Folk Secrets by Brent Wheelbarger – Kids Lit Book Café

Folk Secrets by Brent Wheelbarger

This incredible book and story includes an app for young readers enjoyment.
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“An ambitious and epic saga…”; “An exciting adventure that plays on themes from films like National Treasure and Indiana Jones.”; “…the pen and ink illustrations at the head of each chapter are sophisticated and timeless…” – Kirkus Indie Review

Ten year-old Jonathan Quill is handed a precious relic by his mentor, The Codex. It opens the door to a shadowy network of powers seeking to alter history. Throughout his long life, Jonathan is haunted by revelations in the ancient document. With his archaeologist daughter-in-law Patricia and granddaughter Elma, they strive to stay one step ahead of dark forces seeking to control the world. Jonathan is kidnapped as a child by government agents seeking to thwart world powers during the Cold War and is thrust into making choices when torn from his family. He comes to realize the sordid nature of his family line, covering hundreds of years and including pirates, outlaws, inventors, and scientists involved with real historical figures of their different eras. His granddaughter, teenaged Elma, is the only one who believes his quest is the truth. In the end, they discover the treasure’s “curse” may be the very thing that holds their family together.

Kids Lit Book Cafe Review:

Folk Secrets by Brent Wheelbarger is a wonderfully crafted story that takes readers on an adventure that spans centuries. A multi-generational exploration is woven into the intricacy of a family’s lineage, making this story feel vast yet deeply personal.

The story begins in Oklahoma during the 1960s, when Jonathan Quill is handed a mysterious ancient book by his mentor, P.R. Simms. This leather-bound artefact, known as The Codex, disrupts Quill’s life, as he is kidnapped by government officials seeking to gain dominance over the Cold War. Our protagonist must guard this book with his life, even if the secrecy costs him everything he holds dear.  

Furthermore, Quill uncovers his town’s dark secrets as he pieces together fragments of local folklore. He also learns about his own family history, discovering that his lineage is made up of pirates, inventors and outlaws, many of whom interacted with real historical figures over hundreds of years. What begins as mere curiosity turns into a deeper journey of self-discovery. Delving into the very foundations of where he calls home and coming to terms with his own identity.

The folklore, along with the charming illustrations, adds a vibrant and enticing layer that builds into the narrative. This makes the tale feel immersive as the world is steeped in a rich history.  One of my favourite aspects of this book is its reflective nature, exploring themes of identity and belonging all the while showcasing bits of history.

The quieter moments of this story allow the vivid atmosphere to shine, helping to paint an eeriness that ripples through the pages. It feels very appropriate as readers can get a sense of the past coming back to haunt the town.  

Folk Secrets is a unique read that focuses on a character-driven mystery with some great twists. This brings a heartfelt nature to the story as well as expressiveness due to the poetic language. I always enjoy learning about historical events, and Brent Wheelbarger brings a refreshing, and captivating new original angle. Folk Secrets by Brent Wheelbarger comes highly recommended by Kids Lit  Book Café. Book read and reviewed by Rachael Finch for Kids Lit Book Cafe Reviews, Author Spotlights & Promotions.

Purchase Folk Secrets today- Don’t miss out!!!

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