Book Review || The Extraordinary Etab of Julian Newcomber by Michael Seese


Dear Netizens, 
A while ago I read The Extraordinary Etab of Julian Newcomber by Michael Seese. It is a middle grade Sci-fi novel about Julian who has an inventor for a father. His father invents for him the Etab, which by accident allows Julian to time travel. The plot is fun, the characters are quirky and the resolution is funny but satisfying. 



At the beginning, I wasn't completely sold with Julian's character, because he speaks/sounds much older than his actual age, and he is quite snarky at the beginning. Another thing that bothered me is the repetitive use of "what the smart folks call" each time the author is about to use a word that is new for the target audience. However, both of the things I just complained about, grew into me and I started liking them. Julian's character and the other characters are meant to feel graphic, and this does come off the page, and "what the smart folks call" became funny. 

Julian reminds me a lot with Artemis Fowl, but without the evil bit, which could explain why it took me a while to like the character (because I happen to not like Artemis). Julian's mother reminded me with Grace from the Umbrella Academy. I am still not sure if Julian's mother is real or one of his father's invention, because she could very well be. 

The story is simple. Future Julian is stuck in the past, which is our present and he needs to go back in time. This created for a really interesting dynamic and a funny story. I love how to author only made present Julian listen to the emotional advice future Julian had to offer, and ignored the monetary ones. The author focused on building Julian's confidence and making him grow to be comfortable in his new environment (the city his family moved to). His character development is sweet. 

Overall, it is a fun quick read and I do recommend this book for middle grade children. (4/5) stars.

[I received a digital review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]


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