Customer Reviews

The Geek, the Greek and the Pimpernel

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

A mysterious book full of suprises, just when you think it's all over another adventure pops up. Teachers beware. A great read for anyone of 9 years and over.
By Georgie Mostyn aged 12

This book was recently nominated for the Bolton Book Award and I can see why! The Geek, the Greek and the Pimpernel is an exciting, pacey and satirical children's book enjoyable for under 13s and also for adults who know only too well the lengths headteachers will go to to get the best exam results. In contrast to the comic-book-style bullies and teachers, the two main characters (the Geek and the Greek) are so realistic and I loved their relationship. What makes this book stand out for me is the character of the Geek; it's a common thing to have a female sidekick but because of the Greek-narrator's more slow, thoughtful nature and reluctance to get involved in anything it's really the girl Geek who (unlike Hermoine Granger) is the real hero of this story.

A really funny, thrilling read. Looking forward to the sequel!

Though this book is not perfect, if any book can be so, I found it most definately exciting and adventurous. It is very firmly planted in the young teen setting. School, bullies, that sort of thing, but keeps it from being montonous with a great refreshing narrative and the wonderful character of the Pimpernel. The plot is not overly complicated, the characters are great. The book is adventurous and action packed without being too dark or complex. I fully expect a sequel and I shall no doubt enjoy that as much as I did this book.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and as an English teacher, will probably choose it as a class reading book for Year 7. Will Gatti has managed to write what I can only describe as a "proper" children's book. It's not too dark but does have mystery, adventure and fun - all played out by loveable heroes and detestable villains. The tale also remains firmly rooted in the 21st century, however, by being set in a school, narrated by a teenage protagonist and exploring the themes of bullying and corruption. I do hope there will be a sequel!