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A review by becca_osborn
The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz
adventurous
funny
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
In a bustling tavern in the middle ages, we hear folks tell stories about three children and their holy dog who are now wanted by the king himself. For what? Well, you'll have to keep listening. It's amazing what you might stumble upon if you keep listening...!
The format of this book is really incredible - the storytelling parts read kind of like a Canturbury tales for 11 year olds. It takes a bit to get into the format, but once you're in, you're IN. The characters are not super developed, but all are very endearing. Gidwitz has done a LOT of research, and manages a bunch of spinning plates really well in this novel. I love that we get "just enough" background on all three characters (and the holy dog OF COURSE) and while I still have questions, I don't "need" to know more than what I've been given. The author also handles some really tough, very real questions too. I also love the details that the author adds, like "I'VE BEEN READING THIS A LONG TIME, I HAVE TO PEE" and things like this. So great. The illuminations on the pages are also such an amazing asset. So looking forward to reading more by this author!
The format of this book is really incredible - the storytelling parts read kind of like a Canturbury tales for 11 year olds. It takes a bit to get into the format, but once you're in, you're IN. The characters are not super developed, but all are very endearing. Gidwitz has done a LOT of research, and manages a bunch of spinning plates really well in this novel. I love that we get "just enough" background on all three characters (and the holy dog OF COURSE) and while I still have questions, I don't "need" to know more than what I've been given. The author also handles some really tough, very real questions too. I also love the details that the author adds, like "I'VE BEEN READING THIS A LONG TIME, I HAVE TO PEE" and things like this. So great. The illuminations on the pages are also such an amazing asset. So looking forward to reading more by this author!