Sunday, June 3, 2012

Ptolemy's Gate by Jonathan Stroud

This book is the conclusion to the Bartimaeus Trilogy, which starts with The Amulet of Samarkand. As the last book, it is a fitting final adventure for Nathaniel and Bartimaeus. Honestly speaking, the trilogy is quite dark, with humor only thrown in by the Djinni Bartimaeus. The character Bartimaeus is shrouded in mystery for up to the latter parts of Ptolemy's Gate, where it finally reveals his past. Up to that point, he is shown as an intelligent, witty being, with wisdom from his countless years. Reading his adventures are a treat and knowing that they are over saddens me. Nonetheless, his personality is quite charming in the sense that it is not like most protagonists, especially his magician partner. I cannot give away much about Nathaniel since throughout the series he changes many times. To say anymore would be a very big spoiler. Moving on, the ending was once again, very touching and moving to me, where it leaves one deep in thought. However, the ending wraps up everything starting from book one very nicely, one that left a bittersweet feeling fresh in my mind. Although I keep wondering what would happen under other circumstances, I knew that the ending would end somewhat along the lines that it did, since if one reads the books they can see how it would end. For those of you who choose to read the whole series, you will find emotions similar to mine and wondering about different possibilities for the ending. It is a very enjoyable series and definitely worth checking out, a nice fantasy story with a refreshing take on a hero's journey.  ~ Felix C. (per. 7/8)

6 comments:

  1. I have this series at home but have never gotten around to it. It sounds awesome and in depth, so I might just have to pick it up. --Aidan Werder 4

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  2. The series look very interesting. Since it is a fantasy and hero story, I would really like to read this book.

    Jun Sun You - Peirod 7/8

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    1. I would hate to burst your bubble, but at many points of the story, it is not really a hero story but more of a tale of redemption. I would say more, but that would give away a lot of the plot.

      -Felix Chan Period 7/8

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  3. I'm reading The Amulet of Samarkand right now and so far, it's really interesting. Now I'm getting more anxious to find out what happens in the rest of the trilogy. -Phillip Park Period 7/8

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    1. It is definitely a series worth reading, there's a lot of tension and excitement whenever you pick up the book. I believe the series ties up any loose ends worth noting and that is definitely worth trying at any rate.

      -Felix Chan Period 7/8

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  4. Even though this series is not as well known as some of the others, I believe that this book should be given a chance by any who like fantasy, adventure and/or fictional stories. It's a touching tale that allows one to see the growth of one boy's person and his life in a unique situation.

    -Felix Chan Period 7/8

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