The Book Without Words: A Fable of Medieval Magic

Written by Avi

Narrated by John Curless

Hiding from a cadaverous stalker in 1046 England, Thorston races to unleash the magical charms from the diabolical Book Without Words. Suddenly-with success almost in his grasp-he slumps to the floor, muttering cryptic words. Newbery Award-winning author Avi adds this jewel to his many literary gems offered by Recorded Books. "Thoughtful readers will devour its absorbing plot and humorous elements, and learn a 'useful truth' along the way."-School Library Journal

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 16, 2008
• ISBN: 9781440796036

Avi

Avi is the award-winning author of more than eighty-two books for young readers, ranging from animal fantasy to gripping historical fiction, picture books to young adult novels. Crispin: The Cross of Lead won the Newbery Medal, and The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Nothing but the Truth were awarded Newbery Honors. He is also the author of the popular Poppy series. Avi lives in Denver, Colorado. Visit him online at avi-writer.com.

Reviews for The Book Without Words

[jalenv_2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Although the spells involved are different, Sybil's predicament in The Book Without Words reminds me of that of Stephen, the orphan taken in by his cousin, Mr. Abney. Like Mr. Abney, the wizard who took in the orphaned Sybil has a sinister plan in mind for his young charge. Sybil and the wizard's talking crow need someone with green eyes to be able to read the Book Without Words.

[robertalea-223265 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I love this man's works. I am glad he is still writing.

[vhartpowers · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

An interesting tale for children about a book of magic that only certain people with green eyes can read the words.
A story about greed and selfishness.
You get out of life what you put into it.

[krumbs_1 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

It rather seemed like half the story was missing. None of the characters were that interesting, nothing much happened, and the end kind of fizzled. It was my first try for a book by this author, but I'm not sure I'm going to try any others given this let down.

[hippielunatic · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This was certainly an easy book to read, but I admit, it wasn't all that quick for me. I was not drawn into the story; I didn't much care for the main character of Sybil. I didn't feel any compassion toward her or her plight, and therefore, I was not pushed to turn pages as I often am in children's novels. There was very little heart in this story.

[simply00complex · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was a random find in the bargain section at Borders. The cover had a very Edgar Allen Poe sense about it so I bought it. It was a quick read, definitely for kids, I would say ages 8-12. It was a good solid story taking place in medieval England. It's about alchemy, magic, and talking birds. I enjoyed it. I'm just disappointed the bird didn't say, "Nevermore" at any point in the story. That would have made my month!

[missteacher_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Let's just call this the Middle Schooler's Philosophical Primer. Burdened by an extremely dreary beginning, the last third of this short "fable" really popped with imagery, suspense and enough Meaning-of-Life posturing to bring anyone back from the dead. Just before the book faded like a wisp of alchemical smoke, I found myself biting my nails, screaming "No!", and asking myself just what does it mean to live and live well. I could see myself having some very good discussions with the students about some of the issues raised. If you have a few minutes to spare (some to be bored, and some to be thrilled), read this book.

[mrsdwilliams · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This mysterious tale takes place in medieval times. Thorston uses a seemingly blank book as part of his evil plot to become young again. An old priest, a young servant girl, a green-eyed boy, and a talking raven join forces to stop Thorston. If he succeeds, Sybil and Odo will die.The best part is this quote: "A life unlived is like a book without words."Not my favorite book by this author, but good for younger readers.

[litfan_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A quick read that's full of atmosphere. This is a good read for those cold rainy days when you'd like to curl up with something and be totally absorbed in a different world. Avi calls the book a "fable," and it is reminiscent of that as it's embedded with lessons about greed, loyalty and power. Every now and then Avi slips in some dry commentary about those in power who perhaps shouldn't be, with subtle irony and humor that's almost reminiscent of Dickens in the way it calls attention to social injustice. I would recommend giving this little book a try.

[mslmc_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book, set in medieval England, is filled with arcane magic and alchemy. The story involves a 13-year-old girl, a talking crow, and their evil master who is determined to live forever by exchanging his servants lives for his own.

[lynnharp · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The title of this book is what made me want to read it. A book without words. I wondered what kind of book could not have words. I was hooked from the first sentence.

[zannybuck · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Pretty good, kinda creepy, over all a little boring, but I liked it. Hard to describe.

[heidilove_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was delightful. I wonder if we are going to see more of these characters. One hopes so.