Andrew H. Vanderwal

A little treasure of a book -- YA historical fiction set around 1300 in Scotland, involving some time travel. The author does a good job of blending his plot elements with real history, and that makes the story seem much more real. For instance, at one point Alex (the kid) tells an intentional fib to a British soldier, who then diverts his army across the Stirling Bridge, where William Wallace ("Braveheart" but I insult you, you knew that) then whacks them big time. If Alex hadn't done that one thing, the subsequent course of world history would've been quite different.

The characters are charming, the setting and action appealing. I didn't realize this was YA fiction at first -- it's a good story, well told. I'll definitely look for THE BATTLE FOR DUNCRAGGLIN, the author's previous novel about the same folks.… (mer)

Synopsis:
This is the second book in a series. Teenager Alex travels back in time to 13th century Scotland to find his missing parents. In Scotland, Alex teams up with his friends (who also traveled back in time to get him) to assist William Wallace in the Battle of Sterling Bridge.

Thoughts: Not knowing that the book was a sequel, made me confused in the beginning. The story is fast paced and full of adventure. However, as a time travel book, it is weak. The characters do not hide the fact that they are from the future. Although the historical scenes with William Wallace were good, the rest of the book was just okay.… (mer)