Reviews

From his opening utterance of "Once upon a time..." British actor Curless's polished yet friendly voice prepares listeners to be whisked away to the Land of Stories, where the bulk of Beck's inventive fantasy-adventure unfolds. The Trueheart family is known in those parts for starring in some of the world's best known tales. Tom Trueheart's six older brothers-all named Jack-and their father Jack before them, routinely received letters of assignment, or story starters, from the Story Bureau. The missives sent them off to the Land of Stories to rescue princesses or battle knights or giants. With each adventure finished, the Truehearts reported back to the Bureau, who committed the events to paper. But on the eve of Tom's 12th birthday, all his brothers go missing in the Land of Stories at once. The Bureau decides that Tom, with some help from a sprite guide, is the only hope of saving his family-and the stories. Tom accepts the mission and soon learns that the Jacks have been kidnapped by a rogue (and jealous) story deviser named Ormestone. Listeners follow Tom through familiar territory such as "Snow White," "Cinderella," "The Frog Prince," "Rapunzel" and, ultimately, "Jack and the Beanstalk," all given an exciting freshness by Curless's energy and enthusiasm, and Beck's thoroughly entertaining device. Happily the ending leaves room for a sequel. Ages 8-12. (Feb.) Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.

Gr 4-7-This well-known British illustrator's first novel is a charming twist on fairy tales. The Trueheart clan lives near the Land of Stories, once upon a time, long ago. Tom is the youngest of seven boys, and his brothers (all named Jack) have carried on the family tradition of being adventurers-that is, stepping into a story and carrying out the dashing exploits that eventually become legend. On Tom's 12th birthday, he discovers that his brothers are missing, feared to have been captured by a sinister individual who wants to put an end to Stories forever, and it is up to the young lad to discover their fates and prevent the demise of the Land. Readers meet many familiar characters, as the brothers' interrupted adventures involve Snow White, Cinderella, and Rapunzel, to name a few. The two-dimensionality of most of the characters complements the fairy-tale feel, and silhouette drawings interspersed throughout add a wonderfully nostalgic touch. Readers will relate to Tom as he overcomes fears that he will not live up to his brothers' reputations for bravery. The story gets off to a slow start, and the length may deter some children, but those who stick with it will be rewarded with a refreshing and humorous take on traditional fairy tales. Beck's ending suggests that a sequel is forthcoming.-Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.