The Lighthouse Land

The Lighthouse Trilogy, Book 1

By: Adrian McKinty

Narrated by: Gerard Doyle

Length: 9 hrs and 58 mins

Publisher's summary

Introducing the first young-adult novel from crime fiction writer Adrian McKinty—whose adult books have been called “unputdownable” (Washington Post), “exceptional” (San Francisco Chronicle), and “profoundly satisfying” (Booklist)—this is the start of an epic sci-fi trilogy with an unforgettable hero.

When Jamie’s mother inherits a small island and moves her little family from Harlem to Ireland, her troubled son sees a chance to start over, far away from the bullies and the pitying stares. Cancer has left Jamie without an arm or the will to speak. But Muck Island is no sanctuary, and it offers more than solitude and sea views. Jamie learns that he is heir to an ancient title—Laird of Muck, Guardian of the Passage—and certain otherworldly responsibilities. With the help of a mysterious object he discovers in the island’s old lighthouse, Jamie sets out on a dangerous interstellar mission that could change the course of his life—and the universe—forever.

Tautly paced and brilliantly imagined, this novel will thrill sci-fi fans eager for new heroes and new worlds to explore.

©2006 Adrian McKinty (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“McKinty, previously known for adult crime novels, brings an attuned ear for dialogue and a taut pacing to his first YA outing, the launch title in the Lighthouse Trilogy.” ( Publishers Weekly)

“This thought-provoking sci-fi adventure offers universal appeal, excitement, and a one-of-a-kind hero whose courage and compassion will inspire any reader.” ( Children’s Literature)

“Few readers will be able to resist…Teens will enjoy this first book in a planned trilogy.” ( VOYA)

great escapism

wonderful imaginative story. good narration recognized his accent from Eragon; enjoyed him then also. suspend belief and enjoy the story; makes me smile to remember the story. Enjoyed it so much I purchased 2 right away and then had to hear the conclusion of number 3!!!

Enjoyable

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

This is a fun story, fairly well written, characters worth getting to know, and a good reader. While the Lighthouse Land is improbable, the characters' journeys are worth the trip

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

let down but ok

What about Gerard Doyle’s performance did you like?

He didn't get in the way of the story.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

no

The narrator is confusing

The story is decent but all of the voice sound exactly the same. It was confusing

Not suitable for young audience

The story is fine but I was disappointed that there is bad language used and even a reference to adult content. Would have been a great book without the vulgarity. I will not be letting my kids listen to this title.

Not Quite Harry Potter

What disappointed you about The Lighthouse Land?

I know that it is intended for pre-teens but while the plot is okay, the action is really implausible. I could not help comparing it to the early books in the Harry Potter series. The kids' characters are just not consistent.

What do you think your next listen will be?

Probably the next Jo Nesbit book.

What does Gerard Doyle bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Gerard Doyle in the Sean Duffy, Michael Forsythe series, makes listening to excellent books much much much more enjoyable since use of the Irish expressions are so effective delivered in an Irish accent. I much prefer listening to these books than reading them imagining an Irish accent. Mr. Doyle manages to enhance the experience without being obtrusive. He is my favorite narrator.

If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from The Lighthouse Land?

I don't think that cutting scenes would fix this book for me.

Any additional comments?

none.

Get your Facts Straight

Deeply flawed effort for younger children by a favorite noire author. Has multiple errors of basic fact - one doesn't cure chicken pox with a vaccine, one prevents it, etc. Gerrard Doyle still a favorite narrator; his voice is a joy - listening to him do an older, black New Yorker is rather entertaining :)

Ackward

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

The point of view this writer had was ackward for me. It felt choppy, I just couldn't get into it and gave up before the first chapter was done.

Has The Lighthouse Land turned you off from other books in this genre?

No.

Would you be willing to try another one of Gerard Doyle’s performances?

No.

You didn’t love this book... but did it have any redeeming qualities?

No.

Any additional comments?

I liked the premise. But I never felt engaged or transported to the time and place, it felt like I was being forced to read something in my childhood when I hated reading.

Awful

Would you try another book from Adrian McKinty and/or Gerard Doyle?

This was just awful. The story was laughable and slow to start. The voices were terrible. The characters were hollow. No never again

How could the performance have been better?

The voices were terrible. I wasn't sure if he was Australian, Irish, or something all over the map

You didn’t love this book... but did it have any redeeming qualities?

No I kept rolling my eyes hoping it could end

Any additional comments?

This isn't YA it's pre-teen preteen.

A children's book

Starts off well and plunges into absurdity unless you're 12. Can't image this a trilogy!