The Land Without Color by
Benjamin Ellefson
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
This was a fun read. It had everything a story should have. Fun characters, exciting moments, character arc, a full plot with a true resolution. I thoroughly enjoyed the Alvin took steps to solve the problems presented in the book. He is a protagonist true to the name. Of course, it's a book aimed at younger readers, so there isn't a lot of detail I can add which will entice those who like more adult fare to read it, but if you're looking for a quick read with adventure and wonder, and a serious plot arc, this is a great one.
(view spoiler)[A couple of additional notes:
First, I didn't appreciate the first chapter's prologue feel. It made me focus on the characters introduced there as if they were going to be the main character, and they weren't. We barely saw them again. Perhaps if it had been presented as a true prologue, this might have helped. For those picking it up to read, be forewarned about this.
Second, this is a portal fantasy. Alvin is transported to a magical land, and it isn't often we see portal fiction where the main character doesn't return to his land of origin. The Wizard of Oz, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, books like these always have the children return, and Alvin doesn't. That isn't bad. In fact it's quite viable, but seems rare. (hide spoiler)]
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