Review of The Winged Watchman
Posted: 05 Oct 2023, 17:19
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Winged Watchman" by Hilda van Stockum.]
Hilda van Stockum writes this book as someone who witnessed firsthand the effects of World War II. In Saterwoude, a small village in Holland, we follow the life of Joris, a ten-year-old boy who lives in this small village with his family. The war affected how they lived at the time, but Joris’ story was still full of adventure and innocent curiosity.
I appreciated the author's use of descriptive language to bring the characters to life. Joris was a smart, curious kid, and everything he did showed that. Even though he was young, he had that fire in him that made him want to prove that he could help in some way. This quality even made me understand the country's situation. With drones flying around, soldiers being brutal, and people suffering just to find food and other necessities, I was engrossed in the story. I liked how these aspects were accurately represented and made me feel like I was right there. This demonstrates the author's exceptional writing style.
The novel's character development kept all of the characters distinct. Uncle Cor was a smart and funny man who worked with the resistance. With his inventive techniques and exciting stories, he always made those around him happy. He dressed up as Saint Nicholas once to make two little girls happy. Joris and his family also shared and supported one another in their difficulties. Despite the fact that it was a tragic time, the representation of family bonds gives hope to the entire story.
I really liked everything about this book; it had a well-rounded story that's perfect for kids, with a tinge of adventure and mystery. The errors were not bothersome, and the daring protagonists' adventures will lift your spirits. Furthermore, it teaches important values, imparts knowledge, and makes one wiser. One such instance was when Joris saw his mother lying to a soldier in order to protect refugees they were hiding. I admired her poise and candor as she explained why she had to do that. I believe that if adults read this, they will learn the value of being honest with children.
Overall, I give "The Winged Watchman" 5 out of 5 stars because of the accurate depiction of its setting and excellent character development. Teenagers will enjoy the level of mystery and suspense because they can relate to Joris the best.
******
The Winged Watchman
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Hilda van Stockum writes this book as someone who witnessed firsthand the effects of World War II. In Saterwoude, a small village in Holland, we follow the life of Joris, a ten-year-old boy who lives in this small village with his family. The war affected how they lived at the time, but Joris’ story was still full of adventure and innocent curiosity.
I appreciated the author's use of descriptive language to bring the characters to life. Joris was a smart, curious kid, and everything he did showed that. Even though he was young, he had that fire in him that made him want to prove that he could help in some way. This quality even made me understand the country's situation. With drones flying around, soldiers being brutal, and people suffering just to find food and other necessities, I was engrossed in the story. I liked how these aspects were accurately represented and made me feel like I was right there. This demonstrates the author's exceptional writing style.
The novel's character development kept all of the characters distinct. Uncle Cor was a smart and funny man who worked with the resistance. With his inventive techniques and exciting stories, he always made those around him happy. He dressed up as Saint Nicholas once to make two little girls happy. Joris and his family also shared and supported one another in their difficulties. Despite the fact that it was a tragic time, the representation of family bonds gives hope to the entire story.
I really liked everything about this book; it had a well-rounded story that's perfect for kids, with a tinge of adventure and mystery. The errors were not bothersome, and the daring protagonists' adventures will lift your spirits. Furthermore, it teaches important values, imparts knowledge, and makes one wiser. One such instance was when Joris saw his mother lying to a soldier in order to protect refugees they were hiding. I admired her poise and candor as she explained why she had to do that. I believe that if adults read this, they will learn the value of being honest with children.
Overall, I give "The Winged Watchman" 5 out of 5 stars because of the accurate depiction of its setting and excellent character development. Teenagers will enjoy the level of mystery and suspense because they can relate to Joris the best.
******
The Winged Watchman
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon