Security. ... Read more

Book Description

The third audiobook in The Lost Years of Merlin series finds Merlin facing his greatest challenge yet in order to save the realm.

Long ago on the magical island of Fincayra, the last emperor of the dragons took revenge against the realm for the slaughter of his mate and their onlyoffspring.Merlin's grandfather--a mighty wizard--saved the land by casting a sleeping spell over the dragon.

The dragon called Wings of Fire has awakened from his enchanted slumber.Prophecy dictates that only the descendant of the wizard who first defeated the dragon possesses the power to stop him.Before Merlin can go to battle, he must conquer his own fears by confronting the sorceress who has stolen his magical talisman--a talisman needed to stop Wings of Fire.But according to the prophecy, the one who destroys the dragon must also die . . . ... Read more

Reviews (34)

AMAZING! A MUST READ FANTASY THAT WILL TOUCH THE SOUL
This was all in all a great book. Once again, in the land of Fincayra, there is trouble. An old prophecy seems to state the sure death of Merlin when an old dragon awakes from his ever so long slumber. Due to past help from the dwarves, Merlin now owes them a favor-even if it means certain death. This book is filled with tricks and treachery as you travel with Merlin on this great adventure, seeking what is right and just. When he is put to the final test he realizes that all things have their place in the world and some of the truest power comes from within. Come and explore Fincayra with Merlin and his friends and experience magic in some of its earliest forms. Dravia, dravia Fincayra. (Live long, live long Fincayra.)

The best book I've ever read!!
The third book in The Lost Years of Merlin series, The Fires of Merlin, is one of the best books I've ever read. Another fantastic book written by T.A. Barron, The Fires of Merlin give fantasy readers what they want. In this book, Merlin must set out to battle the dragon Valdearg who has awakened after centuries to find who killed it's offspring. Merlin must face the dragon all while wondering who kept the evil kreelixes alive. These vile creatures can kill any magical creature with just one bite. Plus, with the help of the witch,Urnlanda, Merlin loses his magical powers. So now not only must he destory Valderag, but he also has to find a way to get the talisman that might help him beat the dragon. A real work of art, Barron's book will leave you wanting to read more.

amazing but not so great as "seven songs of merlin"
i loved it.........but it does not compare to seven songs of merlin in any way. the dragon of fincayra's children have been killed (except for 1). now he is on a wraging rampage. the only one who can stop him is merlin. but merlin is fighting simply to keep his magic.

WOW!
Do not view these as five individual books, but as five pieces of a whole saga. To read only one would be to cheat one's self of seeing an entire picture.

The epic begins with an child with no memory being raised by a mysterious woman in a small village. Both of them are regarded as local oddities and driven to live in a convent. The boy is known as Emrys, but never feels that that is his true name. As he matures, he develops gifts and wonderous powers, along with an increasing need to know who he is. Eventually, he goes upon a quest in search of his heritage, one that will lead him to the lands his mother's stories spoke of, the Hidden World outside of time and this life. He finds himself in the midst of a battle between warring demigods, and finds a new name for his own, Merlin.

As Merlin journeys through the five books, he makes new friends and bitter enemies. This is a world filled with dragons, witches, goblins, and lost treasures. Secrets that are as powerful and painful as a two edged blade are discovered. Otherworlds are crossed, time itself bends to give the boy a glimpse of his own destiny, and choices musst be made that will affect far more than just Merlin.

***** Elements of other classics are hinted at, but applied in new ways and familiarity only serves to endear. This is a grand saga without the weightiness of other epics. Rather, it is easy to read and charming. This Merlin can stand alongside Tolkien's hobbits or Harry Potter proudly. *****

Reviewed by Amanda Killgore.

A Great Read
T. A. Barron takes the cake once again! This book is not only adventurous, but it chronicles and takes you through this part of the childhood of Merlin. A highlight of the book is the poetry of Cairpre that adds realism and a different flavor. The constant excitement and suspence that keeps you turning the pages is another highlight. Something that keeps me reading this great series in the careful, delicate description of things. An example is Hallia and Eremon, the deer-people of the story. The description of them is so precise that you can immediately picture them. Also great is the clearly developing love of Merlin for Hallia. Another of the many wonderful things about the book is the ending, which shows many of the lessons that Merlin has learned during his travels and how they will help him in the future. I give this unbelieveably great book a 5 of 5. It is, by far, my favorite book that I have ever read. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Not what I was Wanting
I bought this on cassette to entertain my 4-year-old during our 30-minute ride to school in the mornings. It was a complete failure, but to be fair the fault is probably my own ignorance of Aesop's Fables.The stories are VERY brief-- just enough to set up the moral at the end, not enough to set up any drama or catch my 4-year-old's interest. The morals themselves are worded in old-fashioned and/or very sophisticated language and are pretty much incomprehensible to this age child.I could perhaps see having this in book format and reading one or two stories at bed time, but for my needs the cassette at least is pretty useless.We'll be going back to the Jim Weiss stories on tape (which we've quite enjoyed). ... Read more

Book Description

Brian Jacques reaches a new pinnacle in storytelling, imparting the story behind the story of the greatest Redwall warrior of them all.

Abridged3 hours on 2 cassettes
Read by the author ... Read more

Reviews (128)

A must-have title for all ages!
I've been a big fan of the Redwall series for about 5-6 years now, and I've loved every installment in the series, and I can say The Legend of Luke is my personal favorite. I've read every Redwall book in the series at least 6 times each, and I can't wait until the next installment, ~Triss~, hits stores. Okay, here is how the book works out :). The book takes place way way way WAY in the past of the Redwall timeline, to the season where the construction of the abbey known as Redwall is near complete. There, Martin the Warrior is told of a strange tale about his father by a travelling hedgehog. The tale sticks to his mind, until he finally decides to head out and discover his father Luke's true fate. He leaves with Gonff, Foremole, and a few other companions, and encounter many friends and foes along the way. Finally, in the lands to the far north where Martin and Luke's clan hailed from, they discovered the remains of a giant red slave ship imbedded between two giant stone pillars. What awaits Martin and friends there???? Read the rest of the book to find out! :D

One of the beast Redwall Books Ever Written!
I urge you to buy this book. I have read nearly all of the Redwall series, and this is by far one of the best. The Story starts with Martin, the son of luke, and his friends Dinny the mole and Gonff, prince of mousethieves. He picks up a few more party members, but i'll let you find those out for yourself. After Martins fight with an evil wildcat in the book Mossflower, Martin lost almost all of his memory. So martin ventures out in search of his past and what happened to his Father, Luke the Warrior. Half of the story is Martin and his friends trekking through Mossflower to the northern shore caves. The other half starts right when martins father leaves him in search of an evil searat, that killed his wife. The story is sad and almost made me cry and the end. Various plot twists make this book hard to let go of. So just go buy it already! CAUTION! Buying this book may make you go Redwall Crazy!

Great book!
I really liked this book. Trimp the Rover hedgehog goes to Redwall Abbey. It's under construction. She helps build by singing a hauling shanty about Martin's father, Luke. Martin becomes depressed, so Gonff, Dinny, and Trimp take him on an adventure.
My favorite part is the song about Saint Ninian's.

A swash buclikng good tale
This is the 12 book in the red wal series. It is the prequel and sequel to mossflower. In legend of Luke Martin the Warrior, Gonf and Young Dinny go on a quest to find out what happens to martins fateher luke.

In it we learn that luke Died shortly after kiling the Vile Dark star a vile vermin corsair who murder his wife. For those of you who read Martin the Warrior you know what becomes of Martin after his father leaves him behind.

Log a log is back so is delight ful Fedd and Cogs sweet old Bell of Brochhall is back to. If you like this book I also recomennd Mossflower and Martin the Warrior for the are the only other books that martin is in that is a Major character. Tell redwall encyloped that there source of books that Martin is in accurate. Sir he is dead and nimare character in the other but he should still be on the list.

Live the tale or read the story
This Redwall book was different from the rest. A big chunk of the story is a tale being told. Also there is no regular villan to fight. This is one of the better Redwall books because it has less fighting but more action and suspense. I especially liked when they first met Folgrim. He looked weak but he killed two rats in the blink of an eye.
The book started with Martin living at Redwall. He takes a trip to the North shore. He leaves with some close friends. They find a band of weasels that are going to cook a squirrel. Once they free the squirrel, they find out his name is Chugger. His grandmother died one day so he went out on his own. They soon find shrews and an otter name Folgrim. Once at North shore, they take a ship to the tall rocks. There they find part of Luke's crew. One tells the story about Luke.
You must read Martin the warrior first. This was another great book from Brian Jaques and an awesome book from Redwall. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (13)

Lovely, but . . .
Just a quick blurb for the time being, as everyone is already heaping praise on it.Warning: I'm playing Devil's Advocate here.

I loved it, too, but in retrospect, the book is a trifle misleading.I mean, the title of the book is better suited to the cover picture, and the cover picture is better suited to the title, than either is to the actual story.

It's a charming picture with a charming title.The substance of the tale -- a country princess trying to get a foppish prince out of trouble with the help of an absent-minded magician and the hindrance of a couple of witches -- is, however, rather fluffy (in spite of how much fun the synopsis is), and slightly too predictable.Anyone reading fairy-tale sendoffs should expect a certain amount of predictability, of course, but in some places I could guess exactly what was going to happen chapters ahead of the actual event.And it's kind of a letdown when you expect something to happen, and read through the several pages or chapters pre-event, only to find exactly - and only - what you expected.

Vivian Van Velde's trademark blend of gentle humor, sharp wit, quirky characters, and that teensy bit of grimness is still here, but not in enough abundance to justify the book's outward appearance.

On the other hand, those are the only things I can really think of to say against the book.

In spite of appearances, I'm actually a huge fan of Van Velde's work.Even her lesser works (Companions of the Night, anyone?) show off her genuinely unique powers of imagination.

And, I like her style.

Vivian Van Velde, as much as I've whined here, you rock!

A different sort of fairtale
Vivian Vande Velde's A Hidden Magic turns the standard fairytale of the beautiful princess and the handsome prince on its ear. First of all the princess, Jennifer, is not beautiful. Secondly, the handsome prince has only his handsomeness to recommend him; he is arrogant, snobbish and rude. Thirdly, the prince does not rescue the princess: when Prince Alexander offends an evil witch who sends him into a deep sleep, it is left to Jennifer to rescue him.

She finds assistance from a clever young sorcerer named Norman. With his grudging aid Jennifer is able to defeat the evil witch and restore Alexander to wakefulness. Despite the role reversals and the lack of customary beauty and modesty, the novel proceeds like many fantasy novels do, complete with a dark forest, an ogre, a dragon and a mysterious Old Witch, until Alexander is awakened. Then Vande Velde does something that makes this story special and more than a slightly-strange fairytale: Jennifer defies fairytale convention and shows excellent good sense in refusing to love or marry the handsome Prince Alexander. Instead she has fallen in love with the sometimes awkward but good-hearted young man who stayed by her and helped her on her quest: the ordinary-looking sorcerer, Norman. Good guys do not always finish last!

Vande Velde has written a very good story, although I would have liked it to be a little bit longer, and with a little more support for Jennifer's almost all-of-a-sudden fondness for Norman. I cannot say that Jennifer's interest in Norman is unexpected or not foreshadowed, but a more subtle handling of their romance would make this good story an excellent one.

A Hidden Magic
A Hidden Magic is a great book. In A Hidden Magic a not-so-ordinary princess (Jennifer) and a handsome but self-centered prince (Alexander) wander into a magical forest, but a magic mirror casts a spell on Alexander making him fall into an endless sleep. Jennifer ends up teaming up with a not-so-powerful warlock named Norman thus, beginning their adventure to save Alexander. I think that A Hidden magic has an awesome plot line and the characters are very colorful. There is almost every magical creature you can think of in this book, from dragons to giants to genies to witches and warlocks. If you enjoy fantasy books you will love A Hidden Magic.

Parody Of Fairy Tales
Once upon a time-before kings and queens were replaced by an act of congress and when kissing a frog still sometimes resulted in more than a case of warts-there lived a young princess named Jennifer.

So begins Vivian Vande Velde's fairy tale, A Hidden Magic.As you might expect, Jennifer meets Prince Charming who is immediately bowled over by her grace and beauty.The two marry and live happily ever after, having perfect children who someday grow up to have perfect children of their own.Well, okay, so Prince Charming isn't really bowled over by her beauty.And he isn't really that charming.In fact, I've rarely met a more egotistical (self-centered) stuck up prig in my life.But he is pretty to look at, and to a young somewhat homely girl like Jennifer that seems important.

This story is an obvious parody (misrepresentation) of the standard fairy tale.A Hidden Magic feels somewhat predictable at times.This book is almost exactly the opposite of the standard "handsome prince rescues princess" story, which we are all used to reading and in its attempt to parody it loses much in the way of originality.

The characters are:
Jennifer, a princess who's a bit homely and works at her father's old, run-down castle.Later, when she is faced with adversity (difficulty), she reacts well, keeping her goal in mind and doing her best to achieve it.She has a chubby, good-natured kind of face that parents would tend to call nice and sweet disposition (character) and really is quite a likable girl, but certainly isn't your typical princess.

Prince Alexander is a bold, arrogant (self-centered), proud, exquisite to look at and totally aware of it, and generally a royal pain.Women fall all over him and her knows it.He feels superior to everyone because he is the son of the king who reigns in a very wealthy place.He has curly golden hair, deep blue eyes, and very broad shoulders.In many ways, he is a very stereotypical (trite) royal.

Norman had the ability to change shape with the help of the ring that the old sorcerer gave him.But, underneath his outward appearance, he is always the same rather young and lonely sorcerer.Norman is steadfast (dedicated), loyal, clever, and has a good sense of humor.He is willing to make sacrifices for those he cares for.

The Magical Mirror serves the evil witch, living in one of her many residences in the enchanted forest.He has little patience for stupidity and dishonesty and reacts badly when Prince Alexander tries to steal him.He leaves Jennifer with a riddle to help her save the prince.

Malveenya, the evil witch, is known as the most evil creature in the enchanted forest.The townspeople erected a magical wall to keep her in the enchanted forest and away from civilized folks because of her propensity (tendency) for damage.The owner of the magical mirror, Norman and Jennifer must eventually face Malveenya in their quest to rescue the not-so-charming prince.

Great Bedtime Book
I wasn't sure it I'd like this book, but I found it great to pick up and read in an evening. It's make you smile, makes you laugh and is just plain entertaining.

The characters are all very colourful. The upstart of Alexander, the quiet and shy Jennifer, and then there's Norman about whom you can't write much about, but he completes the story.

The thing you will love most about the book is the ending, someone gets their just desserts... ... Read more

Book Description

A villainous new presence is a-prowl in Mossflower Woods: the Marlfoxes. And when they ruthlessly steal the most precious treasure of all, the tapestry of Martin the Warrior, it takes the children of warrior squirrels to follow in their fathers' heroic footsteps to recover it...

"A richly imagined world in which bloody battles vie for attention with copious feasting and tender romancing. Where males and females are heroes and warriors. Where the young triumph and the old endure. Where intelligence is as valued as strength and wit is frequently more important than size."-- The Cincinnati Enquirer

"A grand adventure story...breathtaking."-- Chicago Sun-Times ... Read more

Reviews (147)

Another Great Read by Brian Jaques
Following in the tradition of his previous books Brian Jaques starts off this delightful adventure with a whole knew set of characters. The part that Brian readers will most enjoy is the connection between this book and the other books, allowing the reader to travel along with characters in their adventures. The apperance of the Marlfoxes brings in a mystery and gives the experianced Redwall reader a chance to quess to how they began. At the first introduction of these creatures I began to wish for a history on these fine characters. I sincerely hope thatt Jaques gives us a book compiling the Marlfox history. The one low point in the book was the carelessness of the abbey dwellers toward their children. They seem to be unconcerned with the younger ones(dibbuns), although this may be put in because of the days of peace that everyone at Redwall Abbey has experianced. Overall I recommend this to all Redwall fans as a way to explore farther into Mossflower. For those starting out on the series though I would suggest an earlier book that gives more background into the tale.

Action Packed Adventure with Friends
In Marlfox Brian Jacques takes you to peaceful Red Wall Abby. Until the pure evil Marlfoxes come to plunder the abbey. The humble Redwallers must learn new fighting skills to defend the abbey from the Marlfoxes and their army of water rats. The Marlfoxes steal something of great value to the Redwallers and 3 young Redwallers set of to reclaim it and restore it to its rightful place in Red Wall Abby. In the beginning of Marlfox, Brian Jacques's 11th book in the Red Wall series, the story starts off in Mossflower wood. The Swifty family of nomadic squirrels encounter the two marlfoxes magical, evil ax wielding foxes, Ascord and his sister Vinam. The two marlfoxes try to capture Jangler Swifty's daughter, Songbreas (Song for short) to take back to there mother and Queen Sith who must be surrounded by beauty at all times. But they can outfight Jangler Swifty and both end up injured. Later that day the Swiftys arrive at RedWall Abbey to warn the Redwallers of the dangerous Marlfoxes. They find a small band of actors there that encountered the Marlfoxes too. The Marlfoxes and their Water Rat allies try to plunder the abbey but the Redwallers hold them off in a gruesome battle. One marlfox slips in to the abbey with four water rats and steal the magnificent tapestry of Martian the worrier and take it back to the castle Marl on the hidden lake. Four young Redwallers set of to reclaim the stolen tapestry. The four companions made many new friends, allies and even three enemies. One important friend is Mighty Megraw, an osprey (a fish eating hawk). And Song finds her long lost grandfather living with some hedgehogs. Mighty Metegrew, song's grandfather and his hedgehog friends help Dann, Song, Deppler, and Burble free the slaves and restore the tapestry back at Red Wall. I loved this book because it has funny moments. It is also action packed. It shows what friends are for. If I had to rate this book on a one to ten scale it would be a ten. I strongly encourage you to read Marlfox.

Michael ...
The summerization of this bok can be explained in different ways. At the beginning it tells about different groups of characters encountering different bad guys, which are all marlfoxes. Six marlfoxes, two each go out and meet three groups of animals. All of the good guys go to Redwall to warn the villagers that marlfoxes are among the Mossflower Woods. They all meet up at Redwall and team up against the marlfoxes that try to steal the tapestry of Redwall. One by one good guys and bad guys are killed and murdered at Redwall. The marlfoxes steal the tapestry, and the smartest, slyest marlfox, Mokkan, steals it from the other marlfoxes. After that four young warriors from Redwall go out to retrieve it. Meeting many friends along the way, the four young warriors travel to the Island of Marl. This is where the marlfox Queen Silth lives, later on to be Queen Lantur because of Silth's death.
With help the four young warriors get to the island and free some of the slaves. The slaves help to fight the guards on the island. Three of the four warriors go to the king's room to take back the tapestry. The escaping marlfox, Mokkan, is later strangled and drowned by one of the slaves. In the end the four young warriors become leaders of their groups or tribes.

Marlfox
Marlfox is a rather good story, but it isn't one of Brian Jacques' best. Redwall has no leaders except Cregga Rose Eyes, who refuses to be an Abbess, and the cellarkeeper from The Long Patrol is still alive, Gurrbowl. How that is possible I do not know unless moles live forever. Also the adventuring part is quite boring and the White Ghost part is a bit ridiculous.

best book out of the previous 10
This is a very good book. I got hooked on it right from the very first page and couldn't wait to find out what would happen. This eleventh installment of the Redwall series is one for the ages. You should hurry and read this book. I think you'd enjoy it. ... Read more

Book Description

A children's classic comes to life in an enchanting dramatization narrated by Alan Bennett. Enter the world of the great river and meet the marvelous
riverbank animals: the poetic Rat, his friend Mole, and the boastful Toad, as they voyage down the river and into the Wild Wood to great adventures!This
exclusive BBC production features a full cast, authentic sound effects and sweeping music to warm hearts young and old. ... Read more

Reviews (89)

Idyllic, adventurous, poetic, humorous ... truly classic!
Reading a book that is well-established as a classic offers both risks and rewards. The risk is that one's expectations might be too high, leading to disappointment. The reward is that the book matches expectations, leading to thorough satisfaction. Reading Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind in the Willows" is certainly rewarding, but also risky. It's unquestionably a classic, popularized in part by A.A. Milne's dramatization in 1929 under the name "Toad of Toad Hall." Quite honestly, expecting a child-like story, I found it on a higher level altogether, and perhaps even best appreciated by teens and older readers. It has a poetical lyrical quality that could discourage younger readers from completing it on their own.

But that aside, it's not hard to see why this book has stood the test of time. Especially the talking animal protagonists are outstanding. Shy and loyal Mole, clever and courageous Rat, gruff and gentlemanly Badger, and arrogant, adventurous and crazed Toad - the animal characters that populate Grahame's novel are thoroughly individual, real, and loveable, despite their individual quirks. They are distinctly animal-like, and yet aspects of their life (food - transport - clothing) are distinctly human, enabling us to identify with them quickly and easily and yet be charmed by their differences. Toad does ultimately repent from his conceited egotism "Henceforth I will be a very different Toad", although we cannot help get the feeling that this is not the first time he has embarked on a road of repentance only to be ambushed again by his old nature. All of this is portrayed with poetic lyricism, as well as warm sympathy and humour.

There is something here for everyone. When the friends aren't lazily floating down the river or indulging their appetites, they are worrying about Toad's latest escapades with motor-boats or automobiles. Readers will find themselves attracted to the rustic, quiet and cozy life of companionship on the river, or else the neverending action that ensues as Toad follows his selfish passions and gets himself into trouble and the climax as Toad and his friends seek to recapture Toad Hall from evil weasels, ferrets and stoats. While the final battle offers thrills, Toad's "education" is undoubtedly a good lesson for us all. Grahame's animal world offers much food for thought for humans in the real world. Visiting this fantasy world is not escapist, because it better equips us to live in the real world.

If there is any criticism, it might be that the novel does not work the aspects of introspection and adventure together cohesively and so does not always function well as a whole. The shift from pastoral introspection to madcap adventure and back is at times too great. But even if the snap-shots of "The Wind in the Willows" 's fantasy world are somewhat fragmented, in the end it's the characters of this world that make it so convincing and successful. With their successful combination of idyllic companionships and adventurous mishaps, Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad will continue to make new friends of readers in years to come. -GODLY GADFLY

One of the Greats
Only Kipling's Jungle book, rivals this as the classic talking animal book for children. With his beautiful prose, Grahame evokes laughter, suspense, pleasure and even awe. Water Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, and the insufferable Toad quickly gain our interest and sympathy. If you buy it to read to children, beware! You may not be able to resist reading ahead a few chapters after you put them to bed. This is a book not to be missed. The scene in which Pan appears as the animals' protector inspired a song by Van Morrison, and a mention in Jane Goodall's book, A Reason for Hope. From it a child of any age will get fun, wonder, and a demonstration of the beautiful possibilities of the English language.

A primer on friendship
The Wind in the Willows is a delightful children's classic that touches upon many things; wonder, pastoralism, but most of all friendship between individuals very different from one another. One of the hallmarks of this classic is that the adventure stories remain entertaining to this day. A must read for any child.

Check your Text
In response to the 5 star reviewer, I encourage her to check her text's publication date. I used the Scholastic version of The Wind in the Willows for years and up until 2 years ago it was an unabridged version. That older version has been replaced by the Miles version, however, which is not unabridged. I discovered this by accident when I ordered it for my classes--believing I was getting the old Scholastic version--and found that the version my students received bore little resemblance to the one I had. Hence my warning about this text. The Miles version is NOT the one Scholastic used to offer and it IS drastically altered.

Uneven Version
"Wind" is the charming story of four friends living near the river bank - Mole, Badger, Rat and Toad. The story follows their adventures in the Wide World, and how true friendship keeps them together through "thick and thin."

Unfortunately, the story loses some of its appeal in this video version. It tells the tale well enough, but it just doesn't have the feel of a "classic." Sometimes, you have to read the book to fully appreciate it!

Good, not great. Three stars. ... Read more

Book Description

Reader TBA
Approx. 3 hrs. 45 mins.
3 cassettes

Ever since his dad got rich from an invention and his family moved to a wealthy neighborhood on Long Island, Tony Miglione's life has been turned upside down.For starters, there's his new friend Joel, who shoplifts.Then there's Joel's sixteen-year-old sister, Lisa, who gets undressed every night without pulling down her shades.And there's Grandma, who won't come down from her bedroom.On top of all his other worries, Tony has questions about growing up… Why couldn't things have stayed the same?
... Read more

Reviews (25)

Then Again, Maybe I Won't
This book is amazing. You will laugh and you will cry. When you first read this book you will ask yourself was or is there a Tony Miligone at my school? Judy Blume did a really good job .I give it five stars. If there was a sequel to this book I would read it.

A Classic Blume Book
In a classic coming-of-age story, Judy Blume writes with all the compassion and understanding she can muster for a young boy.
A woman writing about the trials and tribulations of adolescence (including all the baddies: wet dreams and all) might seem a dangerous undertaking.Blume makes it work.This is a grand story that has you truly understanding what the protagonist is going through.
It's primarily a book for and about boys; however, a girl would do well to read this and at least start to understand what boys have to deal with.
A well-written story with well-developed characters, this book is on any number of must-read lists for teens.

"The funny, touching story of a boy with problems."
After moving to Long Island, New York, from Jersey City, 13-year-old Tony Miglione tries to cope with a new life--new friends (like shoplifting Joel), new feelings (like for Joel's older sister, who un/dresses in front of her window, thus explaining the binocular cover), and virtually new parents (his mother especially, who's become a social climber ever since the family's sudden wealth)--though Tony doesn't cope very well, seeing as how he later develops an ulcer.

Even though "Then Again, Maybe I Won't" isn't one of my favorites by Blume, it's still very good. In fact, I have yet to come across a book by her (either for adults or children) that I don't like. This one is more for preteen boys (age 10 - 14), but I'd still recommend it to Blume fans, regardless of age/gender.

Then Again, Blume ROCKS once more
Blume's books are so realistic.She has not written anything that is not if anything, honest.She is brutal in bringing the truth of what these characters think, feel, and desire to the page.She is wonderful and so is this book.

Nicely written.
There are hundreds of stories about coming of age.But most are told in the female perspective.Judy Blume's Then Again, Maybe I won't, is written in the male perspective.This is a nice changein young adult literature.Tony is a typical boy who lives in a suburb and his life is pretty normal.That is until his father invents some type of electrical circuit which gets his family extremely rich.Tony and his family move to a rich, classy neighborhood.There, he realizes how money changes people.He also makes a friend who has a terrible shoplifting habit.Should Tony tell someone?Tony also is growing up.The one flaw to the story was the ending.But, as far as YA fiction goes, it is well-done. ... Read more