Customer Reviews

Secret Histories (Young Repairman Jack)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

First of all, the reason the price is so high . . . this is a signed, limited-edition copy of the book (limited to 500 copies), so that's the reason for the high price tag. While I approached this book with some trepidation, being a "young adult" novel, I can assure you . . . don't be afraid to pick this book up. This book is Jack at age 14, before he had "Repairman" in front of his name. And the fun part about it is, there is nice foreshadowing of things to come for those who have read the other books in the series. Not only do you get Jack, but you also get his obnoxious brother, Tom (we all know what becomes of him eventually), as well as Jack's sister, Kate, and his mom and dad before the bittersweet turns each of their lives takes in future books. Plus, you get glimpses of Jack's early life . . . how he learned to pick locks, some of the early ethical challenges he had. There is a great sense of gathering stormclouds and early indications of Jack's cosmic purpose in bigger battles to come. I really enjoyed this book, and it's entirely in keeping with the series we know and love.

How much is this short story worth? While it is hardcover and you get a signed copy, the size of the book is disappointing, not to mention the absurd number of grammar errors for the size of the book. While the story was amusing, as only F Paul can tell it, it was hardly worth $64. Maybe $30 even for a signed limited edition. I question how well the book itself will hold up, as it puts one in mind more of a very small paper back, more in keeping with something by Jack Higgins. Unless you are a die hard collector (I used to be), pass on this book until it comes out in paper back.

I love the Repairman Jack series but resent the price gouging on this newest book! I will not (of course) purchase until lower price book comes out. A better way would have been to release both pricey and trade hardback at same time to give customer a choice and not leave such a bad taste in the mouth - mine at least. I doubt Mr. Wilson is this desperate for a dollar.

I'm sure this will be a good book. But I will not be reading it until it comes out in paperback or shows up at the library. Is the $65 price tag for real?