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The Book of Stolen Dreams #1
The Book of Stolen Dreams
An exhilarating, awe-inspiring debut from a master storyteller writing for children for the first time, perfect for fans of Philip Pullman, Katherine Rundell and Eva Ibbotson.
Rachel and Robert live a grey, dreary life under the rule of cruel Charles Malstain. But when their librarian father enlists their help to steal a forbidden book, they are plunged into adventure. With their father captured, it is up to Rachel and Robert to uncover the secrets of the Book of Stolen Dreams and track down its mysteriously missing final page in order to save him.
What they are not expecting is to discover a family of ghosts, a door to the dead and that the Book grants the power of immortality. But they will do anything to stop it falling into Malstain's hands - for if it does, he could rule for ever.
Step inside the pages of an immortal adventure and discover a truly unforgettable journey of wonder, courage and magic...
Rachel and Robert live a grey, dreary life under the rule of cruel Charles Malstain. But when their librarian father enlists their help to steal a forbidden book, they are plunged into adventure. With their father captured, it is up to Rachel and Robert to uncover the secrets of the Book of Stolen Dreams and track down its mysteriously missing final page in order to save him.
What they are not expecting is to discover a family of ghosts, a door to the dead and that the Book grants the power of immortality. But they will do anything to stop it falling into Malstain's hands - for if it does, he could rule for ever.
Step inside the pages of an immortal adventure and discover a truly unforgettable journey of wonder, courage and magic...
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 30, 2021
About the author
David Farr
54 books17 followersDavid Farr is is one of the UK's leading screenwriters and directors for film, TV and theatre. In 2009, he was appointed Associate Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, where his productions of The Winter's Tale, King Lear and The Homecoming all opened to critical acclaim. David is known for his work on Spooks and his 2016 BBC adaptation of The Night Manager, starring Hugh Laurie and Tom Hiddleston. He completed his first feature film, Hanna, in 2009, and has since adapted it into a hugely successful series for Amazon Prime. The Book of Stolen Dreams is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
August 19, 2021
The only existence siblings, Rachel and Robert, have ever known has been a dreary one under the rule of Charles Malstain. Their parents remember a different time, however. Perhaps that was why their father did something reckless that got him taken away from them. Perhaps that was why their mother, on her deathbed, told them to fight for justice and their happiness. It becomes hard to remember what happiness even is though when you are far from your home and your family, and feel helpless against the tyrant ruining your country.
This might just be one of the best middle grade, adventure, fantasy stories that I have ever read! Rachel was the primary protagonist and she revealed the harsh rule all lived under. I loved exploring the politics and geography of the world, with her as the reader's guide. She was plucky and feisty and brave but also unashamed to feel vulnerable, afraid, and helpless. She worked through these latter feelings and became the perfect eyes in which to view this world through.
Her brother, Robert, was also provided with chapters set from his perspective. This was necessary as they remained apart for much of the book but his actions were still important ones. He was initially involved in more scheming and so I enjoyed learning about the plans for Malstain's demise from him.
The magic that was uncovered proved fascinating. I loved its slow introduction in the book and loved learning how it impacted the lives of these children. David Farr integrated it seamlessly into the story and I was engaged in all the different aspects that combined to make this a fascinating and fast-paced story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, David Farr, and the publisher, Usborne, for this opportunity.
This might just be one of the best middle grade, adventure, fantasy stories that I have ever read! Rachel was the primary protagonist and she revealed the harsh rule all lived under. I loved exploring the politics and geography of the world, with her as the reader's guide. She was plucky and feisty and brave but also unashamed to feel vulnerable, afraid, and helpless. She worked through these latter feelings and became the perfect eyes in which to view this world through.
Her brother, Robert, was also provided with chapters set from his perspective. This was necessary as they remained apart for much of the book but his actions were still important ones. He was initially involved in more scheming and so I enjoyed learning about the plans for Malstain's demise from him.
The magic that was uncovered proved fascinating. I loved its slow introduction in the book and loved learning how it impacted the lives of these children. David Farr integrated it seamlessly into the story and I was engaged in all the different aspects that combined to make this a fascinating and fast-paced story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, David Farr, and the publisher, Usborne, for this opportunity.
November 11, 2023
FINISHED: my gosh, this is epic. This is an epic adventure of secrets, privacy, a book that is much sought after, an evil dictator and the most incredible bunch of characters. You can’t beat a good bit of an adventure to save the world from an evil man while running into challenge after challenge. This is going to hit the world and take it by storm… and would make an EXCEPTIONAL film. I loved every second of this and raced through it.
January 5, 2023
Not the story I was expecting... There isn't much of magic elements and the plot is about taking down a dictator.
Rachel and her brother Robert are interesting characters and young readers will really root for them. Also, despite the dark subject, the writing isn't too heavy/serious.
I wasn't particularly enthralled by this book. I'm still giving it 3 stars instead of 2 because it was just a wrong pick for me. I would still recommend it to my students.
Rachel and her brother Robert are interesting characters and young readers will really root for them. Also, despite the dark subject, the writing isn't too heavy/serious.
I wasn't particularly enthralled by this book. I'm still giving it 3 stars instead of 2 because it was just a wrong pick for me. I would still recommend it to my students.
October 9, 2023
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via the publishers and Kaleidoscopic book tours.
The Book of Stolen Dreams is the first book in the Stolen Dreams adventure series and was an amazing, adventure packed read from cover to cover.
In this book we get to meet Rachel and Robert who are siblings and have had much loss and hardship in their young lives. Rachel is such an inspiring plucky character and I loved learning more about her (I read book two first - the Secret of the Blood Red Key). She teaches us all that it's OK to be afraid, helpless and vulnerable within this book and that it's not anything to be ashamed of. Rachel was also the main POV but Robert does have several chapters where we learn his POV too and was more of a schemer but does have quite an important role in this book and series. I loved the magic incorporated within the story and can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
The Book of Stolen Dreams is the first book in the Stolen Dreams adventure series and was an amazing, adventure packed read from cover to cover.
In this book we get to meet Rachel and Robert who are siblings and have had much loss and hardship in their young lives. Rachel is such an inspiring plucky character and I loved learning more about her (I read book two first - the Secret of the Blood Red Key). She teaches us all that it's OK to be afraid, helpless and vulnerable within this book and that it's not anything to be ashamed of. Rachel was also the main POV but Robert does have several chapters where we learn his POV too and was more of a schemer but does have quite an important role in this book and series. I loved the magic incorporated within the story and can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
December 12, 2023
Super eingesprochenes Hörbuch, mit sehr bewegender Story, die definitiv zum Nachdenken anregt und stark an das NS-Regime anlehnt. Allein schon die Namen wirken wie aus dieser Zeit gefallen und ich hatte durchgehend ein beklemmendes Gefühl, während ich die Protagonisten begleitet habe.
Zwischenzeitlich hat mich die Story etwas verloren, da schien es, als würden wir uns im Kreis bewegen und für manche Begebenheiten gab es nicht wirklich eine Erklärung. Auch tauchten plötzlich Figuren auf, die meiner Meinung nach unlogisch gehandelt haben oder ich habe ihre Gründe nicht verstanden, und die waren dann auch genauso schnell wieder verschwunden. Zum Ende hin wurde es dann allerdings sehr spannend und rührend und ich konnte das ein oder andere Tränchen nicht zurückdrängen🥲
Fazit: Story mit wichtiger Message - etwas durcheinander dargestellt, aber, hinsichtlich der erschreckenden politischen Entwicklungen in Deutschland und Europa, so aktuell und wichtig wie nie zuvor.
Zwischenzeitlich hat mich die Story etwas verloren, da schien es, als würden wir uns im Kreis bewegen und für manche Begebenheiten gab es nicht wirklich eine Erklärung. Auch tauchten plötzlich Figuren auf, die meiner Meinung nach unlogisch gehandelt haben oder ich habe ihre Gründe nicht verstanden, und die waren dann auch genauso schnell wieder verschwunden. Zum Ende hin wurde es dann allerdings sehr spannend und rührend und ich konnte das ein oder andere Tränchen nicht zurückdrängen🥲
Fazit: Story mit wichtiger Message - etwas durcheinander dargestellt, aber, hinsichtlich der erschreckenden politischen Entwicklungen in Deutschland und Europa, so aktuell und wichtig wie nie zuvor.
March 6, 2022
This gave me all the vibes of Inkheart, and Northern Lights, while reminding me that these days, it's quite unusual for characters to die in middle grade books. Seeing characters killed off and tortured added to the stakes of this adventure story, I just found the middle quite slow.
Although it's not outright said, the names and places in this story gave me strong Russian vibes, so I presume it's set somewhere around there, but placing a date is a little harder. It's a fantasy world, that could be our own.
I did like that the brother and sister split up, as we got to discover the world better from two different perspectives, in two different places. This is a dystopian world of airships, dingy back alley streets and magical books that could bring back the dead, ruled by an oppressive Government with a hatred of children.
This is a complete story, with a satisfying conclusion that I really enjoyed - I did feel that the newspaper articles at the end were a few too many. I was really happy to turn the final page and discover that there is a sequel planned however, with a brand new mystery to resolve. I'm not quite ready to leave this world yet.
Although it's not outright said, the names and places in this story gave me strong Russian vibes, so I presume it's set somewhere around there, but placing a date is a little harder. It's a fantasy world, that could be our own.
I did like that the brother and sister split up, as we got to discover the world better from two different perspectives, in two different places. This is a dystopian world of airships, dingy back alley streets and magical books that could bring back the dead, ruled by an oppressive Government with a hatred of children.
This is a complete story, with a satisfying conclusion that I really enjoyed - I did feel that the newspaper articles at the end were a few too many. I was really happy to turn the final page and discover that there is a sequel planned however, with a brand new mystery to resolve. I'm not quite ready to leave this world yet.
January 15, 2022
From time to time I love reading books that are mainly for young readers and this one was no exception. It had everything going for it. Chases, villains and memorable characters. This wasn’t a long book but, it delivered on all fronts and I’m looking forward to the next one in this series when it comes out.
January 5, 2022
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
This is a curious and imaginative book that I think adults and younger readers will enjoy alike. There’s enough layers of meaning for adults to appreciate elements that children will be unlikely to pick up on.
This is a curious and imaginative book that I think adults and younger readers will enjoy alike. There’s enough layers of meaning for adults to appreciate elements that children will be unlikely to pick up on.
July 3, 2021
A fantastically crafted debut children's book. Warm, witty, and well-written. I couldn't put it down.
October 21, 2021
Thank you to Usborne Publishing an Netgalley for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway
Trigger/Content Warnings: Mentioned Torture | Kidnapping | Cancer | Grief
With a gorgeous cover like that and with the tile of The Book of Stolen Dreams I had high expectations for this adventurous middle grade novel. Unfortunately those were not at all met.
A lot had to do with the writing and the set up of the story. This story is written from a third person omniscient point of view as we follow two siblings. I felt so far removed from these characters however. The start was okay, I could feel the love for their parents and especially their father but when it comes to the setting and world, not so much.
Despite following both characters, it is clear that the book is setting Rachel up to be the star. I feel having a limited third person point of view would have worked better. I think getting completely swept up in Rachel throughout the story and discovering what happened to her brother instead of knowing what is going on before her would have jammed up the suspense and engagement.
I also wasn't a big fan of how the story was build up. We find Rachel at the start. And then we go all the way back to the beginning and get in some history. Which can work great but it didn't. We went into too much action detail but I still get nothing on the emotional front.
Other than that I liked Robert and Rachel was okay. But I also had some problems with the plot decisions and side characters. I had expectations of those stolen dreams but it kind of fizzled out. And then those characters that brought others back and now someone else wants to live forever and oh no that can't happen. Please. Nothing of that was challenged either. I was very over this story by the end.
However I am rating it 3 stars here because I do think that the targeted audience won't be an as harsh critic as me.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Mentioned Torture | Kidnapping | Cancer | Grief
With a gorgeous cover like that and with the tile of The Book of Stolen Dreams I had high expectations for this adventurous middle grade novel. Unfortunately those were not at all met.
A lot had to do with the writing and the set up of the story. This story is written from a third person omniscient point of view as we follow two siblings. I felt so far removed from these characters however. The start was okay, I could feel the love for their parents and especially their father but when it comes to the setting and world, not so much.
Despite following both characters, it is clear that the book is setting Rachel up to be the star. I feel having a limited third person point of view would have worked better. I think getting completely swept up in Rachel throughout the story and discovering what happened to her brother instead of knowing what is going on before her would have jammed up the suspense and engagement.
I also wasn't a big fan of how the story was build up. We find Rachel at the start. And then we go all the way back to the beginning and get in some history. Which can work great but it didn't. We went into too much action detail but I still get nothing on the emotional front.
Other than that I liked Robert and Rachel was okay. But I also had some problems with the plot decisions and side characters. I had expectations of those stolen dreams but it kind of fizzled out. And then those characters that brought others back and now someone else wants to live forever and oh no that can't happen. Please. Nothing of that was challenged either. I was very over this story by the end.
However I am rating it 3 stars here because I do think that the targeted audience won't be an as harsh critic as me.
January 30, 2023
j’ai bien bien aimé. c’est de l’aventure plus que de la magie, mais j’ai quand même apprécié ma lecture! et que dire de la première de couverture! elle est magnifique et est représentative de la belle histoire qu’elle contient.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CoCXqotg0...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CoCXqotg0...
January 27, 2024
4,5 ⭐️ ! Não consigo explicar a viagem que foi este livro! É um livro juvenil! Amei amei amei!!!!!!! 🥹🫶🏼
November 27, 2022
C’était un très bon roman jeunesse, un peu lent parfois, mais très original, vraiment bourré d’action et de rebondissements !
September 13, 2021
I'm not crying, I just have something in my eye...
When I started reading this wonderful, fast-paced, action-packed adventure, I was strapped in for magic, adventure, mystery-solving...But then we get to the last 20% off the book, and all these emotions started kicking in. By the time I reached the last chapter I was sobbing with a Kindle in my hands. I felt such powerful emotions reading about Robert and Rachel in the last chapter, it just overwhelmed me, which I didn't expect, but there you go. It happened, hence, why I loved this book so much. I don't think love is even a good word for it, I felt like it has gained a special, permanent spot in my heart.
There's a lot to say about this book but it won't give it justice. But let me share my highlights:
The mix of characters here provides such wonderful possibilities. From the evil tyrant president who hates children and has turned a country into a wasteland, from the brave, smart, adorable kids like Rachel and Robert on a mission to save their father and the whole country, to a whole heap of side-characters that either made me giggle, or want to hug the book.
Now the adventure itself is just so well done and wrapped up even better. There's nothing I can say that I didn't like. The pacing was perfect, I could easily keep up and it wasn't as predictable, which I was pleasantly surprised to learn. It felt like we were given a lot of clues, bits and pieces to put together along with our two main characters, and while it wasn't too complex, I had moments where I failed to piece the puzzles. That's absolutely not a bad thing at all. And when you actually finish the book, you get this sense of accomplishment and happiness that you were able to put these things together and come to a conclusion.
The magical side of the book doesn't dominate and it doesn't overwhelm and confuse, which I was delighted about. We get to read the dreams that comprise this book, and these are wonderful little segment, not too long, but just right, and I wish the ARC had illustrations. I can't even imagine how gorgeous the physical copy will be! Ahhh, I wish I had one right now!
The book itself is about family and friends, trust and love, bravery... it will, at least for the time you are reading this book, make you step out of your adult state-of-mind and make you wonder if you still have that moral compass that they talk about...
The overall atmosphere was fantastic, it was easy to imagine all the quirky clothing, from people having penguin hats to pointy noses that looked like beaks, to legs of dictators that looked like carrots. And then, of course, there is the aspect of a library and a book, and if you're a bookworm, which I believe most of you reading this are, how could you not be interested in a bookish, magical, adventure.
It's hilarious, it's heart-warming, it's fun, it's quick, it's everything it should have been.
When I started reading this wonderful, fast-paced, action-packed adventure, I was strapped in for magic, adventure, mystery-solving...But then we get to the last 20% off the book, and all these emotions started kicking in. By the time I reached the last chapter I was sobbing with a Kindle in my hands. I felt such powerful emotions reading about Robert and Rachel in the last chapter, it just overwhelmed me, which I didn't expect, but there you go. It happened, hence, why I loved this book so much. I don't think love is even a good word for it, I felt like it has gained a special, permanent spot in my heart.
There's a lot to say about this book but it won't give it justice. But let me share my highlights:
The mix of characters here provides such wonderful possibilities. From the evil tyrant president who hates children and has turned a country into a wasteland, from the brave, smart, adorable kids like Rachel and Robert on a mission to save their father and the whole country, to a whole heap of side-characters that either made me giggle, or want to hug the book.
Now the adventure itself is just so well done and wrapped up even better. There's nothing I can say that I didn't like. The pacing was perfect, I could easily keep up and it wasn't as predictable, which I was pleasantly surprised to learn. It felt like we were given a lot of clues, bits and pieces to put together along with our two main characters, and while it wasn't too complex, I had moments where I failed to piece the puzzles. That's absolutely not a bad thing at all. And when you actually finish the book, you get this sense of accomplishment and happiness that you were able to put these things together and come to a conclusion.
The magical side of the book doesn't dominate and it doesn't overwhelm and confuse, which I was delighted about. We get to read the dreams that comprise this book, and these are wonderful little segment, not too long, but just right, and I wish the ARC had illustrations. I can't even imagine how gorgeous the physical copy will be! Ahhh, I wish I had one right now!
The book itself is about family and friends, trust and love, bravery... it will, at least for the time you are reading this book, make you step out of your adult state-of-mind and make you wonder if you still have that moral compass that they talk about...
The overall atmosphere was fantastic, it was easy to imagine all the quirky clothing, from people having penguin hats to pointy noses that looked like beaks, to legs of dictators that looked like carrots. And then, of course, there is the aspect of a library and a book, and if you're a bookworm, which I believe most of you reading this are, how could you not be interested in a bookish, magical, adventure.
It's hilarious, it's heart-warming, it's fun, it's quick, it's everything it should have been.
January 7, 2024
Right from the first page, I was completely sucked into this story. The plot, the characters and the writing style were perfect and I loved every minute of my time reading this story.
The story is set in an alternate world, which in my mind I pictured as similar to 1920s Russia. The weather is cold and an oppressive regime has seized power. There is some technology, such as cars and airships, yet the only phones available are ones that connect to the wall, music comes from violins and pianos and messages are sent via letter or written in books.
In this world, we follow the story of Rachel and Robert Klein. Despite hardships, they have an idyllic family life until one day when their father entrusts them with The Book of Stolen Dreams. This event leads to imprisonment, murders, betrayals and being chased by dangerous criminals. Facing an overwhelming weight of evil forces, can the two siblings keep the book safe and unlock its mysterious secrets?
My favourite thing about this book was the narrator's voice. The writing has a lyrical quality to it which adds to the fantastical nature of the world and makes some very simple statements beautifully poignant. Parts of the story are told in a dry, satirical way, which helps to lighten the mood as sometimes this tale can get quite dark!
The plot and the characters worked brilliantly. The main aim of the plot was clear and easy to follow and it was made wonderfully intriguing by the misunderstandings, near-misses and scheming from different characters. The underlying commentaries on kindness, family, love and death kept the story interesting and gave me plenty to think about after I'd read it.
I would highly recommend this book to readers aged 10+. In particular, I think this boon would suit readers who have enjoyed Sophie Anderson and Katherine Rundell.
The story is set in an alternate world, which in my mind I pictured as similar to 1920s Russia. The weather is cold and an oppressive regime has seized power. There is some technology, such as cars and airships, yet the only phones available are ones that connect to the wall, music comes from violins and pianos and messages are sent via letter or written in books.
In this world, we follow the story of Rachel and Robert Klein. Despite hardships, they have an idyllic family life until one day when their father entrusts them with The Book of Stolen Dreams. This event leads to imprisonment, murders, betrayals and being chased by dangerous criminals. Facing an overwhelming weight of evil forces, can the two siblings keep the book safe and unlock its mysterious secrets?
My favourite thing about this book was the narrator's voice. The writing has a lyrical quality to it which adds to the fantastical nature of the world and makes some very simple statements beautifully poignant. Parts of the story are told in a dry, satirical way, which helps to lighten the mood as sometimes this tale can get quite dark!
The plot and the characters worked brilliantly. The main aim of the plot was clear and easy to follow and it was made wonderfully intriguing by the misunderstandings, near-misses and scheming from different characters. The underlying commentaries on kindness, family, love and death kept the story interesting and gave me plenty to think about after I'd read it.
I would highly recommend this book to readers aged 10+. In particular, I think this boon would suit readers who have enjoyed Sophie Anderson and Katherine Rundell.
July 25, 2022
Sí, sÍ, SÍ. AL FIN UN LIBRO DE 5 ESTRELLAS ESTE AÑO. He tardado y me ha costado pero aquí está. Quiero darles las gracias a Robert y Rachel Klein por ser unos protagonistas increíbles. La historia es alucinante y te digo yo que todo lo que contiene la trama con muertes, torturas y movidas políticas no puede ser un libro para niños.
Lo que más me ha gustado ha sido la historia… ES QUE ES ALUCINANTE. Cada vez que acabas un capítulo te dan ganas de leer otro porque acaba con el inicio de otra movida más chunga todavía. Lo que más me ha gustado son sus aventuras tipo que flipo con que una niña de 12 años viaje sola a otro país que está en otro continente solo porque le han dado una notita. (No es spoiler, es el primer capítulo)
Literalmente dos preadolescentes luchan por acabar contra un régimen dictatorial sin padres. Esto es más hardcore que Harry Potter y los juegos del hambre juntos. Porque mira en los juegos del hambre aún tienen que luchar contra gente de su edad pero es que estos niños son unos cracks que escapan constantemente de soldados y gente entrenada… Y encima te caen muy bien enseguida.
Bueno y esto ha sido todo bye.
Pd: os amo hermanos Klein
Lo que más me ha gustado ha sido la historia… ES QUE ES ALUCINANTE. Cada vez que acabas un capítulo te dan ganas de leer otro porque acaba con el inicio de otra movida más chunga todavía. Lo que más me ha gustado son sus aventuras tipo que flipo con que una niña de 12 años viaje sola a otro país que está en otro continente solo porque le han dado una notita. (No es spoiler, es el primer capítulo)
Literalmente dos preadolescentes luchan por acabar contra un régimen dictatorial sin padres. Esto es más hardcore que Harry Potter y los juegos del hambre juntos. Porque mira en los juegos del hambre aún tienen que luchar contra gente de su edad pero es que estos niños son unos cracks que escapan constantemente de soldados y gente entrenada… Y encima te caen muy bien enseguida.
Bueno y esto ha sido todo bye.
Pd: os amo hermanos Klein
April 18, 2023
➸ Trigger warnings for .
Blog • Trigger Warning Database • StoryGraph
October 24, 2021
This has the vibes of classic kids literature, set in a fantastical world, where there are truly evil villains and a slight hint of magic. The tone of the setup reminded me a little of Lemony Snicket, and instantly hooked me in.
I wasn't always sure what direction the book was going to go in, which I loved, and there are a lot of questionable characters to back that up. A book that was a whole lot of fun, and one I would definitely recommend to middle grade readers/fans.
I wasn't always sure what direction the book was going to go in, which I loved, and there are a lot of questionable characters to back that up. A book that was a whole lot of fun, and one I would definitely recommend to middle grade readers/fans.
November 3, 2023
I see 'narrated by Simon Jäger'
I click.
AND I REGRET NOTHING! THIS WAS SO GOOD!
Ich will das als Serie haben bitte. Ein Film würde dem ganzen nicht gerecht werden. Ich brauch das als Serie, das war sooo gut!
Ich hätte am Ende auch fast weinen können.
I click.
AND I REGRET NOTHING! THIS WAS SO GOOD!
Ich will das als Serie haben bitte. Ein Film würde dem ganzen nicht gerecht werden. Ich brauch das als Serie, das war sooo gut!
Ich hätte am Ende auch fast weinen können.
October 29, 2022
O que vos posso dizer deste livro ?
Adorei da primeira à última página, mas em momento nenhum achei que fosse considerado "infanto-juvenil" (5-13) como a classificação em que se encontra.
Talvez 10+ pudesse ser uma idade recomendada para a maturidade da história, que apesar de acabar bem, como era de esperar, está repleta de crime, violência, vilões, tortura, luto, entre outras temáticas mais pesadas. Mas como não tenho filhos, o que sei eu? Talvez as crianças interpretem a mensagem do livro de uma forma mais ligeira, sem se focar propriamente nestes temas que são mais pesados, mas sim na coragem dos irmãos e na magia que existe neste mundo.
Uma leitura muito rápida, leve, divertida e que aquece o coração, tal como eu queria e esperava.
Repleto de mensagens fortes e lições, este livro é simplesmente maravilhoso.
As ilustrações também estão fantásticas, tornando-o ainda mais especial.
Na última página, descobrimos que haverá um segundo livro, o que me agradou imenso, pois adorei a Rachel e o Robert.
Esta história é inspirada na família do escritor, nomeadamente uma tia-avó e tio-avô, que conseguiram fugir nos Nazis, na Alemanha.
Quero agradecer também à leya, por me ter permitido conhecer o mundo de Krasnia e estas duas crianças especiais.
Adorei da primeira à última página, mas em momento nenhum achei que fosse considerado "infanto-juvenil" (5-13) como a classificação em que se encontra.
Talvez 10+ pudesse ser uma idade recomendada para a maturidade da história, que apesar de acabar bem, como era de esperar, está repleta de crime, violência, vilões, tortura, luto, entre outras temáticas mais pesadas. Mas como não tenho filhos, o que sei eu? Talvez as crianças interpretem a mensagem do livro de uma forma mais ligeira, sem se focar propriamente nestes temas que são mais pesados, mas sim na coragem dos irmãos e na magia que existe neste mundo.
Uma leitura muito rápida, leve, divertida e que aquece o coração, tal como eu queria e esperava.
Repleto de mensagens fortes e lições, este livro é simplesmente maravilhoso.
As ilustrações também estão fantásticas, tornando-o ainda mais especial.
Na última página, descobrimos que haverá um segundo livro, o que me agradou imenso, pois adorei a Rachel e o Robert.
Esta história é inspirada na família do escritor, nomeadamente uma tia-avó e tio-avô, que conseguiram fugir nos Nazis, na Alemanha.
Quero agradecer também à leya, por me ter permitido conhecer o mundo de Krasnia e estas duas crianças especiais.
May 7, 2022
This wasn't necessarily bad, it just wasn't what I expected; I was looking forward to more fantasy elements.
December 8, 2023
just not worth my energy and time lmao.
not bad just thought it was one of those universally readable middle grade and it wasn't, at least not for me.
DNF at p.280 - 70%
not bad just thought it was one of those universally readable middle grade and it wasn't, at least not for me.
DNF at p.280 - 70%
July 21, 2023
Une petite aventure sympathique mais un univers très peu consistant.
March 29, 2023
Had me hooked from the first page, what a ride & with excellent inspiration and indelible characters.
January 24, 2024
Unfortunately, this book wasn't for me. The story didn't pull me in, and I felt it was a lot of telling. This made me lose focus fairly quickly into the book, and I ended up skimming a lot of this.
March 11, 2023
The Book of Stolen Dreams reminds me of the books I read as a child, the books that made me fall in love with reading. I tore through this brilliant book in a few days. It has echoes of Katherine Rundell: a cast of strong and interesting characters, with a touch of playful humour to lighten the darker themes at the centre of the story. The thick lathering of suspense and intrigue - throughout the entire book - kept me turning pages late into the night. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good old fashioned tale of good vs evil. You will get this and more with The Book of Stolen Dreams.
The Book of Stolen Dreams centres around the plight of two siblings, Rachel and Robert. All books have a certain magic, but the Book of Stolen Dreams is like no other - this book has the power to grant eternal life. Rachel and Robert live in an oppressed city, ruled by an evil dictator, who is unquestionably the best-named baddy that I’ve encountered in a long time - Charles Malstain. Charles Malstain is terminally ill. His reign of terror is coming to an end. And - like all narcissistic bad guys - death is not an option for Mr Malstain. He is desperate to get his hands on the Book of Stolen Dreams so that he can avoid death and continue to rule Krasnia. However, Rachel, Robert and their father, Felix, have different plans. They sneak into the library and steal the book. Unfortunately for Rachel and Robert, their father is captured and imprisoned, leaving them as sole protectors of the book.
The story follows Rachel and Robert’s quest to keep the book from Charles Malstain’s wicked grasp while trying to locate the crucial missing pages. Both Rachel and Robert face countless challenges and must rely on their courage, intelligence and charm to stay one step ahead of their enemies. I have to give a shout out to Josef Centurion - what a fantastic character. His arc, although perhaps predictable, was satisfying nonetheless, and he is a memorable character that has stayed with me days after finishing the book.
This is writer David Farr’s debut novel and I cannot wait for the sequel which is due to be released this year. It is no surprise that it has been shortlisted for Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2023 Younger Readers award. I have already been recommending it to pupils (age 10+) in my school. I’d give it 4 stars - close to 5.
Some children may skim over the deeper messages of this book, but they provide crucial opportunities for discussions, both at home and in the classroom.
For teacher friends, this book would serve as a great stimulus to inspire writing. I would plan sequences of lessons around the following writing genres:
Fiction:
Write a poem that could fit in the Book of Stolen Dreams
Write a character description for the ‘seven-foot giant, Rufus O’Hare’
Non-Fiction:
Write a newspaper report detailing the theft of the Book of Stolen Dreams
Write a biography for Charles Malstain - how did he become such an evil man?
The Book of Stolen Dreams centres around the plight of two siblings, Rachel and Robert. All books have a certain magic, but the Book of Stolen Dreams is like no other - this book has the power to grant eternal life. Rachel and Robert live in an oppressed city, ruled by an evil dictator, who is unquestionably the best-named baddy that I’ve encountered in a long time - Charles Malstain. Charles Malstain is terminally ill. His reign of terror is coming to an end. And - like all narcissistic bad guys - death is not an option for Mr Malstain. He is desperate to get his hands on the Book of Stolen Dreams so that he can avoid death and continue to rule Krasnia. However, Rachel, Robert and their father, Felix, have different plans. They sneak into the library and steal the book. Unfortunately for Rachel and Robert, their father is captured and imprisoned, leaving them as sole protectors of the book.
The story follows Rachel and Robert’s quest to keep the book from Charles Malstain’s wicked grasp while trying to locate the crucial missing pages. Both Rachel and Robert face countless challenges and must rely on their courage, intelligence and charm to stay one step ahead of their enemies. I have to give a shout out to Josef Centurion - what a fantastic character. His arc, although perhaps predictable, was satisfying nonetheless, and he is a memorable character that has stayed with me days after finishing the book.
This is writer David Farr’s debut novel and I cannot wait for the sequel which is due to be released this year. It is no surprise that it has been shortlisted for Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2023 Younger Readers award. I have already been recommending it to pupils (age 10+) in my school. I’d give it 4 stars - close to 5.
Some children may skim over the deeper messages of this book, but they provide crucial opportunities for discussions, both at home and in the classroom.
For teacher friends, this book would serve as a great stimulus to inspire writing. I would plan sequences of lessons around the following writing genres:
Fiction:
Write a poem that could fit in the Book of Stolen Dreams
Write a character description for the ‘seven-foot giant, Rufus O’Hare’
Non-Fiction:
Write a newspaper report detailing the theft of the Book of Stolen Dreams
Write a biography for Charles Malstain - how did he become such an evil man?
August 24, 2021
When things are tough, you want those around you to be people you can trust. In the world we encounter at the start of this wondrous story, that is not necessarily the case. Under the rule of Charles Malstain life is dreary, and anyone who does not do as he requests is made to disappear. This is a time of dark secrets, where family are suspicious of each other and where things are about to get worse.
We don’t know why this has happened, but Farr immediately sets up a tense and unsettling atmosphere. We are introduced to our protagonists, Robert and Rachel Klein, when they accompany their father to the lending library where he works. This journey is done at night, and nobody is told about it so we know it is dangerous. All we know is that it has something to do with The Book of Stolen Dreams that Felix Klein steals - rumours are that it is scheduled to be destroyed - and charges his children with protecting until they can hand it over to a man called Solomon.
The children escape, but have to watch their father beaten by Malstain’s forces. They are subject to intimidation in their home as those under Malstain search desperately for the Book that the children vow to protect, though they don’t really know why.
As we follow Rachel and Robert in their task, they are placed in extreme peril. They suffer in the way that only young children in stories can. The odds are against them. They are pitched into a battle they might not win…but their determination to do the right thing and their bravery makes for a gripping story.
Along the way we meet a host of characters - at both ends of the spectrum. Malstain is a shadowy villain, orchestrating terrible deeds for his own selfish reasons. Opposing him are a motley crew, and not all are guaranteed to do the right thing when asked.
From the outset this was a book that delighted. Due for release in September 2021 I can’t wait to see the buzz it generates, and I’m grateful to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read it early.
We don’t know why this has happened, but Farr immediately sets up a tense and unsettling atmosphere. We are introduced to our protagonists, Robert and Rachel Klein, when they accompany their father to the lending library where he works. This journey is done at night, and nobody is told about it so we know it is dangerous. All we know is that it has something to do with The Book of Stolen Dreams that Felix Klein steals - rumours are that it is scheduled to be destroyed - and charges his children with protecting until they can hand it over to a man called Solomon.
The children escape, but have to watch their father beaten by Malstain’s forces. They are subject to intimidation in their home as those under Malstain search desperately for the Book that the children vow to protect, though they don’t really know why.
As we follow Rachel and Robert in their task, they are placed in extreme peril. They suffer in the way that only young children in stories can. The odds are against them. They are pitched into a battle they might not win…but their determination to do the right thing and their bravery makes for a gripping story.
Along the way we meet a host of characters - at both ends of the spectrum. Malstain is a shadowy villain, orchestrating terrible deeds for his own selfish reasons. Opposing him are a motley crew, and not all are guaranteed to do the right thing when asked.
From the outset this was a book that delighted. Due for release in September 2021 I can’t wait to see the buzz it generates, and I’m grateful to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read it early.
August 14, 2023
This is a superbly written book that I highly recommend for children who are not put off by a little darkness in the stories they read.
The two main characters, Rachel and Robert, each have important parts to play in the hunt for the secret of the book, but it is Rachel who really steals the show. With a big heart and courage to match, she has a strong sense of justice and the importance to fight for what is right, even when the cost may seem to be too great to bear.
The adventure is well thought out, set within a dark and oppressive land ruled by a dark dictator who hates children. There are parallels to be drawn with chapters in history as well as certain events in today’s world, painting a grim picture of life under highly restrictive rules and regulations. With almost every kind of fun being outlawed and teaching undertaken under very tight guidelines, Rachel and Robert still manage to be a beacon of light and hope throughout.
The Book of Stolen Dreams is a powerful story that puts the heroes in danger almost constantly, yet still delivers a highly emotional and satisfying ending.
David Farr has written a great book and I look forward to the sequel when it is released.
The two main characters, Rachel and Robert, each have important parts to play in the hunt for the secret of the book, but it is Rachel who really steals the show. With a big heart and courage to match, she has a strong sense of justice and the importance to fight for what is right, even when the cost may seem to be too great to bear.
The adventure is well thought out, set within a dark and oppressive land ruled by a dark dictator who hates children. There are parallels to be drawn with chapters in history as well as certain events in today’s world, painting a grim picture of life under highly restrictive rules and regulations. With almost every kind of fun being outlawed and teaching undertaken under very tight guidelines, Rachel and Robert still manage to be a beacon of light and hope throughout.
The Book of Stolen Dreams is a powerful story that puts the heroes in danger almost constantly, yet still delivers a highly emotional and satisfying ending.
David Farr has written a great book and I look forward to the sequel when it is released.
September 23, 2021
Screenwriter David Farr (well known for Spooks and The Night Manager) makes a triumphant entry into the world of the middle-grade novel with The Book of Stolen Dreams. Readers will enjoy being swept away amid the intrigue and wonder of the Book as the magical object at the centre of the story, the page-turning action of the children's adventure and the impending sense of peril that is never far away.
The story is in part inspired by Farr’s family history, based on his Great Aunt and Uncle’s escape from Nazi Germany - but reimagined in a fantasy dictatorship. This is a story that values bravery, the magic of books and the influence of individuals who follow the right course even when the world around them feels oppressive. The Book of Stolen Dreams offers a tense and thrilling adventure, but one in which Farr allows the youngest characters to win the day - providing a hope-filled reminder that good can triumph over tyranny in a million small, everyday ways.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending us an early copy for review. This book is featured on our Autumn 2021 Ones to Watch selection: https://www.booksfortopics.com/post/o...
The story is in part inspired by Farr’s family history, based on his Great Aunt and Uncle’s escape from Nazi Germany - but reimagined in a fantasy dictatorship. This is a story that values bravery, the magic of books and the influence of individuals who follow the right course even when the world around them feels oppressive. The Book of Stolen Dreams offers a tense and thrilling adventure, but one in which Farr allows the youngest characters to win the day - providing a hope-filled reminder that good can triumph over tyranny in a million small, everyday ways.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending us an early copy for review. This book is featured on our Autumn 2021 Ones to Watch selection: https://www.booksfortopics.com/post/o...
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