The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
Published by Putnam Juvenile, an imprint of Penguin
Rory Deveaux is used to her life in Louisiana, but she’s still excited about the prospect a year at a British boarding school. Her parents will be teaching in England for the year, so going with them seems like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, Rory’s arrival in London coincides with the anniversary of the first Jack the Ripper murder, and what appears to be a spate of copycat murders. When Rory sees a man who seems to be the number one suspect, she suddenly finds herself in very real danger.
The Name of the Star is an incredibly entertaining book. Rory is an interesting and complex character, in a fascinating - if somewhat unconventional situation. Johnson has a very engaging writing style, and she can draw the reader into even a Jack the Ripper ghost story.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Name of the Star, although I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it being a series. I think it was a great success as a standalone, but Rory’s continued adventures with the cast of characters she met in The Name of the Star don’t terribly excite me, although I’ll be more than willing to read the next book and see where Johnson takes the story.
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I liked the way this one opened up to potential sequel, while also feeling like a closed, standalone book. I imagine Johnson can take this in an entirely unexpected direction for the next book if she likes, and I’m looking forward to it!
You’re right, if anyone can go in an entirely new and unexpected direction it is Johnson.
I really need to read this. As to series, I am just tired of everything being one in general…
I know, what’s wrong with standalones?
I didn’t know this was a series. It served perfectly as a stand alone. It was interesting and made me want to learn more/read more about Jack the Ripper. I’m intrigued to see what will happen in the next one - just because I have no idea what could happen.
This sounds terrific — and I love the cover. Jack the Ripper is a terrific legend; I’m looking forward to see how they work this into the story.
I’m excited about it being a series for the simple fact that I want to see Rory wind up with Stephen. I’m totally shipping those two.
Everything has to be a series these days don’t they? It sounds like a fun read though I’m not sure I want to commit to another series. I still think I’m going to have to give it a try.
i sometimes wonder why an author decides to go the series route..
I really enjoyed this book when I read it as well. I loved the creepy atmosphere that the author created and I found myself well and truly hooked
I’m looking forward to reading the 2nd book and seeing what happens next. Great review!
I’m actually really excited about this being a series because we now have the setup for this crew and they can go investigate more paranormal occurrences as well as deepen the relationships. I’m also happy this one tied up its loose ends so that the story is self-contained.
Maybe this should be my next book. I’m in the mood for some YA.
Dooo eeet
Great review.
I’m pondering this one.