Author: Diana Wynne Jones
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Copyright: 2010
Genre: YA Fantasy
Another great Diana Wynne Jones book!
Aidan Cain comes to Melstone House after Stalkers start stalking him after his grandmother's death. Andrew, who inherited Melstone House when his grandfather died, takes Aidan in while they try to figure out what's going on. But strange things abound and since Andrew doesn't remember what his grandfather told him about keeping magic in check, chaos ensues until Aidan and Andrew can harness their magics and restore order and boundaries.
As usual with Diana Wynne Jones, the style of the book is witty and engaging. The language is clear and the magic rules are easy to follow as they're introduced, even without full explanations. I love the wry undertone to the whole story, and the running jokes like the cauliflower cheese and vegetables and the confusion over Aidan's name that keep popping up throughout the book.
The book is intelligent, funny, and magical - what more could you ask for?
Yes I agree it is a great read and she is one of my favorites, as I said in my review. But if this is your first Diana Wynne Jones' book then consider it strongly before buying for her style is not liked by everyone.
ReplyDeleteOh not at all! This is definitely not the first book of hers that I read. I've read the Chrestomanci series a number of times and I think I've read every book of hers at least once. I agree that her style is very unique, but I love it! It's so witty and has such dry humor. And her books are always very intelligent.
ReplyDeleteYes I too have read every one that I can get my hands on, several times :) but I think people either love her work or hate it. She has, as you say, a very unique style that is not suited to everyone.
ReplyDeleteMy favourite is The House of Many Ways, mainly because I would love the house and really want to live there!