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The Trumpeter of Krakow
There is something about the Great Tarnov Crystal.... Wise men speak of it in hushed tones. Others are ready to kill for it. And now a murderous Tartar chief is bent on possessing it. But despite this, Joseph Charnetski is bound by an ancient oath to protect the jewel at all costs.
When Joseph and his family seek refuge in medieval Krakow, they are caught up in the plots and intrigues of alchemists, hypnotists, and a dark messenger of evil. Will Joseph be able to protect the crystal—and the city—from the plundering Tartars?
When Joseph and his family seek refuge in medieval Krakow, they are caught up in the plots and intrigues of alchemists, hypnotists, and a dark messenger of evil. Will Joseph be able to protect the crystal—and the city—from the plundering Tartars?
208 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1928
About the author
Eric P. Kelly
21 books4 followersEric P. Kelly, a student of Slavic culture for most of his life, wrote The Trumpeter of Krakow while teaching and studying at the University of Krakow. During five years spent in Poland he traveled with an American relief unit among the Poles who were driven out of the Ukraine in 1920, directed a supply train at the time of the war with the Soviets, and studied and visited many places in the country he came to love so well.
A newspaperman in his native Massachusetts in younger days, Mr. Kelly later wrote many magazine articles, and several books for young people. He died in 1960.
From back flap of The Trumpeter of Krakow, Simon & Schuster, 1966.
A newspaperman in his native Massachusetts in younger days, Mr. Kelly later wrote many magazine articles, and several books for young people. He died in 1960.
From back flap of The Trumpeter of Krakow, Simon & Schuster, 1966.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 511 reviews
May 12, 2012
The 1929 Newbery winner, this novel is set in Poland, 1461. Joseph Charnetski, a fifteen-year-old, travels with his family to Krakow after their home and fields in the Ukraine were destroyed. The family befriends a wise scholar and goes to live in the house of an alchemist and his daughter. Joseph becomes a watchman in the Church of Our Lady Mary. In the tower there, he plays on the hour the Heynal, a theme that is traditionally broken off in mid-note out of respect for a brave Polish lad who was killed by an arrow while playing it as Tartars advanced. The family is shadowed and accosted several times by a mysterious rogue, who turns out to be a dreaded Ukranian warlord who originally drove them from their home and is out to steal a priceless treasure which, to Joseph’s surprise, his father is guarding for the king.
This is a fine historical adventure, written in a clear but highly literate style, full of drama and suspense. Krakow is also made central to the story, as Kelly lovingly details its various buildings and streets. Nor is this a story that could be transplanted to another time, as lesser historical tales can be; alchemy plays a great role in this book, as part of the drama stems from Kreutz, the alchemist, and his attempts to find the secret of transmuting base metals to gold. It’s fun to read, and the brisk pacing and suspense keep the pages turning – a perfect children’s adventure story.
This is a fine historical adventure, written in a clear but highly literate style, full of drama and suspense. Krakow is also made central to the story, as Kelly lovingly details its various buildings and streets. Nor is this a story that could be transplanted to another time, as lesser historical tales can be; alchemy plays a great role in this book, as part of the drama stems from Kreutz, the alchemist, and his attempts to find the secret of transmuting base metals to gold. It’s fun to read, and the brisk pacing and suspense keep the pages turning – a perfect children’s adventure story.
February 7, 2020
This book is a historical novel, and that is all the more impressive when you realize that this book is based on an actual historical legend in Poland, namely that there was in fact a trumpeter in Krakow who died while sounding the alarm for his city in the face of the Mongol invasion and that for centuries afterwards those who followed him in his position stopped playing the call at the same note where he died. Whether or not this actually happened is hard to say, but the story itself provides the opening of a story that manages to have a lot that is worthwhile to say about the search for knowledge about the burden of being a protector of that which is lusted after by so many in the world. I read this novel because a friend of mine had obtained the book to give to her husband and he was concerned about the themes of magic, alchemy, and necromancy that were involved, but this book sticks to realistic fiction even if it portrays the negative side of alchemy and early scientific research that even continues to the present day as a lust for power and domination over creation and over others.
This book is about 200 pages long and sixteen chapters. The version I read had a trumpet for the trumpeter written in 1966 from a reader who wants to praise a book that by that time was already a relic of a previous generation. The book begins with a discussion of the broken note as a prologue. The rest of the story then focuses on a family of refugees with a terrible maguffin that draws trouble to them. First, the father refuses to sell a pumpkin to a disguised ruffian, and then they find a place to stay in the home of an alchemist, and then the villain is introduced and strikes a plan to steal the maguffin and is foiled. Frustrated, since it would give him the chance to shape the politics of nations (this book has a distinctly anti-Cossack and anti-Russian feel to it), he tries again and the result nearly destroys the city of Krakow in an epic conflagration, which brings the novel to a satisfying conclusion that rewards virtue and punishes vice but also expresses the moral complexity of rulership. The end result is an appealing adventure novel that many have and will enjoy.
This is the sort of novel at which the late 19th and early 20th centuries excelled at, a historical novel that brought the past to life in ways that were capable of giving lessons to contemporary readers. Without overly salacious writing or delving too much into dark matters that the book brings up, this is a practical book that could be enjoyed by adventurous young people. It provides a discussion of all the things that someone needs to be thought of as fully grown up--it has a teen boy learning about responsibility and the burdens passed down from fathers to sons and his own family legacy, it has courtship, the faithful fulfillment of a job, and the encouragement of civic duties and standing strong against bullying mobs. These are all practical lessons in every age, and certainly the sort of approach to practically modeling good behavior in difficult but also exciting circumstances that should be a lot more common in our own days. But since such books are seldom written nowadays they can serve as inspirational reading even now, and so books like this continue to be read and appreciated for the world that they show and the model that they set.
This book is about 200 pages long and sixteen chapters. The version I read had a trumpet for the trumpeter written in 1966 from a reader who wants to praise a book that by that time was already a relic of a previous generation. The book begins with a discussion of the broken note as a prologue. The rest of the story then focuses on a family of refugees with a terrible maguffin that draws trouble to them. First, the father refuses to sell a pumpkin to a disguised ruffian, and then they find a place to stay in the home of an alchemist, and then the villain is introduced and strikes a plan to steal the maguffin and is foiled. Frustrated, since it would give him the chance to shape the politics of nations (this book has a distinctly anti-Cossack and anti-Russian feel to it), he tries again and the result nearly destroys the city of Krakow in an epic conflagration, which brings the novel to a satisfying conclusion that rewards virtue and punishes vice but also expresses the moral complexity of rulership. The end result is an appealing adventure novel that many have and will enjoy.
This is the sort of novel at which the late 19th and early 20th centuries excelled at, a historical novel that brought the past to life in ways that were capable of giving lessons to contemporary readers. Without overly salacious writing or delving too much into dark matters that the book brings up, this is a practical book that could be enjoyed by adventurous young people. It provides a discussion of all the things that someone needs to be thought of as fully grown up--it has a teen boy learning about responsibility and the burdens passed down from fathers to sons and his own family legacy, it has courtship, the faithful fulfillment of a job, and the encouragement of civic duties and standing strong against bullying mobs. These are all practical lessons in every age, and certainly the sort of approach to practically modeling good behavior in difficult but also exciting circumstances that should be a lot more common in our own days. But since such books are seldom written nowadays they can serve as inspirational reading even now, and so books like this continue to be read and appreciated for the world that they show and the model that they set.
March 5, 2018
Read this back when our kids were growing up but could not remember the story. Rural farm family is entrusted with a rare crystal for which they suffer complete ruin, yet they manage to escape without losing the stone. They come to Krakow where the father finds work as the city trumpeter and the son, Joseph, also begins learning the art. How they continue to guard their treasure from all who would take and use it for their own nefarious purposes, until it can be given to the King, is the stuff of the rest of the book.
March 8, 2012
I have no idea why I'm giving this book 2 stars instead of 1. I think mostly because I'm giving myself a bonus star because I finished it in one sitting.
April 29, 2021
I read this for the first time since I was in my teens. It is very much a book of the period it was written, being the 1920s. The villains are all disabled and/or disfigured, the women and girls shallow props to bolster the roles of the valiant leading males. That said, the voice of the book is eloquent and beautiful, and the author's deep love of the city of Krakow is evident on most every page. It's easy to see why this was the Newberry Award winner in 1929.
The adventure story is a rollicking one, cozy in its predictability, but hey--sometimes it's nice to know the bad guys are certain to know justice, with the good guys eventually rewarded for their stalwart suffering. This isn't a book I would re-read because it is so painfully dated, but it made for an interesting choice for my classic book for the month.
The adventure story is a rollicking one, cozy in its predictability, but hey--sometimes it's nice to know the bad guys are certain to know justice, with the good guys eventually rewarded for their stalwart suffering. This isn't a book I would re-read because it is so painfully dated, but it made for an interesting choice for my classic book for the month.
September 14, 2019
Set in the chaotic world of medieval Poland, Eric P. Kelly's The Trumpeter of Krakow is an exciting tale of adventure and intrigue for young readers, following the fortunes of the Charnetski family, as they struggle to fulfill a vow made generations before, by one of their ancestors. Fleeing from the raiding Tatars who attacked their estate in the Ukraine, Pan Andrew Charnetski, his wife, and his fifteen-year-old son, Joseph, seek refuge in the city of Krakow. Here, finding their relations absent, and an audience with the king impossible, the family settle, assisted by the kind monk and scholar, Jan Kanty, and living under an assumed name. But their enemies have not given up, and soon they find themselves threatened once again...
Originally published in 1928, and awarded the Newbery Medal, Kelly's debut novel is an engaging blend of historical fiction and fantastic adventure, incorporating both historical figures - King Jagiello, good Jan Kanty - and legendary ones, like the city's dragon-fighting founder, King Krakus. The widespread belief in magic and alchemy in fifteenth-century Poland (as seen in such magical folktales as The Magician of Cracow ), proves crucial to the story, which revolves around the fate of the Great Tarnov Crystal - a priceless jewel with strange properties.
I enjoyed The Trumpeter of Krakow, from the prologue explaining the origin of the broken heynal, to the concluding passages, in which Kelly wraps up his story, and tells the reader what happened afterward. Well-written and entertaining, it flowed nicely and kept my attention, and I enjoyed learning a little more about Polish history and folklore. Definitely one of the better Newbery Medal titles from the 1920s, I would recommend it to young readers with a taste for historical fiction.
Originally published in 1928, and awarded the Newbery Medal, Kelly's debut novel is an engaging blend of historical fiction and fantastic adventure, incorporating both historical figures - King Jagiello, good Jan Kanty - and legendary ones, like the city's dragon-fighting founder, King Krakus. The widespread belief in magic and alchemy in fifteenth-century Poland (as seen in such magical folktales as The Magician of Cracow ), proves crucial to the story, which revolves around the fate of the Great Tarnov Crystal - a priceless jewel with strange properties.
I enjoyed The Trumpeter of Krakow, from the prologue explaining the origin of the broken heynal, to the concluding passages, in which Kelly wraps up his story, and tells the reader what happened afterward. Well-written and entertaining, it flowed nicely and kept my attention, and I enjoyed learning a little more about Polish history and folklore. Definitely one of the better Newbery Medal titles from the 1920s, I would recommend it to young readers with a taste for historical fiction.
December 5, 2008
This is definitely better than the last few Newbery books (1922-1928), and honestly, I really wanted to like it, given my SIL's birthplace (Poland). But I guess the whole alchemy thing took so much away from the story where I was loving the people and the descriptions and pronouncing "Elzbietka" in my head that it made me not like it much. And of course, again I'm thinking of junior highers reading this and going, "HUH?!"
It's so odd to me that there I was, going along reading a story about a family in Krakow, and the next thing I know, I'm reading about "the dark arts", and I have to say, it was really an odd juxtaposition. It was almost as if I was reading two different books. And I have to say I liked the one about the Charnetskis better.
1922-1928 didn't do much for me. Let's hope "Hitty, Her First Hundred Years" (of 1930 is better. At least they're getting easier to read.
It's so odd to me that there I was, going along reading a story about a family in Krakow, and the next thing I know, I'm reading about "the dark arts", and I have to say, it was really an odd juxtaposition. It was almost as if I was reading two different books. And I have to say I liked the one about the Charnetskis better.
1922-1928 didn't do much for me. Let's hope "Hitty, Her First Hundred Years" (of 1930 is better. At least they're getting easier to read.
August 14, 2021
This book wasn't bad. I would say about 2/3 was easy to read and about 1/3 was kinda boring.
The book opens up with a dramatic scene. It's the 13th century and the city of Krakow is under attack by Mongols. St. Mary's Basilica stands proud over the city and every hour the trumpeter blows his horn. While announcing the attack he is shot in the neck before he can finish the song.
Ever since that moment (in real life and the book) the heynal is played every hour from atop the Basilica. The note is always cut off to honor the sacrifice of that young trumpeter.
Enter the Charnetski family. Pan Andrew, his nameless wife (ahem, male author), and son Jospeh are on the run. Their home has been destroyed and they've arrived in Krakow hoping to escape the people chasing them. Pan Andrew has a treasure, something special that people would kill for.
They get help from Jan Kanty, a renowned scholar, who helps them get new names and gets Pan Andrew a job as trumpeter at St. Mary's. They end up living with a scholar and his niece (who does get a name!). The scholar is playing with alchemy and "dark magic" which could bring trouble. The author takes care to point out that it's not really dark magic, just people not knowing any better.
As Newbery books go, this wasn't the worst and some parts I did enjoy reading. If it had been shorter it would've been better.
Newbery Medal 1929
The book opens up with a dramatic scene. It's the 13th century and the city of Krakow is under attack by Mongols. St. Mary's Basilica stands proud over the city and every hour the trumpeter blows his horn. While announcing the attack he is shot in the neck before he can finish the song.
Ever since that moment (in real life and the book) the heynal is played every hour from atop the Basilica. The note is always cut off to honor the sacrifice of that young trumpeter.
Enter the Charnetski family. Pan Andrew, his nameless wife (ahem, male author), and son Jospeh are on the run. Their home has been destroyed and they've arrived in Krakow hoping to escape the people chasing them. Pan Andrew has a treasure, something special that people would kill for.
They get help from Jan Kanty, a renowned scholar, who helps them get new names and gets Pan Andrew a job as trumpeter at St. Mary's. They end up living with a scholar and his niece (who does get a name!). The scholar is playing with alchemy and "dark magic" which could bring trouble. The author takes care to point out that it's not really dark magic, just people not knowing any better.
As Newbery books go, this wasn't the worst and some parts I did enjoy reading. If it had been shorter it would've been better.
Newbery Medal 1929
March 14, 2022
Cute historical fiction set in Medieval Poland. If it wasn't part of the leftover Sonlight books I'm tracking down, not sure I would have finished. But I could see this appealing to young readers.
August 10, 2023
THE TRUMPETER OF KRAKOW
A NEWBERY MEDAL BOOK
From the back cover:
It is the fifteenth century in eastern Europe and the shimmering, pure Great Tarnov Crystal is coveted by all who seek the supreme answers to Life. Obsessed by the desire to own this mysterious gem, a Tartar chieftain tracks down its hiding place-the estate of the Charnetski family of the Ukraine. Bound by an ancestral oath to this legendary crystal, young Joseph Charnetski and his family seek refuge in the city of Krakow. There Joseph is caught up in the plots and intrigues of alchemists, and superstitious peasantry, of a kindly priest and a messenger of evil. What can Joseph do to save the city-and the Great Tarnov Crystal-from the plundering Tartars?
"A strange gallery of characters is seen through the eyes of a fifteen-year-old boy, a boy with normal curiosity, who loved his dog as a boy does toda A tale of exciting adventure."-The Horn Book
A NEWBERY MEDAL BOOK
From the back cover:
It is the fifteenth century in eastern Europe and the shimmering, pure Great Tarnov Crystal is coveted by all who seek the supreme answers to Life. Obsessed by the desire to own this mysterious gem, a Tartar chieftain tracks down its hiding place-the estate of the Charnetski family of the Ukraine. Bound by an ancestral oath to this legendary crystal, young Joseph Charnetski and his family seek refuge in the city of Krakow. There Joseph is caught up in the plots and intrigues of alchemists, and superstitious peasantry, of a kindly priest and a messenger of evil. What can Joseph do to save the city-and the Great Tarnov Crystal-from the plundering Tartars?
"A strange gallery of characters is seen through the eyes of a fifteen-year-old boy, a boy with normal curiosity, who loved his dog as a boy does toda A tale of exciting adventure."-The Horn Book
January 10, 2024
A beautifully written book, it has an amazing setting-15th Century Krakow-which is brought vividly to life by this author. Published in 1928, it's classified as a Young Adult book, but, as with any good YA books, adults can enjoy it.
The story is about a family-the Charnetskis-driven out of Ukraine to Krakow, at the time the capital of Poland. In their possession is a great and valuable gem which a Tartar bandit chief is looking for.. in Krakow, the family gets involved with alchemists at a time when the great Scientific Revolution was just beginning...
The story is about a family-the Charnetskis-driven out of Ukraine to Krakow, at the time the capital of Poland. In their possession is a great and valuable gem which a Tartar bandit chief is looking for.. in Krakow, the family gets involved with alchemists at a time when the great Scientific Revolution was just beginning...
October 14, 2013
Mystery, honor, love, greed, protection, sacrifice and good verses evil are all incites into the heart of The Trumpeter of Krakow by Eric P. Kelly. This book takes place around 200 years after the Tartar invasion of Krakow in 1241 and is centered around the honor of one young man who gave his life because of an oath and his love for his country and the church while playing the Heynal amidst the terror of war. Much importance is placed on the fact that the young man died while playing the Heynal and to this day it is played up into the point at which he died and the Heynal stops at a broken off note. Much of the book is told from the point of view of a fifteen year old boy named Joseph who's family was forced from their home in order to protect a great family secret.
The Charnetski family was traveling from their home in the Ukraine to escape the wicked schemes of men who sought what seems to be a very special pumpkin. Readers are kept in the dark about the importance of this pumpkin just like all the family members of the Charnetski family except for the father Pan Andrew Charnetski for a large majority of the book. Pan Andrew only seeks to protect his family from the burden of knowing its importance and only confides in one of the town scholars Jan Kanty whom everyone loved and respected in Krakow which gives Pan Andrew the confidence he needs to entrust this family secret to a complete stranger. The Charnetskis seek refuge with a local family whom Joseph saved from an unpleasant experience with an abused dog, the man of the house being Pan Kreutz an Alchemist employed by the University of Krakow and his niece Elzbietka . The two new acquaintances help the Charnetskis settle into Krakow and Pan Andrew is given the job of the night time trumpeter who plays the Heynal on every hour which helps to protect his identity from those seeking to bring harm to their family.
While the importance of the pumpkin was being shared with Jan Kanty the true contents is revealed to the rest of the family however they are still at a loss to what it could possibly be. This object is described as beautifully colorful and shimmering light into the entire room. Little did Joseph know that this thing of beauty had been causing destruction for many years and its importance was great. Under the protection of their new home with Pan Kreutz the object was hidden and the Charnetskis were able to start their new life in Krakow.
Evil was afoot and those who had burned their house were still seeking out their family and this object of beauty. While the Charnetskis were becoming closer to Elzbietka Kreutz her uncle was becoming more and more withdrawn into conducting experiments with a local student from the university. Elzbietka and Joseph are worried as to the evil that is lurking when these experiments take place which acts as foreshadowing for the remainder of the book.
Joseph's father teaches him the Heynal so that he will be able to play it if ever trouble arises and that it does. Joseph and Elzbietka jokingly construct a plan that if ever trouble arises that Joseph will play out the entire Heynal as a signal for Elbietka. Magic and forces of darkness are at work when the object is stolen from the Charnetskis and a deep depression settles upon Pan Andrew for his loss. Sadly this is not the end of the Charnetski's trouble and the secret plan devised by Joseph and Elzbietka comes into play. The beautiful object's importance is eventually revealed to the audience and reveals that this thing of beauty hidden by a pumpkin is still not what it may seem as are other characters within the book.
The author does a great job of creating suspense within every page and keeps the reader guessing as to all the parts played within the book. Strife and turmoil are rampant but redemption and grace are delivered by the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I would use this book in a 6th grade classroom and up.
The Charnetski family was traveling from their home in the Ukraine to escape the wicked schemes of men who sought what seems to be a very special pumpkin. Readers are kept in the dark about the importance of this pumpkin just like all the family members of the Charnetski family except for the father Pan Andrew Charnetski for a large majority of the book. Pan Andrew only seeks to protect his family from the burden of knowing its importance and only confides in one of the town scholars Jan Kanty whom everyone loved and respected in Krakow which gives Pan Andrew the confidence he needs to entrust this family secret to a complete stranger. The Charnetskis seek refuge with a local family whom Joseph saved from an unpleasant experience with an abused dog, the man of the house being Pan Kreutz an Alchemist employed by the University of Krakow and his niece Elzbietka . The two new acquaintances help the Charnetskis settle into Krakow and Pan Andrew is given the job of the night time trumpeter who plays the Heynal on every hour which helps to protect his identity from those seeking to bring harm to their family.
While the importance of the pumpkin was being shared with Jan Kanty the true contents is revealed to the rest of the family however they are still at a loss to what it could possibly be. This object is described as beautifully colorful and shimmering light into the entire room. Little did Joseph know that this thing of beauty had been causing destruction for many years and its importance was great. Under the protection of their new home with Pan Kreutz the object was hidden and the Charnetskis were able to start their new life in Krakow.
Evil was afoot and those who had burned their house were still seeking out their family and this object of beauty. While the Charnetskis were becoming closer to Elzbietka Kreutz her uncle was becoming more and more withdrawn into conducting experiments with a local student from the university. Elzbietka and Joseph are worried as to the evil that is lurking when these experiments take place which acts as foreshadowing for the remainder of the book.
Joseph's father teaches him the Heynal so that he will be able to play it if ever trouble arises and that it does. Joseph and Elzbietka jokingly construct a plan that if ever trouble arises that Joseph will play out the entire Heynal as a signal for Elbietka. Magic and forces of darkness are at work when the object is stolen from the Charnetskis and a deep depression settles upon Pan Andrew for his loss. Sadly this is not the end of the Charnetski's trouble and the secret plan devised by Joseph and Elzbietka comes into play. The beautiful object's importance is eventually revealed to the audience and reveals that this thing of beauty hidden by a pumpkin is still not what it may seem as are other characters within the book.
The author does a great job of creating suspense within every page and keeps the reader guessing as to all the parts played within the book. Strife and turmoil are rampant but redemption and grace are delivered by the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I would use this book in a 6th grade classroom and up.
May 11, 2016
I'm starting to wonder if those early Newbery judges liked to torture kids?
This 1929 Newbery Award Winner was difficult for me to read, for a multitude of reasons. Let me start with the depiction of women. Kelly didn't even bother to name the mother of his main character, Joseph, even though "Mother" often appears on the scene. Both "Mother" and her son's love interest, Elzbietka, relay the idea that females need to be cared for by men and need to be told what to do. Ugh. Spare me the medieval BS - it's not romantic and it stinks to high-heaven. I don't care how historically accurate it is or not - this is exactly the kind of romance we shouldn't encourage among modern children.
Readers are thrown into a time and place with little background set-up; readers are expected to know the history of the region (Eastern Europe/Eurasia). This history isn't taught in the American education system - outside of WWII and Nazis, we get almost nothing about this area of the world in our history lessons. Kelly missed an opportunity to relay some of that historical information in this story.
Not being well-versed in Polish history, I can't tell you how much actual history makes it into this book. The little bit that is given feels more like anecdotes intended to build up Polish/Slavic/Krakow nationalism instead of real history based on facts.
There's a wishy-washy sentimentalism toward the feudal state and kingship of the Slavs with the tribal "Tartars" (Tatars/Mongols) viewed as little more than savages. This feud between the Slavs and Tartars is never fully explained; readers are just told that the two cultures have clashed for a long time - don't bother asking why questions, they won't be answered.
Depictions of these two clashing cultures are one-sided, favoring the Slavs with a negative attitude toward the Tartars. This creates weak characters; the good guys and bad guys are so obviously good or bad that the story lacks the element of surprise.
Kelly consistently missed the opportunity to use the element of surprise. Even when I was a kid and heard this story read out-loud, I knew what to expect later in the book because too much information is told up-front. Kelly spelled out what readers could expect in lengthy descriptions of his characters and setting. Formulaic is the word that comes to mind. It doesn't matter what age you are, being able to figure out what's going to happen so easily makes any story bland. Every time I've read this book, I've always been glad to reach the end so I can move on to something better.
This 1929 Newbery Award Winner was difficult for me to read, for a multitude of reasons. Let me start with the depiction of women. Kelly didn't even bother to name the mother of his main character, Joseph, even though "Mother" often appears on the scene. Both "Mother" and her son's love interest, Elzbietka, relay the idea that females need to be cared for by men and need to be told what to do. Ugh. Spare me the medieval BS - it's not romantic and it stinks to high-heaven. I don't care how historically accurate it is or not - this is exactly the kind of romance we shouldn't encourage among modern children.
Readers are thrown into a time and place with little background set-up; readers are expected to know the history of the region (Eastern Europe/Eurasia). This history isn't taught in the American education system - outside of WWII and Nazis, we get almost nothing about this area of the world in our history lessons. Kelly missed an opportunity to relay some of that historical information in this story.
Not being well-versed in Polish history, I can't tell you how much actual history makes it into this book. The little bit that is given feels more like anecdotes intended to build up Polish/Slavic/Krakow nationalism instead of real history based on facts.
There's a wishy-washy sentimentalism toward the feudal state and kingship of the Slavs with the tribal "Tartars" (Tatars/Mongols) viewed as little more than savages. This feud between the Slavs and Tartars is never fully explained; readers are just told that the two cultures have clashed for a long time - don't bother asking why questions, they won't be answered.
Depictions of these two clashing cultures are one-sided, favoring the Slavs with a negative attitude toward the Tartars. This creates weak characters; the good guys and bad guys are so obviously good or bad that the story lacks the element of surprise.
Kelly consistently missed the opportunity to use the element of surprise. Even when I was a kid and heard this story read out-loud, I knew what to expect later in the book because too much information is told up-front. Kelly spelled out what readers could expect in lengthy descriptions of his characters and setting. Formulaic is the word that comes to mind. It doesn't matter what age you are, being able to figure out what's going to happen so easily makes any story bland. Every time I've read this book, I've always been glad to reach the end so I can move on to something better.
January 4, 2015
I loved reading about a Krakow that was thriving and a center if education, culture and civilization. My kids were skeptical of this one and the readingg level was too hard for my daughter when we started, but as I decided to read-aloud instead of having her read it alone, several things changed: the language was easily understandable by all of the children, they all became intrigued with the story and even identified things they were familiar with. :-) thanks to JK Rowling, they had a schema for the sorcerers stone and since studying chemistry last year, they knew about alchemy, even though this story is so far removed from our own time, they loved it.
The only thing I wished was reading about the beautiful Krakow of the author's time (1928) and wondering how it compares to now. I want to go back to this land of my ancestors and find the ancient churches and town square. Are they still standing? I think we will be spending some time with google world soon. :-)
March 31, 2020
The Trumpeter of Krakow is exciting and action-packed for a book that was written in the early 20th century, however; it lacked character descriptions and development, though its vivid description of scenery and specific streets and cities was much appreciated. I found some of the constant action confusing. One of the characters, Johann Tring, although his appearance was well described he was missing a motive, a backstory, and a character arc. Overall, it was an okay read. If you read this book I strongly recommend listening to the Heynal (otherwise known as St. Mary's Trumpet Call) as it is mentioned often in the book. After listening to it, it played in the back of my mind while I read.
October 28, 2014
I LOATHED this book. I rarely judge books this harshly, but this book was terrible. Most of the characters were COMPLETELY predictable and very boring. Strong female characters? None. Joseph's mother didn't even have a name. And don't even get me started on Elzbietka, the main female character. The only reason I finished this book was because I had to read it for school. And that was torturous.
December 28, 2023
This story set in XIV century Krakow features a precious crystal with hidden powers and meaning, an alchemist trying to find the philosopher’s stone, night attacks by robbers and a fire that destroys one third of the town.
March 25, 2017
I was expecting to like this book, but not to love it. The ending was so beautiful! I was very touched by the ending. I really want to visit Poland and Krakow after reading this book. The patriotism in this book is very inspiring! The book was simple, but it was also beautiful in it's simplicity.
November 8, 2022
My mom read this book aloud to us and I remember liking the action, suspense and those few scary scenes of the story! It was one that we all found hard to put down as there was never really a good spot for doing so - you were always in the middle of some action/story plot or you just knew something was about to happen. Eek! A good, unique story set in Medieval Times.
I would definitely recommend that this be read by older children who can handle some suspense and scary scenes.
Ages: 11+
Cleanliness
Children's Bad Words
Name Calling - 2 Incidents: fool
Violence - None
Romance Related - 3 Incidents: A boy takes notice of a girl. A girl kisses a boy on the cheek for his bravery. "Breast" is used a few times - not sexually.
Attitudes/Disobedience - 1 Incident: A boy beats a dog out of "pure viciousness."
Conversation Topics - 4 Incidents: Wine and drink are mentioned. A man blasphemously declares: "the heavens will not be more brilliant than I." Mentions gamblers, drunkards, thieves. Mentions beggars asking for money to get drinks.
Religious & Supernatural - 19 Incidents
"They had chanted their morning prayer of praise to the great Allah." Also mentions that the city was a place where every god known to man was worshiped, "it might even be said that God himself was worshiped under many names." Mentions and describes fortune tellers, astrologers, magicians, palmists, necromancers and how science started doing away with superstitions. A man lies in order to steal something from a family. The lie he tells is ridiculous but believed because the people are superstitious. He "made my horse fly straight up to heaven." A narration is given on how people believed superstitions. A woman thinks a devil possesses her because her legs and arms and neck hurt; but a man explains that she shouldn't sleep on damp earth and wet stones at night. Mentions gnomes and pixies. "There they have magic that takes a soul away from the body... there be devils that come to earth with the fire of hell upon them." "I believe that he has some power over people that is not of this earth." A girl fears a certain man her uncle is getting involved with. The "power" that she refers to is more often merely the power of influence, force and manipulation. However, you later learn that he knows how to send people into trances. A man thinks the stars govern humans. A man replies: That I leave to magicians and necromancers, as likewise I leave to them that hideous magic which makes compounds of cats' paws, and owls' eyes and dead men's fingers." "But... you seek the elixir of life...? This is followed by a discussion about the "magic" of turning other substances to gold with an explanation that the sciences were rudimentary and that with the basic concepts of chemistry being discovered, superstitions mingled with them. The discussion goes further and speaks of trances and its powers and a man is then sent into a trance. A girl thinks her uncle is possessed because he isn't himself. A man's loft is broken into and robbers wish to steal his goods. As he is a chemist, he mixes elements together and causing fumes and little explosions to occur. This frightening the bandits and they flee. Throughout this entire chapter, the man is thought of as a "devil" an "Evil One" a "fantastic demon" as through the eyes of the bandits. A girl thought her uncle was engaged in black magic. "It was a superstitious age, an age when people believed that powers of evil could be called upon, like human beings, to perform certain dark deeds - that souls of the dead forever haunted certain lonely places ..." and continues. "Elzbietka breathed a prayer to her patron saint, the good Elizabeth." A discussion about trances and how the uncle is exhausted because of them, occult powers, hypnotic sleep, devils, etc. and the uncle struggling against succumbing to it. A man is trying to get him to unlock the powers of a crystal that he thinks will tell him how to make anything turn to gold. Mentions a dragon that once lived on a hill. It it thought that a crystal is cursed, having strange properties "which are allied to magic and sorcery."
Again, the crystal is thought to have a quality to make someone look "into it and there read of the future ... and secrets." "The instant the king's eyes were fixed upon the stone he became suddenly oblivious to everything else that was before him, and stood as one in a dream or trance, gazing into the depths of the fearsomely beautiful thing [crystal]." The uncle explains why he stole the crystal and what it did to him. "It was said that he often called upon the devil himself for assistance."
Parent Takeaway
Most of the "magic" that takes place in the book is not magic but superstitious thoughts imposed on science, ideas that were often believed in Medieval Times, and which could take a bit of explaining to children. The narration includes some explanation (as provided above), but with "black magic" and "trances" woven throughout the story, it would be recommended to either read-aloud together for discussion, or give the book to older/maturer readers. Strong character traits of family loyalty, bravery, and dependability.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
I would definitely recommend that this be read by older children who can handle some suspense and scary scenes.
Ages: 11+
Cleanliness
Children's Bad Words
Name Calling - 2 Incidents: fool
Violence - None
Romance Related - 3 Incidents: A boy takes notice of a girl. A girl kisses a boy on the cheek for his bravery. "Breast" is used a few times - not sexually.
Attitudes/Disobedience - 1 Incident: A boy beats a dog out of "pure viciousness."
Conversation Topics - 4 Incidents: Wine and drink are mentioned. A man blasphemously declares: "the heavens will not be more brilliant than I." Mentions gamblers, drunkards, thieves. Mentions beggars asking for money to get drinks.
Religious & Supernatural - 19 Incidents
"They had chanted their morning prayer of praise to the great Allah." Also mentions that the city was a place where every god known to man was worshiped, "it might even be said that God himself was worshiped under many names." Mentions and describes fortune tellers, astrologers, magicians, palmists, necromancers and how science started doing away with superstitions. A man lies in order to steal something from a family. The lie he tells is ridiculous but believed because the people are superstitious. He "made my horse fly straight up to heaven." A narration is given on how people believed superstitions. A woman thinks a devil possesses her because her legs and arms and neck hurt; but a man explains that she shouldn't sleep on damp earth and wet stones at night. Mentions gnomes and pixies. "There they have magic that takes a soul away from the body... there be devils that come to earth with the fire of hell upon them." "I believe that he has some power over people that is not of this earth." A girl fears a certain man her uncle is getting involved with. The "power" that she refers to is more often merely the power of influence, force and manipulation. However, you later learn that he knows how to send people into trances. A man thinks the stars govern humans. A man replies: That I leave to magicians and necromancers, as likewise I leave to them that hideous magic which makes compounds of cats' paws, and owls' eyes and dead men's fingers." "But... you seek the elixir of life...? This is followed by a discussion about the "magic" of turning other substances to gold with an explanation that the sciences were rudimentary and that with the basic concepts of chemistry being discovered, superstitions mingled with them. The discussion goes further and speaks of trances and its powers and a man is then sent into a trance. A girl thinks her uncle is possessed because he isn't himself. A man's loft is broken into and robbers wish to steal his goods. As he is a chemist, he mixes elements together and causing fumes and little explosions to occur. This frightening the bandits and they flee. Throughout this entire chapter, the man is thought of as a "devil" an "Evil One" a "fantastic demon" as through the eyes of the bandits. A girl thought her uncle was engaged in black magic. "It was a superstitious age, an age when people believed that powers of evil could be called upon, like human beings, to perform certain dark deeds - that souls of the dead forever haunted certain lonely places ..." and continues. "Elzbietka breathed a prayer to her patron saint, the good Elizabeth." A discussion about trances and how the uncle is exhausted because of them, occult powers, hypnotic sleep, devils, etc. and the uncle struggling against succumbing to it. A man is trying to get him to unlock the powers of a crystal that he thinks will tell him how to make anything turn to gold. Mentions a dragon that once lived on a hill. It it thought that a crystal is cursed, having strange properties "which are allied to magic and sorcery."
Again, the crystal is thought to have a quality to make someone look "into it and there read of the future ... and secrets." "The instant the king's eyes were fixed upon the stone he became suddenly oblivious to everything else that was before him, and stood as one in a dream or trance, gazing into the depths of the fearsomely beautiful thing [crystal]." The uncle explains why he stole the crystal and what it did to him. "It was said that he often called upon the devil himself for assistance."
Parent Takeaway
Most of the "magic" that takes place in the book is not magic but superstitious thoughts imposed on science, ideas that were often believed in Medieval Times, and which could take a bit of explaining to children. The narration includes some explanation (as provided above), but with "black magic" and "trances" woven throughout the story, it would be recommended to either read-aloud together for discussion, or give the book to older/maturer readers. Strong character traits of family loyalty, bravery, and dependability.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
April 25, 2022
Newberry Winner 1929
This tale is almost one hundred years old and it hasn't lost any of its vibrancy. It is a historical novel and great adventure story in one. There is more narrative in the story than customary today, but it is necessary for the reader to be submerged into the historical setting of 15th century Krakow. From this backdrop the intrigue, the struggle between good and evil, become quite vivid. It is a great story for boys where valor, chivalry, and honor but also deep love and responsibility for family feature prominently.
This tale is almost one hundred years old and it hasn't lost any of its vibrancy. It is a historical novel and great adventure story in one. There is more narrative in the story than customary today, but it is necessary for the reader to be submerged into the historical setting of 15th century Krakow. From this backdrop the intrigue, the struggle between good and evil, become quite vivid. It is a great story for boys where valor, chivalry, and honor but also deep love and responsibility for family feature prominently.
June 19, 2023
This is an action-packed historical fiction based on both actual events and Polish folklore. I found the historical references of the relationship between Ukraine and Moscow in the 15th century particularly interesting.
This won the Newbery in 1929, but snippets throughout felt quite modern. For example; Ezebeitka demanding to know why she should not be educated in the same way as Joseph. That being said, the language and story-telling style are probably too antiquated for most kids today.
Newbery Medal -1929
This won the Newbery in 1929, but snippets throughout felt quite modern. For example; Ezebeitka demanding to know why she should not be educated in the same way as Joseph. That being said, the language and story-telling style are probably too antiquated for most kids today.
Newbery Medal -1929
June 13, 2020
Contrary to my friends' opinion, who rated it a one star, this book was actually not that bad. True, it wasn't one of my favorites, but I definitely liked it. I would recommend it as a good book with a helpful insight into the culture of Poland.
March 3, 2021
I suppose this is a predictable outcome when a scholar in Slavic studies tries to write a novel: the atmosphere and historical detail are excellent, but the fictional elements leave something to be desired. I know this is a children’s book, but the plot seemed excessively juvenile, with obvious good and bad guys, no sense of nuance, and an overly reductive moral lesson. On the other hand, it was great to read a book set in what, to an American reader, is the unfamiliar setting of medieval Poland, complete with real historical figures and geographic details. This made me want to go to Krakow more than it made me want to read other examples of its author’s fiction.
September 28, 2024
A very simple story, though very interesting for the journey through 15th century Poland.
May 27, 2017
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
In 1241, a young trumpeter of Krakow, Poland perished as he upheld his vow to sound the trumpet every hour and succumbed to a Tartar's arrow. 220 years later, in 1461, the trumpet still sounds the Heynal day and night, but with a broken note that imitates how the young trumpeter sounded when the arrow pierced him all those years ago. The new trumpeter, Pan Andrew Charnetski, has come to Krakow to stay with relatives while he waits to deliver a valuable object to the king. When he learns that his relatives have been killed, Pan Andrew and his wife and son, Joseph must conceal their identities. Pan Andrew's role as the night trumpeter is meant to keep him out of harm's way but it is only a matter of time before his enemies catch up to him. Then it is 15-year-old Joseph who must come up with a plan to save his family and the new friends they have made.
This is the first novel I have read set during the Middle Ages, that actually features a functional, traditional nuclear family. Family loyalty and honor is in fact one of the main themes of the book and one of the motivations behind Joseph's actions. The story as a whole is a struggle between good and evil, which favors humility, hard work, and honesty over pride, instant gratification, and deceit. It is also an exciting and dangerous adventure which is nearly impossible to put down once begun. Despite its age (87 years!) this book remains relevant because its themes are timeless and its story line is so compelling.
As an educational tool, this book is also top notch. Because it is written in the third person, the narrator can take time now and then to provide historical context or to explain important political implications and religious beliefs. The story itself provides all the historical information needed to appreciate it, which is hugely helpful and appealing to middle grade readers. This book focuses on a very specific city in a very specific time, which could be a strike against its appeal to the masses, but the exhilarating high-stakes plot makes the history interesting in a way that so few children's books ever manage to accomplish.
The Trumpeter of Krakow provides another perspective on the Middle Ages which balances out all the other England-centric titles available. It touches on topics such as alchemy that others do not discuss, and it gives readers a deeper appreciation for Polish culture. It could not be further from the type of book I typically gravitate toward, but I could not have enjoyed it more. It might be my favorite of the historical fiction books I've read so far this year, and it is definitely among my favorite Newbery books.
The edition I read featured a series of intricate line drawings by Janina Domanska. These are certainly excellent in their own right, but they do fall a bit flat when compared with the original illustrations by Angela Pruszynska, which I was able to see thanks to inter-library loan. The original pictures include three full-color pages, one of which actually includes the music for the Heynal, and many other line drawings which depict the locations mentioned in the story. Certainly, it helps that the illustrator was from Krakow because she could easily draw from real life inspiration. Unfortunately, she tragically disappeared during the Nazi invasion of Poland, and she only illustrated this and two other children's books, both stories of Polish history by Eric P. Kelly: The Blacksmith of Vilno and The Golden Star of Halich. Knowing this makes me want to especially encourage readers to seek out the original illustrations.
The violence of the prologue scene where the trumpeter dies and the suspense of later scenes where the Charnetskis are in danger of losing their lives make this book most appropriate for middle school or even high school students. Polish history is not frequently high on the list of priority subjects to be taught, but for the chance to use this book alone I would highly recommend finding a way to work it into every curriculum.
In 1241, a young trumpeter of Krakow, Poland perished as he upheld his vow to sound the trumpet every hour and succumbed to a Tartar's arrow. 220 years later, in 1461, the trumpet still sounds the Heynal day and night, but with a broken note that imitates how the young trumpeter sounded when the arrow pierced him all those years ago. The new trumpeter, Pan Andrew Charnetski, has come to Krakow to stay with relatives while he waits to deliver a valuable object to the king. When he learns that his relatives have been killed, Pan Andrew and his wife and son, Joseph must conceal their identities. Pan Andrew's role as the night trumpeter is meant to keep him out of harm's way but it is only a matter of time before his enemies catch up to him. Then it is 15-year-old Joseph who must come up with a plan to save his family and the new friends they have made.
This is the first novel I have read set during the Middle Ages, that actually features a functional, traditional nuclear family. Family loyalty and honor is in fact one of the main themes of the book and one of the motivations behind Joseph's actions. The story as a whole is a struggle between good and evil, which favors humility, hard work, and honesty over pride, instant gratification, and deceit. It is also an exciting and dangerous adventure which is nearly impossible to put down once begun. Despite its age (87 years!) this book remains relevant because its themes are timeless and its story line is so compelling.
As an educational tool, this book is also top notch. Because it is written in the third person, the narrator can take time now and then to provide historical context or to explain important political implications and religious beliefs. The story itself provides all the historical information needed to appreciate it, which is hugely helpful and appealing to middle grade readers. This book focuses on a very specific city in a very specific time, which could be a strike against its appeal to the masses, but the exhilarating high-stakes plot makes the history interesting in a way that so few children's books ever manage to accomplish.
The Trumpeter of Krakow provides another perspective on the Middle Ages which balances out all the other England-centric titles available. It touches on topics such as alchemy that others do not discuss, and it gives readers a deeper appreciation for Polish culture. It could not be further from the type of book I typically gravitate toward, but I could not have enjoyed it more. It might be my favorite of the historical fiction books I've read so far this year, and it is definitely among my favorite Newbery books.
The edition I read featured a series of intricate line drawings by Janina Domanska. These are certainly excellent in their own right, but they do fall a bit flat when compared with the original illustrations by Angela Pruszynska, which I was able to see thanks to inter-library loan. The original pictures include three full-color pages, one of which actually includes the music for the Heynal, and many other line drawings which depict the locations mentioned in the story. Certainly, it helps that the illustrator was from Krakow because she could easily draw from real life inspiration. Unfortunately, she tragically disappeared during the Nazi invasion of Poland, and she only illustrated this and two other children's books, both stories of Polish history by Eric P. Kelly: The Blacksmith of Vilno and The Golden Star of Halich. Knowing this makes me want to especially encourage readers to seek out the original illustrations.
The violence of the prologue scene where the trumpeter dies and the suspense of later scenes where the Charnetskis are in danger of losing their lives make this book most appropriate for middle school or even high school students. Polish history is not frequently high on the list of priority subjects to be taught, but for the chance to use this book alone I would highly recommend finding a way to work it into every curriculum.
March 20, 2017
The Trumpeter of Krakow is the 1929 Newbery winner and tells the story of Joseph, a boy who moves from Ukraine to Krakow with his mother and father in the early years of the Renaissance. His father is protecting a mysterious treasure and thus they are pursued by a villain who seeks this treasure. The book is adventurous and engaging, and I liked the picture it painted of life in 15th century Krakow.
I'm not sure how accurate the book's portrayal of the philosophy/science/religion of the time period is, but I enjoyed the way it was handled. The transition of seeing astronomy and alchemy as magical arts often rooted in dark magic, to more scientific ideas that can be studied and explained was interesting. I also liked the historical figure of Jan Kanty (the Polish saint John Cantius.) He was kind and generous and I liked that when someone asked him to pray for the worms to leave their garden, he basically told them it wouldn't be solved by prayer and it was up to them to get rid of the worms and they should just sprinkle ash on the ground.
This is probably not a four star book, but it was really nice to read a Newbery winner from the 1920s that I actually wanted to keep reading, didn't feel overly racist or dated, and wasn't just plain boring.
I'm not sure how accurate the book's portrayal of the philosophy/science/religion of the time period is, but I enjoyed the way it was handled. The transition of seeing astronomy and alchemy as magical arts often rooted in dark magic, to more scientific ideas that can be studied and explained was interesting. I also liked the historical figure of Jan Kanty (the Polish saint John Cantius.) He was kind and generous and I liked that when someone asked him to pray for the worms to leave their garden, he basically told them it wouldn't be solved by prayer and it was up to them to get rid of the worms and they should just sprinkle ash on the ground.
This is probably not a four star book, but it was really nice to read a Newbery winner from the 1920s that I actually wanted to keep reading, didn't feel overly racist or dated, and wasn't just plain boring.
July 22, 2015
1461: unrest in Ukraine forces the Charnetski family to flee their estate and find refuge in Krakow. Joseph's father becomes the trumpeter in the church tower, playing the Hejnal every hour. (It's still done; look on YouTube.) There are good guys (scholars and alchemists), iffy guys (necromancers -- a great vocabulary word), bad guys (foreign thugs), and a devastating fire. There's a treasure to guard. It's an exciting tale.
I was glad that the edition of Trumpeter had an introduction (from 1966) to provide context, though further online research provides evidence that the author may have created the legend of the "unfinished tune."
What really, really bothers me is that the family brings the treasure hidden in a pumpkin. A hollowed-out shell is indeed a good hiding place. BUT pumpkins are native to North America. How did a pumpkin get to a farm in Ukraine in 1461? Has no one else noticed this anachronism in the 87 years since the book was published?
I was glad that the edition of Trumpeter had an introduction (from 1966) to provide context, though further online research provides evidence that the author may have created the legend of the "unfinished tune."
What really, really bothers me is that the family brings the treasure hidden in a pumpkin. A hollowed-out shell is indeed a good hiding place. BUT pumpkins are native to North America. How did a pumpkin get to a farm in Ukraine in 1461? Has no one else noticed this anachronism in the 87 years since the book was published?
August 11, 2016
Just to clear up the genre question: This is tightly researched historical fiction. Although one of the characters is an alchemist, there are no fantasy elements. There were actual "alchemists" in medieval Europe, trying the types of experiments described in the book.
As far as the book itself- it's pretty good. The characters and plotting are ahead of their time (1928), but the pacing is still choppier than most post-1960 children's books. Kelly gets something going for a few chapters, then lets it fizzle and starts building up momentum from zero all over again.
Let's face it: most of the people who will read this are taking the Newbery challenge. For those people, the presence of plot and character combined with the absence of racism will be a welcome reprieve from the other early winners.
As far as the book itself- it's pretty good. The characters and plotting are ahead of their time (1928), but the pacing is still choppier than most post-1960 children's books. Kelly gets something going for a few chapters, then lets it fizzle and starts building up momentum from zero all over again.
Let's face it: most of the people who will read this are taking the Newbery challenge. For those people, the presence of plot and character combined with the absence of racism will be a welcome reprieve from the other early winners.
January 17, 2016
The book received the Newberry award back in the 1920s and I think it testifies to the high level of expectations for children of that day & age, to aspire to more, to read difficult books, etc. I liked the book very much, but I also come to it knowing a bit more about WWI and II than the average 4th grader nowadays. One reviewer said she read it out loud to her children and that that helped them get into the book more, so if you want your children to be interested, you might try reading it out loud.
Beautiful book, beautiful writing, interesting and dynamic plotting, very well done by the author. I do recommend it, but know that it will not be everyone's cuppa.
Beautiful book, beautiful writing, interesting and dynamic plotting, very well done by the author. I do recommend it, but know that it will not be everyone's cuppa.
January 27, 2010
This one is an older Newbery classic about Polish medieval history. I liked it OK. I didn't find myself really wanting to reach for it, and yet, it was an interesting topic. I learned a few things. Two stars may seem a bit harsh, but this one just didn't grab me.
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