Thriller that delves deep into London’s underworld.
On a cold London day, a boy washes up on the banks of the
Thames. He remembers nothing.
Not who he is. Not where he’s from or why he was in the
river.
The only clue to his identity is the drawing he makes of a
strange, twisted symbol.
Who wants to help him?
Who wants to hunt him?
Who is River Boy?
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I found that the beginning of this book is very good but some times I got a bit lost and confused when it suddenly changes character. But other than that I find it very intriguing and especially like the pictures between chapters. Abi Miller King Harold Academy!
ReplyDeleteI have read some of this book but am really enjoying it.The characters are very detailed with lots of backstory. I can't wait to finish it. Anais A Boswells
ReplyDeleteI have now finished River of Ink. It was amazing with detailed characters.
DeleteThis is my second book that I have read for the Essex book awards. My rating would be 10 out of ten, I can't decide which one I like best out of: SIX or River of ink. My favourite character is Jed because at the very beginning when he looses his memory he is very determined to get it back, he is also very brave with all the stuff that he does. My second favourite character was Kassia as she was so brave risking her life for Jed to be safe. I like how it starts of quite dramatic how it says "Some people believe that when you drown, your whole life flashes before you." I couldn't put the book down especially when Jed had to decide whether or not he was going to drink the poison and possibly die or to give it to Kassia to drink and let her die. I would definitely recommend this book. Jodie. A The Boswells School
ReplyDeleteI'm just finishing the half way point of the book and I think it is great. The characters are all detailed and when the author changes the narrative perspective it has become more clear to me. I keep on getting more and more intrigued by this book that I can hardly put it down. My favourite character so far has to be Kassia as she took time out of her studies to help Jed then when he leaves she didn't make him feel guilty just said that she was happy for him to be getting his home back. I find that she is a kind and considerate girl. Abi Miller King Harold Academy.
ReplyDeleteFast-paced and action packed, full of mystery and exciting plot twists. Leaves you on a HUGE cliffhanger. I have one question: where's the sequel? 9/10
ReplyDeleteOlivia Year 7 Hockerill Anglo-European College
This book is a brilliant book but my only problem is that it is quite slow at the start but apart from that it is a good quality book.
ReplyDeletelove this book and I would read this over and over again. At times its a bit confusing but still, love it!
ReplyDeleteThomas
GBHS
I have just finished this book and it is full of mystery and suspense, I got a bit confused at the beginning and it took a while to get the story started and interesting. once you have got past the beginning it begins to make sense and all of it makes sense in the end. this is full of all types of genre:
ReplyDeleteRomance
Mystery
Horror and suspense
Hayley GBHS
I've just finished this book, its full of mystery and suspense, it took ages to get into it but once you have passed it, it is an amazing book. it is quite easy to understand. I would rate this book 10 out of 10, I love it xx
ReplyDeleteThe genres are:
horror
mystery
MIA GBHS
I really loved reading River Of Ink. At the start it did take a little long to get going, but once it did it was GREAT! I loved how Jed sometimes had flashes of memories. You are able to piece together his backstory, and slowly discover why he saw the ouroboros. I also loved how the author used Dante's signing to help Jed and Kassia get away.
ReplyDeleteI would rate this book 9/10 as at the start it was slow to get going.
Daisy, Great Baddow High School.
I found River of Ink very thrilling and fast paced, and I liked the style of it. I found that at the start all Jed's flashbacks were quite confusing but once I got used to it, I loved it. My favourite character was Kassia because I admire her bravery and how she stuck with Jed through tough times. I would love to find out what happens after the book. I would rate it 8/10 and I would recommend it to everyone.
ReplyDeleteSofia Barker CCHS
River Of Ink is an amazing book. It is the first of the 6 that I have read and it was an amazing way to start off the competition this year. The story starts with a teenage boy who has lost his memory and is found drowning in the river Thames. He doesn't who he is, how old he is, where his parents are or what he was doing in the river. The doctors think the best way for him to cope with the trauma is to live with an ordinary family until his memory returns. He draws weird symbols to do with alchemy and remembers key dates but nobody knows what they mean. Finally after two months of being with the family, some people come forward to claim him; but they aren't all they seem...
ReplyDeleteZoe Rowe Pearce - Tabor Academy - Year 9
River Of Ink is a brilliant book. the alchemy and other themes were dealt with very well, although I thought that the mum was a bit cliche
ReplyDelete9/10
Will S-KEGS
I thought this book had a very intriguing start and had many twists and turns that kept me reading. I also love how the back story to Jed was revealed so slowly and mysteriously. This was the first book I read and was a very good and exciting start to the six books. However, the one con was the ending which ended on another climax which did make me want to read the next book, called Zenith, although I would have preferred a bit more of a solution. But I loved the book overall, and how it portrays the message that you should be careful who you trust.
ReplyDeleteOlivia, DFS, Year 8
I found river of
ReplyDeleteI found that River Of Ink was a very adventures, thrilling story line and a moving book. As every chapter went it was intriguing me more and more to not put the book down ! Although I found it quite sad ; I realised that this could happen in real life . I also learnt more about people who are deaf . for example Dante , signs and lip reads to make people understand him . I would highly recommend this book .
Kate y8 DFS
Now that i have finished the book, I found it very action packed yet romantic. I think that Kassia and Jed both love eachother but are too scared to tell one another. I like the way most chapters end on cliff hangers so that you can hardly put it down. My favorite part must have been where he risked his life to save her but then got double crossed by the people who came to claim him but they are not what they seem... If i was to recommend this book i would give it to girls aged 9 - 16 yr old's. But if I was to rate the book I would give it a 8 out of 10. Abi Miller King Harold Academy.
ReplyDeleteAfter finishing River of Ink I wanted to keep reading but I couldn't. River of Ink is about a boy found washed up at the bank of the River Themes. Know one knows what happened, know one knows how he lost his memories. Will he remember. I really enjoyed this book because it kept you hooked in but sometimes I got lost in what they were talking about. I would highly recommend this book. I would rate this book 9/10.
ReplyDeleteLotti TTC
Now that I have finished the book I can say that it is action packed with loads of descriptive imagery and mystery. I can definitely say I think Kassia and Jed both like each other very much and are to afraid to express their romantic feelings for one another. If you are a fan of mysteries then this is the book for you as Jed is not the only one who is wanting to figure out his past you are too! I would recommend this for 11-16 years olds. Also I would rate this a 10 out of 10
ReplyDeletePersonally, out of the six books (so far!) this is my favourite. This is an action packed, mysterious book, and the characters portray emotion as if they're real people, with a personality that struck you - something that some authors don't portray so well. As for the mother, I personally believe that she had conflicting emotions, and towards the end she almost took Jed in as her own. The most intriguing part about the characters is that they weren't perfect so I actually felt sympathy for them, especially when Kassia had to make the decision to jump- and Jed went with her. I would rate this 9.5 - it was an amazing book, and I really enjoyed it, even though I wouldn't have picked it myself.
ReplyDeleteTista M CCHS 7F
I really enjoyed this book for the ambiguity of the main protagonist's true name, and what he was supposed to do. The amnesia really gave me the suspense - I couldn't stop reading it. The only criticism is the cliff-hanger, which makes me want to read the sequel. Nevertheless, it was still amazing. The calendar dates were amazing, along with the criminal records. What if this was REAL?! 9/10 is my rating
ReplyDeleteFaraz Gul KEGS
A fun book set in the depths of London following and interesting boy's story. Looking forward to book 2. 10/10
ReplyDeleteNick Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
At first I was unsure and found the goings on rather confusing, but then I found the rhythm and was pulled into this gripping mystery story. It has a wonderful sense of 'not knowing' that keeps surprises in hiding right up to the final page... 8/10
ReplyDeleteEmma Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
River of Ink is a great story with an ingenious plot. It has many twists and turns as they are trying to find the true identity of the so called River Boy and their only clue is a strange twisted symbol. Can't wait to finish it!!
ReplyDeleteBen- Great Baddow High School
I haven't read that much of the book (maybe 30 pages). But so far I've really enjoyed it. The characters can be confusing because new ones keep being added in. However, I think that as |I get further into the book, it will make a lot more sense. I'm really enjoying it and I cant wait to finish it.
ReplyDeleteAt the moment, even though I haven't read much, I would rate it 11/10!!!
Grace, Great Baddow High School
I have just finished River Of Ink and I think it is a great book! It's got a great story plot and unthinkable twists. River Of Ink is a thrilling page-turner and will leave you on a fantastic cliffhanger. Who is River boy and what does he want? Only one way to find out, read it now!
ReplyDeleteMythirayee - CCHS.
I have just finished River Of Ink and I think it is a great book! It's got a great story plot and unthinkable twists. River Of Ink is a thrilling page-turner and will leave you on a fantastic cliffhanger. Who is River boy and what does he want? Only one way to find out, read it now!
ReplyDeleteMythirayee - CCHS.
Fantastic book, I couldn't put it down! It immediately sucked me into the river boy's mind and once I was in the zone, I couldn't stop reading it! I would definitely recommend River of Ink to everyone!
ReplyDeleteRiver of Ink – Genesis is an amazing story that takes us into several mysteries in the space of only a few hundred pages, following River Boy, reborn as Jed we discover and undercover secret organisation, who want to capture Jed but one thing is in the way, Jed is always one step in front of them and this leads from London all the way to several other countries tracing Jed’s past and the mystery around his identity. This gripping story never failed to amaze and took me into another world of undercover companies and hidden pasts where the lengths people can go to to get and do things become all most funny! This is a book I will happily recommend to anyone and everyone.
ReplyDeleteThe way Helen Dennis hides so much information in so little text amazes me while simple clues go unnoticed in hundreds of places and their relevance only appears later on in the book. The research for this book obviously took a long time but it obviously payed off! The random pieces of general knowledge about places are amazing. The photos illustrating the mysterious happenings only add to the tension while other small details come across so simply we feel we know all of the information already.
Helen Dennis has again created some brilliant bad guys while the family are almost pushing it on the edge of crazy, her Mum is definitely cliché and her overprotection is quite bizarre. After the beginning, the whole story just kept on rolling, it was almost a shame it is split into chapters, the images that came with each few chapters were extremely in depth and detailed, if only they were at the end, less of the discoveries would be given away.
The book felt extremely realistic and coming to dead ends made me think about what would have to happen now especially with the actions of Noah. The way they acted throughout the book reminded me of films and the subtle things they noticed were almost surprising!
This book is just amazing and it kept me reading for long periods of time, and I look forward to continuing the discoveries in Zenith, next in this amazing new series from Helen Dennis.
Matthew W. KEGS
11/10
River of Ink is a book full of action and adventure. I found it really fascinating how all the pieces of the story came together in-between the middle of the book. Not only is it a great book, it also taught me about alchemy science and how people are not all the same and that everyone is different. I cannot wait for the next adventure.
ReplyDeleteriver of ink was a confusing novel that changes character quite a lot. the reason why I chose to read this is because the cover and blurb looked intriguing but the story, about a boy getting washed up on the river Thames and becoming the biggest news in London sort of became boring and hardtop picture and read. my favourite part was the very start with the detail of being washed up. maybe could improve description. I would rate this 6/10
ReplyDeleteFrancesca TTC
River of ink is an interesting book filled with mystery and action, it always keeps you guessing but unfortunately it did not keep me interested all the time. For me it happened a bit slow and took quite a while to get going but overall it is a good book.
ReplyDeleteI give it 8/10
Willow TTC Thorpe campus.
I liked this book because of the way it went slowly at the start and then turned into a very well planned out story line. Also, I thought that it was very well thought out which helped me get more into it then I would if it wasn't. I give the story 9/10.
ReplyDeleteAlex GBHS
This was i great book and i liked the multiple twists and turn
ReplyDelete9/10
Cam N-KEGS
I really enjoyed this book and it really made me think about who this boy is and why people are after him it is intriguing and amazingly puzzling I loved it over all.
ReplyDeleteI would rate 9/10
bryher ttc yr7
This book was a true thriller for me. Every small detail was needed and it all came together like loose ends of thread at the end. So much drama, passion and adventure, all mixed up to create one truly astounding story. It kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through. I kept saying to myself, "Just one more page!" but before I knew it, I had got to the end. My favorite character would be Jed, because of his immense bravery and courage. I don't know how, but when I read in between the lines, I found out a lot about him. I hope this book has a sequel some day, because it truly deserves one! I rate this book 9/10 for it's pure imagination and tension. Thank you for such a beautiful story;couldn't of wished for anything more!
ReplyDeleteAnna White
Boswells
The book 'River of Ink' by Helen Dennis is a very very engaging book, that I was glued to. Every little information that she added was definitely needed, due to the fact that once I got to the end, it all made sense. Once I finished, I wished I could read the book all over again. Every idea of Helen Dennis' was very special, very unique in their own little ways. I am truly blessed to have had a chance to read 'River of Ink.' Overall, I would rate it 9/10, as it was as VERY good book!
ReplyDeleteArathie Sinnathamby
Chelmsord County High School for Girls
I really enjoyed this book as it was so intriguing. I really liked the mystery of not knowing who or what he really was. At first I wanted to read it because the blurb was so hooking(which I find really important) and I just got sucked in. I read for hours on end, not wanting to put it down. I really loved the suspense and drama in it, like when the house burnt down and when they jumped off the bridge. It had all the qualities of an amazing book and it was really good when, after getting snippets of each of the people, they all met and in the end when it all fitted together like pieces of a puzzle. The cliffhanger was so interesting I am really excited to find out if there is going to be a sequel - for such an amazing book, it needs another one to follow the mystery of Fulcanelli. It was a fantastic book! I would rate it 9/10, just because I really want that sequel! Helen Dennis has an amazing imagination and is a true inspiration - I really hope I can write like her some day.
ReplyDeleteSamantha Ericsson
Chelmsford County High School for Girls
River of Ink: Genesis was an outstanding book woven with mystery and suspense. From the very first page when "River Boy" first appears I was gripped. I loved the characters, because of the vast contrast between them, from the silent, mysterious character of River Boy to the wildly exaggerated Kassia's mother, who added humour to the dark storyline. The author did an amazing job in keeping us in suspense, as even when parts of River Boy's identity are discovered more questions keep arising. I was very excited to find out there is a sequel!
ReplyDeleteRating: 10/10
Oliver C, KEGS
River of Ink
ReplyDeleteRiver of Ink was one of my books that got me thinking. If you haven’t read it yet, I’ll just give you a small sneak peek. The boy in this called Jed is quite confusing and his life story can be quite muddled so just pay attention and follow it closely. If you put it down, come back to it again after a few days at the most or you will forget stuff...
As I said, this book got me thinking. The whole story was a confused bundle but all the knots were untied and all the loose ends gathered at the end. It was gripping from start to end, with each tiny detail bringing a new piece to the puzzle. Each little remark had to be taken into account, as each letter was just as important to the story as the next.
My favourite character was Jed, because he played such a big part in getting his life back. He focused on his life so much that he didn’t take into account what others were thinking which wasn’t very nice of him. For example, he went off to another country leaving his friend behind and trying to find out his future instead of helping her study for her exams. Without him, it would of been a very dull and uninteresting story to tell.
My favourite scene was when Kassia was introduced to the Parish Library. Although Jed wasn’t with her, Kassia had a great time. She managed to get all her studying for the week done! The real reason I like this so much is because the library sounds slightly magical from the description.
One thing I would change is that Jed was with a number of people and it could have been clearer who everyone was because I got a bit lost at points!
Anna White
Boswells
I enjoyed the book so much I wanted to read the next one and I cannot wait to read the one after that!!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading this book, the description was great and it finished on a cliffhanger. My favourite character was Kassia, as I found her development throughout the book very interesting. I enjoyed every page, and would rate it 10/10.
ReplyDeleteSam Post
KEGS
River of Ink: Genesis was a very interesting and original read. We have a very hooking beginning that makes us extremly curious regarding who Jed is and I enjoyed the use of classical symbols and the recurring theme of the ouroboros. The fact that Jed slowly starts to understand who he is through such brilliant premonitions, twists and turns really rivets you into reading it. However I found that the book might have benefited with a more snappy and captivating end that explained slightly more about the visions that Jed has been suffering.But I found the richly detailed characters (especially Kassia)and winding plot quite enthralling - I would rate this 9/10.
ReplyDeleteHur S, KEGS
This book was very original and it had a never-ending catch to me...It kept me interested throughout the whole book and I really enjoyed the mystery. My favourite character was the 'mystery boy' because he was really fascinating and he was so different from the others. Every page was amazing so I rate this book a 10/10! it was brilliant!
ReplyDeleteRiver Of Ink was one of the best books in the EBA. The ending in particular was unexpected and very unique. I was not expecting River Boy to turn out to be some insane scientist who created a formula to immortality! I think the author did a great job with hooking you in on the first chapter. The beginning was unusual as it started with a boy drowning and it got weirder and weirder (if possible) from there. It did get more confusing in the latter of the book as the explanations to what they thought was going on was a bit unclear but I do have to give Helen Dennis credit as the story would have been particularly hard to finish. I really enjoyed this book.
ReplyDeleteI would rate this 9.5/10
Aidan_Boswells
River of ink is an action packed fast moving mystery. Its characters are realistic and unique. Its main story line revolves around the mysterious main character River Boy. Unknown to himself and others, river boy is found climbing out of the Thames with no recollection of who he is and how he ended up in the river. He is sent to hospital but with no improvements of his memory he is sent to live with Kassia, her neat freak mother and her deaf brother Dante. As the story progresses the plot thickens and the tension rises... However this brilliant story is stopped in what I think is a crude way, only to be continued in a second book!!!!
ReplyDeleteBy Sophia Santini
Moulsham High School.
I think it was a really good book because every chapter was a cliff hanger and in every chapter you knew more and more about his past, including things you wouldn't expect. To summarise, all I want to know is when the next book will be out. 7/10
ReplyDeleteFrancesca Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
I really enjoyed this book because it was exciting and dangerous... It left you guessing what was going to happen next and it was super unpredictable. I was slightly disappointed by the ending as I would've liked to find out what eventually happens to Jed and Kassia but hopefully there will be a sequel! overall I give this book 9.5/10
ReplyDeleteFrances.H Boswells
A boy just barely escapes the waters of the river Thames. Who is he? And were does he come from? Can a family help him and keep him safe? I LOVED River of Ink. I think the story line is Fantastic and packed with excitement, adventure and emotion. The book is always keeping you on your toes, guessing what will occur next. Can he escape? Or, will he survive? the Characters are completely believable and I actually felt the emotions and feeling the characters did. The sequel was equally as good but both books lacked one thing the I hope will be in mortal. In my opinion the two make a perfect couple and it hasn't happened yet so for that reason it slips a mark for me.
ReplyDeleteI'm giving this book a staggering 9/10 as that very important factor is missing, otherwise, this is one of the best books i have ever read. This book is literately the definition of perfect.
Six definitely has some completion!
Lucas G-S, The Sweyne Park School
I found river of ink very interesting. It was a very good book and it has some very good cliff hangers. Some people are saying that it was a bit slow but I thought the book was perfectly paced. It always kept me reading and each time I picked up the book I was always reading around a 1 hour- 3 hours at most every day! River of ink is overall a very good book. I wouldn't rate it as my favourite book but it is still a very good book and I would recommend this book. I would rate it 9/10. Rosie TTC Thorpe campus.
ReplyDeleteI thought river of ink is a very good book and it will be in the runnings of winning. The book is about a boy that gets washed up on the river Thames. He can't remember anything. He can't how he got there. How did he get there? It is a book I would recommend this book. I will read Zenith and if another book comes out after that I will definitely read that book as well. I spent around 1 hour to 3 hours a day as I couldn't put it down that's how good it was! I would rate it a 9/10 even though it wouldn't be my favourite. Rosie TTC
ReplyDeleteRiver boy just managed to escape the River Thames. But who is he? Where has he come from? River of ink was a fast passed and action packed book. I found the story line so exciting, as when you slowly make your way through the book, you find out things about ‘river boy’. I loved the characters and thought they were totally believable. I thought this book was full of emotion, adventure and always kept you on the edge of your seat. It kept me guessing what was going to happen next. The only bad thing is that it got a bit confusing at times. The author could have sometimes made the characters clearer. At times I didn’t know who Jed was with. Overall I think this book was amazing and I’d give it a 9/10.
ReplyDeleteEvie G SPS
I really Enjoyed this book. The thrill and adventure but also mystery makes this a very well written book. I would give this a 10/10. Only I would LOVE a sequel. The reason I wanted to try this book was because of the blurb 'Who is River Boy' Made me think - this is a book I want to read. Before I choose a book I look at the blurb if that is no good then I tend to put it down however if it is well written like this knew then I know that I have found something that I can get dragged into. I finished this book in 4 days because I just got sucked into Jed and Kassia's world which is our own. With Twitter it made me realise that thriller books don't have to be set in the future but can be in the life that we live in. As a MASSIVE Harry Potter fan I enjoyed the references to the philosopher's (sorcerers) stone and the Harry Potter moment when Victor gets taken away. I would definitely recommend this book to any thrill seeker our fantasy reader.
ReplyDeleteSadie Smith Chelmsford County High School
River of Ink is a thrilling story, which has certainly allowed Helen Dennis to portray every character with it's own personality. Although the plot may be hard to follow in certain points of the book, Dennis has made up for it by captivating her readers using the protagonists in this book to explore the borders of adventure and excitement. Personally, I would rate this book 10/10 as it combines the element of suspense as well as making the reader hooked onto the story with the small hints that Dennis provides. The river boy, otherwise known as Jed, and Kassia brings the story that Dennis envisioned in her mind alive as they both prove that frienships are worth fighting for and that everyone has a back story, even if they can't remember it.
ReplyDeleteThe plot of 'River of Ink', is embedded with witty phrases, which allows the reader to feel as if the characters of the story are alive, as Dennis uses vivid imagery and based her story in London, which is well known in the world, therefore allowing her readers to feel as if they are in the place of Jed and Kassia. Jed is the river boy, who doesn't remember anything about his life. He enlists in the help of Kassia and her family in order to try and remember. At the end of this thrilling and breath-takingly action filled story, Jed and Kassia finds out the truth and sets off to find out the rest of Jed's backstory. The end of 'River of Ink', leaves the reader with moxed emotions, as it satisfies the earlier mysteries, however it leaves the reader searching for the rest of the answers.
~Si Qi Chen, Year 7, Chelmsford County High School for Girls
'The River of Ink' is a tale of two 'normal' children, who get sucked into a world of secret organisations and magic. Helen Dennis has certainly proven to be an amazing author by allowing her readers to experience the lives of Kassia and Jed (otherwise known as 'River Boy'). Their friendship is so strong, which is proven in the book, as they are both willing to sacrifice their lives for each other. Although the plot many be confusing at certain points in the story, Dennis has linked the two perspectives very effectively, therefore showing to the reader that London hides many mysteries. Personally, I would rate this book 10/10 as it is very cleverly written and is embedded with witty phrases. At the end of the book, Dennis has the reader with mixed emotions, as she answers all the questions that the reader had during the book, however she leaves the story on a cliffhanger, which is used her advantage, as it makes the reader more curious and wanting to know the rest of the story. 'River of Ink' will always be one of my favourite books now, as it allows the reader to travel to different places, by following Kassia and Jed on their adventures. Finally, the author has introduced each character with their own unique personalities, and has shown us that friendships can come out of the most unusual places and situations.
ReplyDeleteSi Qi Chen, yr 7, Chelmsford County High School for Girls
I really enjoyed how fast-paced this book was. From the cover, I would have never imagined the story.
ReplyDeleteI got lost in the words of this book - the thrill and the mystery.
If I were to rate this book, I would give it a 9/10. This book is currently my favourite and contends with Sophie Someone.
Matthew Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
Who is the River Boy? Well that is the question Kassia tries to work out, and it is a quest which will take her from London, to Spain, to Germany and back to London. But with department 9 on their tail anything could happen. I really enjoyed this book it twisted and turned, and you never knew where it was going to end up, it was a fast-paced thriller which took you to another world where anything could happen and you can trust no one. The author author made each character uniquely different and it was a pleasure to delve into their different lives. I think Jed and Kassia worked very well together 2 very different people thrust together in the most unlikely circumstance. It was a cleverly written book and it was very unique. The book takes you on a journey and I especially liked Kassia's and Jed's walks round "Hidden London"
ReplyDeleteI would rate this book 9/10, definitive a contender for my vote!
Finlay Jordan Year 9 - DFS
I loved this book so much I couldn't put it down. I ended up reading it all in one night (I stayed up till 1am oops). I found this book particularly good because it was really well written. I enjoyed the story line greatly. I feel like this book was my favourite book as I felt like I was in the book. My favourite character is probably Nat. He is my favourite character as he is really cheeky/sneaky. This makes him my favourite character because it makes him a relatable character (He reminds me of my own uncle).
ReplyDeleteI also really enjoyed this book because I have to admit that I’m a sucker for mysteries. This book was great because it answered several mysteries in the space of one book. I love how you kept me wanting to keep finding out what everything was and where it/they is. I like how when I thought that we were getting close to finding out some of the mysteries you answer they mysteries with another mystery right until the very end.
Another character I liked was Jed. This is because you managed to make me feel really sorry for him, which is a very hard thing to do! You managed to use words to capture the essence of a teenage boy very well (I have to older brothers) however, you still managed to show his weak side and capture the need for answers in every move he made.
Overall I would give this book 9/10 as nobody’s perfect!
Phoebe Alderson, Year 9, Davenant foundation school.
River of Ink by Helen Dennis is an action book which doesn't drag you into its pages, but into its world. A boy, Jed, gets washed up in the River Thames - why can't he remember anything? It is a page turner and it is highly recommended. 8/10
ReplyDeleteFlorence Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
River of Ink by Helen Dennis is a fast-paced, relatable book that effortlessly drags you into this believable and intriguing story behind this boy, who mysteriously turns up at the River Thames. The blurb is just an insight into the book, but once you have read it once you will come back for more and more and more. Jed and Kassia have this different chemistry that literally makes you want to keep turning the pages. There is a company after him, somehow recognising him as having a supernatural power within him. You will want to read on, as you see this group of unlikely teenage heroes develop into truly fascinating characters. It is one of those books that you are willing to stay up crazy hours to finish it for, and if you disregard it due to its blurb, you will never find the true beauty of this absolute classic.
ReplyDeleteKrish S, 8C KEGS
Definitely a 10/10 for this book and I will eagerly await the sequel, Zenith.
ReplyDeleteKrish S, 8C KEGS
I liked this book because it was a dramatic book at the start and when it gets to the middle it is a bit of an adventure story with a good adventure. I also thought that the characters went really well in the story. 8/10
ReplyDeleteAlfie Year 7 - Hockerill Angl0-European College
I loved this book! The plot was so clever and always had me guessing. I loved the way that the characters are presented and how you never know what will happen next. I cannot wait for the sequel and am hoping it will come out soon!
ReplyDeleteTiegan Crisp, Boswells School
I cannot decide whether or not I like the River of Ink. At first, I found it very hard to get into, but after a while it was okay. I did think that the element of magic that was suddenly introduced half way through was a bit strange, however it linked well to the part earlier in the book with the book about unicorns.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that I found very confusing was how many different story lines were in it at the beginning. It was as though every time I got used to one part of it another part was introduced, which I didn't really like, as I got really confused about who was who and what was happening in each story.
Having said this, once I got my head round all of this, the book became a lot better as all of the stories linked together and it started to make a bit more sense. At this point, I began to like the book a lot more and found it more interesting. Once Jed had escaped, and the chase began, I felt that the pace picked up and it spent less time focusing on one thing, so I enjoyed reading it more and spent much more time reading.
I didn't really like the ending, as I felt it was a bit rushed and didn't really tie up the loose ends. I have so many questions, and felt as though it ended mid way through a chapter, which was very annoying. However, I think it said there is a sequel, so that would make sense, and I'm sure if i was to read it then everything would make more sense.
I cannot really pick out a favorite character, partly because there were so many, and partly because I felt there were two definite sides, so it was almost like two teams instead of lots of individual characters.
One thing which I fell would have been better answered in this book, was how Jed and Victor's parents were linked, and why he was responsible for their deaths. I was wondering about it through the entire time, and it was never answered, which was quite disappointing.
In all, I think this book definitely has its ups and its downs (although I mainly focused on the bad stuff, sorry) and I would probably rate it 7.5/10
Charlotte B
Year 9
Boswells
I really liked river of ink because i found it really engaging and it was a really big page turner. Some bits were okay but the main majority was thrilling. I gave it a 10 out of 10. I enjoyed the adventure and at some points a felt as if I was there watching it all happen.
ReplyDeleteKarin Ellwood boswells academy trust school
i liked river of ink. I personally thought that the ending was a bit bad. I prefer more cliffhanger endings, so it keeps you wanting a sequel, but this didn't really keep my interest. i rate this 6/10
ReplyDeleteJessica Baker The Boswells school
Extremely good book. Full of mysteries and packed with adventures. I love how the past and present merge together and has significant details about alchemy. It is quite fictional, but it can relate to today, about how people are extremely wild to get what they want. I especially love how one symbol links to clues after clues. The best part was that it ended on a cliffhanger, but which gives enough details already, so the reader doesn't get bored with too little details but would do anything for a sequel. Another one is that the villains are slightly unexpected, when you would expect a enemy from the past, it is a (spoiler alert) world health organization that wants to give the ultimate medicine, which would allow you to live forever, even if it means to torture a teenager to make him talk about the recipe, which he has forgotten.
ReplyDeleteAkshay Acharya KEGS
NOAH HAS TAKEN DOWN THIS POST BECAUSE IT REVEALS DISCLOSED INFORMATION. IF YOU HAVE SEEN THIS POST, DO NOT REVEAL TO ANYONE. FULCANELLI MUST REMAIN A SECRET...
WOW! Straight away I enjoyed this book. The characters were very unique especially since the brother was deaf and the mum had OCD. Kassia was also going through a lot with all the school work and exam pressure. I really enjoyed that this book had a hint of magic in an ordinary world! My favorite part of it was when Kassia and Jed were pretending to be dead to stop Montgomery and his team from getting him- it was soooo funny! Overall I would rate this book 4/5 stars! Abi Quaye, Moulsham High school
ReplyDeleteI just found out that this book is part of a trilogy! I cant wait to read the next book!
ReplyDeleteAbi Quaye
Moulsham High School
I have only just finished River Of Ink and can't wait to read the second book!! I am so glad Helen Dennis has written a second book or I think I would be in tears for hours!!! :) I am so sad that he might die in a year when they have only just escaped the clutches of NOAH!!! I think that to think of a book with this so much going on at the same time is amazing and that Helen is an excellent writer!! I rate this book a 10/10 for it's amazing storyline and the fact that I think it is the best EBA book I have read, and I have read all 6.
ReplyDeleteJessica S
GBHS
River of Ink is a great book. It's about a boy who comes out of the river half-drowned, not knowing who he is. It's a great book, although not one that made me not want to put it down. I rate it 6.5/10
ReplyDeleteSofia Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
River of Ink is a book I knew I’d like from the very first sentence. It gripped me from the start and kept me like that, up until the last word of page 357. Every description sent chills down my spine, because it felt so real and believable, even the characters I started to believe they were real people! I absolutely loved the mystery at the beginning of the book, but I loved the sudden explanations for all of it; every answer presented a new query and you could clearly see how this took it’s toll on Kassia and Jed, which I think developed their characters further, making this book all the more emotive! I thought Kassia was quite weak and afraid after her father’s death, at the beginning, but Jed helped her through this and she grew into someone I would want to be friends with!! As the story progressed, it actually started to remind me a bit of Harry Potter! I couldn’t fault this fantastic novel even if I wanted too, therefore I am giving it a truly well-deserved 10/10! Definitely reading book two!
ReplyDeleteMaisie, Sweyne Park
River of Ink is a phenomenal novel that made it impossible not to read on and watch Jed and Kassia's story unfold. It was full of mystery and plot twists, some easier to predict than others (as I had a feeling that the NOAH crew were up to something when they originally took Jed into their care, but by Helen Dennis already introducing the reader to Victor, then it made the reader less wary of them because we know that they have already given Victor a fantastic flat). As I have mentioned before in my Sophie Someone review, again, I have found the link of the foreign and foreign languages from them escaping to Spain and travelling to Germany. This common theme I have found is holding me in anticipation for I want to know if this is in the Power of Dark and Hell and High Water, which I am certain it is. Overall, River of Ink is an enthralling book and I can't wait to read Zenith!
ReplyDeleteKT, HACH
I forgot to say that I also found the link between River of Ink and Harry Potter with the 'Philosopher's Stone', which made me realise that they were looking for the elixir of life rather than the gold before it was actually revealed in the book.
DeleteKT, HACH
I really like this book so far I am glued to it, cant wait to find out what haaopenss
ReplyDeleteThis book in four words and phrases is: intriguing, page-turning, a good cliff-hanger and great characters.
ReplyDeleteBM King Harold Academy
River of Ink is about a boy who finds himself under the river Thames. He is diagnosed with amnesia, as he remembers nothing. When doctors try to unlock a new idea. They tell him to scribble down some words from what he remembers. He has been named River Boy and is in the local news. We don't know if his memory will return or if he will be doomed forever.
ReplyDeleteSarah
Brentwood Ursuline
River of Ink is a great book with interesting characters. After a few pages you will yourself crying and laughing with the characters, even murmuring, when they murmur. Jed and Kassia will leave you wanting to know more, with running away to drink posion and pretending to be dead, making this book impossible to put down.
ReplyDeleteRuby
Brentwood Ursuline
This book is about a boy who washes up on the banks of the Thames one cold day. He can't remember anything about his past. A family take him in because a doctor thinks his memory will come back. His only form of identity is a twisted symbol he draws of a dragon eating its tale. Kassia, a member of the family who take shim in, helps him find hidden meanings about his past. They discover he has strange connections with some landmarks in London. They soon find out he is a man called Fulcanelli who cheated time and made himself younger. Yet, worst of all, a team called NOAH are after him and will stop at nothing to make sure thay have him for themselves. I loved reading this book because there was always a new discovery that any experienced reader couldn't ignore. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a challenge and adventure. 10/10.
ReplyDeleteMaisie
Brentwood Ursuline
The story starts with a teenage boy being washed up on the banks of the Thames. He remembers nothing. Not who he is. Not where he's from. Or, why he was in the river. He is unable to communicate, so he is given a pen and paper to scribble down all that he can remember or what pops up in his head. But then a peculiar, twisted symbol appears, but he has no idea why he has drawn it. Therefore, his hunt for his identity begins. Meanwhlie, another teenager, Kassia, is home-schooled by her overbearing, dominant, obsessive mother, who wants her to become a doctor but Kassia is encouraged to stand up against her mother by her deaf brother, Dante. Dr Nal Farrell is the boy's doctor and Kassia's uncle and he wishes to help both the teenagers by asking Kassia's family to foster the River Boy (so that River Boy will have a place to stay away from the cruel media and so that Kassia won't be as bored at home). The River Boy's past in intertwined with an ancient search which leads him and Kassia into present danger. River Boy only has 1 year to complete his quest. Will he and Kassia be able to do it? What was his past? What danger will he collide into? This was a fast paced adventure with a lot of mystery and secret symbolism which transports the reader to the time of alchemists and magic. I truly enjoyed reading this book. One of the things I really liked about Helen Dennis' writing, is her ability to capture real places and bring them to life, for example, Postman's Park, she uses great detail to enhance the story and teleports the reader into the story. I recommend this to both boys and girls of all ages and to people who love to read a book packed with mystery and action. I also recommend this book to people who enjoy a good puzzle to solve.
ReplyDeleteSardonna
Brentwood Ursuline
I absolutely loved the plot and story line of this book; I couldn't get my nose out of it! I think that it is a very exciting story that I would definitely recommend to adventure or mystery lovers. I would give this brilliant book an 11/10!
ReplyDeleteGeorgina R
CCHS
I listened to the River of Ink as an audio book. At the beginning of the book I got a bit lost and confused but when the main character was developing more, the story line started to make more sense. But apart from that it was very intriguing. I thought that it was a bit boring at the beginning but towards the end, the mysterious tone of the plot was amazing. Lewis G King Harold Academy.
ReplyDeleteThis book started off quite dull but just about the second half it started to draw me in a little more. It's not a brilliant page turner but it made me want to read on a tiny bit. 7.5/10
ReplyDeleteCecilia Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College
River of Ink is an intruiging book about a boy with a secret identity that not even he knows about. After he was dragged out of the river, the boy is taken into care by a family of four until his real family comes forward. Soon he realises that he is in great danger as a secret organisation that has been hunting him for over 100 years finally catches up with him.
ReplyDelete10/10
Lewis, Sweyne Park School
I thought River of ink was an page turning book which grabbed my attention. The mysterious plot can sometimes leave you confused but I would definitely recommend it to people who are looking for an interesting good book to read. At the start of the book a boy is in a river; he doesn't remember where or who he is which leaves you confused and excited. I enjoyed this book and I would rate it a 7/10.
ReplyDeleteFlorrie SPS
I thought that river of ink was a great book with some very in-depth characters. they were described with realistic features and I loved how her brother was deaf because it demonstrated a real life illness that happens unlike some of the other books. However, in some places it was a bit confusing and it started off a bit dull and not wanting to make me read more yet after a while it had me completely gripped. I would rate this book a 7.5/10.
ReplyDeleteLucy, Moulsham high school
River of Ink... Where shall I start? This book is the first book in ages that i read in one sitting... It's a great mix of mystery, suspense and knowledge. The metaphors in book (the unicorn) and the consistency was a real page turner. I especially liked it as there was one phrase that was on going-"Are you OK? And every time he replies with I lied. That was very refreshing and different for this story. It was engaging and exciting the whole way through and really kept me motivated, although the cliff hangers were very annoying. I can't wait for the next book and I hope that many questions will be answered;it's like a piece of knotted thread, you have to carefully untangle it or else it will break.
ReplyDeleteOverall, this a great and intriguing book and i cannot wait for the sequel!
Sri Snehitha Mukkamala,Chelmsford County High School
The River of Ink is a captivating book about Jed, a boy who has trouble remembering his past, and Kassia, a home-schooled girl. Both of them didn't have a 'normal' childhood and they bond over the mystery of Jed's past.
ReplyDeleteI would rate this book 10/10 as it tells the reader that you can achieve anything if your persevere and if you trust your friends and family. I read this book all in one sitting, due to the fact that it was simply an original and unique story. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a refreshing take to a 'normal' girl's life.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the sequel.
SiQi Chen, Chelmsford County High School for Girls
Oh my goodness!
ReplyDeleteI would totally rate this book 10/10. I love the fact that her ideas were totally original. From the very beginning of The River of Ink I was totally captivated, and was dragged into the story until it felt like I was really there!
To conclude, I absolutely loved this book and I'm really looking forward soo much to reading the sequels-Zenith and Mortal.
Sierra Kargbo-Chelmsford County High School for Girls
Best Book
ReplyDeleteAt first I was discombobulated and found it hard to grasp the change of person in the chapters, but as the story progressed I could understand the change of person and scene. At the beginning of the book I really wanted Jed to speak and say everything that he was thinking to Kassie, especially the fact that her dad was wearing a medallion of the auroboros in the picture of him on her desk.
ReplyDeleteOne part of the book which left me feeling completely puzzled was when Jed went back with Montgomery to NOAH and the next thing we knew he was in a cage and found it hard to even stand up. But when Montgomery started talking about everlasting life, I instantly knew that Jed had something to do with the elixir of life and that he had taken it.
When Jed, Dante, Kassia and Jacob left the house in Spain and went into the apothecary museum and Jed found out about the elixir of life had to be taken six times otherwise the apothecary would die at the end of the year, I was suddenly overwhelmed with sadness.
Overall the most emotional part for me was when Kassia and Jed jumped off of the bridge together and that Kassia might die. But then they were ‘dead’ and I thought, this can’t be true, the book can’t end like this. So when I found out they were alive I was so happy, it made me smile.
In conclusion I think that River of Ink by Helen Dennis is a breath-taking book and that it has definitely made me feel bucket loads of different emotions. This is by far the best EBA book out of all six.
By Jessica Samuels
GBHS