Monday - October 02, 2006
The Pocket and the Pendant
*** an all-inclusive fledgling sci-fi
novel; deliriously derivative and imaginative
The Pocket and the Pendant by Mark
Jeffrey (2004)
What a stunning imagination this author has! Time travel, linking books, Lord of the Flies, aliens taking over earth and ancient mythology woven throughout one fantastic story.
Too bad this great story is not better written. The children who lead us through the adventure lack substance so badly that half the time I read their dialogue I just shook my head in confusion - whatever, on with the story.
The ambitious plot is riddled with weak spots as well. I not only had to suspend my cynicism to enjoy the story, but often common sense as well. I would say to myself "This is STOOPID!" but as soon as my eyes finished rolling around they landed right back in the book, eager to continue.
I hope that Mark Jeffrey was just lazy in writing this book and that he listens to his critics, gets an editor and hones up his writing skills. He should re-write this book the right way - no matter it will be twice as long - it will be FANTASTIC!
As it stands now, I would only recommend it to kids.
What a stunning imagination this author has! Time travel, linking books, Lord of the Flies, aliens taking over earth and ancient mythology woven throughout one fantastic story.
Too bad this great story is not better written. The children who lead us through the adventure lack substance so badly that half the time I read their dialogue I just shook my head in confusion - whatever, on with the story.
The ambitious plot is riddled with weak spots as well. I not only had to suspend my cynicism to enjoy the story, but often common sense as well. I would say to myself "This is STOOPID!" but as soon as my eyes finished rolling around they landed right back in the book, eager to continue.
I hope that Mark Jeffrey was just lazy in writing this book and that he listens to his critics, gets an editor and hones up his writing skills. He should re-write this book the right way - no matter it will be twice as long - it will be FANTASTIC!
As it stands now, I would only recommend it to kids.
