Comments on The Picnic Basket: Chantel's Quest for the Golden Sword • Middle-grad...

I just stumbled onto The Picnic Basket today as I ...

2009-07-15T14:50:45.276-04:00

I just stumbled onto The Picnic Basket today as I was looking for the 2nd book in this series. This book is my 9 year old daughter's absolute favourite. She has reread it twice and badgers me constantly for the 2nd in the series. She emailed the author and he replied promptly. He even has offered to come to her class in the fall. I look forward to reading the second in the series with her.

5 This is a picnic must have and a classroom must...

2009-07-13T10:44:02.508-04:00

5
This is a picnic must have and a classroom must have for writing teachers. The description paints such a picture, your students can just close their eyes and draw. Which I plan to have them do. The story of Chatel is a mystery as is her companions Mouse & Owl. That keeps you reading. Chatel is a very brave young girl who is on a journey to learn about herself, and how she can help everyone with he heavy burden of being the one with the golden braid. She has to depend on strangers, and trust in a land being taken over by evil. It is what the children seem to be going through themselves these days, especailly in the middle grades. This is acaptiviating and imagainavtive story. Can't wait for the rest. I also loved having a signed copy and the book marks to share. MCS

This is one of those books that my students enjoye...

2009-05-12T17:33:00.000-04:00

This is one of those books that my students enjoyed more than I did. I liked the adventure, but wasn't wowed by the writing style. Of course this was written for the kids so I'm quite pleased that they are eating it up. It pairs nicely with -Igraine the Brave- another exciting heroine. I give it a 3, but my students would rate it higher.
Denair Elementary School Library
Denair, CA

I am not usually a fan of fantasy type books as th...

2009-05-11T16:34:00.000-04:00

I am not usually a fan of fantasy type books as they seem a little too far fetched even for their genre. However, this book was very nicely done.

It remained interesting and had you looking forward to what was coming next.

4 out of 5

Chantel's Quest: The Golden Sword has all the righ...

2009-04-28T19:45:00.000-04:00

Chantel's Quest: The Golden Sword has all the right pieces in place for a frolicking fantasy ride. The story begins as Chantel awakens on her twelfth birthday quickly to be told that she is the Princess of Freedom. It seems Chantel must vanquish an evil spirit bent on destruction. She will have to unearth four ancient relics, the first being a golden sword. She’ll have lots of help along the way as readers uncover a new fantastical world.

Although all the pieces seem to be in place, I felt something was missing with Chantel's Quest: The Golden Sword. It’s always hard for me, not well versed in writing technique, to put my finger on exactly what it is that leaves me with that missing feeling. This time, I think it was a combination of two things: character investment and didactic tone.

We jump immediately into Chantel’s quest without having time to invest in her personality. Further in, her character still seems a bit flat and the creatures she meets seem too uncomplicated. The tone is direct, with little use of the stylistic elements of figurative language. This caused the tale to be a bit didactic or prescribed.

Still, with all that being said, I do think some fantasy readers will enjoy Chantel's Quest: The Golden Sword and see implications for reluctant readers with short chapters and thinned details. As I stated, there is a good story to be told, the execution just needed a bit more polish.

Cheryl Tasses
Reading Specialist
Florida
Picnic Basket rating 3.5/5
See my full reviews on Reading Rumpus

Chantel's Quest for the Golden Sword was a well-wr...

2009-04-20T20:44:00.000-04:00

Chantel's Quest for the Golden Sword was a well-written middle grade fiction book. Though the vocabulary and theme were geared toward the older middle grade reader, I found the conflict and characters very simple and more appropriate specifically for grades 3 and 4. I found myself searching for the place where Chantel and Laluna found their "connection" and I was unable to find it. The relationship needed to be better developed for me to actually feel something when they are separated. I would give this book a 4 out of 5 and hope there is more character development in the next 3! I did love the personal touch of the author signing my book and sending bookmarks. Very classy, thanks!

Lindsey B.
Title 1 teacher, Utah

This book isn't level appropriate for my 11th grad...

2009-04-20T08:48:00.000-04:00

This book isn't level appropriate for my 11th graders, but I do think several of them would still enjoy it. I teach AIS and am hoping to get my lower level readers to read it because the story itself is captivting, it's fun, and it is really enjoyable. I think what I liked best, and what others do to (after reading their blogs, is the development of Chantel. When you love the character, you love the book

Some kids really enjoy fantasy, and I guess they a...

2009-04-14T14:40:00.000-04:00

Some kids really enjoy fantasy, and I guess they always will. They can entertain the complex relationships and organize the worlds in which the characters interact with ease. And then there are the rest of us, who often feel alienated by the genre. We often carry our own preconceived notions of dragons and sword-wielding-do-gooders to the page with us. And if you have read one of these series then you have read them all, right? Wrong.

Chantel’s Quest for the Golden Sword should satisfy any reader. It does not take long to get into the plot. The casual reader should be involved by the time they turn the first page. The action is necessary, but not overly descriptive, and the story stands on its own as a well-conceived literary piece.

Oliver Neubert has provided the beginning of a series that should attract boys and girls that may not necessarily gravitate to this type of literature. Once landing in Neubert’s four worlds the readers might develop a quick affinity for Chantel and her compatriots.

Any story involving a quest usually is filled with much deeper meaning related to self-discovery. This book is no exception to the rule. Neubert uses light and dark skillfully to examine the human spirit and his characters have some profound statements about the choices we make on a daily basis. According to Chantel,“I don’t have to run any longer. I will not accept this future. I know who I am.” It is this type of resolve when coupled with failure makes characters both believable and identifiable. These are characters that can lead us into an examination of our own world and how we can better engage it.

Older elementary and middle school students will find the book most appealing, but do not be surprised to see a high school student or adult picking up this new series. Be willing to discuss the book with the students on a moral level and be ready for them to make comparisons with the other literature they read. Or better yet, let your students see you reading this book.

5 of 5

John Parker
Media Coordinator
Andrews High School
50 HS Drive
Andrews, NC 28901

www.slamguy.wordpress.com

It took me a little while to get into this book be...

2009-04-14T10:02:00.000-04:00

It took me a little while to get into this book because of others I was reading. I love the female herione in fantasy literature. The personal touch of the author's message and book marks was very nice. Once I did get going it was good. There are some violent parts that I hesitate to give to kids. I really like the conflict that the author shows in his characters. Looking forward to the next book. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars.

5th grade teacher
Wisconsin

Although I can't remember the last time I actually...

2009-04-13T18:02:00.000-04:00

Although I can't remember the last time I actually read a fantasy book, "Chantel's Quest" is a book that quickly drew me in and kept me engaged throughout each page. I believe it would be an excellent novel to use with younger readers as there is a lot of depth to explore with the characters' actions and reactions. Students wanting to read a series will find this book one they will quickly want to dive into and then read the others to see how the adventures continue. Many thanks to the author for the signed copy and bookmarks!

The personalization of the book is a wonderful tou...

2009-04-09T20:49:00.000-04:00

The personalization of the book is a wonderful touch. I enjoy reading fantasy and have lost myself many times in a story. This story is very simple with a straightford plot which I found unexciting. This is simply because I am used to the complex tales of 400 or more pages. That said, I do believe that fourth and fifth grade students would enjoy and be able to follow the story quite easliy and be interested enough to try another. For my students I would rate this a four with a savory twist.

I was captivated by the cover of "Chantel'...

2009-04-09T17:17:00.000-04:00

I was captivated by the cover of "Chantel's Quest" along with all the wonderful goodies that were sent with the book. I truly wanted to love this book but sadly, for me, it never happened. The story line felt too choppy and resemble a poor mixture of Redwall meets Harry Potter. Having said that, I immediately put this book in the hands of some of my avid teenage readers who did, indeed, fall in love with this book and are begging for the remaining three installments. Because the student population here seems to be craving this book, I give it a Picnic Rating of 4. This book is not going to get cold anytime soon on the bookshelf!

Julia Pitau
Media & Intervention Technician
Denair Charter Academy
Denair, CA

When I first received this book, I thought...No, i...

2009-04-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

When I first received this book, I thought...No, it's not my style. But it certainly was. i enjoyed the book from begining to end. I wanted to read it again and again, but had to give it up and let my students read it. They are enjoying every word. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you to the author for taking the time to personalize the book.

First, a special thank you to Mr. Neubert for the ...

2009-04-07T22:14:00.000-04:00

First, a special thank you to Mr. Neubert for the personalized copy of the book and beautiful bookmarks. I was really touched by your thoughtfulness.

"Chantel's Quest" has beautiful character development and loved the use of point of view. As I began reading I immediately began thinking of several 8th grade young ladies who would devour this book of fantasy and intrigue.

I give it a 4 out of 5.

A. Hunt
Middle School Language Arts
Fort Walton Beach, FL

I liked this book. The idea that someone as small ...

2009-04-07T20:24:00.000-04:00

I liked this book. The idea that someone as small as a mouse can change the world is a great idea. Tells a great good vs. evil story in a fantasy framework.

I agree with other comments about the personal tou...

2009-04-07T11:47:00.000-04:00

I agree with other comments about the personal touches that were included.
As far as the story itself, I think it will be a draw for my sometimes-reluctant 6th grade readers. The characters are simply drawn, understandable, but still a little magical.
The fantasy element will not overwhelming to them. The environmental connection will be one they will be discussing in their science curriculum.
I think Chantal certainly has room to grow into a heroine and the supporting characters also have areas yet to be fleshed out.
If I can get my students to pick up the first book, then the series should sell itself.

I have just finished reading this book and have ma...

2009-04-05T23:07:00.000-04:00

I have just finished reading this book and have many good feelings and thoughts. Chantel is a perfect character to discover oneself and learn what life and friends are all about.

Chantel is a good example for girls to understand friendship no matter what the person looks like.

I believe my 5 graders will enjoy this book especially the boys. It will present a different look at fantasy for them.

I look forward to reading the next books

Good luck

This book was worth the wait. I appreciated that ...

2009-04-05T19:11:00.000-04:00

This book was worth the wait. I appreciated that the author took the time to autograph the book and send bookmarks. Chantel's Quest is an easy sell to my students. They enjoy fantasy and will pick up this book. I can't wait for the rest in the series to come out.
I thought that all the characters were realistic and the message was a good one. I think that this book will lead to good discussions. The book is full of instructional possibilities.
I give this book a 5 in my picnic basket.

I know I posted a comment on this book already - s...

2009-04-05T07:30:00.000-04:00

I know I posted a comment on this book already - so where did it go??? I loved this book. It is a fantastic beginning to what promises to be a great new addition to the fantasy genre with, of all things, a female protagonist! I think this book will appeal to both genders - there is excitement, suspense, and dangerous creatures, as well as a young girl who doesn't know much about her own origins or her destiny, but isn't afraid to go on a journey to find out. I can't wait for the next installment!

Eileen Snover
South Mountain MS
Grades 6-8
Allentown, PA

I liked the idea of a female heroine and character...

2009-04-03T22:35:00.000-04:00

I liked the idea of a female heroine and characters finding themselves along the way (which is what we hope for all our students).
I had a hard time connecting to the main character since it seemed that we woke up with Chantel on her birthday and we were off and running on a quest already---I didn't feel an investment in the character or story yet.
It was even harder to connect to Chantel as a heroine when she was either rescued or a problem was resolved with little effort.
I really liked the idea of the light and dark side in all of us but felt the messages in the story were too obvious and left little room for my students to infer and think for themselves.
I think the writer was imaginative and did a wonderful job of creating the setting and world Chantel lives in. I think every young girl wants to be the heroine on a quest.
I wouldn't target this book to middle grade readers but I could see upper elementary girl readers easily falling into Chantel's quest----or I should say quests.

I loved this book! First, it was so great to have...

2009-04-03T15:18:00.000-04:00

I loved this book! First, it was so great to have a younger female heroine on a quest. I think that is not always the case. Second, I agree that this is more for younger readers. I have higher level third graders that would have no problem with this. In fact, to get them into the series, I am going to use it as a read aloud and hope to have them on the look out for the other books. Finally, I also couldn't put it down. It is written in such a wonderful way that keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat. I also like how it has you looking forward to the next book. It is an excellent lesson in foreshadowing.

Great read! :) And such a personal touch with the bookmark and writing in it! It is definitely a 5!

Chantel's Quest is recommended for middle grade fi...

2009-04-02T21:14:00.000-04:00

Chantel's Quest is recommended for middle grade fiction, but I would suggest mid to upper elementary instead. The writer's approach is simple with little background information needed for the reader to understand the concept and morals being relayed. However, this is helpful to a newer reader who is venturing into longer chapter book reading. The story's characters are well developed and entertaining. The reading is not difficult and does not need alot of inference to understand what is going on. As many other reviewers have remarked, I did enjoy the book marks and personalization. I look forward to the next three books.

Laura Miller
BHS, Buhler Kansas
Paraprofessional Interelated

"Chantel's Quest..." is a pretty sol...

2009-04-02T15:06:00.000-04:00

"Chantel's Quest..." is a pretty solid read. The prose is simple and straightforward, and the main character is easy to like and connect with. I always appreciate fantasy with a female protagonist so more students will be able to connect with the story than normally do with fantasy fiction. Some elements are a bit too simplistic for my taste (Owl, Mouse, Evil One), but I think students (5th grade?) will enjoy the style.

Rating: 3 out of 5.

Kevin Newman
Principal
KIPP Austin Academy of Arts & Letters
Austin, TX

Like other readers, I loved the personalized book ...

2009-04-02T13:20:00.000-04:00

Like other readers, I loved the personalized book copy and bookmarks! It is always a pleasure to receive autographed books.

As for the book itself, I thought that it left a bit to be desired. Fantasy is one of my least favorite genres. While I try not to let that play a strong role in my opinions, I am sure that it had some sort of influence. It was a difficult book to get into, and I struggled to connect with Chantel at the beginning.

I think the book would be good for upper-elementary, but so far, my middle school students have not be interested in it.

I would give this book a three out of five.

Kelsey B.
7th grade language arts
Indiana

I received my copy and am also pleased with the in...

2009-03-31T23:37:00.000-04:00

I received my copy and am also pleased with the inscription from the author and the bookmarks. I am glad to see a girl as the central character as many of the books I read as a child focused on boys in adventure and fantasy books. I give the book a 5 as it is engaging and brings the reader quickly into the world. You can really imagine your settings without it being overly descriptive. I tend to enjoy children's books, even as an adult, and do not feel that this is at all geared to early childhood as others commented on. I think girls and boys from 3rd grade on into middle school would enjoy this book and keep in mind there are many struggling readers that want age appropriate storylines and characters in simpler text. This book provides that without dumbing down the material. I give this book a 5 on the Picnic Basket scale and hope for many more to come.