The Gauntlet
Recommended Ages: 8-12
"Don't let your fears keep you from doing what you know is right. You must climb - not for yourself, for all of us" (156).
In complete honesty, this was not a book I thought I would enjoy at all. I was so glad to be pleasantly surprised and I know young readers who like adventure and action will like this novel as well.
The Gauntlet is very reminiscent of Jumanji. It is Farah’s birthday, and her aunt brings her a special gift. Unfortunately, this game has a mind of its own, and it was not what her aunt had actually intended to give her. I’m ahead of myself, so let me backup a bit. The story centers around a Farah, who is turning twelve, her younger brother Ahmad, who is seven, and her two friends Alex and Essie. Farah and her friends excuse themselves from the party to go open this “gift” from her aunt. It turns out to be this mysterious game called The Gauntlet. The box is soon opened, expected, the game set up, mysterious feelings circulate the room, and Ahmad accidentally gets sucked into the game. As a result, Farah and her friends must enter to get him out.
Because of Ahmad’s age, the game does not recognize him as a player. Farah and her friends are. As a result, they must play the game as they seek to find her brother and rescue him. Not only could Ahmad be lost, but if they do not win, they will also be stuck in the game, just as the other people they meet in the game are. Ultimately, it is a battle between them and the architect.
This book is full of action and it is fast paced to keep any reader interested. This novel is a fantasy novel, so there are elements of magic and there is a “genie” that does things to the characters. Ultimately, what makes this novel standout for me is the strong bond of friendship and family. Farah is determined to save her brother and her friends are determined to help her. When you can find a great novel for young readers with these types of themes, you have to grab on to it.
Cautions:
There are elements of magic, but it is a fantasy novel
Depending on your child, some scenes could be a bit scary or creepy as they are facing challenges and situations in The Gauntlet.
Noteworthy quotes:
"We only presume that monsters lurk in the shadows. Sometimes, though, we discover friends in what we assume will be foes" (46).
"Trust yourself. Trust in your friends" (75).
"Don't let your fears keep you from doing what you know is right. You must climb - not for yourself, for all of us" (156).
"There is something else driving you, and that gives me hope that you'll be able to end this - for yourselves, for everyone trapped in here, and even me" (215).
"No wonder everything in this world was tinted with pain and evil. No wonder everyone lived with their heads down and their joys muted. It was a world that was fueled by grief and sacrifice" (263).
"What mattered were her family and friends, regardless of the setting. These were the people worth fighting for, who would fight for her in return" (294).
