Reviews
"The Secret of the Labyrinth" is the first of Forrest Tales, a series of adventures featuring Edward Forrest. Written as a juvenile fantasy, the book is an extremely good read for adults too. I couldn't put the book down except for brief intervals necessitated out
of fatigue. I had to finish it in two days. The story is good, the style is mostly good and the
characterisation is very good. Most of the time, the author succeeds in painting a vivid picture in the mind of the reader. When I finished the book, I was left wondering about Edward's adventures and his new friend David's role in the next part.
The book is not only about powers of light and darkness, but also the story of courage, humility, withstanding temptation, learning to forgive and ultimately learning to 'be in the light'. The last few chapters of the book are very moving and also spiritually very uplifting. Whether the present generation adults and children will resonate with the lessons presented by the author is a debatable point. But the book is certainly an inspiring addition to every school, library and I would add, every home too, where a child lives.
I compliment the author, for an excellent effort and
look forward to more offerings from her pen."
Twelve year old Edward Forrest lives in a meager home with mom Olive and two sisters; Amy 14, Crystal 16. There is little money for lights, heat or food. The local library where it is warm and filled with friendly faces and books to carry him far from his bleak existence is a refuge for the lonely youngster. Edward’s life changes when he awakens at 6AM as usual only to discover neither Olive nor his sisters are in the house. Two weeks later Edward is becoming desperate, bills are due, there is no food in the house, and his attempt to pawn the family TV goes awry. Finding a map in a hidden compartment near the fireplace sets in place adventures Edward never thought he might face.
Brynnfeld where Edward is one of the first-year students attending the Academy of the Oracle is a spot where the kids learn how to unleash the wonderful powers they hold within themselves. It is a place where powers for good are honed. Evil waiting those who venture away from the light is never far away. The Dark Lord's realm is found in the shadows cast by the Academy walls. Edward Forrest finds he always walks on the verge of disaster. Edward wonders whether he can stand up to the Dark Lord's plan of destruction. Most momentous for the worried youngster; can he pass the final test that awaits him in the cryptic passageways of The Great Labyrinth? The Secret of the Labyrinth is a gripping narrative of valiancy, not giving in to enticement, understanding how to forgive others and at length learning to 'be in the light' and out of darkness. The latter portion of the book is meant to be inspirational.
The Secret of the Labyrinth is the initial work offered in the Forrest Tales series by talented writer Lewis. Featuring Edward Forrest, a young fellow who is abandoned by his family and must make it on his own, Lewis crafts a keenly focused tale presented as a middle grades/Young Adult fantasy. The first book deals with peer pressure, making both appropriate and inappropriate choices, and coming to realize that mistakes can be rectified and used as a learning experience. As with a labyrinth, Life is filled with dead-ends and open paths. The Secret of the Labyrinth helps the young reader appreciate their own mistakes as opportunities for growth. The easily read, fast paced tale is satisfactory, writing style is commendable and characterization is excellent. Writer Lewis paints an intense portrayal in the mind of the reader. The story is gripping as the characters find mystery and adventure while attending the Academy of the Oracle. Each book in this fantasy series has a value theme designed to help young people as they face struggles in a troubled world.
From the opening page when the reader meets Twelve year old Edward awakening to the sounds of the 6AM train, down to the last pages of The Secret of the Labyrinth when Edward really understands what true treasure is reader interest is held fast.
The Secret of the Labyrinth is a good addition to both the home and school library where it is certain to be reached for often for pleasure reading.
Happy to recommend.
Reviewed by: Molly Martin 20+ years classroom teacher
