mrulmen's review
adventurous
dark
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
littleelfman's review against another edition
4.0
This was a quirky, fun, fantasy romp that was a comedy of errors! Great Middle Grade that explores difference of perspective in an entertaining way!
321zeggy's review
adventurous
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
A fantastically weird book
mrswhiteinthelibrary's review against another edition
4.0
In a word: delightful! Reminiscent of Terry Pratchett's early Discworld books, The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge is a farcical take on the fantasy genre. Centering on the titular historian, Brangwain Spurge is an uppity elf on a mission, so he believes, of diplomatic importance to the goblins, who are ruled by a mysterious dark lord. He is greeted and hosted enthusiastically by his goblin counterpart, Werfel, a fellow scholar who is dying to learn more about elf culture. What ensues is a ridiculous comedy of errors as Werfel tries his best to please his guest, who is insulted by every attempt, and a delicious fantasy adventure as the two unlikely friends eventually come to discover their respective histories may have been rewritten as propaganda. It's funny, quick-witted, clever, and occasionally even touching, with memorable characters. It almost screams for a sequel, but at the same time, is practically perfect as it is.
justineboon's review
adventurous
funny
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
jbojkov's review against another edition
5.0
This was a wonderful story. Partly told through illustrations and partly through text. Unique and engrossing. Great for kids who like fantasy with a little snark.
maritzasoto's review against another edition
4.0
I would rate it 4.5. Great story that just pulled you right in, and I enjoyed the style and different devices used in its telling. Read this to my daughter, and we were both enthralled. Also, such a timely message and important reminder.