The Apothecary

The Apothecary exists in a class with Scott's Alchemist series, Riordan's Lightening Thief series, Divergent and Michael Vay-- and is simply wonderful...I have a Tween daughter who is an avid reader and I am always looking for new authors for her to try...I hit a gold mine with Maile Meloy. Obviously I am not the target audience...but I thoroughly enjoyed this book...My daugher is on her second go-round listening and is quoting passages. It is original, funny, action packed and full of fantasy--a recipe my child cannot resist. She did, however, have one complaint--she does not like the ending--it is a cliffhanger and now she has to wait and hope he author publishes a follow up book...which we will be certain to add to our collection. There is a select group of books (comparison books I listed among them) that we purchase in hardcover and on audio...this is firmly in that category. Highly recommended by Mother and daughter...

This is a YA adventure story set in the 1950s featuring an American girl (14, I believe), whose screenwriter parents have to leave the US due to the blacklist and relocate to London. She has the usual adjustment troubles, until she gets involved with a group of underground apothecaries who can make potions with magical powers and who are trying to rein in the nuclear arms race. There are chases, a lot of colorful characters, a small dash of romance and wistful ending. I think there will be a sequel, to which I look forward eagerly.

Meloy is a renowned author of adult fiction, and one plus of THE APOTHECARY is that it is exceptionally well-written for a children's book.

For lovers of "A Wrinkle in Time," "Narnia" and Pullman's "His Dark Materials" series, this captivating story comes complete with a plucky heroine, a fast-paced and adventure-packed plot as well as an excellent performance by the narrator. Can???t wait to read everything else Meloy???s written.

PreTeen Novel

Great fantasy.

SHe went from character to character very smoothly and was easy to follow

All three kids because it was their fantastic journey

I only wish I had known that it was about young people. Great story, reminded me a bit of the Hunger Games..as the characters were about the same age.

Such a fun story. Well written and an excellent narrator.

I rather liked the poor gardener, even though his appearance was brief.

Excellent character distinctions, good accents.

I liked this book, but was suprised that others fell in love with it. It was a good adventure story focused on young adults (14/15ish). But the story was complete fantasy which I was not expecting. It was a fun read & The reader was excellent.

That was literally the best book I have ever read!!!! I'm so glad that I decided to read it! I loved it so much! Thank you:)

A well crafted tale which delves into the realm of the fantastic, without getting bogged down there. Enjoyed it very much

The book is not terrible, it just was not what I was expecting based on what I had read about this book and I was disappointed

The story was tame, and sort of preachy about war

Good Character voices

I would not go see it, so I wont put any effort into the question

This is a good book but just not a fit for my reading preferences, probably best for kids under 6th grade

It is not often that I come across a book that is enjoyable to 3 generations, but this book fits that bill. The narration adds great dimension to the story. A fantastic choice for a car trip.