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Westmark
First published 1981 · 192 pages
A spirited, fast-paced adventure where a ragtag group of fugitives and performers must outwit a corrupt minister to save a grieving kingdom.
What it feels like
Reading this classic adventure feels like being swept up in a breathless, theatrical escape. The narrative moves at a brisk, engaging pace, pulling the reader from the sudden shock of tragedy into the lively, unpredictable company of con artists and clever runaways. There is a distinct balance of light and shadow here; the spirited camaraderie and astounding feats of a motley crew provide moments of levity against a backdrop of genuine peril, grief, and political corruption. The prose is accessible and earnest, perfectly suited for younger readers while maintaining enough dramatic tension to keep anyone invested. It is a story that delights those who love watching a found family of outcasts discover their courage, outsmart wicked authorities, and fight for the soul of a fractured kingdom.
- Mood
- spirited
- perilous
- theatrical
- shadowy
- Tone
- adventurous
- earnest
- dramatic
- suspenseful
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- found family · good versus evil · political intrigue · coming of age · courage in adversity
- The writing
- Accessible and action-oriented, balancing the lively energy of a traveling show with the gravity of a kingdom in peril.
- The arc
- Moves from sudden tragedy and desperate flight to a spirited, high-stakes stand against corruption.
- Who it's for
- Readers who love classic, fast-paced youth adventures featuring ragtag groups of outcasts taking on corrupt authorities.
Content notes
- murder of a mentor
- grief
- political corruption
- violence
About the book
When Theo agrees to print a traveling showman's pamphlet, he only thinks of the money it will bring in. Instead, it sets off a chain reaction that results in the smashing of the press and the murder of his master. Caught on the wrong side of the law, Theo must flee the city. Soon, he has teamed up with the traveling showman Count Las Bombas (who is actually a con artist) and his servant. The trio is soon joined by Mickle, a clever, strong-willed girl with a mysterious past. Performing feats that astound and amaze, the motley crew falls into a trap set by Chief Minister Cabbarus, who is determined to wrest power from the grief-stricken king. Now they must not only save themselves-they must save the kingdom... (less)
Description from Open Library.
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