Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
37(37%)
4 stars
32(32%)
3 stars
31(31%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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This is my favorite children's book.

When I was eight, I listened to the audiobook, which is possibly the best one ever recorded, with my family. At that time, my brother was four, and my parents had different opinions on what makes a good book.

However, after listening, and even now, twelve years later, my whole family still agrees that this is one of the best books we've ever had the pleasure of reading.

The story is so captivating that it makes you feel the joy and sorrow along with the Boggart.

If you have the chance, don't hesitate to read it. I promise you won't regret it. You'll be immersed in a wonderful world and have an unforgettable reading experience.

So, pick up this book and let the adventure begin!
July 15,2025
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A disappointment after reading The Dark Is Rising Sequence.

It feels quite dated, as if it belongs to a bygone era. The storylines and characters lack the depth and complexity that modern readers have come to expect.

The writing style is also rather run of the mill, lacking the spark and innovation that would make it truly engaging. There are no real surprises or twists to keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

Overall, it's a series that fails to live up to its potential and leaves the reader feeling underwhelmed. It's a shame, as there are some interesting concepts and ideas buried within the pages, but they are not developed enough to make a lasting impression.

Perhaps if it had been updated and rewritten for a modern audience, it could have been a great series. But as it stands, it's just another disappointment in the world of literature.
July 15,2025
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Love me some Susan Cooper.

Her works are truly remarkable, especially The Dark is Rising series.

It's so captivating and engaging that it leaves a lasting impression on the readers.

One might wonder if anything could ever be as good as this series.

The answer is a resounding no.

The unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and mystery in her writing is simply unrivaled.

In fact, I'm so enamored with her writing that I'd read a telephone book if she wrote it.

Such is the power of her words and the magic she weaves through her stories.

She has a special talent for creating vivid worlds and characters that come alive on the pages.

Whether it's the thrilling quests or the deep emotions of the characters, Susan Cooper knows how to keep her readers hooked from start to finish.

Her books are a true delight and a must-read for any lover of literature.
July 15,2025
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I initially thought that this book was rather amusing.

However, at times, I did experience a sense of pity for the Boggart.

The story begins when a family gains custody of a castle that belonged to their deceased relative.

Unbeknownst to them, they also end up bringing a Boggart along with them.

This mischievous creature proceeds to cause a great deal of trouble and chaos.

Despite the Boggart's antics, the book is filled with elements of fantasy that make it an engaging read.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who has a penchant for the fantasy genre.

It offers a unique and entertaining storyline that is sure to capture the imagination of readers.

Whether you are a fan of magical creatures or simply enjoy a good adventure, this book has something for everyone.

So, if you're looking for a fun and exciting read, give this book a try.

You won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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Effin' Christ. I had such a fond memory of this book, yet I completely forgot that it was Susan Cooper who wrote it. That Susan Cooper? That Susan Cooper!!


That being said, when you revisit the Dark Is Rising sequence as an adult, it's not all that great. And Greenwitch was never that good to begin with. Additionally, as has been previously noted, it is extremely whitewashed.


The lack of diversity in the story is quite concerning. It fails to represent the real world and its many cultures and experiences. This can be a real turn-off for modern readers who are looking for more inclusive and representative literature.


Despite my initial fondness for the book, upon reevaluation, I have to admit that it has its flaws. However, it's still an important part of my literary history and I will always remember it with a certain degree of nostalgia.

July 15,2025
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I first heard about this book when I was a nine-year-old child. At that time, I was deeply intrigued by its description and immediately filed it away in my mental to-be-read list.

Fast forward nearly twenty years, and I came across this book completely by accident. Without hesitation, I bought it. The truly wonderful thing about this encounter is that the first time I read this book happened to be right after my first trip to Scotland.

As I delved into the pages, I could vividly feel the enchanting magic of Scotland that was so beautifully captured within the book. Every moment of reading was an absolute delight. I was especially captivated by the unique way in which old magic and legends seamlessly intertwined with "modern" technology.

This book has left such a profound impression on me that I have decided to incorporate it into my English classroom. I believe it will not only enhance the students' language skills but also transport them to a world of magic and wonder.
July 15,2025
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Nostalgia re-read 2018!

I carried a couple of clear memories about this story. Firstly, the Halloween costumes that added a touch of fun and mystery. Secondly, the ending with the computer game being central to the plot, which was quite engaging. However, what my sheltered baby self skimmed right over was the gay couple in the dad's theatre troupe. :D Also, I didn't catch the undercurrent of tension with Barry, the high-school dropout.

In 2018, the tech bits are hilariously dated. 2018 me also found the way the computer programming was handled to be written by someone who doesn't truly know how programming works. There's a sinister subplot with a doctor that doesn't really go anywhere. It felt like a fourth wall thumbing-of-the-nose at YA stories where the 'hauntings' are really a metaphor for the Curse Of Adolescence etc. For me, nothing about this plot thread worked, especially the parents' reactions. You have a doctor who says your daughter needs to be locked up and your response is to ignore her distress and think this is a good plan, up until the point said doctor tries to profit off the case to the press?? It feels like the publicity is what sends Maggie and Robert over the edge and not concern for their own child, which is quite strange.

But the base story is still pretty charming. I can see why this stuck in my head for so many years. Scottish castles, computers (\\"Computalk\\" LOL), Scottish penpals, and tricksy supernatural spirits. I love when magical creatures are truly Other, and the Boggart—sympathetic, but not a little unsettling in his lack of care for human safety, even as he considers the children 'friends'—qualifies. I feel like this book could have benefited from being a little longer to develop some of these plot points more fully.
July 15,2025
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A truly fun and exciting story awaits within the pages that explore the remarkable relationship between two children and a mysterious, mythical, and magical creature!

This captivating tale is an absolute must to share with a class. The mischievous nature of the Boggart is so engaging that it will keep the students firmly attached to the story from start to finish.

They will be completely enthralled, determined to uncover what the Boggart will get up to next.

The story weaves a web of magic and mystery, drawing the readers in and making them eager to follow the adventures of the children and the mischievous Boggart.

It's a story that will spark the imagination and create a sense of wonder in the hearts of all who read it.

Whether it's the Boggart's playful antics or the children's attempts to deal with its mischief, every moment is filled with excitement and anticipation.

This book is sure to become a favorite among students, leaving them with memories that will last a lifetime.
July 15,2025
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I might have enjoyed this a lot more if I had read it as a kid.

As an adult with my own kids, I found the mother infuriating. Her actions and decisions seemed rather odd and not in line with what I would expect from a responsible parent.

I liked the concept of the story, which had the potential to be really engaging and thought-provoking. However, it could have used more depth. The characters could have been developed further, and the plot could have been explored in more detail.

Perhaps if the author had delved deeper into the relationships between the characters and the reasons behind their actions, I would have had a more positive experience reading this. Overall, while there were some aspects that I liked, I felt that the story could have been improved with a bit more effort and attention to detail.
July 15,2025
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I really enjoyed the premise of this story. There is a mischievous boggart who simply desires someone to accept his mischief just as he is. In his eternally simple-minded way, he requires containment and respect. He doesn't deserve to be hated or feared.


The boggart, with its playful and often annoying antics, brings a unique charm to the narrative. It is as if he is a child-like creature, unaware of the consequences of his actions but still longing for acceptance.


We should try to understand the boggart's perspective. Maybe his mischief is his way of seeking attention or expressing himself. Instead of reacting with hatred or fear, we should approach him with kindness and respect. By containing his mischief in a gentle way, we can show him that he is still a part of our world, even if his behavior can be a bit bothersome at times.


In conclusion, the mischievous boggart is a fascinating character that teaches us the importance of acceptance and understanding. We should not judge him based on his actions alone but rather look deeper into his heart and see the simple-minded creature who just wants to be loved and respected.
July 15,2025
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I liked it okay.

However, it's pretty dated. The story seems to be from a bygone era, lacking the freshness and relevance that modern audiences might expect.

But the end was just silly. It was so absurd that it really took away from the overall experience. Especially if you know anything about video games and computers, it becomes even more glaring.

It's as if the author didn't talk to anyone who was an expert in the field. She failed to incorporate the latest knowledge and trends, which made the whole thing feel amateurish.

This is definitely not her best work by a long shot. There are many areas where it could have been improved, and it's a disappointment considering her previous efforts.

Hopefully, she'll do more research and put in more effort in her future works to avoid making the same mistakes.
July 15,2025
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"The Boggart" by Susan Cooper is a captivating Middle Grade tale that centers around the mischievous Boggart. A Boggart is a fascinating fairy-like being that remains invisible most of the time, only making its presence known through sound when it desires. When the Volnik family inherits an ancient castle in Scotland, they unknowingly acquire this捣蛋creature as well. The Boggart is bent on playing tricks and causing chaos.


The real turmoil begins when the Boggart is taken back to the Volniks' home in Ontario, Canada. Although no one can see the creature, they clearly witness the consequences of its actions. The parents, believing that all the mischief is being committed by their daughter, bring in a psychiatrist who is hell-bent on making a name for himself, regardless of the impact on the children or the parents.


This story was first published in 1993, so the technology described within it may be unfamiliar to some readers. However, it is still a charming and engaging read. I would highly recommend giving it a try and exploring the computer technology that the characters utilize. It is definitely worth the read!

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