I, A Dumb Boy-bookcover

By: P. J. Madill

I, A Dumb Boy

Pages: 290 Ratings: 5.0
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“‘Oh, Thomas, do you recall the miracle you performed?


Yes, I did recall the miracle, if that’s what it was. I recalled other things too. Fergus and the secret chamber. Caty and her still-born child. My sister’s treacherous kiss.


Norfolk, Virginia, 1775. Thomas Starling is fourteen years old but has never found the courage to speak to anyone except his older sister, Bethany. A visit from a stranger one night triggers a series of events that leads them to embark on a journey to the city of New York. There they encounter a community of outcasts and a demoralised army preparing for a British attack. Thomas yearns to be free of his boyhood and his dependence on his sister, but he is haunted by bitter memories of that terrifying night on the Georgian frontier … the girl in blue, the burning barn, the hanging corpse. His past is finally catching up with him.


P. J. Madill has a PhD in comparative literature from The University of Hong Kong and runs a small business in the UK

Customer Reviews
5.0
4 reviews
4 reviews
  • Jenny

    The attention to detail in the writing of this novel is astounding, as is the attention to historical accuracy! So many homages too! I was fearful that I might not be able to follow, but this was a joy to read from start to end! Intelligent, yet accessible. I loved the themes of social exclusion, sibling relationships, and a struggle for independence. The narrator is a unique character - I was curious from beginning to end! This novel is both character- and plot-driven! So much to keep the reader enticed! I hope to read an interview with the author one day to learn more about the creation of this beautiful novel!

  • Mace

    A great read. The author has created vivid scenes throughout and the depiction of the characters is amazing. I'm looking forward to his next book.

  • Ursula

    Don't be put off by the title or the cover, as this book is full of wonderful language and vibrancy. Enjoyed reading it immensely. The author has a unique style, which not only brought the characters, time, and place alive, but was able to describe in minute detail some harrowing historical scenes/events, in such a brilliant and sensitive way, that sometimes it took my breath away. I haven't read anything quite like it. I highly recommend this book.

  • Urs

    Don't be put off by the title or the cover, as this book is full of wonderful language and vibrancy. Enjoyed reading it immensely. The author has a unique style, which not only brought the characters, time, and place alive, but was able to describe in minute detail some harrowing historical scenes/events, in such a brilliant and sensitive way, that sometimes it took my breath away. I haven't read anything quite like it. I highly recommend this book.

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