The Nine Pound Hammer: Book 1 of The Clockwork Dark

We've had very good series based on Greek, Roman, Norse, and Welsh legends and hero myth cycles. We've done every variation on Middle Earth. We've had all kinds of variations on the Harry Potter cycle. Lots of these are very good; there is a reason so many of the original stories survived for so long. But, this is the first book I've seen, (apart from the originals), that incorporates American folktales as an important part of the plot and structure.There is, however, good news and bad news. The good news is that the American tales work. John Henry is front and center in this book. There's a sort of Pecos Bill angle. There is Gullah folk practice. There's a clear sense of Southern and Appalachian deep magic and forest knowledge. There's a bit of woodlore. The bad news, although "bad" is a little strong, is that the writing ranges from good down to serviceable. Bemis is better at mood and exposition, and to some extent dialogue, than he is at action. That's OK by me because I don't think fight and action sequences add a lot to this kind of book, but be aware. The other weakness is the characters. There is variety, and some creative touches, but the main actors are still pretty sketchy. The villain is particularly thin, (although you have to love the name "Gog").I guess there's a trade-off here, because the book is a quick read, and I'm willing to forego some character development in the service of that quick read, but if you like lots of character detail you may be disappointed. If nothing else, the writing is at least as good as most of the other fantasy/quest books now current, (by Riordan, Nix, Delaney, Flanagan, etc.), so it might be fun just to "buy American" for a change of pace.

The book is a lot of fun and a promising start to a new series. It is refreshing to read a mythical tale that takes place in the American South, rather than with ancient Greek, Roman, or Viking gods. Faerie, hoodoo magic and sirens are excellent mythical subjects for kids in this age range. The book also touched on the Orphan Trains that transported orphans from the East Coast to families in the Midwest early in the 20th century, giving some real history along the way. A good read that is a well-paced, exciting adventure for middle grader readers.

The Nine Pound Hammer was a wonderful debut for Mr. Bemis. It is obvious that he works with young adults and knows how to capture their attention. He has made his main character a strong, intelligent, capable young person. Who among his age group would not want to travel along with him on his amazing quest? I read this book before I gave it to my 11 year old grandson. I do this with almost every book I recommend to him. I must tell you The Nine Pound Hammer is one of those books written for young people that will also take adults on a "wonderful train ride"! Stay tuned as Mr. Bemis continues this brilliant series.

This first book in the Clockwork Dark series has characters that you connect with, a world little explored in children's novels (American mythology) and an ending that glues the book to your hand. Great for read alouds. I can't wait for the second book.

perfect thanks.