Warning: This is book is fun, gruesome, and incredibly well-written. Although, a great book, this story is not for everyone.
Set in England in what appears to be the 1600s, Barnaby is a young messenger boy. He calls himself a "tick-tock lad" referring to the clock always moving forward with lots of messages to be given. His best friend is an older man who drives a hired coach--covered wagon pulled by 2 horses. When Barnaby notices that his friend has not been around for a day and finds his coach's chair broken in many pieces, Barnaby sets out to solve the newest mystery around town: werewolves on the loose! This mystery leads Barnaby to work for the new doctor.
The book has a unique sense of humor that is easily appreciated by many. However, when the werewolves attack, the story is dark and can be horrifying. Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell do a great job of putting all the werewolf attacks between funny and happy scenes to lessen the overall darkness of the book. Those who like action and can understand the complexities of old England will truly love this book. It is a great read!
