Recommended by a really lovely lady with whom I work (who always brings me treats like Valentine's cards or coupons or funny comics or origami gifts or books), Miss Peregrine's starts off as a true delight. Following the mysterious and violent death of his eccentric grandfather, Jacob heads to a remote, Welsh island in hopes of revealing Grandpa's secret past. There he discovers the old abandoned orphanage his grandfather grew up in and some of its terrifying secrets.
I was really into Miss Peregrine's in the beginning. The creepy pictures (apparently gathered by Mr. Riggs from flea markets and garage sales) are sort of scary but not in any real, keep-you-up-at-night way. And then suddenly, about halfway through, I hit a lull and lost interest in the book. I struggled to finish and was only motivated to continue so I could be done with it and move on to something I'd rather read. Part of the problem is the entire dilemma (initially) is whether or not Jacob will be able to uncover his grandfather's secret past. And then midway through, he does. There are more details to unearth, but for the most part, the cat's out of the bag. And once you know, the new sort of second story or dilemma that develops just isn't as enticing. Many new characters are introduced, but you don't feel invested in any of them except Jacob. And it all gets confusing and you kind of just don't buy it. Or at least I didn't.
But what do I know? It was/is very popular so maybe my distaste is just a personal reaction. But I think readers are drawn to Miss Peregrine's because of the images and the creepy beginning. After that, you might keep reading to see how it will wrap up. It definitely sets itself up for a sequel(s).
Watch this book trailer if you're interested:
In other news, I had a great, long weekend and was lucky enough to cheer on this year's Boston marathon runners close to the 25 mile mark! I was so impressed with these tough participants braving the record heat and putting one aching foot in front of the other all the way to Copley square. It was just the kick I needed to get me motivated for Chicago, 2012...I'm running it and need to get moving!
*Thanks for the pic BarnesandNoble.com!
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