Book review of Little Rock: A Tale by Rick Arbour

Two years after the events of Christopher's Story, Rick Arbour's Little Rock: A Tale plunges readers back into a world of magic and mayhem. Christopher, a seasoned adventurer, finds himself captured while protecting a kingdom. A color-changing rhinoceros, his unlikely savior and adopted "child," helps him escape with the eight-year-old king. Their perilous journey becomes a desperate race against time to reunite the king with his family before a kingdom-altering deadline. Filled with thrilling escapes, unexpected twists, and burgeoning friendships, Little Rock delivers a standalone adventure brimming with unique characters and breathtaking challenges, solidifying Christopher's legendary status in this fantastical realm.

Paperback 9.99 USD

3.7 / 34 ratings

Review Little Rock

Little Rock: A Tale by Rick Arbour is a whirlwind of a read, a YA adventure that completely swept me away. From the very first page, I was hooked by the premise: a magical world, a kidnapped king, and a color-changing rhinoceros acting as a surprisingly effective escape vehicle – it's certainly not your average rescue mission! The plot is fast-paced and brimming with unexpected twists and turns, keeping me guessing right until the very end. I found myself completely invested in Christopher's journey, rooting for him every step of the way as he navigated treacherous situations and formed unlikely alliances.

The author masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and even a touch of the creepy, creating a unique blend that’s both thrilling and emotionally resonant. While the description highlights the fantastical elements, it doesn’t fully prepare you for the emotional depth. The narrative tackles some heavy themes – bullying, sexual assault, and death are all present, and while they aren't gratuitous, they are handled with a sensitivity that made them impactful without being overly graphic. This adds a layer of maturity and realism to the story that elevates it beyond a typical YA adventure.

The characters are vividly drawn and incredibly compelling. Christopher himself is a fantastic protagonist – resourceful, brave, and surprisingly funny. His bond with the rhino is both heartwarming and hilarious, adding a unique dynamic to the story. The supporting cast is equally engaging, each character bringing their own personality and motivations to the table. I especially appreciated the way the author developed the relationships between the characters, allowing for genuine connection and emotional growth throughout the story. The love triangle, while present, felt refreshingly nuanced and didn't overshadow the other aspects of the narrative. It added a layer of intrigue and offered another avenue for emotional investment.

While some reviewers mentioned a jarring narrative in places or an overly quick resolution to certain plot points, I found the pacing to be well-suited to the adventurous nature of the story. The slightly old-fashioned language mentioned by some didn't bother me; it felt appropriate for the setting and contributed to the unique atmosphere of the book. The inclusion of heavier themes like sexual assault necessitates a trigger warning, which I believe would make this book more accessible and safe for all potential readers.

Overall, Little Rock: A Tale is a fantastic read that successfully balances high-octane action, heartwarming relationships, and poignant explorations of complex issues. It’s a captivating story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling and emotionally engaging YA fantasy adventure. It's a quick read, perfect for a weekend escape, but don't let the brevity fool you – this book packs a powerful punch.

Information

• Dimensions: 6 x 0.49 x 9 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 196
• Publication date: 2024

Book table of contents

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