The Book Without Words: Book summary and reviews of The Book Without Words by Avi

The Book Without Words Summary

In the ancient Northumbrian town of Fulwich, there is an old man whom nobody knows. This man, Thorston by name, has lived a secret life so that he may stay alive--forever. Call him an alchemist but his possession of The Book Without Words contains the secret of immortality.  But to make this secret a reality, he must sacrifice his minion, Odo, a coal-black raven, and Sybil, his thirteen-year-old servant.  Just as Thorton is on the brink of immortality, Sybil decides she wants to live her own life, and Odo wants the gold he believes Thorton has made.  Who then will live, and who will die?  And who will get the gold?

The Book Without Words Reviews

'Many fans of Avi's 2003 Newbery Award winner Crispin (2002) will miss the feeling of immersion in a narrative conferred by a single point of view even as they ponder the sweeping messages about the transience of life and the evils of avarice.' - Booklist
'This book is filled with engaging, craftily chosen words.' - Publishers Weekly.

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The Book Without Words Reader Reviews

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Rated of 5 by sadie
Elena's review
I think that the book without words is a very entertaining book and very educational book to read. I think that kids in sixth grade should read this book for fun.

Avi Author Biography

Apparently Avi acquired his name from his twin sister, Emily, who chose not to call him Edward or Irvin but, for reasons unknown, to call him Avi. As the author says, it doesn't stand for anything, or mean anything, it just is who he is.

Avi is the author of more than sixty books, including Crispin: The Cross of Lead, a Newbery Medal winner, and Crispin: At the Edge of the World. His other acclaimed titles include The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Nothing But the Truth, both Newbery Honor Books, and most recently The Seer of Shadows. He lives with his family in Colorado.

Name Pronunciation
Avi: ah-vee

Link to Avi's Website

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