Messer, Stephen The Death of Yorik Mortwell, 173pgs. Random
House New York, 2011. $15.99. Language: PG (1 swear, 0 “f”); Mature Content:
PG; Violence: PG
Yorik Mortwell is a young orphan who lives and works on the
large estate of Ravenby Manor alongside his younger sister Susan. One day the
torment inflicted upon him by the son of the manor goes too far and Yorik is
killed. He awakens to find himself a ghost, and now must discover what his
purpose is. Is he to exact revenge for his untimely death? Protect his sister
from suffering the same fate? Or, perhaps, does he have a larger purpose? Does
the fate of the Manor and all those who reside within rest with him and his
ability to fight the dark forces that are beginning to converge and slowly
destroy all that Yorik holds dear?
This is a clever pseudo-gothic novel that combines excellent
storytelling with fantastic illustrations reminiscent of Edward Gorey. Readers
will enjoy the mystery and humor surrounding Yorik and his attempts to haunt
Master Thomas as well as the exploration of larger themes of forgiveness and
committing to fighting a cause that may be bigger than you. The book may at
times become a bit scary for younger readers, but overall the dark elements do
not overwhelm. Yorik emerges as a hero that the reader will be happy to cheer
on as the story evolves into a classic tale of good vs. evil.
EL/MS – ADVISABLE. AEB, Social Studies Teacher
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