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Norfolk author John Gordon has written 19 books
for children, including The Burning Baby and Other Ghosts, Gilray's
Ghost, The Flesh Eater and The Midwinter Watch.
He wrote The Giant Under The Snow whilst working
on the Eastern Evening News in Norwich. Many of the places in the
book are based on actual places - such as Wisbech Museum.
John Gordon |
First published in 1968, The Giant Under The
Snow is a realistic fantasy of good versus evil, wrapped in East
Anglian folklore.
Three children find an ornate Celtic buckle,
but have no idea that it has awakened a giant who has lain at rest
for centuries.
An evil warlord and his Leathermen have also
awaited this moment, to wield their deadly power.
Twelve-year-old Caitlin reviewed The Giant Under
The Snow and this is what she had to say:
The Giant Under The Snow is an adventure story
with a twist. Not only was it originally published way before Harry
Potter or Artemis Fowl but it has a unique plot.
This time one ordinary schoolchild stumbles across
a Celtic belt buckle with infinite power which, once joined with
the rest of the belt, can be used for good or for evil.
Caitlin |
It awakes an ancient 'thing' which comes back to
finish the battle between good and evil forces.
Jonk, Bill and Arf must race against time, angry
parents, 'leather' men, light sleeping siblings and a bloodthirsty
dog, to give Elizabeth Goodnough back the power she needs to defeat
the once terrible Warlord who is returning.
This book is suitable for loads of different readers.
It is an adventure story infused with doses of
magic, but it's also suitable for anyone who likes myths and legends
because it goes through the story behind the Green Man very thoroughly.
I give this book a resounding thumbs up and 10
out of 10 stars. It lacked just one thing, the romantic ending I
expected.
With a surprise round every corner this book is
a definite must read, so what are you doing still reading my review?
Go buy that book!
The Giant Under The Snow is suitable for children
aged 9-11 years old and is published by Orion Books.
Once you've read the book, add your comments
about The Giant Under The Snow here.
Lea from Lowestoft (Suffolk)
I had a very interesting and personal encounter with John Gordon many years ago when I was at school.
This was in the early 1980's and my class were given an assignment to read 'The Giant Under The Snow'.
This seems normal but for the fact that a few of us had the opportunity soon after to meet and discuss the book with the author himself!
He was a lovely man, and most graciously answered all of our questions.
I have to say in all honesty that I love the book and the whole experience made a lasting impression. It gave me an appetite for reading that has never diminished.
So a big cheer for you Mr Gordon and many thanks for your inspiration and wonderful stories! It actually changed my life!
Tue Mar 20 12:36:29 2007
Lorraine, Nottingham
I first read this book in 1972 and the story still sticks vividly in my mind. Excellent stuff. I will share it with my daughters.
Fri Dec 22 15:49:44 2006
louisa, Seaford
I read this book when it first came out in the 60's, I was 6 years old. I still read it every year when the snow falls, it is one of my favourites.
Sat Dec 2 04:16:22 2006
Sean Madden, Brighton
I read this book many years ago when i was a lad (I'm now 37). It left a mark and claimed me as its own-not many books do that. An absolute classic, a true gem of a book.
Sun Oct 29 21:50:27 2006
alex
wow! this sounds good. go caitlin
Fri Jun 9 12:36:59 2006
caitlin-south walsham(long story)
this book is old yes but hey it still rocks! just 'cos it aint eoin colfer or j.k. rowling or philip pullman doesn't mean this aint brill! SO READ IT!
Sat May 20 11:07:02 2006
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