Rating:  Summary: What a lovely book Review: Skellig is a hauntingly beautiful book about a wondrous yet painful time in a boy's life. It is a moving and compelling story about life and death and all things over and between. It is encompassing in a gorgeous way, but not at all overwhelming. I was very impressed by David Almond's writing style. The pacing of the story and the striking yet dreamlike creation of this world really made the story come to life. This is a very mature book and while it would be an incredible experience for children, it is probably too intense or "creepy" for younger kids. I will not be sharing it with my 6 year old sister for a few years. As for adults--read this book. It is a good experience. Be proud that you can stop and see the magic of life, in all its fragility and its indefatigable light; perhaps its the Skellig in all of us.
Rating:  Summary: Extraordinary Review: This book is just wonderful!!! I read it because jk rowling had suggested it. But now i am glad i read it because once you have read it keeps a feeling in your heart that never goes out. Any body can read this book.
Rating:  Summary: beautiful and enchanting Review: I just finished this book a moment ago and am in awe of it's beauty, intelligence, and elegant use of magic realism. Like the characters in Skellig, one must look deeply and listen carefully to capture all of the symoblism surrounding the birds, William Blakes' poetic references, nature, and the human spirit. I am a bookseller (and former teacher) that specializes in young adult fiction and highly recommend this book to parents, teachers, and anyone else looking for an inspiring read.
Rating:  Summary: Deceptive Reviews Review: I bought this book for my 12 year old son, based on its glowing reviews. I'm glad I read it first, because I'm sure he would have disliked it as much as I did. The characters are flat, unengaging, and undeveloped, the plot unfocused and without tension. The author seemed intent on giving us his "message" while ignoring the elements of good fiction. A boring, preachy read, with little to appeal to the adult or child reader.
Rating:  Summary: What can I say... Review: All that i've wanted to say has already been said by all these people. This is a gorgeous book. Well written, and it quickly became one of my faves. Do try out this book, no matter what your age is, if you love fantasy and if you love books about angels and such, then you just might love this book. *^__^*
Rating:  Summary: Skellig: for kids? Review: I'm glad I read this book before giving it to my 12 year old son. I found it to be unnecessarily grim and depressing. Until the very end, Michael's life circumstances seem hopeless. In addition, I thought it a little far fetched that a young girl would think of a half dead, insect eating, somewhat grotesque man-bird as an "extrordinary creature." This is not a story I enjoyed, rather I endured it. Why read something like this when there are so many other wonderful books out there for kids? I did not recommend it to my son, and I wouldn't for yours.
Rating:  Summary: Outstanding... Review: Michael was looking forward to moving house. Then the baby became ill and "Doctor Death" keeps coming to visit. Michael wishes he and his family had just stayed where they were. Then he steps into the crumbling, tumble-down garage. The garage that conceals a secret that is about to change Michael's world forever.When Michael discovers the mysterious creature known only as'Skellig', he can only guess at who or what he is and why he is there. Together with his friend Mina, Michael cares for the strange mixture of bird/man/angel, but his baby sister just doesn't seem to get well. Is it possible that the mysterious Skellig can save her? "Skellig" is a beautifully written story that is both powerful and sensitive. I have read a huge number of both children and adults' books, but this is one of the ones that stand out. It strays from the usual children's book formula and has an ending that is completely unexpected and unpredictable. The characters are unusual and well described and the author paints a vivid picture of the events that unfold. The book is both entertaining and informative and keeps the reader hooked throughout. I have read both of David Almond's other books, Kit's Wilderness and Heaven Eyes, and would rank this in the middle, with Kit's Wilderness as my far and away favourite. I would recommend this to both children and adults and if you enjoyed this, I would suggest "Kit's Wilderness" and "Heaven Eyes", both by the same author.
Rating:  Summary: More to think about than what is Skellig. Review: David Almond provides much food for thought in his debut novel Skellig. Issues of change, death, boy-girl friendships, the nature of learning, and faith are all explored and then some. In addition, this novel requires some "research," if the full meaning of Almond's symbolism is to be understood. It is a great novel both for showing kids the stresses in life (sick little sister, drifting apart from friends), as well as teaching them about literary techniques (forshadowing, symbolism).
Rating:  Summary: beautiful magic realist novel not just for Young Adults Review: Skellig is a truly beautiful and profound magic realist novel that holds appeal not only for Young Adult readers, but for older readers as well. Almond has stated, as some of his artistic influences for this novel, no less than Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Raymond Carver, and Italo Calvino. [The poetry of William Blake also features prominently in the story.] A Truly, truly amazing book that no lover of fantasy or magic realism should pass up. Highly recommended to fans of Neil Gaiman, et al. Note: Skellig won the Whitbread Children's Book of the Year award for 1998.
Rating:  Summary: What is skelliq owl or angle? Review: Who ever thought of a man having wings? Michell thought he was seeing things when he saw skelliq. That he had a jacket hanging over his back. He went to the creature asking him who he was he was skelliq said "nobody." Michell sister was in the hospital. She was just about a few days ago when the doctors realized something was wrong with her. Michell met a friend named Mina, who was a home schooler. She helps michell along his adventure. This book i thought was way different than anything i ever dreamed of. It makes u wonder what will happen next. I get suprised when Skelliq does something to michells sister! That will twist your brain on WHAT IS HE?
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