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A review by mirable
The Chestnut Soldier by Jenny Nimmo
3.0
SLJ review:
Gr 5-7-The Chestnut Soldier (Orchard Books, 2007) is the third volume in Jenny Nimmo's "The Magician Trilogy," and listeners new to the series may be confused at the rapid introduction of characters and reference to events in prior books at the beginning of the story. Gwyn is a reluctant magician who has the ability to make things happen. Unfortunately, he believes his magic powers have stunted his physical growth, and what he wants most is to grow. Gwyn's friendship with Nia Lloyd gets him involved in an enchanting mystery involving a soldier who is possessed by a demon prince who was once contained within a small carved wooden horse. The characters have surprising depth, given the brevity of the story. The myths and legends of Wales are given a good workout, and everything comes together quite predictably in a happy ending. Haunting instrumental music is scattered throughout. Narrator John Keating makes the most of the Welsh names and dialect; each character is distinctively voiced, making this a fun listen. Middle school students who like fantasy and Nimmo's "Charlie Bone" series will also enjoy this title.-Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI
Gr 5-7-The Chestnut Soldier (Orchard Books, 2007) is the third volume in Jenny Nimmo's "The Magician Trilogy," and listeners new to the series may be confused at the rapid introduction of characters and reference to events in prior books at the beginning of the story. Gwyn is a reluctant magician who has the ability to make things happen. Unfortunately, he believes his magic powers have stunted his physical growth, and what he wants most is to grow. Gwyn's friendship with Nia Lloyd gets him involved in an enchanting mystery involving a soldier who is possessed by a demon prince who was once contained within a small carved wooden horse. The characters have surprising depth, given the brevity of the story. The myths and legends of Wales are given a good workout, and everything comes together quite predictably in a happy ending. Haunting instrumental music is scattered throughout. Narrator John Keating makes the most of the Welsh names and dialect; each character is distinctively voiced, making this a fun listen. Middle school students who like fantasy and Nimmo's "Charlie Bone" series will also enjoy this title.-Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI