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Knowing Jack
Twelve-year-old Jack knows they shouldn’t go but is unable to persuade his parents not to take the planned trip to the Lake District.
Something was going to happen but what?
The weird feelings he had were always so fuzzy and they didn’t always make sense. Maybe it was just because he’d have to spend time with his pampered cousin, Rosie? Anyway, it was nearly Christmas and what could go wrong with just staying in some cabin in the woods?
He was being stupid…all he had to do was ignore the way his belly churned and his head pounded.
He might be wrong after all.
Cover Design: Julie Elizabeth Powell
Source photo: Winter
Free Digital Photos
Source photo: Free Photos
Something was going to happen but what?
The weird feelings he had were always so fuzzy and they didn’t always make sense. Maybe it was just because he’d have to spend time with his pampered cousin, Rosie? Anyway, it was nearly Christmas and what could go wrong with just staying in some cabin in the woods?
He was being stupid…all he had to do was ignore the way his belly churned and his head pounded.
He might be wrong after all.
Cover Design: Julie Elizabeth Powell
Source photo: Winter
Free Digital Photos
Source photo: Free Photos
148 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
About the author
Julie Elizabeth Powell
72 books321 followersHello everyone. If you haven't guessed by now I have a passion for words and have numerous books published in a variety of genres and lengths, in addition to short story anthologies with other authors in the Mind's Eye Series.
Several of my stories are also included within several box sets with Paper Gold Publishing.
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I cannot ignore my dreams, so many of them, with names and places and ideas that spark my imagination and compel me to write; to create stories, whether fantasy or horror, or mystery or psychological thriller or murder or even humour and adventure. So, my garden is sown, flourishing, with all manner of growth, and still the dreams come.
Julie Elizabeth Powell, my soul lingering within my imagination; maybe you’ll join me?
Several of my stories are also included within several box sets with Paper Gold Publishing.
Audiobooks are also available at Audible.
UK - http://www.audible.co.uk/search/ref=a...
USA - http://www.audible.com/search/ref=a_m...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...
http://julizpow.wix.com/julieelizabet...
http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
http://www.lulu.com/julizpow
http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Elizabeth...
https://www.facebook.com/julieelizabe...
https://www.facebook.com/GoneByJulieE...
https://twitter.com/starjewelz
I cannot ignore my dreams, so many of them, with names and places and ideas that spark my imagination and compel me to write; to create stories, whether fantasy or horror, or mystery or psychological thriller or murder or even humour and adventure. So, my garden is sown, flourishing, with all manner of growth, and still the dreams come.
Julie Elizabeth Powell, my soul lingering within my imagination; maybe you’ll join me?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 20, 2011
Knowing Jack (Julie Elizabeth Powell)
YA Thriller/Suspense
12 year old Jack is reluctant to go on a family trip to the cabin in The Lake District. He is also not thrilled with his Obnoxious cousin Rosie coming along. He just can't fight the feeling that something bad is about to happen. He does voice his opinions to his parents who shrug him off as being too dramatic.
Is there merit to his feelings, is he really just over reacting? Soon Jack and Rosie find out exactly what is in those woods, and find those fears of his just might be real.
Fantastic thriller, for readers of all ages. Past paced, full of tension and suspense. A perfect read!
I look forward to more from Julie Elizabeth Powell
Next on my reading list:
Slings & ArrowsGone
YA Thriller/Suspense
12 year old Jack is reluctant to go on a family trip to the cabin in The Lake District. He is also not thrilled with his Obnoxious cousin Rosie coming along. He just can't fight the feeling that something bad is about to happen. He does voice his opinions to his parents who shrug him off as being too dramatic.
Is there merit to his feelings, is he really just over reacting? Soon Jack and Rosie find out exactly what is in those woods, and find those fears of his just might be real.
Fantastic thriller, for readers of all ages. Past paced, full of tension and suspense. A perfect read!
I look forward to more from Julie Elizabeth Powell
Next on my reading list:
Slings & ArrowsGone
December 18, 2016
Book number three is different from the others I've written in that it's not a fantasy and yet has an element of mystery within it. It was inspired by my childhood memories of the Lake District and the surprising 'intuition' demonstrated by my son.
When writing Knowing Jack, it made me realise how children see the world...and though the Lake District is in fact a wondrous and beautiful place, it changes when seen through different eyes.
Add to that the desperate cold and a 'baddie' waiting in the wings...what better way of creating a fun adventure?
A great read I'd recommend to anyone! And many thanks to all that do.
Julie Elizabeth Powell
When writing Knowing Jack, it made me realise how children see the world...and though the Lake District is in fact a wondrous and beautiful place, it changes when seen through different eyes.
Add to that the desperate cold and a 'baddie' waiting in the wings...what better way of creating a fun adventure?
A great read I'd recommend to anyone! And many thanks to all that do.
Julie Elizabeth Powell
November 6, 2008
A great adventure story for pre-teens. Twelve year-old Jack has a bad feeling about his parents' planned trip to the Lake District. It is just before Christmas and the holiday location is plagued with snow storms. When they arrive at the Lake District, Jack notices a strange man and his wife in a white van; they have a small girl with them whose face appears haunted. Jack feels that something is not right. The man notices that Jack is staring at him and does not take kindly to the attention. The white van almost hits the car that his dad is driving and from that point Jack is convinced the man is trying to kill them. The next encounter with the strange, angry man ends in disaster and Jack and his cousin Rosie are then caught up in a desperate race to escape from the man and also to save Jack's father's life. The story will appeal to children as an adventure, as they follow Jack and Rosie's quest for survival. It keeps you interested with the twists and turns in the storyline, so that you are never quite sure what will happen next, and the dramatic climax towards the end of the book is intensely enthralling. Jack learns a lot about his cousin Rosie and a lot about himself by the end of the book. The characters are all well developed and there is a great deal of educational content for children. I would highly recommend this book by a very promising new writer.
December 5, 2017
I really enjoyed this story. The mysterious character of Jack’s “talent,” which allows him to sense approaching danger, definitely intrigued me and pulled me right in. The story starts rather peacefully though, with Jack’s family heading on a holiday trip to a rented house in Lake District; however, the feeling of foreboding is almost palpable despite the joyful mood. Jack can’t shake the feeling off even when relatives arrive with his young - and rather spoiled - cousin Rosie, and he readies himself for what is to come. And sooner than he expected, it turns out that Jack’s gut feeling was right…
What I loved about this story was definitely character growth and incredible maturity that both Jack and Rosie showed when facing situations that would be considered much too dangerous even for an adult. Jack’s survival skills and savviness certainly saved the day on quite a few occasions, and I cheered every time the two children escaped (sometimes very narrowly) another meeting with a mysterious enemy.
If you love extremely well-written psychological thrillers with elements of mystery and just generally enjoy a great story in a wintery setting, “Knowing Jack” is for you. Loved it - a real five star read!
What I loved about this story was definitely character growth and incredible maturity that both Jack and Rosie showed when facing situations that would be considered much too dangerous even for an adult. Jack’s survival skills and savviness certainly saved the day on quite a few occasions, and I cheered every time the two children escaped (sometimes very narrowly) another meeting with a mysterious enemy.
If you love extremely well-written psychological thrillers with elements of mystery and just generally enjoy a great story in a wintery setting, “Knowing Jack” is for you. Loved it - a real five star read!
April 30, 2016
Knowing Jack by Julie Elizabeth Powell Jack, who is 12, and his parents are planning a trip to the Lake District (Britain) for the holidays. They plan to share a cabin in the woods with Jack’s aunt, uncle, and their daughter Rosie. However, Jack has that feeling, that headache and nausea that tells him something bad will happen. He doesn’t want to go but can’t give his parents a solid reason. His dad is willing to listen to him, but his mother isn’t likely to.
The inevitable can’t be put off and they head out to the cabin but have to stop at a local convenience store/post office to pick up the keys. There, Jack sees a girl with a grumpy man and his concern increases. After settling in at the cabin, the group splits up to head out for various activities. Rosie’s dad plans to go for a climb while the ladies plan a shopping trip. Rosie doesn’t want to do either, so Jack and his dad are saddled with her. Driving out to a place where they can take photos, they are sideswiped and forced off the road by the grumpy guy (who we come to know as Eddie) from the PO. Jack and Rosie are forced to flee. And so starts the action-packed part of the book after a delicious build up.
Rosie complains loudly for most of the book, though she does have a few moments where she rises to the occasion, finally realizing that if she keeps arguing with Jack they will be caught and most likely killed. Jack’s ESP (or whatever power it is) keeps warning him when danger draws near but he doesn’t have it fine tuned, so Bad Stuff still happens. I liked that it wasn’t a power that could solve everything, and in fact, was sometimes a hindrance.
Most of the female characters come off as whiny asses of one variety or another, and that was a little tiring. Jack’s mom came off as rather self-centered and annoying, though she did have some comedic lines. I like that Rosie eventually saw the larger picture and started trying to keep up instead of hindering the escape at every turn.
As Jack and Rosie flee in to the wilderness, trying to find their way to the cabin, they come across some unexpected bits and bobs. Some are good, some are scary, some are useful. A cat and mouse game ensues as Jack tries to keep them alive and Rosie whines she is hungry. It was a fun, fast paced story. Also, I want to note that I didn’t realize there were no longer any bears running wild in the UK prior to reading this book. So, hey, educational as well as entertaining!
I won a copy of this audiobook from the author with no strings attached.
Narration: Joel Froomkin had great little kid voices and various UK accents. Each character was distinct and the female voices were believable.
The inevitable can’t be put off and they head out to the cabin but have to stop at a local convenience store/post office to pick up the keys. There, Jack sees a girl with a grumpy man and his concern increases. After settling in at the cabin, the group splits up to head out for various activities. Rosie’s dad plans to go for a climb while the ladies plan a shopping trip. Rosie doesn’t want to do either, so Jack and his dad are saddled with her. Driving out to a place where they can take photos, they are sideswiped and forced off the road by the grumpy guy (who we come to know as Eddie) from the PO. Jack and Rosie are forced to flee. And so starts the action-packed part of the book after a delicious build up.
Rosie complains loudly for most of the book, though she does have a few moments where she rises to the occasion, finally realizing that if she keeps arguing with Jack they will be caught and most likely killed. Jack’s ESP (or whatever power it is) keeps warning him when danger draws near but he doesn’t have it fine tuned, so Bad Stuff still happens. I liked that it wasn’t a power that could solve everything, and in fact, was sometimes a hindrance.
Most of the female characters come off as whiny asses of one variety or another, and that was a little tiring. Jack’s mom came off as rather self-centered and annoying, though she did have some comedic lines. I like that Rosie eventually saw the larger picture and started trying to keep up instead of hindering the escape at every turn.
As Jack and Rosie flee in to the wilderness, trying to find their way to the cabin, they come across some unexpected bits and bobs. Some are good, some are scary, some are useful. A cat and mouse game ensues as Jack tries to keep them alive and Rosie whines she is hungry. It was a fun, fast paced story. Also, I want to note that I didn’t realize there were no longer any bears running wild in the UK prior to reading this book. So, hey, educational as well as entertaining!
I won a copy of this audiobook from the author with no strings attached.
Narration: Joel Froomkin had great little kid voices and various UK accents. Each character was distinct and the female voices were believable.
February 16, 2017
I enjoyed this story despite the intended audience probably being children about the age of 12, which is the age of my daughter who will be reading it next. The beginning was very strong and Jack is quickly established as a fascinating character with a special sixth sense. There is loads of suspense as Jack and Rosie try to escape danger. I liked the relationship of Jack and Rosie especially when Rosie was moaning and hindering their progress. In summary, well written and a good mystery/adventure.
December 18, 2012
Review of Knowing Jack by Julie Elizabeth Powell
5 stars
I received an e-book copy from the author in return for my fair and impartial review.
“Knowing Jack” is a spiffy, fast-moving thriller with a middle-grade protagonist, Jack, who visits the wilds of England’s Lake Country in the winter with his parents and his aunt, uncle, and spoiled cousin Rosie. Jack is an unusual individual: he senses clairvoyantly, but he doesn’t so much see visions (except in dreams) as he “feels” empathically, and gets terrible nausea and headaches when danger is imminent. He has one such attack in the village below the mountain, and shouts just in time to prevent a collision of his family’s vehicle with an angry driver; but that same angry man and his wife will return to trouble Jack, and his family, diligently. The two families have scarcely settled in the mountain hideaway when the van driver runs Jack’s father’s car off the road, knocking his father, Frank, unconscious, and sending Jack and Rosie out into the snowy wilderness to escape and locate help.
Julie Elizabeth Powell has drawn a fine figure in young Jack, a boy with real character, integrity, and bravery, even in the face of extreme danger. She also has a gift for delineating character evolution, and although I won’t give anything away, that become a major portion of the story. The pacing is non-stop thriller. I highly recommend it, for middle-grade and older (including us adults).
5 stars
I received an e-book copy from the author in return for my fair and impartial review.
“Knowing Jack” is a spiffy, fast-moving thriller with a middle-grade protagonist, Jack, who visits the wilds of England’s Lake Country in the winter with his parents and his aunt, uncle, and spoiled cousin Rosie. Jack is an unusual individual: he senses clairvoyantly, but he doesn’t so much see visions (except in dreams) as he “feels” empathically, and gets terrible nausea and headaches when danger is imminent. He has one such attack in the village below the mountain, and shouts just in time to prevent a collision of his family’s vehicle with an angry driver; but that same angry man and his wife will return to trouble Jack, and his family, diligently. The two families have scarcely settled in the mountain hideaway when the van driver runs Jack’s father’s car off the road, knocking his father, Frank, unconscious, and sending Jack and Rosie out into the snowy wilderness to escape and locate help.
Julie Elizabeth Powell has drawn a fine figure in young Jack, a boy with real character, integrity, and bravery, even in the face of extreme danger. She also has a gift for delineating character evolution, and although I won’t give anything away, that become a major portion of the story. The pacing is non-stop thriller. I highly recommend it, for middle-grade and older (including us adults).
November 29, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. Once again, Julie Elizabeth Powell somehow manages to put together a great storyline with complex characters in a short time frame. That's not an easy thing to do. Most short stories focus on one or the other but she manages to do both and you end up with a truly great read. In this book I really loved Jack, he was a great characters. Jack and his parents are going on a getaway but Jack has a weird feeling that things won't be so good. It turns out Jack has the ability to "feel" bad things coming. It's a great adventure story that
keeps you wanting more and cheering on the good guys. I loved it so much I read it again. A great book for all ages.
keeps you wanting more and cheering on the good guys. I loved it so much I read it again. A great book for all ages.
September 4, 2008
Julie Powell is no doubt a very talented writer, with a gift for unique and intriguing story concepts. From the very first few pages the reader finds themselves immersed in the story and the fictional world the author has cleverly managed to create.
March 27, 2012
We've all had
those
feelings. You know the ones I'm talking about. Where you feel like something bad is going to happen, but don't know what or when. It's just that niggling feeling at the back of your mind that can color how you approach your day. Twelve year old Jack Kane understands exactly what I'm talking about. All of his life, Jack has been plagued by knowing things or prescience. He doesn't always get specifics, just a general feeling about things, or he'll just know something without any idea as to why he does. Things like the time Mrs. Hodges couldn't find her keys in her purse, and Jack told her she'd find them on the front doorstep. Or when Mr. Dixon missed the bus, Jack told him not to worry, that his daughter would be there soon and could give him a ride. Sometimes things come in dream fashion, that he doesn't always understand. Like the dream that he'd been having for weeks about a hefty figure wielding an axe wearing a big flapping coat. He just knew that the dream gave him a bad feeling.
As Knowing Jack opens, Jack and his folks are getting ready to take a vacation trip to a cabin in the Lake District. Well, vacation for some. Jack's dad, Frank, has to do a little work, taking some pictures and then doing a write up. The closer it gets to time to leave, the worse Jack feels. His stomach is churning and his head feels like it's in a vise and someone is turning the screw. He tried to get the family to back out of the trip, but to no avail. In addition to the great feeling of dread that something bad was going to happen, Jack was not looking forward to the trip for another reason. Auntie June, Uncle Alan, and their ten year old daughter, Rosie would be there as well. Rosie was spoiled, the pampered, pink princess, and she always did as much as she could to give Jack grief.
On the way to the cabin, they had to stop to pick up the keys to the cabin at the Post Office. While they were stopped, a couple in a dirty white van came into the Post Office as well, and Jack's feelings went into overdrive, complete with heart palpitations and sweat trickling down his back. As his father put the car into reverse to back out of the parking space and continue the trip to the cabin, Jack screamed for him to stop. While his parents were still recovering from Jack's outburst, the van came roaring past and barely missed hitting the back end of Jack's car.
Things settled down for Jack for the next little bit while they got settled into the cabin, and Rosie, the pain-in-the-side cousin, had not yet arrived. The next day, after helping to bring in all of the luggage brought by his aunt, uncle, and cousin, Jack went into the kitchen and found Rosie tearing up a mound of paper napkins and eating a chocolate bar which she had sneaked out of one of the boxes. The following passage describes the relationship between Jack and the spoiled Rosie in a nutshell.
The next day, Jack and Rosie went with Jack's dad while he took his pictures, and Uncle Alan went for a climb. While they were waiting for Uncle Alan to return, Jack's pricklies were working overtime and he knew that they needed to move - NOW! Unfortunately, the car wouldn't start. The white van appeared and was heading straight toward them. Jack's dad continued to try and start the car and at long last the car lurched forward. Too late. The van smashed into the side of the car. Then it pulled back and prepared to ram them again, but changed course and instead of ramming them, decided to push them off the cliff. After the car came to a halt, Jack and Rosie, though shaken, were able to get out of the upside-down car. Jack's dad was not so fortunate. He had been knocked out and his head was bleeding, but at least he was breathing for now.
This begins the adventure of a lifetime for Jack and Rosie as they struggle together to get some help for Jack's dad, and at the same time trying to stay out of sight of a lunatic who is searching for them to finish them off. They persevere together through many twists, turns, and obstacles to an exciting conclusion.
Julie Elizabeth Powell does an admirable job of hooking the reader from the get-go with this story. Her portrayal of both Jack and Rosie are priceless, sibling rivalry at it's best. Rosie quickly became my favorite character because while she is an absolute pain, pampered and spoiled, the longing to be accepted by Jack shines through. Ms. Powell handles the shifting relationship between Jack and Rosie with a natural, yet subtle progression as they are forced to rely on one another. Knowing Jack is a quick paced read, eminently suited for the target age group of young adult. I plan on passing this one along to my niece and nephew who are both in that age group, as I know they will also enjoy the exciting tale that Ms. Powell spins. Exciting, a few tugs at the heart-strings, interspersed with humor that can make you laugh out loud - who could ask for more?
As Knowing Jack opens, Jack and his folks are getting ready to take a vacation trip to a cabin in the Lake District. Well, vacation for some. Jack's dad, Frank, has to do a little work, taking some pictures and then doing a write up. The closer it gets to time to leave, the worse Jack feels. His stomach is churning and his head feels like it's in a vise and someone is turning the screw. He tried to get the family to back out of the trip, but to no avail. In addition to the great feeling of dread that something bad was going to happen, Jack was not looking forward to the trip for another reason. Auntie June, Uncle Alan, and their ten year old daughter, Rosie would be there as well. Rosie was spoiled, the pampered, pink princess, and she always did as much as she could to give Jack grief.
On the way to the cabin, they had to stop to pick up the keys to the cabin at the Post Office. While they were stopped, a couple in a dirty white van came into the Post Office as well, and Jack's feelings went into overdrive, complete with heart palpitations and sweat trickling down his back. As his father put the car into reverse to back out of the parking space and continue the trip to the cabin, Jack screamed for him to stop. While his parents were still recovering from Jack's outburst, the van came roaring past and barely missed hitting the back end of Jack's car.
Things settled down for Jack for the next little bit while they got settled into the cabin, and Rosie, the pain-in-the-side cousin, had not yet arrived. The next day, after helping to bring in all of the luggage brought by his aunt, uncle, and cousin, Jack went into the kitchen and found Rosie tearing up a mound of paper napkins and eating a chocolate bar which she had sneaked out of one of the boxes. The following passage describes the relationship between Jack and the spoiled Rosie in a nutshell.
"You'd better be nice to me tomorrow, or you'll be in trouble."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yes...,Mummy says you're getting too big for your boots."
"And if you keep eating chocolate, you'll not fit into yours!"
Rosie stuck out her chocolate-coated tongue before quickly putting it away and wiping her mouth when her mother asked, pointing to the shredded paper mountain, "What's going on here? Who's made all this mess?"
"It's Jack, he's been rummaging around in all the cupboards," said Rosie, sliding from the stool and racing to her bedroom.
"Well, you can just tidy it right this minute...and have you been in these boxes too?" demanded Auntie June, lifting exhibit one onto the worktop.
"No," said Jack glaring behind her back at Rosie who stood sneering and waving before disappearing behind her bedroom door.
"Well, clear this mess before you go!"
Jack scooped the litter and dumped it straight into the bin, wishing that whatever was niggling at him would involve something to do with Rosie being taken by aliens.
The next day, Jack and Rosie went with Jack's dad while he took his pictures, and Uncle Alan went for a climb. While they were waiting for Uncle Alan to return, Jack's pricklies were working overtime and he knew that they needed to move - NOW! Unfortunately, the car wouldn't start. The white van appeared and was heading straight toward them. Jack's dad continued to try and start the car and at long last the car lurched forward. Too late. The van smashed into the side of the car. Then it pulled back and prepared to ram them again, but changed course and instead of ramming them, decided to push them off the cliff. After the car came to a halt, Jack and Rosie, though shaken, were able to get out of the upside-down car. Jack's dad was not so fortunate. He had been knocked out and his head was bleeding, but at least he was breathing for now.
This begins the adventure of a lifetime for Jack and Rosie as they struggle together to get some help for Jack's dad, and at the same time trying to stay out of sight of a lunatic who is searching for them to finish them off. They persevere together through many twists, turns, and obstacles to an exciting conclusion.
Julie Elizabeth Powell does an admirable job of hooking the reader from the get-go with this story. Her portrayal of both Jack and Rosie are priceless, sibling rivalry at it's best. Rosie quickly became my favorite character because while she is an absolute pain, pampered and spoiled, the longing to be accepted by Jack shines through. Ms. Powell handles the shifting relationship between Jack and Rosie with a natural, yet subtle progression as they are forced to rely on one another. Knowing Jack is a quick paced read, eminently suited for the target age group of young adult. I plan on passing this one along to my niece and nephew who are both in that age group, as I know they will also enjoy the exciting tale that Ms. Powell spins. Exciting, a few tugs at the heart-strings, interspersed with humor that can make you laugh out loud - who could ask for more?
December 5, 2017
Full of action and drama, and lucky Rosie can break out of stereotypes in her adventures with Jack.
I really enjoyed reading 'Knowing Jack'. The book is full of action, drama and suspense, a real paranormal thriller. I love the author’s entertaining writing style. From the very beginning I was hooked into the story and couldn’t put down the book, even there was something that really annoyed me. The women’s characters in the book are so stereotype women’s roles, sad, weak, only interesting in going shopping or drinking coffee or tea during this vacation. Jack’s cousin, a girl in pink clothes is everything one expect can expect from a spoiled girl (at least when you start from these stereotypes). But when Jack and Rosie lived their adventures, it was good to see that these role models fell apart and that, as wall Jack as Rosie, both were strong kids. Jack started to see her with other eyes and I bet Rosie would like to do adventures things with her dad (and hopefully her mom would join) later. Because of this twist I give 4 stars, I really love the author’s style.
I really enjoyed reading 'Knowing Jack'. The book is full of action, drama and suspense, a real paranormal thriller. I love the author’s entertaining writing style. From the very beginning I was hooked into the story and couldn’t put down the book, even there was something that really annoyed me. The women’s characters in the book are so stereotype women’s roles, sad, weak, only interesting in going shopping or drinking coffee or tea during this vacation. Jack’s cousin, a girl in pink clothes is everything one expect can expect from a spoiled girl (at least when you start from these stereotypes). But when Jack and Rosie lived their adventures, it was good to see that these role models fell apart and that, as wall Jack as Rosie, both were strong kids. Jack started to see her with other eyes and I bet Rosie would like to do adventures things with her dad (and hopefully her mom would join) later. Because of this twist I give 4 stars, I really love the author’s style.
December 29, 2022
Twelve year old Jack has feelings that he doesn’t know what to do with. They make him feel something could happen, his head pounds and his stomach feels bad but he doesn’t know why. His family is planning a trip to the remote mountains for Christmas to be with his aunt and uncle and pain in the butt cousin Rosie the princess, we all have one in the family that’s spoiled!!! Jack tells his parents he doesn’t want to go, his mom thinks it’s because he doesn’t want to be with Rosie his spoiled cousin, his father knows Jacks problem but doesn’t take him seriously. Read to find out what happens!! It’s definitely worth it!!!
February 2, 2013
Although this is not a book I would have chosen for myself, I must say that it held my attention from beginning to end. I almost instantly felt like I was there watching the characters going through the situation put before them.
Jack and his cousin Rosie are forced to fend for themselves in the woods after they are run off the road by a couple of psychos. Jack keeps leading Rosie around the woods trying to find the cabin they were staying at while she whines about the cold and being tired or hungry. About half way through their trek trough the woods they come upon the dog Mystery. Mystery's owner died and he ran away seeking comfort in the woods. As soon as Jack, Rosie, and Mystery get back to the cabin, they find that the people who ran them off the road are staying there! Sneaking around they find that they are holding a girl they kidnapped in one of the rooms. After a fight between Jack and the man who seems to be in charge, they get saved and return to their parents.
There is a lot packed into this small book, but it will hold the attention of the reader. Travel through the cold woods with Jack and Rosie and watch how things change between the cousins who once hated each other. Plus, there is a secret about Jack that I won't tell you ;) Go read Knowing Jack to find out what exactly is Jack's secret.
Jack and his cousin Rosie are forced to fend for themselves in the woods after they are run off the road by a couple of psychos. Jack keeps leading Rosie around the woods trying to find the cabin they were staying at while she whines about the cold and being tired or hungry. About half way through their trek trough the woods they come upon the dog Mystery. Mystery's owner died and he ran away seeking comfort in the woods. As soon as Jack, Rosie, and Mystery get back to the cabin, they find that the people who ran them off the road are staying there! Sneaking around they find that they are holding a girl they kidnapped in one of the rooms. After a fight between Jack and the man who seems to be in charge, they get saved and return to their parents.
There is a lot packed into this small book, but it will hold the attention of the reader. Travel through the cold woods with Jack and Rosie and watch how things change between the cousins who once hated each other. Plus, there is a secret about Jack that I won't tell you ;) Go read Knowing Jack to find out what exactly is Jack's secret.
February 4, 2013
This was a dark and twisting read as you followed Jack and his cousin through he snowy landscape of the English Lake District. Jack has a talent for knowing things that he shouldn't like where a neighbors missing keys can be found. Sadly for him it doesn't work as well when it comes to himself. Instead he only has a vague idea that something is going to happen followed by a blinding headache. Not much good when you're running for your life. The only thing that I felt a little disappointed about was how quickly this tale came to an end. After building you up for this great end it flashed past leaving me wishing for more drama. Still this was a great story with much to keep your eyes glued to the page.
February 13, 2012
Knowing Jack is an exciting adventure book for preteens but also entertaining for adults. Twelve-year-old Jack has a sixth sense about the dangers surrounding a family vacation to spend Christmas in a cabin in the woods. On top of that, he is unhappy to spend time with his complaining cousin Rosie. When Jack's father is injured, the two children find themselves in a precarious situation. The action-packed scenes move at a fast pace and the conflict runs high as Jack and Rosie fend for themselves, ultimately fighting for their lives.
Because of Powell's well-told, vivid, engaging scenes, I felt the emotions of the characters and was immersed in the action.
Thematically, this is a story of survival, bravery, and determination as Jack risks his life for others.
Because of Powell's well-told, vivid, engaging scenes, I felt the emotions of the characters and was immersed in the action.
Thematically, this is a story of survival, bravery, and determination as Jack risks his life for others.
November 19, 2013
Jack is about to embark on an adventure he wouldn't have imagined in his wildest dreams - or nightmares. This book is nonstop action, sprinkled with suspense, humor, and drama.
I really loved Jack. His character is well developed and I easily connected with him. I even grew to love his pesky little cousin! The author captures the winter scenes so well that I was sitting here with chills on an 80 degree day. This is one of those stories that puts you right alongside the characters and pulls you along for the ride.
While Knowing Jack is geared toward preteen/young teen readers, the story definitely holds appeal to adult audiences. It's the kind of book parents can read with their kids, children can read alone, or adults can enjoy on their own.
I really loved Jack. His character is well developed and I easily connected with him. I even grew to love his pesky little cousin! The author captures the winter scenes so well that I was sitting here with chills on an 80 degree day. This is one of those stories that puts you right alongside the characters and pulls you along for the ride.
While Knowing Jack is geared toward preteen/young teen readers, the story definitely holds appeal to adult audiences. It's the kind of book parents can read with their kids, children can read alone, or adults can enjoy on their own.
November 20, 2012
Jack is very reluctant to go on a family vacation trip to a cabin in the Lake District. He has a feeling he can't seem to fight that something bad is going to happen there plus his obnoxious cousin Rosie is coming along. He tries to tell his parents but they just shrug it off. Is there any merit to his feelings? Soon Rosie and Jack will find out exactly what is in the woods, and find what they fear might just be real. A fantastic read for everyone. Full of suspense and fast paced.I look forward to reading more books by Julie Elizabeth Powell.
November 30, 2020
In 'Knowing Jack' Julie Powell has created a magical world.
The setting is the Lake District in the UK; an exquisite location which almost becomes a character in itself.
In any good story the reader has to care about the characters, I did. I loved the interaction between Jack and his cousin and their developing relationship.
And I was fascinated by Jack's gift.
I'm not going to add more - I wouldn't want to spoil anyone else's enjoyment.
Suffice it to say that this is one story that you won't be able to leave until you know how it ends - and even then you'll be surprised.
The setting is the Lake District in the UK; an exquisite location which almost becomes a character in itself.
In any good story the reader has to care about the characters, I did. I loved the interaction between Jack and his cousin and their developing relationship.
And I was fascinated by Jack's gift.
I'm not going to add more - I wouldn't want to spoil anyone else's enjoyment.
Suffice it to say that this is one story that you won't be able to leave until you know how it ends - and even then you'll be surprised.
October 1, 2012
The author sent me this book and asked me to review it, I don't know Julie personally so I can be honest, I loved it! I realized as soon as I started it that I had already read it. The characters are in depth and the story is suspensful and fast paced. It is well worth the time I ivested in it. I am ready to read more from this author. If you are looking for a great way to spend a lazy afternoon you found it!
July 12, 2014
This book was gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Jack has a gift. He senses danger in a way most people wish they could. He is trying to avoid going on a family holiday due to his gift warning him it was not going to go well.
This follows Jack and Rosie's adventure in the wild mountains, what they must do to stay alive.
An enjoyable read.
Jack has a gift. He senses danger in a way most people wish they could. He is trying to avoid going on a family holiday due to his gift warning him it was not going to go well.
This follows Jack and Rosie's adventure in the wild mountains, what they must do to stay alive.
An enjoyable read.
November 18, 2010
This story involves a young boy and immerses the reader in the dangers and challenges he faces. Very good read.
June 23, 2017
Jack is a boy who seems to have a sixth sense. His father treats it like a mild personal superstition. This weekend’s trip to a friend’s cabin in the woods has just set him off. Is it his annoying cousin, Rosy? Could it be the winter storm? Find out for yourself. Seriously, I enjoyed this fast all ages read.
Powell, whose work I adore in the realm of high fantasy, has impressed me with only a few easy dashes of the speculative. If fantasy books were deserts, a story Knowing Jack would be in the lemon bar family. The dessert struck me as follows- Hmm. Lemons… but there is powdered sugar on top. Then you try it and it is a little sweet, but rich beyond your wildest imagination in buttery wonder.
The chase and adventure had danger, survival, suspense, and an unlikely bond formed between two characters.
I received a free audible code in exchange for a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
I’d recommend this book to anyone on summer break, looking for a good adventure while stuck in the back of a car on a hot day. It’s set in the winter, so it’s refreshing.
Powell, whose work I adore in the realm of high fantasy, has impressed me with only a few easy dashes of the speculative. If fantasy books were deserts, a story Knowing Jack would be in the lemon bar family. The dessert struck me as follows- Hmm. Lemons… but there is powdered sugar on top. Then you try it and it is a little sweet, but rich beyond your wildest imagination in buttery wonder.
The chase and adventure had danger, survival, suspense, and an unlikely bond formed between two characters.
I received a free audible code in exchange for a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
I’d recommend this book to anyone on summer break, looking for a good adventure while stuck in the back of a car on a hot day. It’s set in the winter, so it’s refreshing.
January 15, 2017
Next Time You Hit the Road, Listen to Jack (Audiobook)
Knowing Jack by Julie Elizabeth Powell, narrated by Joel Froomkin is an absolutely adorable mystery with a twist for kids and adults. Jack, his parents, aunt, uncle and younger cousin Rosie make a trek to the Lake District for the Christmas holiday. What could possibly happen at a secluded cabin in the woods?
Ms Powell does a fabulous job with character development, attitudes, setting and emotionally firing up the reader. I started snickering before Jack and his parents left for the cabin and oh my Rosie’s character brought back memories of outings with the cousins. I let my phone go directly to messaging at least three times during the book because I did not want to turn it off.
Joel Froomkin did a great job with the character attitudes and sarcasm. His female voices are a bit annoying, but are probably absolutely right for this book.
Thank you so very much for allowing me to review this wonderful book. I do hope Jack has more adventures in the future.
Knowing Jack by Julie Elizabeth Powell, narrated by Joel Froomkin is an absolutely adorable mystery with a twist for kids and adults. Jack, his parents, aunt, uncle and younger cousin Rosie make a trek to the Lake District for the Christmas holiday. What could possibly happen at a secluded cabin in the woods?
Ms Powell does a fabulous job with character development, attitudes, setting and emotionally firing up the reader. I started snickering before Jack and his parents left for the cabin and oh my Rosie’s character brought back memories of outings with the cousins. I let my phone go directly to messaging at least three times during the book because I did not want to turn it off.
Joel Froomkin did a great job with the character attitudes and sarcasm. His female voices are a bit annoying, but are probably absolutely right for this book.
Thank you so very much for allowing me to review this wonderful book. I do hope Jack has more adventures in the future.
October 14, 2017
Great adventure for the more intrepid younger reader!
Loved the idea of this book and it lived up to all expectations. The two young characters were well written and lifelike, and the descriptions of the scenes and scrapes they get into were more than a little dramatic. The last few pages had me panting for breath!
The addition of a supernatural feel added an extra dimension too. I especially liked that Jack didn't always know if his 'feelings' meant something good or bad. they sometimes just meant 'something' was going to happen, which kept the reader guessing right to the last page.
Not quite sure of the exact age group this is meant for. As an adult, I enjoyed it. As a child, I might find some of it very frightening. That Eddie was vile and totally scary!
Overall I found Knowing Jack an excellent read!
Loved the idea of this book and it lived up to all expectations. The two young characters were well written and lifelike, and the descriptions of the scenes and scrapes they get into were more than a little dramatic. The last few pages had me panting for breath!
The addition of a supernatural feel added an extra dimension too. I especially liked that Jack didn't always know if his 'feelings' meant something good or bad. they sometimes just meant 'something' was going to happen, which kept the reader guessing right to the last page.
Not quite sure of the exact age group this is meant for. As an adult, I enjoyed it. As a child, I might find some of it very frightening. That Eddie was vile and totally scary!
Overall I found Knowing Jack an excellent read!
November 6, 2017
KNOWING JACK .... A fast paced read about a boy named Jack who experiences bouts of what I would call "A Sixth Sense." The family is planning a holiday trip to a cabin, which will be shared with relatives. As the family begins their journey Jack has a very uneasy feeling that he can not seem to shake, a feeling that disaster is lurking.
Once the family arrives at the cabin, plans are set for the day. Jack, his dad and cousin Rosie who Jack is not to fond of, decide they would like to take some photos.
Not far down the road their plans are interrupted... Rosie and Jack are forced together . Courage, survival and extreme determination is what will get them through this journey they are about to endure.
A suspenseful mystery, with a touch of humor added in. I recommend this book for the young adult .
Once the family arrives at the cabin, plans are set for the day. Jack, his dad and cousin Rosie who Jack is not to fond of, decide they would like to take some photos.
Not far down the road their plans are interrupted... Rosie and Jack are forced together . Courage, survival and extreme determination is what will get them through this journey they are about to endure.
A suspenseful mystery, with a touch of humor added in. I recommend this book for the young adult .
November 19, 2017
I loved this book so much I read it in one sitting! A fast-paced adventure told through the eyes of Jack, a twelve year old with a special gift - he can predict events happening. Unfortunately these events are always bad and he has little or no control over them. So, when his parents decide to spend Christmas in a remote cottage in the beautiful Lake District he is distraught - not only does he have one of his 'feelings' but his annoying younger cousin, Rosie will also be there! What follows is a fight for survival with Jack and Rosie forced to hide out in the Arctic temperatures to stay alive. Great storytelling!
March 11, 2023
I’ve read several books by Julie Powell over the years but so far KNOWING JACK is my favorite. I loved the characters of Jack and his parents, his uncle, and especially Rosie who begins the story as quite a little pest but turns out to be … well, let’s just say she undergoes a bit of a transformation by the end of the novel.
The supernatural aspect of the tale felt just right as well. And I must not leave out Mystery, everyone will love Mystery. What a great collection of characters in a page-turner of a story. Well done, Julie Powell, as always!
The supernatural aspect of the tale felt just right as well. And I must not leave out Mystery, everyone will love Mystery. What a great collection of characters in a page-turner of a story. Well done, Julie Powell, as always!
October 4, 2016
I loved, loved this book. I kept me reading until I finished it. I didn't suspect the twist at the end. It was engaging and suspense filled. I quite enjoyed it. Well written, with believable characters.
January 3, 2013
Knowing jack by Julie Elizabeth Powell
This was a delight to read, Knowing Jack and his adventures with his little cousin in the woods running from the bad people. His insight and supernatural gift was entertaining. The conflicts and twists were suspenseful. The O's and Ah's kept the story flowing. It was refreshing and the adventure with the chills and hot chocolate, in all it was a cozy read to relax with after shovelling snow. Knowing Jack title fits. Jack was a very insightful and a gifted young man who experienced strange sensations of physical ailments and other symptoms when trouble was lurking around the corner. The family decided to go on a brief vacation and the adventures start.
The plot open with an incidental or accident van almost swiping their travelling car, and he senses the accident before it occurs and was able to alert his dad not to pull out. Later it was intentional, and Jack sensed high alert of danger and has the responsibility of his little cousin, who he does not like. But as they escape and stay ahead of the bad guys, they cooperate together to survive in the frozen forest, seeking assistance. Together they met many challenges and overcame each one.
There is a touching hint of the supernatural in this story and that was a definite plus to wrap up this story. This tale was written with such intensity and suspense of entertainment all in one little book. Once again this author has the uncanny ability to touch a reader’s core and sent chills and pleasure to their brain cells. Hot chocolate and this book was a delightful reprieve from Mr. Snow and shovelling, and I highly recommend it as well as her other books available at Amazon.com and Lulu.com
http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Elizabeth...
This was a delight to read, Knowing Jack and his adventures with his little cousin in the woods running from the bad people. His insight and supernatural gift was entertaining. The conflicts and twists were suspenseful. The O's and Ah's kept the story flowing. It was refreshing and the adventure with the chills and hot chocolate, in all it was a cozy read to relax with after shovelling snow. Knowing Jack title fits. Jack was a very insightful and a gifted young man who experienced strange sensations of physical ailments and other symptoms when trouble was lurking around the corner. The family decided to go on a brief vacation and the adventures start.
The plot open with an incidental or accident van almost swiping their travelling car, and he senses the accident before it occurs and was able to alert his dad not to pull out. Later it was intentional, and Jack sensed high alert of danger and has the responsibility of his little cousin, who he does not like. But as they escape and stay ahead of the bad guys, they cooperate together to survive in the frozen forest, seeking assistance. Together they met many challenges and overcame each one.
There is a touching hint of the supernatural in this story and that was a definite plus to wrap up this story. This tale was written with such intensity and suspense of entertainment all in one little book. Once again this author has the uncanny ability to touch a reader’s core and sent chills and pleasure to their brain cells. Hot chocolate and this book was a delightful reprieve from Mr. Snow and shovelling, and I highly recommend it as well as her other books available at Amazon.com and Lulu.com
http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Elizabeth...
November 12, 2016
This is a great adventure thriller for the pre-teens and above age groups. It is fast paced and easily keeps your attention. The story is set in England's Lake District and revolves around 12 year old Jack who's presence both gets him into trouble and also saves him. The narrator of the audiobook fits the story well and brings the story and characters to life. This exciting tale quickly draws you in and keeps you entertained with both the interaction between the two cousins, Jack's "knowing" and the tense, suspenseful action. I received the audiobook at no cost and under no obligation.
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