Book Review of historical novel by Avi
1. Bibliography: Avi, Seer of Shadows. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 2008. ISBN 9780060000158
2. Plot Summary: Set in the 1870’s, this novel introduces the reader to Horace Carpetine. He becomes the apprentice to Enoch Middleditch, a society photographer. Through a strange turn of events, Horace believes that he has brought the spirit of a young girl back from the dead. With help of Pegg, a young servant and best friend to Eleanora, he discovers the truth behind the death of Eleanora and helps to correct the injustice of her death before her spirit takes revenge.
3. Critical Analysis: The setting of this story is important to be able to understand some of the ideas at this time. As Horace becomes the apprentice to Mr. Middleditch and begins to learn his new trade, we are introduced to the science of photography. The practice of photography was relatively new during the industrial revolution. Many of the modern conveniences that we take for granted were just being introduced and practiced at this time. It was then thought that a photograph captured the soul of a person forever and this concept makes this novel quite chilling due to the story line of Eleanora and her family. The character of Horace, who believed that science could explain everything, begins to question his thinking after Eleanora’s spirit keeps getting stronger and stronger every time he views her photograph. The reader can identify with Horace, because as a child grows older, they will sometimes question why they believe in a certain way. The theme of the story is somewhat dark and dreary, yet we see the glimmer of light as the friendship of Horace and Pegg develops to help free the spirit of Eleanora. The writing style of the author draws the reader in and has them wanting to find out more. Avi explains much of the scientific process of developing a photography through the character of Horace.
4. Awards won and review excerpts:
Publishers Weekly(starred review)-“An intriguing ghost story. Details about photographic processes add authenticity, while the book’s somber ending will leave spines tingling.”
Children’s Literature-“In perhaps his best work yet, Avi has created a truly chilling tale that will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned and the lights are turned out.”
Kirkus Reviews-“This tale proves that the time-honored ghost story, capably researched, well-paced and fusing the Gothic elements of mystery, madness and romance, can still thrill in the hands of a skilled craftsman.”
5. Connections:
Other books by Avi-
Avi. Crispin: The Cross of Lead. ISBN-10: 0689837771
Avi. Crispin: At the Edge of The World. ISBN-10: 078685152X
Avi. The Book Without Words: A Fable of Medieval Magic. ISBN-10: 0786816597
Avi. Murder at Midnight. ISBN-10: 0545080908
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