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cathy_acasefullofbooks's review against another edition
3.0
3.5/5 stars
First of all, the title of this book is amazing. That alone would earn 5 stars from me.
Jack Bokimble, the boy with the nursery rhyme name, is a sweet, curious little boy. When he is born, strange things begin to happen in the Bokimble home. His parents at first assume it is a ghost, but quickly learn that Jack's shadow (or penumbra) possesses extraordinary qualities. Jack can control his shadow. It can pick things up, travel places he cannot, and Jack experiences it all as if he is doing it himself.
Mrs. Bokimble worries that other children will not understand his abilities, may even be frightened of him. And when Jack goes to school, he has to figure out for himself whether or not he should tell people about his peculiar ability.
This book was so unique, so quirky, and so funny. It made me think, at times, of Dahl's MATILDA.
The story is being told by an adult to a child, and sometimes their conversation interrupt the story (think THE PRINCESS BRIDE). Unfortunately for me, I found these interruptions to detract from the story. I did not see their purpose, and found myself wanting to skip over them entirely.
I received a digital ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, the title of this book is amazing. That alone would earn 5 stars from me.
Jack Bokimble, the boy with the nursery rhyme name, is a sweet, curious little boy. When he is born, strange things begin to happen in the Bokimble home. His parents at first assume it is a ghost, but quickly learn that Jack's shadow (or penumbra) possesses extraordinary qualities. Jack can control his shadow. It can pick things up, travel places he cannot, and Jack experiences it all as if he is doing it himself.
Mrs. Bokimble worries that other children will not understand his abilities, may even be frightened of him. And when Jack goes to school, he has to figure out for himself whether or not he should tell people about his peculiar ability.
This book was so unique, so quirky, and so funny. It made me think, at times, of Dahl's MATILDA.
The story is being told by an adult to a child, and sometimes their conversation interrupt the story (think THE PRINCESS BRIDE). Unfortunately for me, I found these interruptions to detract from the story. I did not see their purpose, and found myself wanting to skip over them entirely.
I received a digital ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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