The Viking's Apprentice Paperback – April 13, 2013

In a children's book, it is very important to get the right tone. If badly done, the story-teller within the story comes across as annoying, or worse, boring. Here, we are spellbound by the simple, yet equally deep and complex stories told by "Granddad" who is also one of the main characters in this book.The beginning is perfect. Not much happens, but it is so innocently told that we love reading about how the adventure started. This author has wisely found depth in quiet, simple scenes and does not resort to the desperation of cramming in action at the beginning like so many novice authors.The setting is perfect as well. We can visualize the small town by the ocean and Granddad's sprawling mansion with all its mysteries.The mass battle scenes are okay. They seemed to ramble on and you get the impression that they could go either way, and just because the protagonists are good guys, they are allowed to win. If the mass battles were as well done as the rest of this story, I would assign the whole book five stars.This book is to be very highly commended for its "tone." It sounds very authoritative in the sense we want to listen, we don't want to stop hearing it, because it is so interesting. We want to be patient (and our patience is amply rewarded) because we realize there's no other way we want to spend our time. As well, the children's book perspective is nailed down, and that's very important. I can see why the author said that teachers in his home country are using this book in their classrooms.Thank you, Mr. McLeod.

The author did a good job at describing the characters. He didn't go into a serious detailed analysis of the characters which I liked because it takes to much out of the story it allows you to find out more in the story not give it to you and make the story boring. The author made you have to think more on the subject. He also didn't have any foul language or inappropriate things through the book. The author kept you interested and he also made it piece together and flow very nicely.

I liked this book - a free Kindle download. There were enough advance 'tells' to let me know some of what was coming to hold my interest (when would this information come out?). And, some unexpected turns, too. The story could have ended, but was left with a believable transition to the next in the series. I'll look at it, too.

This book was really quite good. A young man vîsits his grandfather for the sūmmer, he finds out some very interesting stuff about good ole grand dad, really interesting things. He makes some new friends, meets a cute girl and learns a lot about his family history. Looking forward to book two.

I purchased this book for my son and he would not stop raving about it. To the point I decided to read it to my daughters. This is a very fun book. Mr. McLeod does an excellent job drawing you into the story and exercising your imagination, from Vikings to Witches, stories of dragons and a fun cast of friends all gathered at grandfathers during a small vacation, but are soon hurled into a wonderful adventure. This book keeps you wanting more and makes you eager for the next book.

I gave five stars because I enjoyed this story so much..I am a fifty something teenager. I have just started reading again and this is the kind of book I wish we would have had when I was a young man..Can't wait to read part two. If I can figure out how to download it..Hahaha..

Can't wait to see how the apprentice develops his skills

Excellent reading. Once I began reading I didn't want to put the book down. Lots of descriptive action. I will definitely recommend this book to all my grandchildren. There was no bad language or inappropriate comments. I can't wait to read the next book.

Easy read. Not much of Viking historical significance.

An adrenaline filled tale full of witches, goblins, dragons and other not so mythical creatures. Two seventh graders, best friends, Peter and George discover some rather startling truths when they arrive at Peter's Grandad's house to stay for the summer holidays.A magical tale, full of life, a talking bear, Vikings and an awesome adventure battling evil beings. Helped by Jake, a brave little Jack Russell dog.Great beginning to a series that is well worth reading. Beware the shadows!Highly recommended.

This is enjoyable with strong characters. Whilst perfect for YA readers it holds plenty of interest for older readers too. Plenty of interesting twists leave me reaching for Book 2.

I'll be honest. I wasn't expecting much from this book. It's really not my thing and not a genre I tend to read, the artwork on the cover is nice. I found this author when I opened up my Rebbie Reviews twitter account and thought I'd give it a whirl.So, what did I think? Well it seemed a little strange, the book opens with vikings and then the next thing you know you're in a school at the end of term. I figured it'd be some little boy's wild imagination or a school project. Peter, our main character is going to spend the summer at his grandad's house in Campbell's Cove. Then the book really gets going! This is a story like none I've ever read, it's got everything from kids to vikings to witches, trolls and talking bears!Aimed at older children and young adults, it's fun for a wide range of people including those who are fans of the genre, it's well written with good description but still allowing that bit of artistic license for the reader. It's easy to read and I could not put this book down, by mid way through I was completely hooked and excited to see what would happen next.I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone but any of you guys with young teens? Get this book to them!9/10Kevin's next book is in the works now and I for one, cannot wait to read it!

I bought the 2 books in the series for my 8 year old. He is a typical boy and has to be prompted to read. He has never been a "harry Potter" fan and preferred Dairy of a wimpy kid and gangster granny type books. He loves Vikings and mystery type adventures so thought this would capture his imagination.Well forget my son...I loved it! The books are well written, full of adventure and the characters and settings very easy to imagine.As for my son he found them easy to read as the layout of the book is a slightly larger print and the line spacing makes it less daunting for young or less confident readers.This writer is one to watch. If you struggle to get your kids to read...buy this. They will love it!Cant wait for the next book!