Mister Monday (The Keys to the Kingdom) - Softcover

Nix, Garth

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0439551234 ISBN 13: 9780439551236

Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks, 2003

Synopsis

Although Arthur Penhaligon is supposed to die an early death, he is saved by a key shaped like the minute hand of a clock, and now some bizarre creatures--including Mister Monday, his avenging messengers, and an army of dog-faced Fetchers--will stop at nothing to get the key back. Simultaneous.

About this title

Review:

The first in an ambitious seven-book sequence, Mister Monday is surely the publication that will prove that Garth Nix is one of the best fantasy writers at work today. In turn, imaginative, spellbinding and hugely original, this award-winning author from Australia begins an expansive multi-volume work that is sure to stand the test of time if this first episode is anything to go by.

Arthur Penhaligon is supposed to die and he almost does on a school run when he collapses because of his chronic asthma. In his dreams he is visited by the enigmatic Mister Monday, who gives him a mysterious atlas and a magic key shaped like the minute hand of a clock. But Arthur wakes up and Mister Monday wants everything back. With these "gifts", Arthur suddenly assumes new powers and with them frightening responsibilities. Arthur's family and friends are under threat from a sudden outbreak of drug-resistant influenza and it seems the cure to this curious rash of afflictions can only be found inside a vast house that only Arthur can see.

Arthur has no option but to step inside and in doing so becomes the world's most unlikely hero and champion. Battling obstacles such as dog-faced Fetchers and people with Wings, robots and unbreakable chains, Arthur fights to stay intact and for meaning to this crazy world he has tumbled upon.

There's something about the way Nix tells stories that is strangely compelling. His mix of magic and fantasy, history and future visions, are truly unique. It's difficult to guess what will follow in further volumes, but that's half the fun of reading an author like this. It could be said that Nix is in many ways the heir to Philip Pullman's throne. Suitable for readers aged 10 and over. --John McLay

Review:

"I just loved Mister Monday, which is an amazing, no-holds-barred fantasy by Garth Nix. This is destined to be a cult series. Every chapter seems to bring something new and wonderful and ends with another surprise. In all honesty, I've never read anything quite like it and I simply can't wait for Tuesday." Anthony Horowitz

“[Garth Nix is] the coolest read in the playground.” Amanda Craig

“Magic splashes across every page... With a likeable unlikely hero, fast-paced plotting and a plethora of mystical oddities, this series is sure to garner a host of fans.” Publishers Weekly starred review

About this edition

• Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0439551234
• ISBN 13: 9780439551236
• Binding: Mass Market Paperback