Tower of Treasure. (Three Thieves, Book One). Scott Chantler. Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press, 2010. 112 pp., pbk. & hc., $8.95 (pbk.), $17.95 (hc.). ISBN 978-1-55453-415-9 (pbk.), ISBN 978-1-55453-414-2 (hc.). Grades 4-7 / Ages 9-12. Review by Tara Stieglitz. ***/4

excerpt:

You'll ride out immediately. At full strength. You'll scour the kingdom, if you need to. Chase them to where the Earth meets the sky, if that's what's required. But you'll not return unless it's with the heads of these three thieves.

Tower of Treasure is the first book of Scott Chantler's “Three Thieves” graphic novel series. The book introduces Dessa, an orphaned acrobat in a travelling troupe of performers. The action begins almost immediately when Dessa reluctantly becomes embroiled in a plot devised by her troupe mates, Topper and Fisk, to rob the Queen's treasury. This provides the action for the short, but engaging first instalment of the series. A second story line is the dark memories that haunt Dessa of the day her twin brother was taken from her family home. The book provides only a small amount of background on Dessa's search for her brother, but it is enough to create suspense and to keep the reader eagerly awaiting the sequel.

     The characterization is strong; Dessa is a resilient and talented young girl who comes across as decisive and intelligent. Her companions are equally well characterized and are interesting and likable. Being a graphic novel, the strength of the book lies in the illustrations. Tower of Treasure is glossy and full-colour with expressive illustrations. The pairing of the text and pictures is well done, and the illustrations add emotion and suspense to the story.


     While this book, being the first of a series, provides little other than exposition, it is an engaging and exciting read that ensures readers will look forward to the second book. In addition to being a good read, the book is an excellent example of the fantasy-adventure genre for young readers. Tower of Treasure is a recommended purchase for public and school libraries.

Recommended.

Tara Stieglitz is a librarian in Edmonton, AB, and a recent graduate of the School of Library, Archival and Information Studies at the University of British Columbia.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

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Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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