Monday, May 6, 2013

MG Book Review: Greedy Jack Wallace, by Adam C. Veile

(The Dreamcatcher Adventures series, # 1)


General Information
Publisher: East Circle Publishing
Year of publication: 2012
# of chapters: 12 + Epilogue
# of pages: (e-book)
Genre: Adventure
Website: 
www.thedreamcatcheradventures.com

Plot summary (from the website):
He might not have the muscles, the mustache, or even the cool hat, but seventh-grader Blake Monroe has the heart of a cowboy. He just needs the chance to prove himself. So when the ghost of his rowdy Wild-West ancestor needs his help, Blake’s ready to ride. They begin their search for a long-hidden ransom, a treasure that Gray, the ghost, is determined to find . . . only life's a little more confusing for him than during the 1800s.

The duo sets out on the trail, but their adventure is derailed when they realize they aren’t the only ones after the ransom—Gray’s old enemy, a deadly outlaw named Jack Wallace, is in pursuit. And that’s when Blake realizes it is going to take more than a cool hat to get them out of this one.

Positive Points
The first chapter made me laugh so hard that my sides were hurting. Some other scenes in the book were equally funny, but there were also serious scenes, suspense, and a lot of action. I enjoyed this book from beginning to end.

I always like treasure hunt stories, especially when the nature of the treasure is a mystery, like in this book. The story brings us from one clue to the next in search of a hidden ransom of some kind. At first, we have no clue what the ransom is; its nature is revealed to us little by little as we read.

This book reads like something published by a traditional publisher. It really stands out from many of the self-published books I've recently read. I'm impressed! I looked up the author on Amazon and was surprised to find out that this was his only novel. The characters' voices, the writing style, the consistent POV, the riveting plot, the hilarious humor, everything spells bestselling author.

Negative Points
I can't find anything negative to say about this book.

What makes this book unique
I haven't seen many Western movies, but this reads like a kid version of a classic Western to me, with paranormal elements added.

Overall Impression
I think this book would appeal to any middle grade child, but in particular to boys and reluctant readers. It's relatively short and easy to read and understand. I've enjoyed it as an adult, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves MG novels. You're never too old for a good adventure story!

My Rating:


Thinking of purchasing this book? I'll make it easy for you:

2 comments:

Natalie Aguirre said...

Sounds like a great read for kids who like westerns.

DMS said...

I can't recall any other westerns for kids- and this sounds so goo. I am glad to hear that this is a funny and interesting book. Thanks for sharing!
~Jess

Post a Comment