Bibliographic Information:
Jones, D. J. (2003). The Merlin Conspiracy. New York: Greenwillow Books.
ISBN# 0060523182
Plot Summary:
Roddy (Arianrhod) is the daughter of the king’s weather wizard. She travels around the kingdom with the King’s Progress – the king and all of his entourage – keeping up to date. Grundo is a small, pale boy whose mother and sister seem to despise. He doesn’t know who his father is. Roddy feels protective of Grundo and together they try to figure out the mysteries behind the death of the Merlin, the ascent of the new Merlin and if/how Grundo’s mother is involved. Meanwhile, Nick lives in what appears to be modern England at a writer’s conference with his dad. His father really wants to meet his favorite author who has written some great fantasy work about multiple universes. While at the conference Nick accidentally finds himself thrust into Roddy’s universe. Now he will help them with their Merlin puzzle, they will in turn help him get back to his own universe, and in the meantime save all of the universes.
Critical Evaluation:
The book is written from both Roddy and Nick’s perspective. They take turns telling the story and describing the events that happened to them. At times this technique is convoluted, but it does keep you reading for more. The concept of parallel universes is not new, but Jones keeps it fresh with her version of different paths leading to different universes. The mysterious Romanov is an interesting character, as is the side story involving his wife. Occasionally, the story gets so intricate that the reader may become confused. However, a careful re-reading of some sections will help to keep the continuity of the story.
Reader's Annotation:
Roddy and her friend Grundo, his mother and sister seemingly despise him, travel around with the King’s Progress – a way for the king to keep up with all of his subjects – until the Merlin dies and the new Merlin appears to be evil. Nick, in what appears to be modern England, finds himself thrust into this other world where he meets Roddy and Grundo and between the three of them they try to save not just their worlds, but all worlds.
Information about the author:
Ms. Jones has written over 40 novels, most of which are fantasy books for children and young adults. She has also written several picture books, some short stories, written a handful of non-fiction articles and poems, and edited three anthologies. She has even written several plays which have been performed in the London Arts Theatre. Some of her most well-known books are the Chrestomanci series. Ms. Jones has received many commendations and awards for her books. Born in London in 1934, she attended Oxford’s St. Anne’s College. Ms. Jones is married and has three adult sons.
Genre: Fantasy
Curriculum Ties: Language arts
Booktalking Ideas:
• Talk about Roddy and Nick’s personalities.
• Focus on the bullying of Grundo by his sister and mother.
• Discuss the concept of alternate worlds.
• Look at the different family interactions: Grundo’s, Roddy’s immediate and extended, and Nick’s.
Reading Level/Interest Level:
The widest range according to the reviews is 6th – 12th grade and ages 11 – up.
Challenge Issues:
Magic; alternate universes; minor swearing
If the book is challenged:
• Listen calmly to the complainant.
• Ask if s/he has read the entire novel.
• Show positive reviews of the novel.
• Show the selection policy.
If the complainant still has issues with the book:
• Request that the complainant read the entire book if this has not already occurred.
• Have the complainant fill out a reconsideration form.
• Set up a reconsideration meeting.
o Provide the reconsideration meeting members with:
Positive reviews
Selection policy
Reconsideration policy
Selection Process:
I did a search on Children’s Literature Comprehensive Database with the following criteria: Award winner, reviews available, and age range from 15 – 18.
Seven mostly positive reviews
Awards/ Best Books Lists:
• Appears on five Best Books Lists
• Has received two awards
Reading/Interest level, selection process information, reviews, and Awards/Best Books Lists were accessed using the Children’s Literature Comprehensive Database at http://clcd.odyssi.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/cgi-bin/member/search/f?./temp/~1IuLzq:2 accessed through SJSU and not available to everyone.
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