... and a jolly good time he showed me too. This is a rollicking adventure story aimed at children, but it can also be enjoyed by their parents. The main character, Jack, is very strong and is a delight to be with on our journey through different historical periods - which are mainly Old to Medieval, but which also brings us up to the war years at the end.

It's also a delightful mix of educational content and narrative excitement. On a personal level, it was lovely to have that whistle-stop tour through Anglo-Saxon, Viking and Celtic life. I've studied "Beowulf" in the original - for two different degrees! - and I'm always happy to see it mentioned in any story!

I must admit the sudden jump to the 20th century at the end did take me by surprise (I was hoping for Chaucer, but suspect that's just me being greedy - and it certainly wouldn't bother any story-loving child ...) but it does bring about a lovely turn to the tale, with the focus on Jack and the new girl at school. Here his experience helps him to deal with the modern school situation and is, indeed, a lesson for us all in how to handle the unfamiliar, and relate it to our own lives.

In short, thoroughly recommended for the youngsters in your family, and an excellent and lively introduction to various historical eras. I'm looking forward to the sequel.

A
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Excellent review, Holly!

I never really enjoyed history at school, what a pity there weren't more author's like Nik around when i was younger! I've already learnt a lot from what i've read.

Casey

<Added>

oops, 'authors'!

Thanks, Casey! Yes, I wish my school history books had been as exciting at this one - I might have learnt a lot more at the time!!

A
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<Added>

Err, that will be "as"!!

Doh!

A
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Oh! Thanks chaps! Didn't notice you'd posted! I'm really glad that the book's done/doing what I hoped it would.

And this is a wonderful review. Thank you both!

Nik.