Four-star fun for middle-grade readers/seekers of adventure…and clever kids who care
Characters: 8
Twelve-year-old Natalie Lee—but please call her CinciFour-star fun for middle-grade readers/seekers of adventure…and clever kids who care
Characters: 8
Twelve-year-old Natalie Lee—but please call her Cincinnati—is always on the move. She means well in wanting to break her family’s curse by returning ancient relics to their rightful origins, but she often has to learn the hard way what it truly means to put others� needs before your own desires. Fortunately, her long-suffering and inventive friend Felix and newfound companion Parsley (who appreciates Cincinnati’s “aura�) keep her accountable…and alive when she places herself in some dangerous spots. The trio bands together to oppose criminal business owner Taylor Calloway as they uncover clues and overcome obstacles from New York to Paris. Other principal characters include Cincinnati’s hard-working but caring mother, her great-great-great grandfather Pops, and mysterious antiquities dealer Christopher Salt.
All characters are distinctly and effectively developed, though readers might hope for more direct interaction between 130-something-year-old Pops and Cincinnati. Additionally, villainous Calloway may come across as a caricature if no backstory is provided for motivation other than religious fanaticism.
Atmosphere/Settings: 9
Author Heilig’s knowledge of New York City shines, including details known only to those who have been there and/or done their research. From the Cosmopolitan Museum (representing the MoMA) to the famous Dakota Building, and from the City Hall Loop to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the descriptions allow even young readers to become part of the scenes. Even the quick trip to Paris provides engaging imagery along the Seine. Only London felt a bit underserved, but it did make me want to attend an all-night gala at the British Museum.
Writing Style: 8
Cincinnati’s first-person point of view reflects her thoughts, feelings, and character growth. She frequently uses cultural metaphors related to her passion for archeology that may be unfamiliar to some middle-grade readers. The author also employs vocabulary extending beyond the target age. That said, I did not find it off-putting because the words fit the context, hopefully providing an appropriate challenge. Lighthearted, humorous dialogue binds the friends and boosts the enjoyment.
Plot: 9
The pace remains active and well-balanced with moments of introspection. It is fitting for the protagonist, the nature of the storyline, and for readers of all ages. There are moments of convenience when characters unexpectedly appear to resolve a conflict, but at least reasons are provided.
Intrigue: 8
More than enough “I wonder what will happen next� moments to keep the pages turning, enhanced by the variety of well-selected settings.
Logic: 7
The author ensures purpose and resolution for most events. For example, Cincinnati’s motivation for breaking the curse is explained well, and the history of the Spear of Destiny is helpful, but other concepts may be less plausible.
—The sudden appearances of Felix and Parsley may be welcome yet also strain credulity in a world of adults.
—Christopher Salt’s intercontinental travel in his physical state goes undiscovered?
—Context is minimal for the “water of eternal life� obtained by Pops when it could/should be of significant importance.
Enjoyment, Meaning, and Miscellaneous: 8
The relatable personalities of the primary trio make it easy for middle-aged readers to engage with the story and to root for them to overcome any flaws. The clues are not easily obtained, requiring mental and physical effort.
Meaningful messages:
—True family and friends choose to help at all times.
—Honesty isn’t easy in the short run, but it works best in the long run.
Content awareness/concerns:
—Death does occur, though bloodshed and violence are not graphic. Swearing is implied but not spoken, at least not in English.
—Cincinnati’s dismissive views of others� beliefs expressed early in the story concerned me, especially with the potential to stereotype people of faith. Fortunately, by the end, she recognized that first impressions and labels may be easily applied, but better understanding is gained when you truly listen and get to know someone. She began to appreciate other perspectives without sacrificing her ability to discern right from wrong.
—Miscellaneous: Inclusion of a map to indicate NYC settings might enhance the reading experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for the ARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
Rating: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 because of the abundance of scenic British, bookish settings during December: from London’s Kensington to Hay-on-WyRating: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 because of the abundance of scenic British, bookish settings during December: from London’s Kensington to Hay-on-Wye in Wales, and from the wintry Northumberland coast to Edinburgh’s cozy shops and Writers� Museum. Frequent and apt references to beloved classics help to overcome some questionable dialogue and to disguise some of the story’s less realistic and overly convenient moments of discovery for sympathetic characters....more
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