Once or twice a year, my brain cries out for a break from all the random nonfiction I read and begs for a good piece of easy-to-read fiction. Because I was going to the beach and had promised myself to take it easy, I knew it was time to take along a piece of fiction. I saw a copy of this book on a client’s desk, and she explained that she was friends with the author, which was reason enough for me.
The book is the first in a series featuring 11-year-old Flavia de Luce, a spitfire who is part prodigy chemistry enthusiast, part Sherlock Holmes in pigtails and a dress.
The writing is humorous (often laugh out loud, my favorite kind), the story interesting and unpredictable, and the perspective spot-on. I had no trouble finishing the book in a matter of days, and unlike when I finish some of my other fiction choices, didn’t feel embarrassed to have added it to my have-read list. In other words, this is no guilty pleasure – it’s just pure pleasure.
My only criticism of the book (and really, I’m not critic. Just think of these are a sort of book report for adults) is though the main character’s voice is supposed to be that of an 11-year-old, it seems more like an adult, or at least older adolescent. I most likely wouldn’t have noticed had I not just finished Zippy. Also, this is a fiction work, which allows for a great deal of creative freedom, so I’m giving it a pass because I liked the book so much.
Verdict: Read it. You’ll thank me
Article by Kelli. She's the primary caretaker of this here site. Hope you're enjoying your visit. 