Critical Reception: Recent reviews
A brief glance at some online reviews can give a sense of Trumpeter’s continuing legacy today. An undated review for the website The Literate Mother says, “The Trumpeter of Krakow is filled with adventure, and a deep nationalist loyalty that motivates all of the heroic characters. It is written in a rather formal style compared to recently published Young Adult Literature but the formality only adds to the nobility of the characters. The characters are inviting and provoke compassion and empathy.” And a 2013 review for MuggleNet says, “Told in a very individual writing style that may strike today’s young readers as just a little wordy and old-fashioned, this is a clever romantic adventure steeped in the author’s love for Poland and its traditions. Unlike some adventure stories, it doesn’t have the obvious hero (Joseph) rising to unbelievable heights of heroism, but as historical fiction it is very respectful of historical reality.”
The most popular website for book reviews today is goodreads.com. Users can rate and review books they have read, keep track of books they want to read, ask questions about books, and so on. As of March 20, 2015, Trumpeter has been rated 4,174 times, with an average rating of 3.73 out of 5 stars. The most common rating was 4 stars (32%). A sampling of reviews gives an idea of the range of opinion about the book:
The most popular website for book reviews today is goodreads.com. Users can rate and review books they have read, keep track of books they want to read, ask questions about books, and so on. As of March 20, 2015, Trumpeter has been rated 4,174 times, with an average rating of 3.73 out of 5 stars. The most common rating was 4 stars (32%). A sampling of reviews gives an idea of the range of opinion about the book:
- “This is a fine historical adventure, written in a clear but highly literate style, full of drama and suspense. Krakow is also made central to the story, as Kelly lovingly details its various buildings and streets…. It’s fun to read, and the brisk pacing and suspense keep the pages turning – a perfect children’s adventure story.” (Review by user Ensiform, May 11, 2012)
- “It's so odd to me that there I was, going along reading a story about a family in Krakow, and the next thing I know, I'm reading about "the dark arts", and I have to say, it was really an odd juxtaposition. It was almost as if I was reading two different books.” (Review by user Antof9, December 5, 2008)
- “Perhaps it is the era in which it was written (1920's). That lends a certain style and pace that is a little slower and a tad more "literary". Despite the novel's heritage as an award winner, it would be difficult for me to recommend this to children for fear they would toss it aside declaring it to be too boring.” (Review by user Benjamin Thomas, June 18, 2014)
- “The author does a great job of creating suspense within every page and keeps the reader guessing as to all the parts played within the book. Strife and turmoil are rampant but redemption and grace are delivered by the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I would use this book in a 6th grade classroom and up.” (Review by user Meagan Castor, October 14, 2013)
- “I'm not sure I could recommend this to any but the most earnest of children but I did enjoy reading this winner of the 1929 Newbery Award. The story takes place in medieval Krakow, and blends history with the fantastical story of a philosopher's stone and the family dedicated to its care. It's told with just the right amount of tension but perhaps too much detail for the modern reader.” (Review by user Janis, July 1, 2009)