Name: The Book of Lost Things
ISBN: 9780307976819

Cynthia Voigt

When Max's parents leave the country without him, he must rely on his wits to get by, and before long he is running his own--rather unusual--business. By the Newbery Award-winning author of Dicey's Song.

The Book of Lost Things

Cindy Lee

*A copy was provided by Random House for review*

The Book of Lost Things is a middle grade novel about a kid named Max. His parents had gone mysteriously missing on their trip to India and it's up to Max to earn money for a living while they're gone while solving his parents' possible kidnappings at the same time.

This book took a while for me to get into. The beginning didn't really grab at my attention but during the middle, things started to get more exciting. I enjoyed reading about the different cases solved but it was really chance that helped Max solved it. Things were definitely always interesting with Max and he is always thinking about new possibilities.

Overall, The Book of Lost Things is a mediocore middle grade book that was enjoyable for me to read about. Its mysteries and the everyday life of Mister Max was very intriguing, indeed. 

Rating: C

Jessica Nottingham

Ah, Mister Max. What an intriguing young fellow he was. I have to tell you that, although most will list this as Middle Grade, I think it bridges the gap. It's true that our hero is a mere twelve years old. However he's wise well beyond his years and, I won't lie, his personality is infectious. Max Starling is one of those characters who is going to cause a lot of readers to smile, no matter what their age.

I'm sure you're wondering why, if I loved Max so very much, I rated this book as I did. Let me explain. The characters in this book are superb. Every single one, from Max's grandmother right on down to Pia, Max's would be apprentice, is well fleshed out. Each character has their own set of quirks. Each has their own distinct personality that makes them instantly likable, or unlikable, as the story calls for. I can't deny that I was impressed by Cynthia Voigt's characters. Max and his comrades were great fun to follow.

Sadly, it was the story line itself that fell short for me. Max's back story is fascinating enough. Raised by theatrical parents, left alone due to mysterious circumstances, and trying to manage all by himself at only twelve years old. I was excited by the prospect of what he might get up to. Still, as enjoyable as some of the situations he found himself in were, it all read very slowly. It takes a long time for anything exciting to happen in Max's story. When it did, I read eagerly. Then I'd be left waiting for the next bit of excitement. I can't say for certain, but if I was left wanting I'm sure that a younger reader would be as well.

The ending also threw me for a loop. There isn't so much a cliffhanger as there is an abrupt end to it all. I was happy to glimpse at least some of what was to come, but I really wish more had been tied up. Despite everything though, I know I'll come back for more. Max was able to peak my interest, and I want to see what happens to him, and his family, in the next book.

The Book of Lost Things

Reviews

Highlights