This was such a creative and thoughtful book. My students found it easy to relate to the main character, Ethan. I loved the character of Inkling as well!

Kenneth Oppel never lets me down! He is one of the most underrated authors, and this book supports that as well. Inkling is creative, fun, special, and unique! A must read!

A Real Ink Blot Test

I expected this to be a humorous lark, or maybe a "creature" tale, (which it is in part), but I did not expect a touching "family problem" story.

Dad's a comic artist; son Ethan isn't terribly talented in that area, or so he thinks. After Mom' long illness and death Dad is blocked, and distraught in a grumpy and withdrawn sort of way. Ethan is at loose ends, supported mostly by a gang of solid rally-round pals. No one is talking things out, so the household atmosphere is a bit grim. It's not over-the-top drama, just sad and grey. And then Inkling crawls out of Dad's sketchbook, and the action begins.

Inkling develops quickly from a splotch to a mensch, and assumes the role of magical inspiration to Ethan. This is in the long tradition of inspirational oddballs, and it works. It's funny, and lively, and clever, and witty, and never gets twee or cloying. I appreciated the fact that there is no "convincing" going on. I think "convincing" destroys the pacing in books like this. Here, everyone who encounters Inkling immediately believes, which just keeps the book screaming along at a brisk and satisfying pace.

There are cute scenes, imaginative scenes, and toward the end some ripping action scenes, so this isn't the sort of book that just revolves around a clever premise with nowhere else to go. Lots happens, and it's all good. Excellent fun.

(Please note that I received a free ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)

Inkling is a great fantasy story about a boy and his family, but it is also a story about loss. Kids will also like that there is a bit of suspense as well! Hand to students who liked Sweep by Auxier and Serafina by Beatty.

Think Phantom Tollbooth meets Hitchikers Guide to the Galaxy, in all the best ways. A refreshing new topic that was both touching and entertaining.

I am always in awe of the layers and the depth middle school novels can have in the hands of a great author. In his latest book Oppel has crafted a nuanced story about discovering who you are... I am actually stuck writing this review because this book is so much more than finding your own feet in the shadow of a famous parent, but I don't want to spoil the book by giving away important parts of the plot.

“There is something lost that your father needs to find.”

Mr. Rylance is an author of graphic novels. One night in his studio, a splotch of ink gathers itself from the pages of the sketchbook and bursts free from the page (though the sketchbook tries to pull it back in.) The cat, Rickman, who had been watching the ink emerge immediately tries to pounce on it, but the ink manages to slither past those clawed paws and hide.

Ethan Rylance sees the splotch and thinks it’s some kind of giant spider, but all little sister Sarah wants is ice cream, and Ethan’s father isn’t really much help, either. Ever since Ethan’s Mom died, Mr. Rylance hasn’t been a lot of help with anything. He’s disconnected from his children and he’s blocked creatively, too. In fact, he hasn’t finished a Graphic Novel in two years, though his fans are desperate for a sequel to his Kren series.

At school, Ethan is in a pickle. He’s working on a group project to create a graphic novel and because he’s the son of a famous artist, his whole group thinks he can draw. So, they have given Ethan that task and he is way behind. When he tries to get help from his dad, he gets nothing. Is that why this splotch of ink has come alive?

While Ethan is at school, the splotch of ink is taking the ink off the pages of all the books in the house, including his Dad’s sketches, and even pictures (including one of Ethan and his Mom) and while absorbing all the ink, the splotch is growing larger and learning to think and communicate. “There is something the ink was supposed to do, something is was supposed to find. What was it?”

So by the time Ethan arrives home from school, the splotch is ready to show itself. But is Ethan ready to see it? The splotch demonstrates to Ethan the story of how he came into being and Ethan realizes “this creature had taught itself to read, and write, all in the space of a day!” At that point, Ethan thinks the splotch deserves a name, so he calls it Inkling. This begins their friendship and a very convenient one it is, because Ethan realizes that Inkling can do the drawing for his graphic novel project. How great is that? Inkling even entertains Sarah by taking the shape of a puppy. What could possibly go wrong?

When Ethan takes Inkling’s sketch to school to show the group, they are all impressed (and a little relieved) that Ethan is finally getting the work done so well. Then Vika Worthington enters the picture. Vika is the best artist in class and her father just happens to be the publisher of Mr. Rylance’s books. In addition, Vika has always been Ethan’s arch nemesis, so to speak. Though Vika is working in another group, she comes over to take a look at Ethan’s drawing and immediately challenges its origin. “Your dad did this for you.” But BFF, Soren, steps up and defends Ethan.

That night, Ethan introduces Soren to Inkling. Inkling even does some drawings for the boys, after all, they are his friends. But the boys learn that Inkling has a dangerous side. “Inkling wasn’t just a magical blob of drawing ink; he was powerful.” What would happen if someone took advantage of that power? Should Ethan even be using him to draw his sketches? What will happen if others find out about Inkling? Like Ethan’s father? Or Vika Worthington?

The question remains in Inkling’s being, however, of what his purpose here really is. When Inkling realizes that “He didn’t come from Mr. Rylance’s sketchbook, he came from Mr. Rylance himself,” it makes that question even more important. Why did he suddenly emerge? What is his purpose here? It can’t just be to draw.

A charming fantasy about family, friendship, and healing. Though Inkling isn’t quite a super hero, the book reads like your classic good vs. evil comic book plot and includes illustrations to support that feel. That should attract students to the story. Some interesting subtext about how what you read affects who you are and using devices, which to Inkling is a “great, aching darkness.”

This story shows the dangers of taking the easy way out and how the things you let into your life affect it.

Inkling is a character with tons of personality, especially for a splotch of ink. He cares deeply for his family and does what he can to help. In the beginning, Inkling is just a little thing that doesn't have any world experience or ability to express himself. As he eats through the pages of books and newspapers, he grows and starts to take on the characteristics of the pages he has read.

I liked that Inkling really internalized what he was being introduced to. When he read classic literature, his vocabulary increased and he was able to help Ethan and his sister. On the other hand, when he read comics that were filled with color and violence, his outward appearance changed along with his personality. He becomes out of control and focused more on creating chaos than helping anyone.

Both Ethan and his dad see Inkling as a way to get things done without having to work as hard or at all. They can give Inkling the idea for a story and just watch as all of the work is done for them. I could see it would lead to trouble with Ethan's dad becomes convinced that he needs Inkling in order to actually do his job. He stops even attempting to do anything on his own, and relies completely on a blob of ink.

I like that Ethan realized what they were doing and tried to put an end to it. It's hard to go from having someone do everything for you to doing it for yourself, but that's how you grow. The family dynamic and situation as a whole improved as they learned from Inkling and started taking responsibility for themselves.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Kenneth Oppel
Publisher: Random House Children's/Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 06 Nov 2018

I received an advance copy of this book.
My students are loving it and are recommending it to eachother.

Very cute and imaginative fantasy for middle grades. Purchased for middle school collection. Lighter than other book by the author.

Watch my video review of Inkling by Kenneth Oppel: https://youtu.be/wQoSZ-hkEQs

This is the first story of Kenneth Oppel and I enjoyed reading Inkling a lot. Firstly, the story covers so many issues like plagiarism, stealing and coping with the loss of a loved one. Moreover, you know the author is doing something right if he can take something like an insignificant inkblot, and give it life and meaning and turn it into such a cute and charming character. Ethan is also a very good protagonist where he tries to do the right thing. Similarly, the villains are interesting and not two-dimensional. The illustrations also add a very whimsical touch to the book. Overall, "Inkling" is a beautiful story that shows that you can overcome any challenges, no matter how big or small.

This book was a delight from start to finish. The characters are enjoyable, and the story's message is really sweet. I haven't read anything from Oppel before, but I will soon be rectifying that. Highly recommended!

I read this, and at first I wasn't sure what to think. The idea sounded interesting, though the author was new to me, and I hadn't heard much about him or this book. Now I'll admit, I kind of wish I had read the print copy instead since I seem to have missed out on the illustrations, since I ended up reading the digital ARC instead (O.O) I'll have to fix that soon, hopefully. Anyway, I ended up loving this book! While it would get 4/5 stars from me, I really enjoyed how the story was written, and the characters were all well written and fun to read about! I loved Inkling! (I really want there to be a sequel!)

Objectively, this is a solid story. Clear messages and a fairly logical plot. A tad predictable but not annoyingly so. Characters are moderately fleshed out. It's a bit meandering but not beyond what's reasonable. It's weird, to be sure. I liked the idea that what you feed your mind affects what you produce. Inkling does his best work when he gets a wide variety of art and writing. It's not that he shouldn't have any cheap fiction, just that it shouldn't be his main diet.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Penguin Random House via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is one of the best middle-grade books that I ever read. Beautifully written, original and imaginative and deeply inspiring! Inkling is an incredible novel both young readers and adult will definitely enjoy.

Who wouldn't have thought a friendship between a boy and a drop of ink will be such a heartwarming read?

The premise of the book is hands-down compelling. Aside from Ethan's and Inkling's friendship and adventures, it also tackled some heavy themes like grief, taking responsibility, and healing. I myself teared up on some of the scenes because I was actually emotionally attached to an ink blot. Although the end is a little open-ended, I must say that the conclusion is still pleasing.

What makes this novel so remarkable is the characters. Inkling is such a cute character. I like the idea of how it acts as a living creature: it needs food, expresses personality, and this little character brings changes in the lives of each character it encounters. On the other hand, Ethan is such an endearing boy. He always tries to comprehend the battles of people surrounding him as much as a child himself can understand. He also tries to do the right things, and indeed he is a very sweet brother to his sister, Sarah, who has a Down's Syndrome. The friendship between Ethan and Inkling both nurture them to become better individuals.

With its great message, Inkling is a charming, fascinating novel. I highly recommend this book to everyone who is looking for a unique, fun and fast read.

5/5 stars!

A sweet read! Both fun and educational look into friendship between a boy and, yes, an ink spot. A very cute an informative read!!!

Many thanks to both the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review !

Books that encourage me to use my imagination, to stretch it, are always a delight. And Inkling was quite a stretch. Imagine an inkblot coming to life. All the things it could become.

Ethan Rylance got himself in a big pickle. He volunteered to do the illustrations for his school’s project. What was he thinking? He can’t draw. Mr. Rylance is in a bigger pickle. It’s been two years since his last graphic novel and he’s got writer’s block in a big way. One night, while everyone is sleeping, the ink from his sketchbook comes together and escapes the page. Inkling is about to create.

While this story touches on dealing with the loss of a loved one, it’s not the main focus and most of it’s good plain fun. Some extra thrills are added when the Rylance family’s little secret is discovered by someone not so nice. This part I could go on and on about, but I’ll not spoil it for you. I was equal parts angry at the bad guys, worried about Inkling and hopeful for this family that needs something magical in their lives.

Inkling is such a fun book. I gobbled this up as fast as Inkling slurped up ink.

This was such a surprise. Some books come at the right time and I am proof of that. The message this story has is powerful. It’s inspiring, breathtaking and very intense.

Ethan lives in his father’s shadow somehow. His classmates expect him to inherit his dad’s talent at creating amazing characters and drawing them, with this school project. Little do they know the struggle his family has had ever since his mom passed away. Hope emerges in the form of a drop of ink.

Inkling becomes a character that drives the family back to being one entity? It’s hope, determination and strength combined in one small element. Sometimes all we need is a bit of guidance, or at least a push in the right direction. While Ethan and his family learn to be together again, Inkling goes missing. If they will be able to find him again and what will happen to the fantastic drop, you’ll find out by reading the book.

This is one emotional book. I loved it and I loved the feelings it gave me. I cried and laugh with the characters and learned to hope and to work on my skills, if I want to improve them. A beautiful book that can be ready by all the family. 5 stars

This imaginative story has both realistic and fantasy elements that combine for a really fun story. Kids are going to like the compelling social aspects (mother who died of cancer, grieving dad, sister with Down's syndrome) but they're going to love the funny, imaginative problem solver in Inkling, the little blob of ink that feeds off ink and helps people by drawing stories that come from their own heads as well as the things Inkling has eaten. This is going to be a great one for my elementary library.

I love Kenneth Oppel. I’ve been reading him since I was but a wee lass (middle school.) I was extremely excited to read Inkling but honestly, it didn’t live up to my expectations. It’s not that it isn’t a good book, but Kenneth Oppel is not a writer of good books, he is a writer of excellent books and nothing about this book in particular screamed excellent too me.

Don’t get me wrong, it has a lot going for it, but I think I never really connected to the characters and perhaps I am just too fucking old now to appreciate adorable monsters created from Ink.

Ethan has a hard-knock life. His mother passed away a while ago and his father does not know how to function as a human being let alone how to function as a good parent. His father is also, probably, depressed (this is not expressed in the book so much as shown which is why I say probably.) Ethan is just a pre-teen in middle school but somehow he is in charge of caring for his younger sister & himself and trying to do his art homework without any help from his dad who is AN ARTIST.

I kid just a little bit with the last part, but really, Ethan does not know how to draw and is somehow landed the roll of sketching for his school project because everyone assumes he is good at art. JUST BECAUSE HIS DAD IS AN ARTIST DOESN’T MEAN HE IS. Poor Ethan. But, the world is a magical place and an ink-blot that emerges from his father’s sketchbook soon becomes Ethan’s art teacher. This ink-blot changes Ethan and his life forever and ever.

So, anyway, while I couldn’t really get behind the ink-blot, I did enjoy the relationship between Ethan, his little sister and the ink-blot. It was super cute even if I was definitely not the intended audience.

My biggest issue is that while there is a redeeming arc for the father, I really just didn’t think he was all that great. He tries but it’s so half-assed and not really exciting. He is also just a big jerk sometimes and I think part of it is that he is likely depressed but, it isn’t addressed as much within the book so I didn’t know what to make of him and just continued disliking him.

This book is already critically acclaimed so I think it all just comes down to what you want from a middle grade novel. I didn’t think this hit all the notes for me (and I am not even sure what some of those missing notes were, lol), butttt I DID enjoy it. It is Kenneth Oppel and its seriously unlikely I’d dislike a book he has written. SO READ IT IF YOU WILL. Don’t read it if you don’t want to. Do whatever you want. Eat a cake.