Books for Boys... part 2

I am going to try to be a better book blogger (say that 10 times fast!). And since I'm reading lots of things now as a pre-read for my 8 year old son who eats books up I figured I'd add a category to my book list as Books for Boys. See it on my side bar? Just click on it and it will take you to my reviews of Books for Boys on this site.

Whenever I write a review for a book in this category from here on out I will include its appropriateness for boys in the upper elementary age group.

I'd love suggestions for books too, so keep them coming.

The Tapestry Series

A while ago I was at the city library (kind of rarity these days... but that's another story for another post) and happened to spy a book called The Tapestry. Upon further inspection I learned that it was Book 1 of The Tapestry series and titled The Hound of Rowan written by Henry H. Neff. I picked it up and read the dust jacket. It sounded interesting and fun and good for my boy who is needing good things to read, so I checked it out. From goodreads.com

MAX MCDANIELS LIVES a quiet life in the suburbs of Chicago, until the day he stumbles upon a mysterious Celtic tapestry. Many strange people are interested in Max and his tapestry. His discovery leads him to Rowan Academy, a secret school where great things await him.

But dark things are waiting, too. When Max learns that priceless artworks and gifted children are disappearing, he finds himself in the crossfire of an ancient struggle between good and evil. To survive, he'll have to rely on a network of agents and mystics, the genius of his roommate, and the frightening power awakening within him.

I began reading and almost immediately recognized that there were similarities between this and Harry Potter. But it felt different to me. Equally entertaining, to me, but different. For one, it feels darker. Not necessarily in content, but in tone. The voice of the narrator seems more mature... so does Max, for that matter!

I love the first two books (haven't started the 3rd yet). But many, many people do not love them. I've read lots of reviews that just think they are OK or that they are a HP ripoff. I loved so many things about these books. I really like Max, first and foremost. He is a good kid, he loves his dad, he has hope.

Really all of the relationships in this book seem very natural and comfortable. I could relate to these characters far more than I expected. The magic within is based on Celtic folklore and that has me intrigued. I'd like to do some research and learn more about it... especially with my affinity for Ireland. I think any book that can get me motivated to learn more is a good thing!

After reading the first book, I decided that I would let my 8 year old read it. He was excited and read it pretty quickly. He told me that his school library has the second, but he has to be the next level up to check it out. He seemed excited to get it. So, I think it was a good fit for him. I don't know if he enjoyed it as much as I did, but I would recommend this series for boys reading at a 5th grade level and up.

As for me, I gave it 5 stars. Because I thoroughly enjoyed it.