Synopsis: Second in an adventure series about a teenage boy in 1682. The continuing adventure follows the tales of Rueben as he is plagued by an old enemy and overcomes prejudices to befriend a child with horrible birth defects.

Review: The Curse of the Ravens is a dark tale full of evil forces fighting against the forces of good. At times the odds seem against the young protagonist who learns to look past a person’s physical appearance and judge based on the quality of the person inside. The young protagonist learns through the eyes of his misshapen companion how cruel people can be and how words and deeds that may be deemed as fun for some can be devastating to others. The book contains themes of good versus evil, overcoming prejudice, stereotyping, and honour. The book is at times very dark and is not designed for the faint of heart. The story can be used to enter into a variety of discussions regarding sensitive issues including parental abandonment, hatred, kindness, love, and friendship.

The book seemingly refers back to the first of the series The Curse of the Toads and the reader would arguably enjoy this work much better and understand it more if they have read the first one. Although it is not necessary to read The Curse of the Toads first, the reader may feel they are missing important information as to why the young protagonist Reuben is stalked by the evil Doctor Flyte.

Those who enjoy a gothic style tale will enjoy this work, but as there are many sensitive subjects interwoven in the text, it is not for the younger or more sensitive readers. The book is slightly challenging to read, but not to the level that would discourage the reader as the plot does compel the reader forward.

2008-01-27