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midwifereading's review against another edition
5.0
Five stars from both Dain and I! Lovely characters, a rich plot, and a lot of fun mysteries. However, it ends on a cliffhanger, and now we are both eager to buy the other two in the trilogy to see what happens!
booagnes's review
4.0
*This review originally appeared on She Dreams in Fiction*
I think I've become a fan of Cynthia Voigt. I'll be honest, I haven't read anything by this Newbery winner yet. I know! It's criminal, right? But honestly, her books were never assigned to me in school nor were they even on my radar. When I had the chance to read Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things, however, my curiosity was piqued. This story sounded like something my over-active imagination would simply devour, so naturally I agreed to read it. I am so ridiculously glad that I gave this story - and this author - a chance, because this book is a delight!
There is a bit of a confession due. I read this book back in September, right before it came out, but I lost the notes I wrote. I was totally going to have this review posted on time, but was thwarted by my own forgetfulness and talent for losing things. I have been trying to be my own type of Mister Max for months, searching for my notes and trying to think of where I might have placed them. Today, I found those notes. The reason I share this confession is because, after rereading my notes, this story came flooding back to me as vivid as the day I read it. It's truly a testament to Max and his amazing author that a person as forgetful as myself can recall the story, and emotions connected to the experience of reading it, with such clarity.
Max Starling is one of the most likable characters you will ever have the pleasure of meeting within the pages of a book. He's a smart, creative twelve-year-old with a knack for figuring things out. Max is extremely clever and I believe children will find him to be someone they not only can relate to, but will want to emulate. When his parents disappear - after receiving a semi-sketchy invitation from a Maharajah in India to start a theatre company there - Max is faced with a nearly impossible situation. His Grammie can take him in, but she's barely able to support herself on her librarian salary. Being a retired school teacher, Grammie can tutor him in some subjects, solving the problem about his school. However, Max is determined to make a living on his own and find a way to support his search for his parents. Being such a clever kid, he kind of stumbles upon a talent he didn't know he had. He's really good at finding things and finding solutions to situations others might have more trouble with. I think growing up with such creative, dramatic, out-of-the-box parents was a great thing for developing this particular talent. He is able to see things from many different angles, thus coming to ingenious solutions. Not only that, but he utilizes the costumes from his parents theatre company to play many different roles during his search for answers. I absolutely love this clever, quirky book!
Along his many adventures and jobs, Max meets a whole host of fascinating characters. My favorite, other than Max's wonderful Grammie, is Pia. She is also a clever twelve-year-old and a great asset to Max. She asks a ton of questions, which annoys Max to no end, but they always seem to be the right ones to help him when he's stumped. She's seriously an entertaining character! I loved how reluctant Max was to let her into his life, but she is so persistent that he never stood a chance, really. Along with Grammie and Pia, I also really liked his tutor/flatmate, Ari; the baker extraordinaire, Gabrielle; the interesting and unpredictable Baroness Barthold; and the eccentric painter, Joachim. This story is chock full of wonderful and quirky characters.
Never having read anything by Cynthia Voigt, I'm not quite sure if this novel is in any way similar to her others. However, I loved the style and writing of The Book of Lost Things so much that I am definitely going to try more of her books! The pacing dragged just a tiny bit, but even those parts were necessary for the story as a whole, so it didn't bother me at all. Some plot points were a little easy for me to predict; but seeing as I'm not the targeted audience, this shouldn't be an issue for those who are. The adventure and mystery keep this story moving, but it's Max himself who truly ignites your imagination and captures your heart. I must also mention the incredibly talented illustrator, Iacopo Bruno. Though the advanced copy I received didn't have all the illustrations, the cover and those images that were available are stunning. They truly add that little bit extra to make this story come to life even more. (Honestly, check out his website and look at his amazing work!)
Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things is a funny, exciting, refreshing mystery for the kid in all of us. I know I keep using this word, but this truly is a clever novel built around a clever kid written by an exceedingly clever author. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be picking up the next book in this series, Mister Max: The Book of Secrets, when it comes out this September. I simply can't wait to read more about Mister Max!
I think I've become a fan of Cynthia Voigt. I'll be honest, I haven't read anything by this Newbery winner yet. I know! It's criminal, right? But honestly, her books were never assigned to me in school nor were they even on my radar. When I had the chance to read Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things, however, my curiosity was piqued. This story sounded like something my over-active imagination would simply devour, so naturally I agreed to read it. I am so ridiculously glad that I gave this story - and this author - a chance, because this book is a delight!
There is a bit of a confession due. I read this book back in September, right before it came out, but I lost the notes I wrote. I was totally going to have this review posted on time, but was thwarted by my own forgetfulness and talent for losing things. I have been trying to be my own type of Mister Max for months, searching for my notes and trying to think of where I might have placed them. Today, I found those notes. The reason I share this confession is because, after rereading my notes, this story came flooding back to me as vivid as the day I read it. It's truly a testament to Max and his amazing author that a person as forgetful as myself can recall the story, and emotions connected to the experience of reading it, with such clarity.
Max Starling is one of the most likable characters you will ever have the pleasure of meeting within the pages of a book. He's a smart, creative twelve-year-old with a knack for figuring things out. Max is extremely clever and I believe children will find him to be someone they not only can relate to, but will want to emulate. When his parents disappear - after receiving a semi-sketchy invitation from a Maharajah in India to start a theatre company there - Max is faced with a nearly impossible situation. His Grammie can take him in, but she's barely able to support herself on her librarian salary. Being a retired school teacher, Grammie can tutor him in some subjects, solving the problem about his school. However, Max is determined to make a living on his own and find a way to support his search for his parents. Being such a clever kid, he kind of stumbles upon a talent he didn't know he had. He's really good at finding things and finding solutions to situations others might have more trouble with. I think growing up with such creative, dramatic, out-of-the-box parents was a great thing for developing this particular talent. He is able to see things from many different angles, thus coming to ingenious solutions. Not only that, but he utilizes the costumes from his parents theatre company to play many different roles during his search for answers. I absolutely love this clever, quirky book!
Along his many adventures and jobs, Max meets a whole host of fascinating characters. My favorite, other than Max's wonderful Grammie, is Pia. She is also a clever twelve-year-old and a great asset to Max. She asks a ton of questions, which annoys Max to no end, but they always seem to be the right ones to help him when he's stumped. She's seriously an entertaining character! I loved how reluctant Max was to let her into his life, but she is so persistent that he never stood a chance, really. Along with Grammie and Pia, I also really liked his tutor/flatmate, Ari; the baker extraordinaire, Gabrielle; the interesting and unpredictable Baroness Barthold; and the eccentric painter, Joachim. This story is chock full of wonderful and quirky characters.
Never having read anything by Cynthia Voigt, I'm not quite sure if this novel is in any way similar to her others. However, I loved the style and writing of The Book of Lost Things so much that I am definitely going to try more of her books! The pacing dragged just a tiny bit, but even those parts were necessary for the story as a whole, so it didn't bother me at all. Some plot points were a little easy for me to predict; but seeing as I'm not the targeted audience, this shouldn't be an issue for those who are. The adventure and mystery keep this story moving, but it's Max himself who truly ignites your imagination and captures your heart. I must also mention the incredibly talented illustrator, Iacopo Bruno. Though the advanced copy I received didn't have all the illustrations, the cover and those images that were available are stunning. They truly add that little bit extra to make this story come to life even more. (Honestly, check out his website and look at his amazing work!)
Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things is a funny, exciting, refreshing mystery for the kid in all of us. I know I keep using this word, but this truly is a clever novel built around a clever kid written by an exceedingly clever author. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be picking up the next book in this series, Mister Max: The Book of Secrets, when it comes out this September. I simply can't wait to read more about Mister Max!
geisttull's review
4.0
A fun story that is apparently the first in a new series. Lots of interesting characters. I look forward to
the next one.
the next one.
beastreader's review
3.0
Max and his parents are part of the Starling Theatrical Company. Max's father receives a letter. It is from the Maharajah in India. He wants the Starling Theatrical Company to help put together a theatrical group for him. He has sent ship tickets. Max makes a plan to meet his parents before the ship sets sail. When Max arrives, he learns that there is no Maharajah and his parents have disappeared, It is up to Max to find them.
I picked up this book with the intent of giving it to my nephews to read afterwards. First off I have to comment on the packaging with the book arrived. I don't normally comment on this but this time I have to. It came in its own box and then inside the book was wrapped in brown paper with twine and a postcard listing all of the three books and their release dates. I felt like I was in for a grand adventure and could not wait to read this book.
While I did enjoy the book, I did feel like it was long. Almost too long. The reason is that I was expecting mystery and action and the adventure. I was missing all three of these. It seemed that Max was not that worried about his parents and their disappearance. He was too busy trying to act older and work a job. Clues to Max's parents whereabouts were revealed in the last third of the story. Of course the ending is suppose to leave the reader anxious for the next book. I am not sure if I am one of those readers. However my nephews will probably like Max.
I picked up this book with the intent of giving it to my nephews to read afterwards. First off I have to comment on the packaging with the book arrived. I don't normally comment on this but this time I have to. It came in its own box and then inside the book was wrapped in brown paper with twine and a postcard listing all of the three books and their release dates. I felt like I was in for a grand adventure and could not wait to read this book.
While I did enjoy the book, I did feel like it was long. Almost too long. The reason is that I was expecting mystery and action and the adventure. I was missing all three of these. It seemed that Max was not that worried about his parents and their disappearance. He was too busy trying to act older and work a job. Clues to Max's parents whereabouts were revealed in the last third of the story. Of course the ending is suppose to leave the reader anxious for the next book. I am not sure if I am one of those readers. However my nephews will probably like Max.
lisawreading's review
4.0
Mister Max has a nostalgic feel to it -- a warm-hearted book about a boy with a predicament. Left alone by his parents due to mysterious circumstances, 12-year-old Max has to fend for himself, figure out how to get by, and try to find out where his parents are and whether they're in danger. Meanwhile, he falls into a new career as a "solutioneer" -- not a detective, but simply a resourceful person helping people figure out their problems and how to make them better. Max is a smart boy who, inspired by his actor parents, uses costuming and acting to take on a variety of personas in order to carry out his business and investigate the odd jobs that come his way. The writing is matter-of-fact and easily accessible, although it lacks a sense of urgency in a way that's a bit puzzling, given that Max's parents have disappeared and may have met with foul play.
I enjoyed Mister Max, although I wonder whether the target age group (ages 8 - 12) will take to a 400 page book that's not as fast-paced as the adventure and fantasy stories that seem to be popular now. Mister Max is the first in a series, and I'd like to read more and see where the story goes.
My full review is up at Bookshelf Fantasies.
I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher.
I enjoyed Mister Max, although I wonder whether the target age group (ages 8 - 12) will take to a 400 page book that's not as fast-paced as the adventure and fantasy stories that seem to be popular now. Mister Max is the first in a series, and I'd like to read more and see where the story goes.
My full review is up at Bookshelf Fantasies.
I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher.
pacifickle's review
5.0
"Catch Me If You Can" meets "Encyclopedia Brown" in 1900. Great male protagonist with theatrical parents, who jump on an ocean liner, India-bound, and leave him behind. Chameleon-like in dress & manner, Mister Max uses his unremarkable looks to portray various characters and support himself as a detective. Stellar start to a great series. Rich characterization, lots of interesting hobbies & characters (bakers, librarians, artists, kitchen maids, teachers, tutors) make this a fascinating read. I can't wait for the sequel.
My two caveats - the plot "twist" is predictable to an adult, 200 pages before it's "revealed," and a special needs person is treated fairly but referred to as "simpleminded" towards the end- not sure how I feel about that. Kind of wish his last case was just eliminated in general.
My two caveats - the plot "twist" is predictable to an adult, 200 pages before it's "revealed," and a special needs person is treated fairly but referred to as "simpleminded" towards the end- not sure how I feel about that. Kind of wish his last case was just eliminated in general.
sparklingreader's review
3.0
The story takes place in England at the turn of the century. When Max Starling's theatrical parents receive an invitation to visit India, Max is excited at the thought of an adventure overseas. But when his parents suddenly disappear, leaving behind a mysterious note, he is confused and a little scared. But he then realizes there is an advantage to being left alone - independence - and if he doesn't want to lose it, he'll need to find a job. But Max is only 12 years old. It turns out that Max is good at finding solutions to people's problems and thus he becomes Mister Max, Solutioneer! Using tricks-of-the-trade learned from his parents, Max as Mister Max dons various disguises to interview suspects, follow leads, and sniff out the best solution.
Of course there are bad guys. Heading up the list of baddies are Madame Olenka, her uncle, and her cousin, known collectively as the Long-ears. Unfortunately, there didn’t seem to be much reason for them beyond having villains in the story.
While I enjoyed Mister Max immensely, I wondered why Max didn't use his skills to attempt to discover what happened to his parents. Instead, his grandmother did all of the research there while Max was only concerned with making money to maintain his independence.
Overall, the idea is a good one, but not very well done, especially for a middle-grade book. The vocabulary would upset younger readers and the lack of consistency would turn off older ones. The problems Max solves are easily taken care of, with the exception of where his parents are. Still, it is a cute book. Recommended with caveats.
Of course there are bad guys. Heading up the list of baddies are Madame Olenka, her uncle, and her cousin, known collectively as the Long-ears. Unfortunately, there didn’t seem to be much reason for them beyond having villains in the story.
While I enjoyed Mister Max immensely, I wondered why Max didn't use his skills to attempt to discover what happened to his parents. Instead, his grandmother did all of the research there while Max was only concerned with making money to maintain his independence.
Overall, the idea is a good one, but not very well done, especially for a middle-grade book. The vocabulary would upset younger readers and the lack of consistency would turn off older ones. The problems Max solves are easily taken care of, with the exception of where his parents are. Still, it is a cute book. Recommended with caveats.
arielml's review
5.0
I loved this book! Cynthia Voigt is one of my favorite YA authors, and it was so fun to see how masterfully she handled a fantastical setting - equally as good as her Tillerman books, which have a much more realistic tone. The characters are rich and nuanced, her descriptive powers are impressive, and the plot is clever and engaging. Overall, I'd say the best word for this book is "delightful." Really looking forward to reading the next in the series.
holly_117's review
3.0
3.5 stars
Mister Max was well written and fun for middle grade children (8+). The mysteries are interesting without being too easy or obvious or too hard for kids to follow.
The only caution I'd have about this book is for younger kids - it might be kind of scary for them because the parents disappear and we have no idea if they've been kidnapped or have run off and abandoned Max, both of which I think could scare a younger kid if they have separation anxiety with their parents already.
Mister Max was well written and fun for middle grade children (8+). The mysteries are interesting without being too easy or obvious or too hard for kids to follow.
The only caution I'd have about this book is for younger kids - it might be kind of scary for them because the parents disappear and we have no idea if they've been kidnapped or have run off and abandoned Max, both of which I think could scare a younger kid if they have separation anxiety with their parents already.
meganstreb's review
4.0
I liked the overall story, the mini stories within it. The book has a hint of magical realism to it. It feels like a YA book, much more than other YA novels I've read.
I'd be interested to hear what younger readers thought.
I'd be interested to hear what younger readers thought.