I decided to review both of these books at the same time because they take place in the same fantasy world, but really, they have two very different tones. Mr. Freeman is a Christian, but I would not call these books “Christian” in the strong allegorical sense. They have Christian values in them because that is how a Christian writer sees the world. So, as I explained in previous posts, whether or not you would count these under the Christian label depends on your definition. These, though, are definately young adult fantasy fiction and good examples of what I like about the genre. They are also both short and easy to read through in a day.
I read The Grey Isle Tale first. It was engaging but mysterious. The tone was serious, and it fit the epic fantasy genre well. The main problem was that the book was too short. It did end and had a good ending too, but so many of the mysteries were not explained. We leave the characters right when we first start to understand their motives and who they are. It’s a really a small cast: Prince Janos, Captain Gilse, the prince’s best friend, a wizard, and a dragon. Don’t let that fool you though, the characters are interesting! The story follows a plot to destroy Prince Janos and his kingdom, but we just right into the final battles. I wish Mr. Freeman had started the story much earlier so we knew the characters better before getting to this point. Still, it’s a fun quick read that I recommend. It is pretty clean such as no cussing, no sex, nor gory violence. If you are disturbed by the undead, though, you may what to pass.
The Trombonist of Munst was by far my favorite and the book most suited to even the youngest teenagers. The humor and wit reminds me of Terry Pratchet, except without puns. I love the tradition omniscient voice of classic fairytales. It is such a magical story without hardly any magic, except music. It isn’t a coming of age story nor is it about saving the world, its get about a trombonist trying to play music for the prince with all the other musicians in the kingdom. My description is actually really dull compared to the great joy I had in reading this short book. Honestly, it was just delicious!
So The Trombonist of Munst is completely clean and perfect for teens twelve and up. Perhaps younger kids who can read Grimms Fairy tales may enjoy this as well. The language is so well done that adults can really enjoy this fun read too. Honestly, this is one of the cleverest little fairy tales I have read in a long time… and there isn’t even any fairies, love story, or any of the typical tropes.
Well, I have enjoyed Mr. Freeman’s books so much that I hope to get some more of his books soon. I hope you enjoy them as well.
Check out my young adult fantasy fiction novels HERE for something optimistic and fun.
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What do you think?