Official Review: Deceiving Mr. Bevison by Nanette Fynan

[acasto]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Deceiving Mr. Bevison" by Nanette Fynan.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Deceiving Mr. Bevison by Nanette Fynan is an exciting mystery and adventure story for young adults and children. The main character, Charlie MacDonough, is sent to a boarding school run by Episcopalian brothers. At first he is nervous about being in a new school, but quickly makes friends with the other members of the school’s bagpipe band, of which he is the newest member. His time quickly fills up with band practices and school work, but he manages to keep up. That is, until his band director’s ex-husband, Mr. Bevison, starts lurking around the school. The band members know he’s up to no good, and decide to figure exactly why, despite protests from the band director. An interest in protecting their director’s job turns into hours of research, late-night lurking in the school’s museum and some creative attempts at forgery. In the end, Mr. Bevison’s intent is uncovered and he is prevented from carrying out his plans by several groups.

Each character in this story has a unique personality, and their interactions as peers and teachers show a degree of creativity from the author. The reader feels a connection to the main character and understands his need for new friends and adventures at his new school. Charlie and his friends work as a team, but in a realistic sense. They have fun together, help each other with homework, and play pranks when they’re not solving the mystery. The setting for this story is unique among young adult novels, and gives the young reader an insight into a life that is not their own. The ancient school buildings and monastery where the characters live lend themselves to greater intrigue and adventure.

My favorite part of this story is the sense of adventure. In a way the story is just about a boy who goes to a boarding school, hoping to fit in. But as boys are apt to do, he finds an exciting year awaits him filled with mischief and music. Although many characters get in trouble, they have good intentions and are honestly trying to help each other. My least favorite aspect of the book was how fast the resolution of the story went. There is not much distance between the climax and the end of the story, and though the end was satisfying, it all happened too fast for my tastes.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. As a young adult reader, the story was captivating, but not so suspenseful as to be unable to put the book down. It was an exciting read when I needed a break from schoolwork, and always let me guessing as to what Mr. Bevison was truly up to. I made a special connection with the main character, since I participated in marching band in high school. Being in a small bagpipe band is certainly different, but the gruel of rehearsals and excitement of performance is very much the same.

This story would appeal to youth and young adults who like adventure stories or mysteries with no violence. This story is especially relevant to boys, and reminded me of a Hardy Boys adventure. High school students who are in band may also enjoy the story and the perspective it offers on a boarding school and a bagpipe marching band. The themes of this story include friendship, teamwork, mystery, and adventure, and life experiences related to male youth. I would also recommend this book to adults who enjoy a lighter novel with low-stress suspense and a youthful theme.

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Deceiving Mr. Bevison
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[fiddlefancier]

Thank you!

[kimmyschemy06]

Sounds like a very interesting book with relatable character. Mischief and music seem like a good combination. Great job on the review.

[kitsune1997]

Your review was great I didn't like the plot though, shame.