John M. reviewed on 12/31/2009 + 3 more book reviews

This is a series I'd been eyeing for quite a while, and I'm glad I finally was able to dive in. In a world at once familiar and alien, an unlikely pair of youngsters unlock a secret that may save their entire civilization. The City of Ember may be crumbling around them, but those in charge want to stay in charge and avoid a change that could rock Ember to its foundations.

Duprau creates the vision of a failing world of doom and gloom that is constantly trying to keep the oppressive darkness at bay. The pace is a bit slow at first, but you'll find yourself pulled into the action once things start to take off. Some characters come across as cartoonish almost Dickensian villains, but the heroes are kids you can really root for. Book 2 is already on its way to me, and I can't wait!

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details