Other reviews..See. Stand. Choose. Remember. Only these four words glowing on closet doors throughout the village of Sureau lend any clue as to the mysterious sleep that plagues many of the village residents. Callum, Erlidih, Finlay, and Skye are friends and students at the Alexander School but they share a new bond now. Each has a parent trapped in a sort of stasis, surrounded by coffins formed by trees and vines. Will Callum decipher the clues in time to save his mother, Ellsbeth, or will the roots and vines overtake her and the other sleepers forever?
What a delightfully eerie tale! R.R. Smythe creates very vivid images, both of the Netherwood and of the root sarcophaguses encasing the sleepers. One cant help but give a little shiver of fear as Callum and his cohorts race to uncover the meaning of each clue. Seeing the Netherwood through Ellsbeths eyes is a stroke of genius by R.R. Smythe as it adds just the right touch to make this one a classic tale!
INTO THE WOODS evokes an almost haunting atmosphere, as the reader is pulled into the storyline. While INTO THE WOODS is billed as a tale for young adults, adult readers will enjoy the darker fairytale-like aspects of the storyline. R.R. Smythes explanation for each clue is quite clever and the deeper meanings will resonate with adult readers as well as young adults.
INTO THE WOODS is yet another phenomenal offering from Highland Press. R.R. Smythe kickstarts their first ever young adult story with a bang. INTO THE WOODS is a definite hit by this stunning author!
Reviewed by Debbie- Recommended Read
Into the Woods has a rich tapestry quality that is found in old fairy tales. The words and rhythm give it the feel of a fable. The tale hints at what is to come, but never gives you a true look, rather like the inhabitants of the woods luring you into the woods before youre aware you moved. Having the mother who is encased in roots have a voice is a nice touch. It allows us to see what is going on in her world and to understand what Callum will need to do to save her. The tale is a complicated one, but any eager reader should be able to unravel it.
Into the Woods is an interesting and exciting tale for the intermediate reader. I would recommend it because it operates on many different levels, includes the richness of imagery and fully developed characters.
Reviewed by Morgan Wyatt
October 3, 2007
from novelspot
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First Blackbeard Review:
"Ms. Chapman has crafted a well-researched, heart-wrenching story that
will have you feeling all of the frustrations and desperation of the
characters. Her portrayal of Blackbeard is one you won't expect. Rich
with emotion, this story will certainly have everyone talking."
Diane Wylie
http://www.dianewylie.com/