Early Book Review: How to Make a Golem and Terrify People by Allete J. Willis

How to Make a Golem and Terrify People by Allete J. Willis is a children's book set for publication on Jan. 23 2012, that is appropriate for children around 10 and older. Younger children with the reading skills for the book will enjoy it as well, but since the main character turns 12, it might be most relatable for those around the same age. The story opens with Edda, nicknamed "Mouse" for her small size and gentle nature. She wants to be braver, but keeps letting herself be frightened by a bully at school and other things in day-to-day life. When her home is robbed while her family is out celebrating her birthday Edda feels even more afraid and thinks that she will never escape her fear. The next day a new boy appears at school, Michael Scot, who is more than a little odd. He offers to help Edda be braver, to defeat her fear. Michael says that he is an alchemist and will help her to build a golem. Edda is reluctant to believe that anyone could bring a giant mud monster to life, but is willing to try. Can they really bring a golem to life and if they do will it really solve Edda's fear problem?

How to Make a Golem and Terrify People is a book many children will find something of themselves in. Edda is a girl afraid of many things, which is only compounded when her home is broken into. The lack of feeling secure is common, and come from many different sources, including those in adult lives. She wants to regain her security at home, and feel safe in the world at large and is willing to risk much to achieve that goal. The other characters; including Edda's best friend, parents, and even the bully from school, are all well fleshed out. The parent's clearly have their own fears and motivations, as do Lucy (Edda's best friend) and Euan (the bully). Even mysterious Michael, who might have his own nefarious motives, is more than he appears on the surface and is never fully explained although there are enough hints to allow the reader to draw their own conclusions. I love children's books that are relatable, and do not talk down to the readers. Edda has to deal with some pretty big problems, but some common issues as well. There are small and large ideas all rolled up in this relatively easy read. I think everyone can glean something from this read, including enjoyment.

I think that How to Make a Golem and Terrify People is a very well written and well-paced book. The dialogue and actions of the characters are realistic, even when strange things happen. The setting, in Scotland, might be an added draw for some readers since they would think it unusual compared to other things that they read. However, I found that the setting just made it more obvious that certain struggles and emotions are universal, regardless of location, age, or gender. I highly recommend this novel to children ten and older, with nothing stopping younger readers from enjoying this story. I think teachers, parents and any adult that enjoys children's literature will enjoy this novel as well.