The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet, Book 1 - by J D Peabody

“Everett wondered what all this had to do with his father. And what was the secret behind the Ink?” J.D. Peabody writes in his children’s book, The Inkwell Chronicles: The Ink of Elspet. ~ What ~ The first book in the series, this three-hundred-and-eighty-four-page hardbound with a jacket cover targets children ages eight to twelve years old. Set in England and Scotland, it is the beginning of the adventures of a brother and sister and how they learn courage and bravery. A few scary scenes and topics of drug use and physical abuse may not be appropriate for immature readers. In this tale, eleven-year-old Everett and his eight-year-old sister, Bea, are on a quest to find their father, who has been abducted by the Commander of the Blotters, a band of creatures that will do anything to get rid of Ink in the world. When the children learn the powers of a special pen and its magical ink, they try to locate their dad and find a new supply of ink. ~Why ~ Those who like an innovative story that is fast-paced as the protagonists stay one step ahead of those seeking them will like this read. It was engaging to learn about Mind Murks, Ink Waves, Inkasement, Ausculators, and the Stink as the Inklings were on the hunt to find their dad. I like the symbolism of Ink being so powerful and creative to humans. ~ Why Not ~ Those who do not care for fantasies that include a homing pigeon, raven, wolves, lovebugs, and more may pass on this series. Some may not like the chapters involving being trapped or attacked. This book has complicated wording so would not work for some readers. ~ Wish ~ While I liked the idea of a story that promotes courage and bravery, I did not care for its lack of discipline regarding stealing or its vague concepts of God with its few mentions of Christianity, prayers, psalms, and a hymn. ~ Want ~ If you are looking for a creative chapter book series about an insecure boy learning to step out of his shell and an inquisitive girl not being afraid, this would be enjoyed by its targeted age group. Thanks to Hachette Book Group, WorthyKids, and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.