What do you think?
Rate this book
The Legends of Eerie-on-Sea #4
Festergrimm
In the fourth tale in this beloved series, villainous Sebastian Eels returns to Eerie-on-Sea, thrusting Herbie and Violet into a new adventure involving a missing girl, a spooky wax museum, and a dangerous clockwork robot.
Herbie Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, and his fearless friend Violet Parma have unearthed many secrets in their village of Eerie-on-Sea: secrets lurking beneath the waves, lapping onto the beaches, and lying behind locked doors. When their brilliant and ruthless nemesis, Sebastian Eels, returns with a plan to open the long-shuttered waxworks museum, Herbie and Violet suspect nefarious motives. Their investigation leads them into the dark Netherways below the town--and into the tragic past of the famous toymaker and inventor Ludovic Festergrimm and his doomed daughter, Pandora. Sebastian Eels is convinced that within the story of Festergrimm is the key to Eerie's deepest secret--a secret in which Herbie himself plays a crucial part--and he'll stop at nothing to uncover it, including bringing a terrifying clockwork legend back to life. With echoes of fairy tales and monster movies, plus a dismembered finger or two, this is a deliciously creepy addition to a fantastical mystery series that is perfectly calibrated to thrill middle-grade readers.
Herbie Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, and his fearless friend Violet Parma have unearthed many secrets in their village of Eerie-on-Sea: secrets lurking beneath the waves, lapping onto the beaches, and lying behind locked doors. When their brilliant and ruthless nemesis, Sebastian Eels, returns with a plan to open the long-shuttered waxworks museum, Herbie and Violet suspect nefarious motives. Their investigation leads them into the dark Netherways below the town--and into the tragic past of the famous toymaker and inventor Ludovic Festergrimm and his doomed daughter, Pandora. Sebastian Eels is convinced that within the story of Festergrimm is the key to Eerie's deepest secret--a secret in which Herbie himself plays a crucial part--and he'll stop at nothing to uncover it, including bringing a terrifying clockwork legend back to life. With echoes of fairy tales and monster movies, plus a dismembered finger or two, this is a deliciously creepy addition to a fantastical mystery series that is perfectly calibrated to thrill middle-grade readers.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2022
About the author
Thomas Taylor
12 books2 followersThomas Taylor (1775–1848) was an English botanist, bryologist, and mycologist.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_...
Librarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_...
Librarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 31, 2023
8.00 on CAWPILE
September 12, 2022
Eerie-on-Sea is a seaside town out of season, and you can feel that Thomas Taylor knows these towns. He manages to perfectly capture its atmosphere with the somewhat curious shops and quirky villagers. The Flotsamporium, fish and chips on the pier, the bookdispensary with the mermonkey that doesn't give you the book you want but the one you need, the doctor who also runs a museum,...
We follow Herbert Lemon, who is an orphan who as a baby showed up in a crate of lemons. He works in the Grand Nautilus Hotel (owned, like most of the town, by Lady Kraken) as a Lost-and-Founder. This year he has decided to do NOPE-vember... saying nope to adventures all month. But then a familiar villain arrives back in town and he and Violet are the only ones to see through his lies.
The adventure brings us creepy waxworks who are a bit too alive and a giant mechanical man, and of course a new town legend. As this is the penultimate book, we also really get the feeling that we are getting close to finding out about Herbie's past and the biggest secret... and I'm here for it!!!
This series, starting with Malamander, is definitely one I would highly recommend. It has the fun and adventure of a good middle grade read, but also has real danger and proper villains and doesn't simplify things for its audience. They are perfect reads for the colder months, great to get through on a rainy afternoon with a big cup of tea.
We follow Herbert Lemon, who is an orphan who as a baby showed up in a crate of lemons. He works in the Grand Nautilus Hotel (owned, like most of the town, by Lady Kraken) as a Lost-and-Founder. This year he has decided to do NOPE-vember... saying nope to adventures all month. But then a familiar villain arrives back in town and he and Violet are the only ones to see through his lies.
The adventure brings us creepy waxworks who are a bit too alive and a giant mechanical man, and of course a new town legend. As this is the penultimate book, we also really get the feeling that we are getting close to finding out about Herbie's past and the biggest secret... and I'm here for it!!!
This series, starting with Malamander, is definitely one I would highly recommend. It has the fun and adventure of a good middle grade read, but also has real danger and proper villains and doesn't simplify things for its audience. They are perfect reads for the colder months, great to get through on a rainy afternoon with a big cup of tea.
January 9, 2023
4.5 ⭐. Aaveranta on tapahtunaympäristönä yksi parhaimpia, joita olen nuorten fantasiakirjoissa lukenut. Tämän kirjasarjan parissa tulee aina hyvä mieli ja on jotenkin sellaista kotoisaa luettavaa. Ihana juttu, että sarja jatkuikin vielä kolmannen osan jälkeen.
July 13, 2022
Thomas Taylor has done it again! What a sheer delight to be back in Eerie-on-Sea with Herbie and Violet ready for another adventure. This time, Herbie has declared he’s not doing any adventures in November, however just a few days before the end of the month the arrival of a VIP guest heralds the start of a new adventure. With their arch enemy Sebastian Eels set to reopen the old Festergrimm’s Wax Works, Violet can’t believe he’s not really up to no good. Get ready to join them in an adventure full of scary wax works, spooky trains and a giant robotic monster as the legend of Ludo Festergrimm resurfaces.
Everything’s we’ve come to love and look forward to in the Eerie-on-Sea adventures is packed in the pages and will delight its fans young and old. It’s a fast paced adventure, full of some wonderful twists and turns and some great edge of the seat moments.
I can’t wait to return for the next adventure and the Mermedusa!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
Everything’s we’ve come to love and look forward to in the Eerie-on-Sea adventures is packed in the pages and will delight its fans young and old. It’s a fast paced adventure, full of some wonderful twists and turns and some great edge of the seat moments.
I can’t wait to return for the next adventure and the Mermedusa!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
July 25, 2022
I’ve just finished this… and what a ride!! Let me tell you, there’s something so gripping and OMG I HAVE TO READ THIS ENTIRE BOOK RIGHT NOW about this series. Festergrimm is a glorious mix of big iron monsters, familiar villainous faces and legend that just had me from the get go. I love Herbie and Violet so much… you wouldn’t catch me in the waxwork museum tho! These books are a glorious mix of detective mystery and a tiny little bit of horror in them too!
August 4, 2023
Tämän sarjan kirjat ovat parasta, mitä nuortenkirjallisuudella on tarjota - heti Pottereiden ja Nevermoorien jälkeen. Jälleen ällistyttävän hyvä, sopivassa suhteessa jännittävä ja äärimmäisen otteessaan pitävä seikkailu. Näitä lukee mielellään aikuinenkin, mutta ainakin meillä, tämä on myös yksi lasten lempikirjasarjoista. Jäämme odottamaan suurella innolla ja mielenkiinnolla seuraavaa osaa, sillä tämä tarina päättyi jälleen mielenkiintoiseen Cliffhangeriin ja vaikka Aaverannan salaisuuksia keriytyy auki jälleen vähän enemmän, ei tarinan päätyttyä olla kuin pienen askelen verran lähempänä Herbert Sitrusta koskevaa mysteeriä, Orvokki Parman kadonneista vanhemmista puhumattakaan. Mutta sitä parempi, mitä enemmän näitä kirjoja saadaan, sillä ainakaan vielä ei taso ole laskenut piiruakaan.
April 4, 2024
Tällä kertaa Aaverannassa selvitetään Festergrimmin Aavemaisen Vahakabinetin mysteeriä. Vahakabinetti oli aikoinaan suosittu turistinähtävyys, mutta skandaalin seurauksena se suljettiin ja jätettiin rapistumaan. Herbert ja Orvokki eivät ole kuulleetkaan koko paikasta, ennen kuin heidän arkkivihollisensa Sebastian Ankerias palaa Aaverantaan ja aikoo avata kabinetin uudelleen. Mutta kuka oli Festergrimm, mitä vahakabinetissa on tapahtunut, ja mitä Ankerias siitä oikein haluaa?
Tämä sarja tuntuu vain parantuvan osa osalta! Aaveranta mielenkiintoisine rakennuksineen ja lukemattomine salaisuuksineen on upea ja tunnelmallinen tapahtumapaikka. Harmi, että tämän jälkeen on enää yksi kirja.
Tämä sarja tuntuu vain parantuvan osa osalta! Aaveranta mielenkiintoisine rakennuksineen ja lukemattomine salaisuuksineen on upea ja tunnelmallinen tapahtumapaikka. Harmi, että tämän jälkeen on enää yksi kirja.
December 6, 2023
As the story opens, Herbie Lemon (Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel) and his friend Violet (Vi) are accompanying Mr. M0llusc (the manager of the hotel) to the train station. A special guest is due to arrive at any moment, and Lady Kranken (the owner of the hotel) demanded a grand welcome. When the train finally pulls into the station, they're surprised to find none other than Sebastian Eels waiting for them on the platform. As you may or may not recall, Sebastian Eels has caused Herbie and Vi many a problem in previous books, to the point that he's even tried to kill them a time or two. Herbie and Vi feel that he's still up to no good, despite Sebastian Eels stating that he's changed his ways and the only thing he wants to do now is to reopen the towns long-shuttered waxworks museum. Convinced that he has nefarious plans, Herbie and Violet begin to investigate. Soon the duo uncovers clues to the town's past and find links to the famous toymaker and inventor Ludovic Festergrimm. What ensues is a wild chase to prevent Eeels from controlling the one thing he desires.
Taylor's books are always slightly creepy (the elevator that reminded me of the haunted mansion), are exciting and filled with moments of danger (the Netherways). With a few twists thrown in. I quite enjoyed the story within the story in Festergrimm, that explained the tragic past of Pandora, Mr. Festergrimm's daughter. There's lots of fast paced action, adventure and a mystery. Sebastian Eels is the perfect villain, a sort of vaudeville style villain in a top hat, long cloak, with a wicked smile. One moment sniveling about being innocent and then the next striking out at you with his cane. Always hinting that Herbie has property of his that he wants back, and that Herbie is a crucial part in the key to Eerie's deepest secret. Not to mention that the story includes these clockwork robots that sound equally delightful and terrifying. And a waxwork museum, that's creepy in itself. So yeah, lots of fun. It's best if these books are read in order so I'd start with Malmander. The illustrations by Tom Booth were absolutely wonderful. I just love seeing Herbie in his Lost-and-Founder cap and Bagfoot the seagull rapping on the window was quite comical. Poor Violet. It's utterly delightful reading each of the books in the series. Sad to see that the final book, Mermedusa has been released, but I am eager to read it now.
**A huge thank you to Walker Books US for the hardcover copy in exchange for an honest review. **
Taylor's books are always slightly creepy (the elevator that reminded me of the haunted mansion), are exciting and filled with moments of danger (the Netherways). With a few twists thrown in. I quite enjoyed the story within the story in Festergrimm, that explained the tragic past of Pandora, Mr. Festergrimm's daughter. There's lots of fast paced action, adventure and a mystery. Sebastian Eels is the perfect villain, a sort of vaudeville style villain in a top hat, long cloak, with a wicked smile. One moment sniveling about being innocent and then the next striking out at you with his cane. Always hinting that Herbie has property of his that he wants back, and that Herbie is a crucial part in the key to Eerie's deepest secret. Not to mention that the story includes these clockwork robots that sound equally delightful and terrifying. And a waxwork museum, that's creepy in itself. So yeah, lots of fun. It's best if these books are read in order so I'd start with Malmander. The illustrations by Tom Booth were absolutely wonderful. I just love seeing Herbie in his Lost-and-Founder cap and Bagfoot the seagull rapping on the window was quite comical. Poor Violet. It's utterly delightful reading each of the books in the series. Sad to see that the final book, Mermedusa has been released, but I am eager to read it now.
**A huge thank you to Walker Books US for the hardcover copy in exchange for an honest review. **
September 5, 2022
There's just something about Eerie-on-Sea that sparks such joy in my (not so) inner child. It's the creepy feeling it gives you that makes you think back to those first Halloweens you'd enjoy as a kid. When you'd like to scare yourself a little bit not too much. Where you'd like to have something in the back of your mind thinking 'something's not quite right here'. Or of the old children's TV shows like Goosebumps or Are you afraid of the Dark? That did the trick on those nights where it'd get dark not long after finishing school and you were sat in front of the TV.
Just pure joy from start to finish.
I'm not a newbie to Eerie-on-Sea and have been visiting since the Malamander pulled me into it's pages and wouldn't let me out until I had reached the end of Herbie and Violet's adventure.
This book is just as brilliant as the other instalments. From the night-time opening scene set on a misty train platform to the nightmarish walk around an abandoned waxworks I was enthralled. Thomas Taylor really knows how to set a scene.
Another absolute delight of a book and another 5 stars from me!
Just pure joy from start to finish.
I'm not a newbie to Eerie-on-Sea and have been visiting since the Malamander pulled me into it's pages and wouldn't let me out until I had reached the end of Herbie and Violet's adventure.
This book is just as brilliant as the other instalments. From the night-time opening scene set on a misty train platform to the nightmarish walk around an abandoned waxworks I was enthralled. Thomas Taylor really knows how to set a scene.
Another absolute delight of a book and another 5 stars from me!
July 31, 2022
I received an ARC of the book from the publisher, via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Even though I had never read any of the Eerie-on-Sea series, getting into this delightful book was easy. Taylor's background as an illustrator shines through as the world-building was amazing. That said, I felt like there was a tad too many elements within this book. Between the wax-work figures and the clock-work robots, I found it rather difficult to focus. That said, I believe that it sets things up nicely for the final instalment of the series which I am now curious about.
Given that the main character's name is Herbert Lemon, its similarities with Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events is also noted. While there are many plot similarities like the parallels between Count Olaf and Sebastien Eels, I do find that the book sets itself apart sufficiently from Snicket's without being too much of a rethread of the iconic series through its evocative and beautifully-crafted setting.
Even though I had never read any of the Eerie-on-Sea series, getting into this delightful book was easy. Taylor's background as an illustrator shines through as the world-building was amazing. That said, I felt like there was a tad too many elements within this book. Between the wax-work figures and the clock-work robots, I found it rather difficult to focus. That said, I believe that it sets things up nicely for the final instalment of the series which I am now curious about.
Given that the main character's name is Herbert Lemon, its similarities with Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events is also noted. While there are many plot similarities like the parallels between Count Olaf and Sebastien Eels, I do find that the book sets itself apart sufficiently from Snicket's without being too much of a rethread of the iconic series through its evocative and beautifully-crafted setting.
March 29, 2023
That's not fair Taylor, you brought the Iron Giant into this story - that already wins me over. But wow, the plot really takes off in this book: not only by building on parts from book 2 and 3 - The Netherways, the elevator, Herbie's past - but the whole mystery around Ludovico Festergrimm is so fascinating! The decision to end with a cliffhanger is a great choice, but even before that I couldn't wait to uncover the biggest secret of Eerie-on-Sea with Herbie and Violet. Bring me Mermedusa!
Read here my other reviews of The Legends of Eerie-on-Sea books: #1 Malamander | #2 Gargantis | #3 Shadowghast | #5 Mermedusa (upcoming)
Read here my other reviews of The Legends of Eerie-on-Sea books: #1 Malamander | #2 Gargantis | #3 Shadowghast | #5 Mermedusa (upcoming)
October 19, 2022
4.5⭐️ Uuuummmmm … I did not sign up for a cliffhanger ahead of the final book in this series?! Like, HUH?! I loved this instalment, even if the idea of moving waxworks and animatronics have me major creepy vibes (hello autonomaphobia, we meet again!), and I need Mermedusa now, please and thank you. Will we finally learn the deepest secret of Eerie-on-Sea, and how does Herbie fit into all of this? I guess we’ll find out next year 👀
March 12, 2023
Çok sevdiğim serinin dördüncü kitabını bitirip sona yaklaştığım için biraz hüzünlü olsam da nasıl muhteşem bir kitaptı anlatamam. Tuhaf Deniz Kasabası evrenine ve içinde yaşanan her olaya bayılıyorum. Nefes kesici derecede heyecanlı bir kitaptı. Beşinci kitabın çıkması için gün saymaya başlayabilirim.
September 1, 2023
Quite seriously one of the best middle grade series I have lately read. Such fun quirky characters and exciting adventures. Love it! 🥰😍
October 16, 2024
Tror tyvärr 3an är den nya uppläsarens fel.... gav inte samma vibe som tidigare 🙄 svårt att få en känsla för storyn med en uppläsare som överspelar röster.
September 14, 2022
Another great book from Thomas Taylor. Sad that it’s finished, but one of those you just have to keep reading. Now for the long wait until next September the get the closing book from the series.
October 11, 2024
love this series ❤️
December 23, 2022
Eerie-on-Sea is one of my favourite series: excellently written with a superb seaside setting, a cast of quirky characters, heart-pounding danger, and a gorgeous friendship between lovable Lost-and-Founder Herbie and his near-fearless best friend Violet. Book four, Festergrimm, did not disappoint with its creepy waxwork museum, sinister baddie, and collision of old Eerie-on-Sea legends with Herbie and Vi's adventures. I'm looking forward to the fifth and final instalment, Mermedusa, already!
July 17, 2022
It’s nearly the summer holidays and I was ridiculously excited to be granted an early mini-break in the legendary seaside town of Eerie on Sea. And my goodness… there was never a dull moment! Creepy wax works, a conniving villain a colossal clockwork robot reminscent of Ted Hughes’ Iron Man…adventure drips from every sea-soaked page. Oh, and watch out for the seagulls…you have been warned!
Our favourite ship-wrecked orphan Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, once again finds himself at the centre of an Eerie Mystery of epic proportions along with trusty side-kick Violet Parmer.
It’s late November and Herbie and Vi have been sent to greet a VIP guest of The Grand Nautilus at the railway station by morngy hotel manager Mr Mollusc. But nothing could’ve prepared the duo for who is about to step out from the swirling mist. A shocking blast from the past is back to wreak havoc on the town, plotting and scheming to their own gains and of course it’s down to the duo to save the town from disaster.
I feel the beauty of this series is that in each instalment, Thomas Taylor allows us to discover and explore different elements of the seemingly dilapidated town, steeped in myth and legend. As well as dropping into familiar locations such as Seagoll’s diner, Mrs Fossil’s Flotsamporium and paying the Mermonkey a visit at the Eerie Book Emporium, much of this adventure takes place in Fargarzi Round and the boarded up and very creepy Festergrimm’s Wax Works.
Formerly a hit with the tourists, the wax works has long stood derelict and abandoned, but it seems that amongst the dust and cobwebs is something of real value and key to unlocking the Great Legend of Eerie on Sea. And one cunning and conniving character is desperate to get their calloused hands on it.
The children break into Festergrimm’s and bravely explore (at night of course) you wouldn’t get me in there! It really is scary amongst the exhibits with their unblinking eyes and the ghost train that would whirr into action to transport tourists around the gallery. Bumps in the night lead our explorers to the cellar, where they discover their treacherous nemesis tearing apart the wax mannequins limb from limb, feverishly searching for something – it’s like a scene from Frankenstein!
After all the chilling thrills and spills, it’s time for cake and hot chocolate at Mrs Fossil’s and she sheds some more light on the legend. Turns out she has a personal connection to the wax works and is harbouring a shocking family secret. The answer lies in Festergrimm’s legendary robot and a missing part of the clockwork giant. It’s a race against time and Herbie and Vi must solve the mystery and set the cogs in action before their arch enemy gets there first…
This is my absolute favourite Middle Grade series. For me it has everything; gripping mysteries, just the right level of threat and such a well developed location and characters that each visit feels like returning to old friends at a much-loved childhood holiday destination.
Erwin the talking bookshop cat stole the show for me in this adventure. Always on hand to deliver purrrrrrls of wisdom in his trademark deadpan way, he dutifully directs the duo away from danger and hints at clues that they’ve missed. I imagine his voice to be that of Ian McKellen or Stephen Fry and I’d love to discover more of his back story – there is definitely a human trapped inside that feline body!
This is a series I don’t want to end, yet I am absolutely desperate to find out once and for all how Herbie came to be washed up in a crate of lemons in Erie on Sea and what happened to Violet’s parents. At the end of Festergrimm there is the usual teaser for the next adventure and I can’t wait to see how Thomas Taylor ties it all together in MERMEDUSA.
Our favourite ship-wrecked orphan Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, once again finds himself at the centre of an Eerie Mystery of epic proportions along with trusty side-kick Violet Parmer.
It’s late November and Herbie and Vi have been sent to greet a VIP guest of The Grand Nautilus at the railway station by morngy hotel manager Mr Mollusc. But nothing could’ve prepared the duo for who is about to step out from the swirling mist. A shocking blast from the past is back to wreak havoc on the town, plotting and scheming to their own gains and of course it’s down to the duo to save the town from disaster.
I feel the beauty of this series is that in each instalment, Thomas Taylor allows us to discover and explore different elements of the seemingly dilapidated town, steeped in myth and legend. As well as dropping into familiar locations such as Seagoll’s diner, Mrs Fossil’s Flotsamporium and paying the Mermonkey a visit at the Eerie Book Emporium, much of this adventure takes place in Fargarzi Round and the boarded up and very creepy Festergrimm’s Wax Works.
Formerly a hit with the tourists, the wax works has long stood derelict and abandoned, but it seems that amongst the dust and cobwebs is something of real value and key to unlocking the Great Legend of Eerie on Sea. And one cunning and conniving character is desperate to get their calloused hands on it.
The children break into Festergrimm’s and bravely explore (at night of course) you wouldn’t get me in there! It really is scary amongst the exhibits with their unblinking eyes and the ghost train that would whirr into action to transport tourists around the gallery. Bumps in the night lead our explorers to the cellar, where they discover their treacherous nemesis tearing apart the wax mannequins limb from limb, feverishly searching for something – it’s like a scene from Frankenstein!
After all the chilling thrills and spills, it’s time for cake and hot chocolate at Mrs Fossil’s and she sheds some more light on the legend. Turns out she has a personal connection to the wax works and is harbouring a shocking family secret. The answer lies in Festergrimm’s legendary robot and a missing part of the clockwork giant. It’s a race against time and Herbie and Vi must solve the mystery and set the cogs in action before their arch enemy gets there first…
This is my absolute favourite Middle Grade series. For me it has everything; gripping mysteries, just the right level of threat and such a well developed location and characters that each visit feels like returning to old friends at a much-loved childhood holiday destination.
Erwin the talking bookshop cat stole the show for me in this adventure. Always on hand to deliver purrrrrrls of wisdom in his trademark deadpan way, he dutifully directs the duo away from danger and hints at clues that they’ve missed. I imagine his voice to be that of Ian McKellen or Stephen Fry and I’d love to discover more of his back story – there is definitely a human trapped inside that feline body!
This is a series I don’t want to end, yet I am absolutely desperate to find out once and for all how Herbie came to be washed up in a crate of lemons in Erie on Sea and what happened to Violet’s parents. At the end of Festergrimm there is the usual teaser for the next adventure and I can’t wait to see how Thomas Taylor ties it all together in MERMEDUSA.
August 26, 2024
I love this quirky little series so much. This installment is really bringing the cosy, creepy vibes I love so much to the table and I really enjoyed the ride (and the author's sense of humour). We're finally getting some hints about Herbie's past, too. Can't wait for the next one!
[One tiny sidenote: there is a bit where the chef is shouting in Belgian and, well, that's not actually a thing. We speak Belgian Dutch (also known as Flemish), French, or in the case of a small minority, German. Belgian isn't a language, and as a Belgian, that was a weird sentence to read, haha.]
[One tiny sidenote: there is a bit where the chef is shouting in Belgian and, well, that's not actually a thing. We speak Belgian Dutch (also known as Flemish), French, or in the case of a small minority, German. Belgian isn't a language, and as a Belgian, that was a weird sentence to read, haha.]
February 2, 2023
Ondanks dat de cover weer een andere illustratie en kleuren bevat dan het vorige deel is aan de illustratiestijl en typografie gebruik duidelijk te zien dat je met de serie van Thomas Taylor te maken hebt. Ditmaal siert de cover een illustratie in oranje-blauwtinten met een grote robot die alles lijkt te verslinden en een vluchtende Herbert en Violet. De illustratie maakt me gelijk enthousiast en nieuwsgierig en ik ben onwijs benieuwd welk spannend avontuur me nu weer staat te wachten, want na de eerste drie delen ben ik fan van de schrijfstijl van Thomas Taylor.
Sebastiaan Aals keert opnieuw terug naar Owee aan Zee. Dit kan nooit goed nieuws zijn. Zeker niet wanneer hij beweert dat hij zijn leven gebeterd heeft en nieuw leven wil inblazen in het Festegrim. Het wassenbeelden museum is al vele jaren gesloten en staat vol met figuren van griezelige stadslegendes. Herbert en Violet vertrouwen Sebastiaan Aals niet en gaan op onderzoek uit. Dan horen ze het verhaal over de uitvinder Festergrim en zijn mechanische reus, dit belooft weinig goeds.
Het verhaal begint met een spannend proloog waarin Sebastiaan Aals, de aartsvijand van Herbert en Violet, met de trein terugkeert naar Owee aan Zee. Zeker wanneer je al de drie voorgaande delen van deze serie gelezen hebt, weet je gelijk, dit belooft niets goeds. Wat is de schurk ditmaal van plan?
Opnieuw beleven we het avontuur door de ogen van de jongen Herbert Citroen, die je door de boeken heen langzaam ziet veranderen van een bange en terughoudende jongen naar een steeds avontuurlijkere jongen met meer zelfvertrouwen. Zeker met Violet aan zijn zijde. Ook de personages Lady Kraken, meneer Mollusk, mevrouw Fossiel, dokter Thalassi die ook in de andere delen mee speelden komen weer terug in de verhaallijn. Dit is echt onwijs leuk, want zo bouw je als lezer echt een band op met de personages in Owee aan Zee.
De verhaallijn, gebaseerd op een legende van Owee aan Zee, is een origineel, spannend en fantasierijk avontuur. Toch weet Thomas Taylor het enorm geloofwaardig te brengen en ga je helemaal in de verhaallijn op. Het is een super spannend avontuur, maar Thomas Taylor heeft goed rekening gehouden met de jeugdige lezers (geschikt vanaf 10 jaar).
De opbouw naar het plot is sterk en tegen het einde zit je, ongetwijfeld, net als ik op het puntje van je stoel. Gaat dit wel goed eindigen? Gelukkig loopt het verhaal goed af en kan je het boek met een opgelucht gevoel dichtslaan.
Het geheim van Festergrim is fantasierijk, spannend en enorm origineel. Voor de jeugdige lezers van ongeveer 10 jaar is deze spannende serie absoluut een aanrader om te gaan lezen. De verhalen zijn gebaseerd op legendes uit Owee aan Zee. Samen met Herbert en Violet duik je in een spannend avontuur waar je compleet in op gaat. De boeken zijn prima afzonderlijk te lezen, maar geloof me, wanneer je een deel van deze serie leest, wil je meer. Ik kijk nu al uit naar het volgende deel.
Sebastiaan Aals keert opnieuw terug naar Owee aan Zee. Dit kan nooit goed nieuws zijn. Zeker niet wanneer hij beweert dat hij zijn leven gebeterd heeft en nieuw leven wil inblazen in het Festegrim. Het wassenbeelden museum is al vele jaren gesloten en staat vol met figuren van griezelige stadslegendes. Herbert en Violet vertrouwen Sebastiaan Aals niet en gaan op onderzoek uit. Dan horen ze het verhaal over de uitvinder Festergrim en zijn mechanische reus, dit belooft weinig goeds.
Het verhaal begint met een spannend proloog waarin Sebastiaan Aals, de aartsvijand van Herbert en Violet, met de trein terugkeert naar Owee aan Zee. Zeker wanneer je al de drie voorgaande delen van deze serie gelezen hebt, weet je gelijk, dit belooft niets goeds. Wat is de schurk ditmaal van plan?
Opnieuw beleven we het avontuur door de ogen van de jongen Herbert Citroen, die je door de boeken heen langzaam ziet veranderen van een bange en terughoudende jongen naar een steeds avontuurlijkere jongen met meer zelfvertrouwen. Zeker met Violet aan zijn zijde. Ook de personages Lady Kraken, meneer Mollusk, mevrouw Fossiel, dokter Thalassi die ook in de andere delen mee speelden komen weer terug in de verhaallijn. Dit is echt onwijs leuk, want zo bouw je als lezer echt een band op met de personages in Owee aan Zee.
De verhaallijn, gebaseerd op een legende van Owee aan Zee, is een origineel, spannend en fantasierijk avontuur. Toch weet Thomas Taylor het enorm geloofwaardig te brengen en ga je helemaal in de verhaallijn op. Het is een super spannend avontuur, maar Thomas Taylor heeft goed rekening gehouden met de jeugdige lezers (geschikt vanaf 10 jaar).
De opbouw naar het plot is sterk en tegen het einde zit je, ongetwijfeld, net als ik op het puntje van je stoel. Gaat dit wel goed eindigen? Gelukkig loopt het verhaal goed af en kan je het boek met een opgelucht gevoel dichtslaan.
Het geheim van Festergrim is fantasierijk, spannend en enorm origineel. Voor de jeugdige lezers van ongeveer 10 jaar is deze spannende serie absoluut een aanrader om te gaan lezen. De verhalen zijn gebaseerd op legendes uit Owee aan Zee. Samen met Herbert en Violet duik je in een spannend avontuur waar je compleet in op gaat. De boeken zijn prima afzonderlijk te lezen, maar geloof me, wanneer je een deel van deze serie leest, wil je meer. Ik kijk nu al uit naar het volgende deel.
September 5, 2023
Ik was samen met mijn 10-jarige zoon begonnen met het lezen van Het geheim van Festergrim, maar na het eerste hoofdstuk hadden we samen zoiets van ‘we missen hier te veel informatie’. En dus lazen we eerst de vorige drie boeken. Het boek is immers het vierde deel in een reeks. Ik denk niet dat het echt nodig is om alle vorige boeken gelezen te hebben, maar ik zou toch zeker eerst het eerste boek, ‘Het geheim van de malamander’ lezen. Daarin worden immers alle belangrijke personages voorgesteld en die moet je toch al wat kunnen plaatsen om dit vierde boek vlot te lezen.
De hoofdpersoon in dit vierde boek, Het geheim van Festergrim, is opnieuw Herbert Citroen, die als baby aanspoelde in een krat citroenen in het stadje Owee aan Zee. Hij is gevonden-voorwerper in het Grand Hotel Nautilus, het is zijn taak om gevonden voorwerpen bij te houden en terug te bezorgen aan hun rechtmatige eigenaar. Maar samen met zijn vriendin, Violet Purperwier, heeft hij al heel wat andere mysteries in Owee aan Zee opgelost. Zoals het geheim van de malamander, van Gargantis en van de Schaduwgruw. En telkens worden ze daarbij gedwarsboomd door hun vijand, Sebastiaan Aals.
Als Aals opnieuw opduikt in het stadje, zijn ze dan ook snel gealarmeerd. Hij kan echter de volwassenen om de tuin leiden door te zeggen dat hij het Festergrim Wassenbeeldmuseum opnieuw wil openen, een museum dat vol staat met figuren uit de griezelige stadslegendes. En waarom zegt Aals steeds dat Herbert iets te maken heeft met het diepste geheim van Owee aan Zee?
Festergrim was een uitvinder die een mechanische reus maakte om zijn verdwenen dochter Pandora op te sporen. Aals wil blijkbaar per se die robot terugvinden en Herbert en Violet proberen uit te zoeken waarom, maar daarbij brengen ze zichzelf ook in gevaar…
Het is ook fijn om in alle boeken de andere nevenpersonages te zien terug komen. Dokter Thalassi die niet alleen dokter is maar ook een museum runt, mevr. Fossiel met haar Aangespoelde warenhuis vol juttersvondsten, Jenny met haar boekenwinkel waar de zeemeeraap een boek voor je uitkiest, en dat is misschien niet het boek dat je wou, maar wel het boek dat je op dat moment nodig hebt.
Thomas Taylor leeft op de Britse Eilanden, in de buurt van de zee. Hij maakte carrière als illustrator, een van zijn eerste illustraties was het omslag voor Harry Potter en de Steen der Wijzen. Maar hij ontdekte dat hij ook veel plezier haalde uit het zelf bedenken van verhalen.
Je voelt ook bij het lezen dat Taylor veel weet van stadjes aan zee. Hij slaagt erin de sfeer goed weer te geven van kustplaatsjes buiten het seizoen, met merkwaardige winkeltjes en eigenaardige dorpelingen en ruwe vissers.
Als we afgaan op het einde van Het geheim van Festergrim zal dit niet het laatste boek zijn over Herbert Citroen en Owee aan Zee, Herbert moet immers nog altijd uitzoeken waarom het geheim van het stadje met hem verbonden is…
De hoofdpersoon in dit vierde boek, Het geheim van Festergrim, is opnieuw Herbert Citroen, die als baby aanspoelde in een krat citroenen in het stadje Owee aan Zee. Hij is gevonden-voorwerper in het Grand Hotel Nautilus, het is zijn taak om gevonden voorwerpen bij te houden en terug te bezorgen aan hun rechtmatige eigenaar. Maar samen met zijn vriendin, Violet Purperwier, heeft hij al heel wat andere mysteries in Owee aan Zee opgelost. Zoals het geheim van de malamander, van Gargantis en van de Schaduwgruw. En telkens worden ze daarbij gedwarsboomd door hun vijand, Sebastiaan Aals.
Als Aals opnieuw opduikt in het stadje, zijn ze dan ook snel gealarmeerd. Hij kan echter de volwassenen om de tuin leiden door te zeggen dat hij het Festergrim Wassenbeeldmuseum opnieuw wil openen, een museum dat vol staat met figuren uit de griezelige stadslegendes. En waarom zegt Aals steeds dat Herbert iets te maken heeft met het diepste geheim van Owee aan Zee?
Festergrim was een uitvinder die een mechanische reus maakte om zijn verdwenen dochter Pandora op te sporen. Aals wil blijkbaar per se die robot terugvinden en Herbert en Violet proberen uit te zoeken waarom, maar daarbij brengen ze zichzelf ook in gevaar…
Het is ook fijn om in alle boeken de andere nevenpersonages te zien terug komen. Dokter Thalassi die niet alleen dokter is maar ook een museum runt, mevr. Fossiel met haar Aangespoelde warenhuis vol juttersvondsten, Jenny met haar boekenwinkel waar de zeemeeraap een boek voor je uitkiest, en dat is misschien niet het boek dat je wou, maar wel het boek dat je op dat moment nodig hebt.
Thomas Taylor leeft op de Britse Eilanden, in de buurt van de zee. Hij maakte carrière als illustrator, een van zijn eerste illustraties was het omslag voor Harry Potter en de Steen der Wijzen. Maar hij ontdekte dat hij ook veel plezier haalde uit het zelf bedenken van verhalen.
Je voelt ook bij het lezen dat Taylor veel weet van stadjes aan zee. Hij slaagt erin de sfeer goed weer te geven van kustplaatsjes buiten het seizoen, met merkwaardige winkeltjes en eigenaardige dorpelingen en ruwe vissers.
Als we afgaan op het einde van Het geheim van Festergrim zal dit niet het laatste boek zijn over Herbert Citroen en Owee aan Zee, Herbert moet immers nog altijd uitzoeken waarom het geheim van het stadje met hem verbonden is…
May 24, 2023
What worked:
This book is fourth in the series but it can be read independently of the previous books. Herbie, Viola, and Sebastian Lee clearly have a contentious past but enough details are shared to let readers know Lee is a despicable villain. Herbie and Viola are the only characters fully aware of Lee’s wicked past so everyone else is willing to assume he’s remorseful and a changed man. This attitude allows him to move freely about town, threatening the two kids when no one else is around. A few adults have doubts about Lee but they just plan to watch him rather than actually taking action to stop his plans. It’s unclear why Herbie and Viola haven’t shared details about Lee with the adults but it adds subtle drama to the plot.
The author establishes Eerie-on-Sea as a creepy, mysterious setting that non-residents will avoid at all costs. Many parts of the town are rundown and the overall story has a dark, gloomy atmosphere. Then, an abandoned building called Festergrimm’s Eerie Waxworks is introduced with its own level of spookiness. It’s shadowy and dusty inside with disturbing wax statues of strange, legendary personalities from the town’s past. Herbie ventures down into the underground section of the museum where he discovers even more wax sculptures and something more. He could swear one of the figures turns its head to stare at him.
The plot evolves into a mystery of sorts with Sebastian Lee scheming to uncover Eerie-on-Sea’s greatest secret. Herbie and Viola are determined to uncover it first and their investigation leads to connections with their own pasts. Vi finds a book written by her father that reveals details of the museum’s origins and leads to speculation about Lee’s plans. Herbie begins to sense he has hidden memories about a connection to the waxworks and he’s troubled that Lee may know more about his past than Herbie knows himself. The story is told from Herbie’s point of view so readers will have intimate knowledge of his emotions and thoughts. He knows Viola is more daring and adventurous when it comes to gathering clues but his own talents mesh well with hers and make them a formidable duo.
What didn’t work as well:
The initial conflict is a bit strange since Herbie and Vi want Sebastian out of town before they even know what he’s doing. It turns out they have reason to be suspicious. The conclusion of the plot may not appeal to everyone but that may be because it’s not a typical, happy ending. The book ends by opening the door for its sequel so readers should expect to read it too.
The Final Verdict:
The author creates an innovative story of love, loss, and greed. Herbie’s vague knowledge of his past is very compelling and makes me want to read the next book in the series. I recommend you give this book, and its sequel when it’s published, a shot.
This book is fourth in the series but it can be read independently of the previous books. Herbie, Viola, and Sebastian Lee clearly have a contentious past but enough details are shared to let readers know Lee is a despicable villain. Herbie and Viola are the only characters fully aware of Lee’s wicked past so everyone else is willing to assume he’s remorseful and a changed man. This attitude allows him to move freely about town, threatening the two kids when no one else is around. A few adults have doubts about Lee but they just plan to watch him rather than actually taking action to stop his plans. It’s unclear why Herbie and Viola haven’t shared details about Lee with the adults but it adds subtle drama to the plot.
The author establishes Eerie-on-Sea as a creepy, mysterious setting that non-residents will avoid at all costs. Many parts of the town are rundown and the overall story has a dark, gloomy atmosphere. Then, an abandoned building called Festergrimm’s Eerie Waxworks is introduced with its own level of spookiness. It’s shadowy and dusty inside with disturbing wax statues of strange, legendary personalities from the town’s past. Herbie ventures down into the underground section of the museum where he discovers even more wax sculptures and something more. He could swear one of the figures turns its head to stare at him.
The plot evolves into a mystery of sorts with Sebastian Lee scheming to uncover Eerie-on-Sea’s greatest secret. Herbie and Viola are determined to uncover it first and their investigation leads to connections with their own pasts. Vi finds a book written by her father that reveals details of the museum’s origins and leads to speculation about Lee’s plans. Herbie begins to sense he has hidden memories about a connection to the waxworks and he’s troubled that Lee may know more about his past than Herbie knows himself. The story is told from Herbie’s point of view so readers will have intimate knowledge of his emotions and thoughts. He knows Viola is more daring and adventurous when it comes to gathering clues but his own talents mesh well with hers and make them a formidable duo.
What didn’t work as well:
The initial conflict is a bit strange since Herbie and Vi want Sebastian out of town before they even know what he’s doing. It turns out they have reason to be suspicious. The conclusion of the plot may not appeal to everyone but that may be because it’s not a typical, happy ending. The book ends by opening the door for its sequel so readers should expect to read it too.
The Final Verdict:
The author creates an innovative story of love, loss, and greed. Herbie’s vague knowledge of his past is very compelling and makes me want to read the next book in the series. I recommend you give this book, and its sequel when it’s published, a shot.
February 3, 2023
Het geheim van Festergrim – Thomas Taylor
Sebastiaan Aals, aartsvijand van Herbie en Violet, duikt plots op in het stadje Owee aan Zee, en dat voorspelt niet veel goeds. Waarom wil hij nieuw leven blazen in het Festergrim Wassenbeeldenmuseum, dat vol staat met figuren uit griezelige stadslegendes?
Herbie en Violet vermoeden dat Aals snode plannen heeft. En zeker wanneer ze het verhaal horen van uitvinder Festergrim en zijn mechanische reus...
De cover is kleurrijk en ziet er toch ook dreigend uit. We zien een mechanische reus met twee kinderen en een witte kat die hem proberen te ontwijken. Het belooft weer een spannend verhaal te worden.
Het geheim van Festergrim is deel vier van de Owee aan Zee serie, maar doordat het om een heel nieuw avontuur gaat, ook prima zelfstandig te lezen. Al zal het een feest van herkenning zijn voor diegenen die de andere boeken ook gelezen hebben, want veel van de personages uit het stadje komen in dit avontuur natuurlijk ook weer voorbij. Herbie Citroen, de gevonden-voorwerper in het Grand Hotel Nautilus, is een naïeve, slimme en goedgelovige jongen, maar altijd bereid om iemand te helpen. Violet Purperwier is een vrolijk en stoer meisje. Een echte doorzetter, voor niemand bang en beste vriendin van Herbie. Dan is daar nog Snorrie, de opwindheremietkreeft en trouwe mechanische sidekick, die Herbie al uit heel wat netelige kwesties gered heeft. En natuurlijk Erwin, de boekwinkelkat, die altijd paraat staat met goede raad en wijze woorden.
Maar nu is Sebastiaan Aals onverwachts teruggekomen naar Owee aan Zee om het Festergrim Wassenbeeldenmuseum te heropenen. Een museum waar de legenden van Owee aan Zee werden verteld. Gezien de streken uit het verleden hebben Herbie en Violet hebben weinig vertrouwen in de plannen van Aals, maar de volwassenen willen hem wel een kans geven. Al gauw komen er goedbewaarde geheimen van lang geleden boven water en dreigt alles verkeerd af te lopen. Zal het Herbie en Violet ook deze keer lukken om met de hulp van Snorrie en Erwin dit avontuur tot een goed eind te brengen?
Door de fijne schrijfstijl en de vele leuke woordgrapjes leest het verhaal vlot en voor je het weet ga je helemaal op in het verhaal en is het net of jij zelf in Owee aan Zee bent. De plattegrond voorin het boek is daarbij een handig hulpmiddel.
De spanning wordt goed opgebouwd en er is volop actie en avontuur.
Naast de kleurrijke cover zijn er kleine zwart/wit illustraties aan het begin van elk hoofdstuk die goed aansluiten bij de inhoud.
Het geheim van Festergrim is een spannend verhaal over vriendschap en samenwerking. Geschikt voor kinderen vanaf ongeveer 7/8 jaar die van avonturen met een vleugje magie houden.
En de nieuwsgierige aagjes krijgen helemaal aan het eind ook al een vooruitblik naar deel vijf. Ik kijk in elk geval alvast uit naar Het geheim van Meermindusa!
Sebastiaan Aals, aartsvijand van Herbie en Violet, duikt plots op in het stadje Owee aan Zee, en dat voorspelt niet veel goeds. Waarom wil hij nieuw leven blazen in het Festergrim Wassenbeeldenmuseum, dat vol staat met figuren uit griezelige stadslegendes?
Herbie en Violet vermoeden dat Aals snode plannen heeft. En zeker wanneer ze het verhaal horen van uitvinder Festergrim en zijn mechanische reus...
De cover is kleurrijk en ziet er toch ook dreigend uit. We zien een mechanische reus met twee kinderen en een witte kat die hem proberen te ontwijken. Het belooft weer een spannend verhaal te worden.
Het geheim van Festergrim is deel vier van de Owee aan Zee serie, maar doordat het om een heel nieuw avontuur gaat, ook prima zelfstandig te lezen. Al zal het een feest van herkenning zijn voor diegenen die de andere boeken ook gelezen hebben, want veel van de personages uit het stadje komen in dit avontuur natuurlijk ook weer voorbij. Herbie Citroen, de gevonden-voorwerper in het Grand Hotel Nautilus, is een naïeve, slimme en goedgelovige jongen, maar altijd bereid om iemand te helpen. Violet Purperwier is een vrolijk en stoer meisje. Een echte doorzetter, voor niemand bang en beste vriendin van Herbie. Dan is daar nog Snorrie, de opwindheremietkreeft en trouwe mechanische sidekick, die Herbie al uit heel wat netelige kwesties gered heeft. En natuurlijk Erwin, de boekwinkelkat, die altijd paraat staat met goede raad en wijze woorden.
Maar nu is Sebastiaan Aals onverwachts teruggekomen naar Owee aan Zee om het Festergrim Wassenbeeldenmuseum te heropenen. Een museum waar de legenden van Owee aan Zee werden verteld. Gezien de streken uit het verleden hebben Herbie en Violet hebben weinig vertrouwen in de plannen van Aals, maar de volwassenen willen hem wel een kans geven. Al gauw komen er goedbewaarde geheimen van lang geleden boven water en dreigt alles verkeerd af te lopen. Zal het Herbie en Violet ook deze keer lukken om met de hulp van Snorrie en Erwin dit avontuur tot een goed eind te brengen?
Door de fijne schrijfstijl en de vele leuke woordgrapjes leest het verhaal vlot en voor je het weet ga je helemaal op in het verhaal en is het net of jij zelf in Owee aan Zee bent. De plattegrond voorin het boek is daarbij een handig hulpmiddel.
De spanning wordt goed opgebouwd en er is volop actie en avontuur.
Naast de kleurrijke cover zijn er kleine zwart/wit illustraties aan het begin van elk hoofdstuk die goed aansluiten bij de inhoud.
Het geheim van Festergrim is een spannend verhaal over vriendschap en samenwerking. Geschikt voor kinderen vanaf ongeveer 7/8 jaar die van avonturen met een vleugje magie houden.
En de nieuwsgierige aagjes krijgen helemaal aan het eind ook al een vooruitblik naar deel vijf. Ik kijk in elk geval alvast uit naar Het geheim van Meermindusa!
September 25, 2024
Sebastian Eels is back in town. And he's not hiding. He is telling all the adults he has changed his ways and he wants to restore the local waxworks museum, Festergrimm's, into a working museum and tourist magnet. Herbie and Violet didn't even know there was an old waxwork's museum in town. They learn it was actually originally a toy shop that belonged to a brilliant inventor, but closed after a robot the creator built to find his missing daughter went haywire and destroyed much of the town. Violet and Herbie are sure Eels must have a sinister reason to want access to the old waxworks or inventions. But most of the town eagerly welcomes the idea, while Violet and Herbie's guardians are a bit more hesitant. They decide to err on the side of grace, and give Sebastian a chance to prove himself. Violet is determined to find out what he's really up to, and Herbie is inevitably along for the ride.
Reading this I realized that Eerie-on-Sea adventures are like the best B scifi movies meet Scooby Doo. There are rather serious situations but you are always pretty sure the kids will make it out ok, and there's a kind of cartoon-like not quite real quality to the world of Eerie-on-Sea that makes it easier to disassociate yourself and not feel nearly as tense or horrific as it could be. There are some rather subtle nods to Frankenstein and King Kong in this Eerie-on-Sea story. I like that the town is willing to offer second chances; it's a good reminder that we all sometimes need a second chance (and they talk about that). Of course, their trust in Eels is misplaced, and he does have a somewhat sinister goal. There are huge teasing questions about Herbie's background this specific adventure brings up and will keep readers clamoring for the next book in the series. Hand this to readers who want a creepy but not nightmare-inducing scary story and like kid investigators/adventurers.
Notes on content:
Language: 4 minor swears.
Sexual content: None
Violence: In the past the navy took out the robot with a bomb that also impacted his human owner and it talks about body parts being found and possibly used in future waxworks. This grosses out Violet and Herbie, understandably. Eels is dismantling waxwork sculptures of people with a saw and the kids walk in on him talking about chopping off heads and other body parts (only wax ones).
Ethnic diversity: The setting feels European-ish, there aren't a lot of descriptors of main characters.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: Creepy waxworks at night, AI controlled robots, a sneaky lying adult taking advantage of others' trust.
Reading this I realized that Eerie-on-Sea adventures are like the best B scifi movies meet Scooby Doo. There are rather serious situations but you are always pretty sure the kids will make it out ok, and there's a kind of cartoon-like not quite real quality to the world of Eerie-on-Sea that makes it easier to disassociate yourself and not feel nearly as tense or horrific as it could be. There are some rather subtle nods to Frankenstein and King Kong in this Eerie-on-Sea story. I like that the town is willing to offer second chances; it's a good reminder that we all sometimes need a second chance (and they talk about that). Of course, their trust in Eels is misplaced, and he does have a somewhat sinister goal. There are huge teasing questions about Herbie's background this specific adventure brings up and will keep readers clamoring for the next book in the series. Hand this to readers who want a creepy but not nightmare-inducing scary story and like kid investigators/adventurers.
Notes on content:
Language: 4 minor swears.
Sexual content: None
Violence: In the past the navy took out the robot with a bomb that also impacted his human owner and it talks about body parts being found and possibly used in future waxworks. This grosses out Violet and Herbie, understandably. Eels is dismantling waxwork sculptures of people with a saw and the kids walk in on him talking about chopping off heads and other body parts (only wax ones).
Ethnic diversity: The setting feels European-ish, there aren't a lot of descriptors of main characters.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: Creepy waxworks at night, AI controlled robots, a sneaky lying adult taking advantage of others' trust.
August 27, 2023
Welcome back to Eerie-on-Sea to the fourth part of the „Legends of Eerie-on-Sea“ series: Festergrimm by Thomas Taylor.
Each visit taken to Eerie-On-Sea, a wonderfully edgy place, strange, gothic and inhabited by some singular people, is full of legends, mystery and adventure.
„He, whose name I will not mention“, is back in town. And he launches Herbie and Vi into another adventure going to reveal the deepest secret of Eerie-on-Sea. „You-know-who“ will reopen the long forgotten „Festergrimm’s Waxworks“, an abandoned tourist attraction. It’s a dusty and defunct old gallery full of spooky mechanical waxwork characters from Eerie legend with a ghost train ride through the exhibition.
Herbie and Vi are sure „he“ is up to no good, but all the adults around them are less wary. Our heroes need the help of all their friends, especially from Clermit the wind-up crab and Erwin the cat to solve and survive this deliciously creepy, slightly macabre quest to solve another intriguing Eerie-on-Sea mystery … And to stop Eels’ sinister plan.
Together with Herbie and Vi, we are sneaking around the town, through the waxworks exhibition and workshops and exploring dark tunnels beyond the town. And very often we find ourselves in the presence of „him“ … Best you find out yourself if this is good or rather suboptimal.
Thomas Taylor shows once again how to create a spooky, tense and eerie atmosphere with a handful funny moments. And sure, for me there’s magic in Taylor’s writing.
"Mermedusa", the last part of the Eerie-on-Sea-Mysteries will be published on September 7, 2023.
If you want to read my full review (with pictures) please visit our blog: https://deborahsbuecherhimmel.de/thom...
Greetings
Dirk
Each visit taken to Eerie-On-Sea, a wonderfully edgy place, strange, gothic and inhabited by some singular people, is full of legends, mystery and adventure.
„He, whose name I will not mention“, is back in town. And he launches Herbie and Vi into another adventure going to reveal the deepest secret of Eerie-on-Sea. „You-know-who“ will reopen the long forgotten „Festergrimm’s Waxworks“, an abandoned tourist attraction. It’s a dusty and defunct old gallery full of spooky mechanical waxwork characters from Eerie legend with a ghost train ride through the exhibition.
Herbie and Vi are sure „he“ is up to no good, but all the adults around them are less wary. Our heroes need the help of all their friends, especially from Clermit the wind-up crab and Erwin the cat to solve and survive this deliciously creepy, slightly macabre quest to solve another intriguing Eerie-on-Sea mystery … And to stop Eels’ sinister plan.
Together with Herbie and Vi, we are sneaking around the town, through the waxworks exhibition and workshops and exploring dark tunnels beyond the town. And very often we find ourselves in the presence of „him“ … Best you find out yourself if this is good or rather suboptimal.
Thomas Taylor shows once again how to create a spooky, tense and eerie atmosphere with a handful funny moments. And sure, for me there’s magic in Taylor’s writing.
"Mermedusa", the last part of the Eerie-on-Sea-Mysteries will be published on September 7, 2023.
If you want to read my full review (with pictures) please visit our blog: https://deborahsbuecherhimmel.de/thom...
Greetings
Dirk
January 20, 2023
Herbert Lemon is taking a break from adventure. After finding numerous local legends hold more than a grain of truth along with his best friend, Violet Parma, he's happy to not be caught in the dangers that come with being mixed up in them. That is until the villain behind all the previous eerie events shows up back in town. Sebastian Eels claims remorse and is eager to reopen the creepy old waxworks attraction Festergrimm's. The promise of renewed tourism has many townsfolk ready to give him a second chance, but Herbie and Violet can't shake the feeling that his return means something terrible is coming - especially when they learn the story from which the attraction got its name...
Returning to Eerie-on-Sea is always such a pleasure. The mix of myths and danger in the off season of this vacation spot never ceases to draw me in. The latest legend draws inspiration from classic film monsters and hints of a connection to Herbie as intriguing as the clockwork monster is to him. I liked the idea of the wax museum as it's easy to imagine as spooky, making it a perfect location for the story to revolve around. This was a book I couldn't put down and wish didn't have to end. Very much looking forward to the next addition to the Eerie-on-Sea series to see what more is revealed about our hero and the town he resides.
A perfectly creepy mystery, Festergrimm is an engaging read you could enjoy year round but would be especially fun in the fall. Fans of Lemony Snicket will delight in this tale that will leave them wondering what secrets favourite destinations might hide.
Returning to Eerie-on-Sea is always such a pleasure. The mix of myths and danger in the off season of this vacation spot never ceases to draw me in. The latest legend draws inspiration from classic film monsters and hints of a connection to Herbie as intriguing as the clockwork monster is to him. I liked the idea of the wax museum as it's easy to imagine as spooky, making it a perfect location for the story to revolve around. This was a book I couldn't put down and wish didn't have to end. Very much looking forward to the next addition to the Eerie-on-Sea series to see what more is revealed about our hero and the town he resides.
A perfectly creepy mystery, Festergrimm is an engaging read you could enjoy year round but would be especially fun in the fall. Fans of Lemony Snicket will delight in this tale that will leave them wondering what secrets favourite destinations might hide.
October 13, 2022
FESTERGRIMM is another mystery in the seaside town of Eerie-on-Sea, where legends (unfortunately for the leads) tend to come to life. This time, they're up against a very creepy waxwork parlour (and consistently go in after dark leading to some unnerving sequences!) and also giant robots.
Sebastian Eels is back and all the adults of the town are willing to give him a second chance (or don't believe he needs one as it's surely all just rumours.) But of course, the adults have all only been their for the end of Herbie and Violet's adventures, which means the pair are on their own save for some animals companions.
Erwin also returns and more actively involved in the story than ever. And the trio gain some assistance from another animal source (though they also get as much frustrating thwarting too, particularly where food is involved!)
FESTERGRIMM contains the most unresolved items by the end of the series so far. While the main "what is Eels up to?" and "how is this legend going to play out?" questions are solved, there are hints that there might have been someone else around and also the "great treasure" at the heart of Eerie-on-Sea is mentioned more and more this book. I have a few theories of how these elements might play out in the next book (MERMEDUSA) and I do hope that one day the central mysteries that are in the periphery of the books will be solved, particularly as it feels like they're gaining more prominence.
Sebastian Eels is back and all the adults of the town are willing to give him a second chance (or don't believe he needs one as it's surely all just rumours.) But of course, the adults have all only been their for the end of Herbie and Violet's adventures, which means the pair are on their own save for some animals companions.
Erwin also returns and more actively involved in the story than ever. And the trio gain some assistance from another animal source (though they also get as much frustrating thwarting too, particularly where food is involved!)
FESTERGRIMM contains the most unresolved items by the end of the series so far. While the main "what is Eels up to?" and "how is this legend going to play out?" questions are solved, there are hints that there might have been someone else around and also the "great treasure" at the heart of Eerie-on-Sea is mentioned more and more this book. I have a few theories of how these elements might play out in the next book (MERMEDUSA) and I do hope that one day the central mysteries that are in the periphery of the books will be solved, particularly as it feels like they're gaining more prominence.
January 4, 2023
Festergrimm is an excellent story in a great series of children's books. Sebastien Eels has returned to town, without a disguise, in search of the fantastic clockwork of Ludo Festergrimm. Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma must figure out Eels' plan and stop his machinations.
In Festergrimm, Thomas Taylor adds new elements to the world of Eerie-on-Sea, ably building on what he has created in the three preceding volumes. The plot runs along at a good pace, with an entertaining mix of action and intrigue to keep readers guessing and interested throughout.
Although readers no longer have to guess who the mysterious antagonist is (or which guise Sebastien Eels might be inhabiting), there is plenty to keep readers thinking about. Actually- the transition from Shadowghast to Festergrimm makes more sense than the transitions between other volumes, as Eels was not apparently eaten by some sort of monster at the end of the previous story this time. That said, Eels has become more cartoonish as a villain, which is a little irritating given he was such a suave character when first introduced.
Festergrimm also does an excellent job of pulling together these volumes as a more cohesive whole. We get a few hints about Herbert Lemon's past, what Eels knows about it, and how Lemon is connected to the past of Eerie-on-Sea. I'm very much looking forward to reading the coming books with my son seeing what happens next.
In Festergrimm, Thomas Taylor adds new elements to the world of Eerie-on-Sea, ably building on what he has created in the three preceding volumes. The plot runs along at a good pace, with an entertaining mix of action and intrigue to keep readers guessing and interested throughout.
Although readers no longer have to guess who the mysterious antagonist is (or which guise Sebastien Eels might be inhabiting), there is plenty to keep readers thinking about. Actually- the transition from Shadowghast to Festergrimm makes more sense than the transitions between other volumes, as Eels was not apparently eaten by some sort of monster at the end of the previous story this time. That said, Eels has become more cartoonish as a villain, which is a little irritating given he was such a suave character when first introduced.
Festergrimm also does an excellent job of pulling together these volumes as a more cohesive whole. We get a few hints about Herbert Lemon's past, what Eels knows about it, and how Lemon is connected to the past of Eerie-on-Sea. I'm very much looking forward to reading the coming books with my son seeing what happens next.
October 17, 2023
Thomas Taylor has most definitely done it again! Festergrimm is every bit a masterpiece of creative writing as the preceding three adventures, actually more so.
Our three favourite protagonists, Herbie Lemon, Violet Parma, and Erwin the cat, return to do battle with Herbie's nemesis, Sebastian Eels. Yes, the most despicable villain since Dick Dastardly, returns from the dead and walks casually into Eerie-on-Sea as though he hadn't tried to kill both Herbie and Violet in the previous books. This time, it seems to come in peace, repent, and benefit the townsfolk by opening an old and disused waxwork museum called Festergrimm.
Of course, where Eels is involved, things are never going to be simple or honest.
A brilliant rollercoaster adventure ensues as our heroes first seek to find the truth behind Eels' benign appearance, then later deal with the ancient monster unleashed on the town. All the favourite cast of extras are there too, some with secrets they really don't want exposing!
Top marks for a story so rich you can smell the adventure and fish and chips at Seegols Diner on every page.
Miss this one at your peril, as I have been promised by Thomas that "Lots will be revealed in Mermedusa." the final breathtaking book in this series.
Our three favourite protagonists, Herbie Lemon, Violet Parma, and Erwin the cat, return to do battle with Herbie's nemesis, Sebastian Eels. Yes, the most despicable villain since Dick Dastardly, returns from the dead and walks casually into Eerie-on-Sea as though he hadn't tried to kill both Herbie and Violet in the previous books. This time, it seems to come in peace, repent, and benefit the townsfolk by opening an old and disused waxwork museum called Festergrimm.
Of course, where Eels is involved, things are never going to be simple or honest.
A brilliant rollercoaster adventure ensues as our heroes first seek to find the truth behind Eels' benign appearance, then later deal with the ancient monster unleashed on the town. All the favourite cast of extras are there too, some with secrets they really don't want exposing!
Top marks for a story so rich you can smell the adventure and fish and chips at Seegols Diner on every page.
Miss this one at your peril, as I have been promised by Thomas that "Lots will be revealed in Mermedusa." the final breathtaking book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews