The Adventures of Sid Sawyer — Catherine Hiller

Most of the characters that perform in this book still live, and are prosperous and happy. Some day it may seem worth while to take up the story of the younger ones again. â€" Mark Twain, 1876 Catherine Hiller has taken up Twain's challenge. Her latest novel, The Adventures of Sid Sawyer, turns The Adventures of Tom Sawyer upside down. Told from the point of view of Tom's supposedly sissy half-brother Sid, we get a fresh and original take on this beloved classic. Inspired by both Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, Hiller has cleverly woven some of the original text into a brand new adventure. This beautifully crafted and well-paced tale, a complete story in its own right, is told through Sid's eyes and brings a whole new twist to all the characters, shedding a rather different light on Tom, Mary, Aunt Polly and needless to say, Sid. The Adventures of Sid Sawyer will appeal to nostalgic adults and readers over 16 and features a series of 9 specially commissioned line drawings by artist and illustrator Ana Stankovic-Fitzgerald. REVIEWS from the eBook launch: April 2012: Sid Sawyer, brother of the more famous Tom, is a complex character. This coming-of-age tale is true to the spirit of Twain's books, but aimed at a slightly older audience. Catherine Hiller deals bluntly with issues of sex and racism, and portrays a darker view of human nature. Sid learns some tough life lessons, but ultimately love and loyalty prevail. An interesting read for anyone who enjoyed the original books. Jane Bailey Bain, author of ‘Lifeworks' ‘Most of the characters that perform in this book still live and are prosperous and happy' says Mark Twain in the foreword of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. ‘Some day it may seem worth while to take up the story of the younger ones again.' This is precisely what writer Catherine Hiller has done in The Adventures of Sid Sawyer. With graceful and witty style, she has continued Twain's story. This book explores life from the eyes of Tom's younger half-brother Sid â€" a thin, reflective, inquisitive boy with a tendency to be a right tattletale. The story follows Sid as he sets out to find out about the father he never knew. Along his journey he experiences love, saves a life, learns about himself and starts to grow up. Hiller's writing is crisp and her observations astute. The characters' voices are distinct and real. This book is touching and nostalgic without being sentimental. Colette Brenda, producer It was such a pleasure to revisit Tom and Huck whom I felt I grew up with several times over, on several readings. Following on from Twain, Hiller explores a new dimension with Sid Sawyer being the observer and narrator. The characters are developed thoroughly and much to my liking. I'm glad I caught this one - thanks! Jordan, customer review, Armadillo Central website.