The Blue Umbrella: A Novel

FOR THE PARENT:I think if this book were rated in movie terms, it would be "PG" level, no more and (probably) no less. It touches on a few serious topics (death, undeserved suffering, hopelessness, redemption, a non-stereotypical reference to Atheism, etc.) so it should probably be read *with* children. That said, I love how Mason approaches many topics in fresh way, with moral lessons both children and adults will find of value.So while I will say "parental guidance suggested" I will also say that I very very highly recommend this book be read to/with your children. You won't be disappointed.FOR THE LITERARY CRITIC / AVERAGE READER:Very well written! Good storytelling isn't just about telling a fascinating story, but about telling the story in a fascinating way. Mason succeeds at this. The theme of this book is weather, and it is a theme carried in metaphor after metaphor from cover to cover.This book is a work of art. I would recommend it to anyone studying the *art* of writing.It is also excellent for learners seeking to expand their vocabulary. There is a seven-page glossary at the end containing brief definitions for the whole gamut of uncommon words used. But don't worry - these words are used in such a way that one can still read the story fluidly without having to hunt down definitions.I won't spoil the ending, I'll just say that this book is a self-contained story with a beginning and an end (not another marketing-gimmick "to be continued..." - I hate those!) and yet it leaves the reader yearning for more.This book runs the full range of emotions, from dark dread to casual comedy to explosive joy. Simple and extravagant at the same time.

When I first began reading this I wasn't sure I was going to like it because it seemed to move very slowly, but I persisted and I'm glad I did. This has a lot of deep meaning in it and though it's written as for a child, he/she may like it but I think would become tired of the slow pace. The deeper message that it brings is worth thinking about - God does not fit neatly into boxes that we create for Him and He is more often than misunderstood and feared for the wrong reasons.

I enjoyed this story. I liked the message and analogies at the end. The imagery truly gives you the sense you are walking each step with Zak and the other characters. As a Christian i like reading stories that show the character of Christ, evil vs good with good triumphing. I thought the quandary for Zak wondering if Sky is good or not because of how his mother died was an important part to include too,because we all can struggle with God's will and plans. I haven't read any books by this author before but i will be now.Thank you for your work Mike Mason

I really enjoyed this novel and would recommend it for the young adult set. I would classify this as a fantasy novel. Though a different world is not entered, it brings to mind novels by Jenny Nimmo and Suzanne Collins. One of the biggest differences is that I would try to translate the other novels into allegories and couldn't quite do it. While the Blue Umbrella is not exactly an allegory, it is pretty easy to find some direct correlations and lessons within its pages.There is some violence and some situations which might be a bit scary or too sad (a few orphans) for some younger children. I plan to have my teens read it, but will hold off for my 10 year old.Definitely a recommended read!

I'm not sure what my opinion of this book is. I know that I looked forward to reading it each night before bed to find out where the plot was going, but as it got closer to the end it was a bit more fanciful than I would have liked. And I will also agree with another reviewer that it had an air of darkness to it. A boy loses his mother, only to go live with Aunties that abuse him... Just a very strange book. The writing is well done as it kept me interested, but at the 3/4 mark, when the plot begins to be revealed, I just found it very odd. Not like I expected. So, I suppose in summary, it is well written, but just not for me.

This book had be wondering what would happen next at the end of each chapter. I was a bit disappointed to find out it was the first in a series. But, the first book actually ended in a way that I felt comfortable not getting the next books and leaving it at that. I liked the bits of spirituality and the way you can learn to overcome bad circumstances you are throw into.

Bought this to preview as a possible read for the granddaughter. The book review reads like it is another type of Narnia style book. I didn't much care for it and didn't think the granddaughter would like it either. I felt the story line was just OK but dragged on in some areas.Was somewhat convoluted towards the end. (Characters died and brought back to life seemed a little forced and awkward. If there was any comparison to Narnia typology, I definately missed it.

I read this aloud to my children aged 5-15 and we all loved it. I had the sense as I read it that the story was unfolding for the author as he wrote it and seemed amazed at the turn of events. The circumstances the children have to overcome are supernatural and yet oh so real at the same time and the children act in just the way one would expect them too. One instance they are brave beyond belief, the next they yield to shortsighted defeat. Each character is superbly written and distinct, none blends into another. I can't quite describe his writing style in one fitting word, but so many times thought, "Now that is the perfect way to say that." A story of many rich layers, it bears rereading for what I surely missed. Thank you, Mr. Mason, for a great story!