THIEF OF COLOURS - Stephen Sinclair


 In the village of Whitehaven, a strange plague has settled over the town - all the color is disappearing. Whitehaven is becoming a listless grey.

Because no one knows why, thoughts and rumors run rampant through the town.  It's because of chemicals in farmer's pesticides. It's a problem with the sun. It's a punishment from God. The guesses go on and on, but no one really knows.

Until Margie and Henry believe they've found the thief.

But being kids, nobody takes them seriously, especially since they are accusing someone in a position of importance in the town. There's only one thing to do then ... they follow the thief to his lair and find a cave exploding with color. 

I really love a children's book that encourages creativity. A town that loses color!  It's a brilliant (pun somewhat intended) concept.

Beyond the concept, the book falls a little bit flat.  It's very direct with little to no subplot, although there are a few family scenes. Those scenes left me slightly uncomfortable because of their lack of resolution. (I know, family issues rarely come to a neat end, but this is a book in which a resolution COULD be had.)

While it's a book for young readers and our protagonists are youngsters, the book goes slightly overboard with making everyone else stupid.

There is some light swearing, which doesn't bother me here. I'm slightly more concerned about the sexual overtones which don't seem to be appropriate - especially for the target audience.

This is a quick read. It's mostly fun and there's not a lot of deep thinking needed here. It's not a book I'd be quick to recommend but I'd be happy to engage in conversation with any youngster who chooses to read the book, to see what they thought.

It appears the book was first published in 1995 by a traditional publisher and is now being reissued as self-published. I mention it only in case the book sounds familiar - you may have already read it.

Looking for a good book? Thief of Colours by Stephen Sinclair is a very creative concept but may not be as exciting as you hope for your middle grade reader.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

2-1/2 stars

* * * * * *

Thief of Colours

author: Stephen Sinclair

publisher: Spineless Press

ISBN: 9780473725136

paperback, 174 pages

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