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Mission Clockwork #1
The Hunchback Assignments
A gripping new series combines Steampunk, spying, and a fantastic Victorian London.
The mysterious Mr. Socrates rescues Modo, a child in a traveling freak show. Modo is a hunchback with an amazing ability to transform his appearance, and Mr. Socrates raises him in isolation as an agent for the Permanent Association, a spy agency behind Brittania's efforts to rule the empire. At 14, Modo is left on the streets of London to fend for himself. When he encounters Octavia Milkweed, another Association agent, the two uncover a plot by the Clockwork Guild behind the murders of important men. Furthermore, a mad scientist is turning orphan children into automatons to further the goals of the Guild. Modo and Octavia journey deep into the tunnels under London and discover a terrifying plot against the British government. It's up to them to save their country.
The mysterious Mr. Socrates rescues Modo, a child in a traveling freak show. Modo is a hunchback with an amazing ability to transform his appearance, and Mr. Socrates raises him in isolation as an agent for the Permanent Association, a spy agency behind Brittania's efforts to rule the empire. At 14, Modo is left on the streets of London to fend for himself. When he encounters Octavia Milkweed, another Association agent, the two uncover a plot by the Clockwork Guild behind the murders of important men. Furthermore, a mad scientist is turning orphan children into automatons to further the goals of the Guild. Modo and Octavia journey deep into the tunnels under London and discover a terrifying plot against the British government. It's up to them to save their country.
278 pages, Hardcover
First published September 22, 2009
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5891 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Slade
72Ìýbooks520ÌýfollowersArthur Slade was raised in the Cypress Hills of southwest Saskatchewan and began writing at an early age. He is the author of the bestselling The Hunchback Assignments series of books, Dust (which won the Governor General's award), Tribes and Jolted. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada (which really is a real place). Join his creative & somewhat clever newsletter at:
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May 12, 2009I wrote it
June 5, 2018
Although others have classified this book as young adult, I would consider it to be for a younger audience than that. I would recommend it for tweens and young teens. I’m rating it three stars, but that’s for the reading experience from my current vantage point as an adult. I think that if I’d read it at the right age, I would definitely have rated it at four stars.
The story is an interesting mix of steampunk elements and allusions to classic literature. The main character, Modo (the hunchback of the title) harks back to Quasimodo of Victor Hugo and Modo’s partner in crime, Octavia Milkweed, reminds me obliquely of La Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Like Quasimodo & Esmeralda, Modo becomes enamoured with Octavia. Unlike Quasimodo, Modo has a paranormal ability to change his appearance for limited amounts of time. Because of his crush on Octavia, he spends quite a bit of time & effort to avoid being seen by her in his natural state—this is obviously a state of affairs that will progress in future volumes.
The story’s villain, Dr. Hyde, has some roots in Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde, without the virtuous Jekyl state. He performs many horrible experiments on both adults and children, but nothing vivid enough to leave younger readers with nightmares, unless they are ultra-sensitive. The bolts that he inserts in his experimental subjects reminded me strongly of the popular-culture version of Frankenstein’s monster.
Unlike so many of these alternate history Victorian stories, this one seems to be aimed more at boys than at girls, although I think any girl of the right age would definitely identify with Octavia. But with Modo as the narrator of the tale, the appeal to boys is greater. Since I think that reading for young men is a neglected demographic, I am glad to know about this fun, engaging series.
The author, Arthur Slade, will be attending the When Words Collide conference this August (2018) and I am glad that I read one of his books before hearing him speak there.
The story is an interesting mix of steampunk elements and allusions to classic literature. The main character, Modo (the hunchback of the title) harks back to Quasimodo of Victor Hugo and Modo’s partner in crime, Octavia Milkweed, reminds me obliquely of La Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Like Quasimodo & Esmeralda, Modo becomes enamoured with Octavia. Unlike Quasimodo, Modo has a paranormal ability to change his appearance for limited amounts of time. Because of his crush on Octavia, he spends quite a bit of time & effort to avoid being seen by her in his natural state—this is obviously a state of affairs that will progress in future volumes.
The story’s villain, Dr. Hyde, has some roots in Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde, without the virtuous Jekyl state. He performs many horrible experiments on both adults and children, but nothing vivid enough to leave younger readers with nightmares, unless they are ultra-sensitive. The bolts that he inserts in his experimental subjects reminded me strongly of the popular-culture version of Frankenstein’s monster.
Unlike so many of these alternate history Victorian stories, this one seems to be aimed more at boys than at girls, although I think any girl of the right age would definitely identify with Octavia. But with Modo as the narrator of the tale, the appeal to boys is greater. Since I think that reading for young men is a neglected demographic, I am glad to know about this fun, engaging series.
The author, Arthur Slade, will be attending the When Words Collide conference this August (2018) and I am glad that I read one of his books before hearing him speak there.
January 14, 2010
The first in a new series, this is the story of a hideously deformed boy with a fantastic secret, one that saves him from life as freak in a traveling show.
Modo, the young boy, is rescued from a cage in the back of a gypsy's wagon by Mr. Socrates. He is then sent to Ravenscroft, a house in the country, and spends the next thirteen years inside the house with his caretaker Mrs. Finchley, an assortment of tutors, and his training master, Tharpa. Over the years, Mr. Socrates trains him in a variety of non-conventional skills as well as providing him with a classical education. The most amazing feat is teaching Modo how change his appearance He is also taught how to fight and is trained in the arts of combat and strategy. The day finally comes when Mr. Socrates comes to Ravenscroft and tells Modo that they will be traveling to London. Modo is thrilled to leave as this would be the very first time he has been allowed to leave the house. Once in London, the real story begins with the introduction of the Clockwork Guild and their hideous plans for the children of London. From there we find out just how much Modo is capable of and how clever he really is.
I enjoyed this quite a bit and look forward to the next in the series. I was rooting for Modo to grow up and become self-sufficient. I look forward to seeing more of Octavia Milkweed as I believe her character to be most interesting. And of course, we have to find out what next dastardly deed the Clockwork Guild will come up with and how Modo and Mr. Socrates will save the world!
Modo, the young boy, is rescued from a cage in the back of a gypsy's wagon by Mr. Socrates. He is then sent to Ravenscroft, a house in the country, and spends the next thirteen years inside the house with his caretaker Mrs. Finchley, an assortment of tutors, and his training master, Tharpa. Over the years, Mr. Socrates trains him in a variety of non-conventional skills as well as providing him with a classical education. The most amazing feat is teaching Modo how change his appearance He is also taught how to fight and is trained in the arts of combat and strategy. The day finally comes when Mr. Socrates comes to Ravenscroft and tells Modo that they will be traveling to London. Modo is thrilled to leave as this would be the very first time he has been allowed to leave the house. Once in London, the real story begins with the introduction of the Clockwork Guild and their hideous plans for the children of London. From there we find out just how much Modo is capable of and how clever he really is.
I enjoyed this quite a bit and look forward to the next in the series. I was rooting for Modo to grow up and become self-sufficient. I look forward to seeing more of Octavia Milkweed as I believe her character to be most interesting. And of course, we have to find out what next dastardly deed the Clockwork Guild will come up with and how Modo and Mr. Socrates will save the world!
March 26, 2010
"The large carriage rattled with grotesqueries -- bones of cats and pigs strung up as wind chimes, bleached bear skulls dangling from wires, and three shrunken monkey heads mounted on posts."
This is where Modo is found as a child -- living in a cage in a traveling freak show, exhibited as "L'enfant du Monstre" for his hunchback and other heavy deformities. A mysterious benefactor, Mr. Socrates, rescues him from this life and raises him in seclusion, with only his nursemaid and an instructor for company. He's trained in stealth, acrobatics, fighting, mathematics, history, and politics, and he is not allowed to look into a mirror until he is five years old. When he is finally given permission, his reflection horrifies him, but he learns that he has the incredible ability to shift his physical appearance to look like anyone else. This is when he learns he has been training to be a spy for the Permanent Association, a secret organization dedicated to protecting the British Empire. Though it strains him greatly, his shape-shifting ability makes him an ideal spy, if he can learn to use it properly. To see if Modo’s training has prepared him, Mr. Socrates drops him penniless in the middle of London, where he has to survive on his own. Modo, only fourteen years old, uses his training and abilities to start his own detective agency, wearing masks when he is not shape-shifting in order to blend in. Eventually, he is given his first assignment with the Permanent Association, teaming up with another young agent, Octavia Milkweed, and together they uncover a nefarious plan orchestrated by the Clockwork Guild to take over the British government. (I won’t spoil all of the Clockwork Guild’s diabolical plans, except to say that part of it involves a giant clockwork automaton waging war on the city.)
This story takes place in an alternative Victorian London that is smoky and atmospheric, with plenty of inventive steampunk science worked in seamlessly. The plot races along at a breakneck pace, involving lots of dangerous undercover assignments and daring escapes for Modo, but what I really love about this story is Modo himself � he is crafty but also compassionate, and his insecurity about his true appearance, especially after he meets Octavia, is heart-breaking. His dependence on masks to hide his true identity is telling. Mr. Socrates is also a weighty character -- though he rescued Modo from a life as a circus freak, he is not a kind person, and his motivations for taking Modo in are complex. Mr. Socrates remains an inscrutable force: does he truly care for Modo, or is he just using him for his special abilites? I can't wait to see more of them in the next book, titled The Dark Deeps.
This is where Modo is found as a child -- living in a cage in a traveling freak show, exhibited as "L'enfant du Monstre" for his hunchback and other heavy deformities. A mysterious benefactor, Mr. Socrates, rescues him from this life and raises him in seclusion, with only his nursemaid and an instructor for company. He's trained in stealth, acrobatics, fighting, mathematics, history, and politics, and he is not allowed to look into a mirror until he is five years old. When he is finally given permission, his reflection horrifies him, but he learns that he has the incredible ability to shift his physical appearance to look like anyone else. This is when he learns he has been training to be a spy for the Permanent Association, a secret organization dedicated to protecting the British Empire. Though it strains him greatly, his shape-shifting ability makes him an ideal spy, if he can learn to use it properly. To see if Modo’s training has prepared him, Mr. Socrates drops him penniless in the middle of London, where he has to survive on his own. Modo, only fourteen years old, uses his training and abilities to start his own detective agency, wearing masks when he is not shape-shifting in order to blend in. Eventually, he is given his first assignment with the Permanent Association, teaming up with another young agent, Octavia Milkweed, and together they uncover a nefarious plan orchestrated by the Clockwork Guild to take over the British government. (I won’t spoil all of the Clockwork Guild’s diabolical plans, except to say that part of it involves a giant clockwork automaton waging war on the city.)
This story takes place in an alternative Victorian London that is smoky and atmospheric, with plenty of inventive steampunk science worked in seamlessly. The plot races along at a breakneck pace, involving lots of dangerous undercover assignments and daring escapes for Modo, but what I really love about this story is Modo himself � he is crafty but also compassionate, and his insecurity about his true appearance, especially after he meets Octavia, is heart-breaking. His dependence on masks to hide his true identity is telling. Mr. Socrates is also a weighty character -- though he rescued Modo from a life as a circus freak, he is not a kind person, and his motivations for taking Modo in are complex. Mr. Socrates remains an inscrutable force: does he truly care for Modo, or is he just using him for his special abilites? I can't wait to see more of them in the next book, titled The Dark Deeps.
January 14, 2011
Reading level: Middle Grades Plus (MG+ 6 and up)
Hardcover: 288 pages
Word Count: 63217
Main Focus Group: Boys
I haven't read much at this point in the genre of steam punk (think of H.G. Wells on steroids) but I really liked this book. Much like Alex Rider or one of the CHERUB Agents, this story revolves around a teenage boy, Modo and teenage girl, Octavia, saving the world (well in this case just London).
In this, the opening book of the series we are introduced to the main players. First is Mr. Socrates, who we later find out is the head of a super secret agency set up to protect the interests of the British Empire. Then there's the mad scientist Dr. Hyde who's goal seems to be that of "improving" the body of both humans and animals through altering the body and giving both humans and animals secret potions to change their DNA, or by replacing body parts with much stronger metal parts. There is also the super secret evil organization that has rescued Dr. Hyde and is now financing his experiments.Then we meet Modo, a boy of very special abilities. Mr. Socrates along with his weapons master Tharpa has trained Modo since he was an infant. Finally we meet Octavia who, as a teenage girl living on her own on the streets of London has developed some skills of her own, and along with those taught to her by Mr. Socrates and his weapons trainer Tharpa.
All in all it's wonderful fun and a good read.
Hardcover: 288 pages
Word Count: 63217
Main Focus Group: Boys
I haven't read much at this point in the genre of steam punk (think of H.G. Wells on steroids) but I really liked this book. Much like Alex Rider or one of the CHERUB Agents, this story revolves around a teenage boy, Modo and teenage girl, Octavia, saving the world (well in this case just London).
In this, the opening book of the series we are introduced to the main players. First is Mr. Socrates, who we later find out is the head of a super secret agency set up to protect the interests of the British Empire. Then there's the mad scientist Dr. Hyde who's goal seems to be that of "improving" the body of both humans and animals through altering the body and giving both humans and animals secret potions to change their DNA, or by replacing body parts with much stronger metal parts. There is also the super secret evil organization that has rescued Dr. Hyde and is now financing his experiments.Then we meet Modo, a boy of very special abilities. Mr. Socrates along with his weapons master Tharpa has trained Modo since he was an infant. Finally we meet Octavia who, as a teenage girl living on her own on the streets of London has developed some skills of her own, and along with those taught to her by Mr. Socrates and his weapons trainer Tharpa.
All in all it's wonderful fun and a good read.
September 23, 2009
Every summer I attend San Diego Comic Con, where I often frequent the the Random House booth, and try to get as many Advanced Reader's Copies as I possibly can; and usually, I read these books withing the month, but in this case it took me a while to get to the book. Well, I finally picked this one off my shelf and decided to read it; I could not put it down! I finished it in two days (September 22-23). The back of the book does not quite do this book justice, but gives one the main idea of the book. One unique aspect of this book, was the use of famous names for various characters: such as Modo, a young, hunchbacked boy, the Scientist Hyde, who is creating a liquid that when drinking, alters a persons personality, creating a second self (much like Dr. Jeckil and Mr. Hyde), and the allusive leader of the Permanent Association, Mr. Socrates. All of these little aspects of the book only add to it's intrigue and ingenuity. This was a fun, enjoyable, epic story about a young, deformed boy, with an amazing gift! This is definately a book worth reading if you enjoy intrigue mixed with some fantastical abilities, characters, and machines!
March 29, 2010
I really liked this book! Have you ever finished a story and felt sort of smug on the author's behalf?
"Yep that was brilliant all right - ooh he is good!"
That is the feeling that this book evokes. It has got everything you could wish for - a splash of romance, a dash of mystery, a thimbleful of intrigue and a whole bowl full of danger!
Modo is an ugly child, saved from life as a traveling "freak show" attraction by the enigmatic Mr. Socrates. Mr. Socrates is a man high up in the hierarchy of a society wholly devoted to protecting Britain's interests.
Modo is raised to be a spy, his natural ability to change his appearance drawn out and strengthened in his lessons. It is a good life, plenty of food, people who - if they do not love him - are happy enough to provide him companionship and books to learn from. But it is a lonely life, and when he is released to seek his fortune on the streets of London he does not know whether to be thrilled or frightened.
After proving that he can survive on his own Mr. Socrates announces that his training is complete - Modo is ready to be a full fledged "spy" for the society.
In a past where robots are fueled by children and an evil scientist is trying to take over the world - or at the very least England - Modo's skills will prove invaluable. Will he have the courage to stand against the darkness?
"Yep that was brilliant all right - ooh he is good!"
That is the feeling that this book evokes. It has got everything you could wish for - a splash of romance, a dash of mystery, a thimbleful of intrigue and a whole bowl full of danger!
Modo is an ugly child, saved from life as a traveling "freak show" attraction by the enigmatic Mr. Socrates. Mr. Socrates is a man high up in the hierarchy of a society wholly devoted to protecting Britain's interests.
Modo is raised to be a spy, his natural ability to change his appearance drawn out and strengthened in his lessons. It is a good life, plenty of food, people who - if they do not love him - are happy enough to provide him companionship and books to learn from. But it is a lonely life, and when he is released to seek his fortune on the streets of London he does not know whether to be thrilled or frightened.
After proving that he can survive on his own Mr. Socrates announces that his training is complete - Modo is ready to be a full fledged "spy" for the society.
In a past where robots are fueled by children and an evil scientist is trying to take over the world - or at the very least England - Modo's skills will prove invaluable. Will he have the courage to stand against the darkness?
October 9, 2011
"The Hunchback Assignments" are tasks performed by deformed Modo for the Victorian Empire. I see why Arthur Slade wins awards. This is a cracking scary steampunk adventure yarn, with a hint of attraction between brave and funny teens in my beloved old London.
Mr. Socrates, head of the secret Permanent Association dedicated to Britain's preservation, rescues the orphan and trains him to age 14, seeing the potential in his chameleon ability to temporarily transform his appearance. With luminous Octavia, they track kidnapped children to the evil Clockwork Guild, who drug, brainwash, and operate on their experiment victims. Scientifically curious "Exploratory Society" sons are compelled to murder their politician fathers. Hyde's mad creativity, cold Hakkandottir's grateful devotion, [Spoiler: even the traitor,] have comprehensible motivations. Hints of the benefits of technology are outweighed by the dastardly destruction. Moral lessons about beauty, function, purpose, love and masks waver below the surface, maybe clearer on re-reading, perhaps just idea glimmers to simmer. In the conclusion, caring makes Modo a man, no matter how he looks, and solves trouble.
Mr. Socrates, head of the secret Permanent Association dedicated to Britain's preservation, rescues the orphan and trains him to age 14, seeing the potential in his chameleon ability to temporarily transform his appearance. With luminous Octavia, they track kidnapped children to the evil Clockwork Guild, who drug, brainwash, and operate on their experiment victims. Scientifically curious "Exploratory Society" sons are compelled to murder their politician fathers. Hyde's mad creativity, cold Hakkandottir's grateful devotion, [Spoiler: even the traitor,] have comprehensible motivations. Hints of the benefits of technology are outweighed by the dastardly destruction. Moral lessons about beauty, function, purpose, love and masks waver below the surface, maybe clearer on re-reading, perhaps just idea glimmers to simmer. In the conclusion, caring makes Modo a man, no matter how he looks, and solves trouble.
January 16, 2012
I picked up “The Hunchback Assignments� by Arthur Slade randomly last week at the library. I was bored and feeling risky.
The book is loosely, and I mean loosely based on “The Hunchback of Notre Dame� by Victor Hugo. Okay, so I haven’t exactly read Hugo’s classic, but I did read the Wikipedia synopsis, and I have seen the Disney movie, so I’m basically an expert now.
The book is set in late 1800s England, and follows Modo � a shape-shifting hunchback who is raised in seclusion until he’s 14. At that point, Modo enters London and begins investigating several disappearances of prominent members of society.
Slade writes some pretty intriguing characters. I love Modo. My heart breaks for Modo as he tries to accept his deformity and earn the love of the mysterious Mr. Socrates, the man who adopted him as an infant and coldly raised him to be his agent. There also is Octavia Milkweek, another young agent who accompanies Modo on much of his investigation, but is kept from his true identity due to his shape-shifting abilities. I’m sure you can see the potential of a complicated romance brewing.
Finish this review at
The book is loosely, and I mean loosely based on “The Hunchback of Notre Dame� by Victor Hugo. Okay, so I haven’t exactly read Hugo’s classic, but I did read the Wikipedia synopsis, and I have seen the Disney movie, so I’m basically an expert now.
The book is set in late 1800s England, and follows Modo � a shape-shifting hunchback who is raised in seclusion until he’s 14. At that point, Modo enters London and begins investigating several disappearances of prominent members of society.
Slade writes some pretty intriguing characters. I love Modo. My heart breaks for Modo as he tries to accept his deformity and earn the love of the mysterious Mr. Socrates, the man who adopted him as an infant and coldly raised him to be his agent. There also is Octavia Milkweek, another young agent who accompanies Modo on much of his investigation, but is kept from his true identity due to his shape-shifting abilities. I’m sure you can see the potential of a complicated romance brewing.
Finish this review at
January 10, 2011
One word: flat. No wait, I have lots more words. Dreary. Miserable. Highlights the worst of humanity while providing us with a completely unimaginative story arc. When I got to the climax of the action I couldn't possibly believe that that was all it was - I had guessed as much a hundred pages ago. Maybe this would appeal to a certain age of young boy, but I was just not feeling it. I would have abandoned it, but it was barely over 200 pages, so I slogged through it. Felt like 500 pages by the end. I will not continue with the series.
March 11, 2012
3 1/2 stars; I love the "steampunk" setting, and thought it was a really neat concept.
November 4, 2009
Reason for Reading: Arthur Slade had a new book out and I was thrilled to find out it was the start of a series. I had been wanting him to venture out into a series.
Summary: Modo is an orphan taken in by Mr. Socrates and kept house-bound for the first thirteen years of his life where he is trained in body and mind. Modo is a hunchback with a terribly disfigured face which is so repugnant to look upon that Mr. Socrates does not allow mirrors in the house until he decides Modo is old enough to see his reflection. Once Modo has been trained to be one of Mr. Socrates secret agents he is sent out into the world where he uncovers a diabolical plot of the mad scientist Mr. Hyde. While investigating he meets Octavia Milkweed and together they must save the orphans of London and the city itself.
Comments: My review could end here and now with one word, brilliant. Arthur Slade comes up with some absolutely amazing plots and this book tops them all. A compelling read, that kept me turning the pages almost faster than I could read them. Modo is a wonderful character, one whom the reader bonds with instantly and feels compassion for, making him a superb hero. Octavia is a strong, yet feminine female hero and the two make for a dynamic pairing.
Slade's writing is as strong as ever. The book contains some quite disturbing scenes which made for a scary read at times but at others the humour is high which gives this quite dark story an even balance of light moments. I loved everything about this book and could simply gush over it. It's got everything you could hope for in a great read. If you like dark tales set in alternate Victorian England featuring mad scientists working with steam engines, clockworks and human bodies this will certainly be a must read for you! I can hardly wait for the next book to see what direction the series takes. The Hunchback Assignments will appeal to both boys and girls (as well as adults) equally. Recommended
Summary: Modo is an orphan taken in by Mr. Socrates and kept house-bound for the first thirteen years of his life where he is trained in body and mind. Modo is a hunchback with a terribly disfigured face which is so repugnant to look upon that Mr. Socrates does not allow mirrors in the house until he decides Modo is old enough to see his reflection. Once Modo has been trained to be one of Mr. Socrates secret agents he is sent out into the world where he uncovers a diabolical plot of the mad scientist Mr. Hyde. While investigating he meets Octavia Milkweed and together they must save the orphans of London and the city itself.
Comments: My review could end here and now with one word, brilliant. Arthur Slade comes up with some absolutely amazing plots and this book tops them all. A compelling read, that kept me turning the pages almost faster than I could read them. Modo is a wonderful character, one whom the reader bonds with instantly and feels compassion for, making him a superb hero. Octavia is a strong, yet feminine female hero and the two make for a dynamic pairing.
Slade's writing is as strong as ever. The book contains some quite disturbing scenes which made for a scary read at times but at others the humour is high which gives this quite dark story an even balance of light moments. I loved everything about this book and could simply gush over it. It's got everything you could hope for in a great read. If you like dark tales set in alternate Victorian England featuring mad scientists working with steam engines, clockworks and human bodies this will certainly be a must read for you! I can hardly wait for the next book to see what direction the series takes. The Hunchback Assignments will appeal to both boys and girls (as well as adults) equally. Recommended
May 18, 2012
What if Quasimodo, the Hunchback of Notre Dame worked as a secret agent for a mysterious man protecting the interests of Victorian England? This rollicking Steampunk adventure answers that question, while sweeping through a fast paced series of excitement and adventure.
Modo is an ugly hunchbacked child, rescued by Mr. Socrates from a freak show, due to his amazing ability to shape shift. Brought up in a remote country house, teenage Modo is without warning flung out into the dangerous world of London to fend for himself, a test from Mr. Socrates. There he meets the skilled and beautiful Octavia Milkweed, another agent of Socrates, and must take on another secret society, this one bent on world domination.
The story is enjoyable, although a little fast paced for me, running constantly from one action scene to another. I couldn't help but feel I would have collapsed from exhaustion long before. The final thing that has to be battled feels a little farfetched and needlessly complex, created more for shock inpact than actual feasibility.
There is another literary inspired character, in the form of Mr Hyde, an evil doctor who creates dangerous potions, which is another interesting literary change up.
A good adventure, and definitely worth a read. This would probably be a good one to get the teenage boys reading.
Modo is an ugly hunchbacked child, rescued by Mr. Socrates from a freak show, due to his amazing ability to shape shift. Brought up in a remote country house, teenage Modo is without warning flung out into the dangerous world of London to fend for himself, a test from Mr. Socrates. There he meets the skilled and beautiful Octavia Milkweed, another agent of Socrates, and must take on another secret society, this one bent on world domination.
The story is enjoyable, although a little fast paced for me, running constantly from one action scene to another. I couldn't help but feel I would have collapsed from exhaustion long before. The final thing that has to be battled feels a little farfetched and needlessly complex, created more for shock inpact than actual feasibility.
There is another literary inspired character, in the form of Mr Hyde, an evil doctor who creates dangerous potions, which is another interesting literary change up.
A good adventure, and definitely worth a read. This would probably be a good one to get the teenage boys reading.
October 27, 2012
I read this book in a day and really enjoyed it. If you like steampunk combined with fantasy elements you'll probably like The Hunchback Assignments.
The main character Modo is a deformed hunchback with a heartbreaking story. He hates himself for the way he looks and just wants to be normal. Despite his outward appearance he has a heart of gold and I found him to be a really likable character throughout the entire book.
Octavia. What a character. One minute that girl was charming a cab driver to give them the ride and the next minute she was pulling a gun on her captors. I loved her. She was rough around the edges and quite wild. Yet she was hilarious and I loved her spunk. She didn't let herself be pushed into anything. Instead she went out and did stuff.
For once I found that the villains were actually a bit scary. Not overly so, but I wouldn't want to meet the red-haired woman on the street. Personally I thought that the werewolf children was a nice touch as well.
Kudos to Arthur Slade for creating such a fascinating cast of characters. The Hunchback Assignments has a steam-punk and Victorian setting that I really enjoyed.
The Hunchback Assignments was a fun and easy read. It has some violent content, but I think most kids in middle school could handle it. This story is action packed, humorous, tragic, and topped with a hint of romance.
The main character Modo is a deformed hunchback with a heartbreaking story. He hates himself for the way he looks and just wants to be normal. Despite his outward appearance he has a heart of gold and I found him to be a really likable character throughout the entire book.
Octavia. What a character. One minute that girl was charming a cab driver to give them the ride and the next minute she was pulling a gun on her captors. I loved her. She was rough around the edges and quite wild. Yet she was hilarious and I loved her spunk. She didn't let herself be pushed into anything. Instead she went out and did stuff.
For once I found that the villains were actually a bit scary. Not overly so, but I wouldn't want to meet the red-haired woman on the street. Personally I thought that the werewolf children was a nice touch as well.
Kudos to Arthur Slade for creating such a fascinating cast of characters. The Hunchback Assignments has a steam-punk and Victorian setting that I really enjoyed.
The Hunchback Assignments was a fun and easy read. It has some violent content, but I think most kids in middle school could handle it. This story is action packed, humorous, tragic, and topped with a hint of romance.
June 13, 2015
Three words best describe this book; Weird, creepy, dark. Didn't care for it much, I mean who wants to read about a weird scientist dissecting/remodeling children and making them into creepy, killing machines? Not me, although I DID read the book I know but I honestly didn't know how bad it was until I was about half way through and then I HAD to finish it to see what happened. The only cool thing about the book was Modo whose ability to change into other people was really neat.
April 1, 2012
Okay, so it looked like it would be better than it was. Or maybe I was just expecting something more. In any event, I did find it enjoyable and exciting - though the ending was a bit lack luster - and I loved the steampunk setting. Maybe the second book will live up to my expectations a bit better.
August 6, 2018
This one is difficult. It started out with so much potential, but the rest of the book felt lacking. It starts out with a child being relentlessly trained to have superior memory, knowledge of as many things as possible, different languages, etc. and then we see... almost none of any of that. His main talent, the one the book is centered around, is used a little more often, but still not many times. The premise was great, but it didn't do a whole lot in terms of followup. Beyond a few examples of his talent, and glimpses of his inner fears, in the end he's not much more than a normal person. That'd be fine if the beginning of the book didn't play him up so much as to be something far greater, to the point where he was an essentially an experiment for all his childhood.
What's more, only Modo seemed to get any character development or depth. Everyone else is pretty much just as they're presented at the start. There was one character who might have had some potential -- Modo keeps mentioning her, so we think she might show up again -- but we never see her again.
But it was still a compelling enough story. It was an interesting mystery, and the characters, while flat, were interesting enough to keep me going. I might even be interested in checking out the sequels; since there are so many, I assume that's where more development happens, but I'm not keen on the idea of waiting that long.
What's more, only Modo seemed to get any character development or depth. Everyone else is pretty much just as they're presented at the start. There was one character who might have had some potential -- Modo keeps mentioning her, so we think she might show up again -- but we never see her again.
But it was still a compelling enough story. It was an interesting mystery, and the characters, while flat, were interesting enough to keep me going. I might even be interested in checking out the sequels; since there are so many, I assume that's where more development happens, but I'm not keen on the idea of waiting that long.
March 21, 2020
Slade, Arthur. The Hunchback Assignments. (2009). The Hunchback Assignments is a steampunk fantasy book, whose main character is named Modo. Modo is described as so appalling ugly, deformed and hunchedback, that when Mr. Socrates, his guardian, puts a mirror in his bedroom, he cries hysterically. But Modo has the ability to transform himself to look like anyone he imagines
(Unfortunately, he is unable to stay that way.), and this is how he comes into the custody of Mr. Socrates.
Mr. Socrates trains and educates Modo to become a secret agent. When he turns 14, Socrates brings him to London, and throws Modo out of his carriage with no money. Using his wits and skills, Modo becomes a private detective. He is hired by Octavia Milkweed to find out about the whereabouts of her "brother" Oscar Featherstone. He stumbles onto the Clockwork Society -a secret organization that has funded the scientific experimentation of Dr. Cornelius Hyde. Hyde and his cohorts kidnap and experiment on children, giving them a tincture to change them physically along with their disposition. The tincture not only causes them to become angry and hostile, but allows Hyde, Fhur, and Hakkandottir to control them. They harness this anger to power a metal giant set to wreck havoc on London.
Modo discovers that Octavia, like him, works for Mr. Socrates. Together they halt the destruction of London, and save the children, all while Modo keeps his true form hidden from Octavia, who he is madly crushing on. He doesn't trust that she will see past his deformities and only see his ugliness.
Modo is grateful for Mr. Socrates and the education and training he has provided for Modo. Octavia pokes at these notions, questioning his unwavering reverence for Socrates. Throughout his adventure, he starts to question the actions of Mr. Socrates - like when he deserted him in the streets of London, but quickly represses these feelings.
The Hunchback is the first of several books in this series. It is a fun story. I liked that even though Mr. Socrates came to save London, at the expense of the children fueling the metal giant, it was Modo and Octavia that did so. I hope as the series progresses, that Modo, himself, can accept himself as more than his deformities. I would recommend this book to fourth through sixth grade.
(Unfortunately, he is unable to stay that way.), and this is how he comes into the custody of Mr. Socrates.
Mr. Socrates trains and educates Modo to become a secret agent. When he turns 14, Socrates brings him to London, and throws Modo out of his carriage with no money. Using his wits and skills, Modo becomes a private detective. He is hired by Octavia Milkweed to find out about the whereabouts of her "brother" Oscar Featherstone. He stumbles onto the Clockwork Society -a secret organization that has funded the scientific experimentation of Dr. Cornelius Hyde. Hyde and his cohorts kidnap and experiment on children, giving them a tincture to change them physically along with their disposition. The tincture not only causes them to become angry and hostile, but allows Hyde, Fhur, and Hakkandottir to control them. They harness this anger to power a metal giant set to wreck havoc on London.
Modo discovers that Octavia, like him, works for Mr. Socrates. Together they halt the destruction of London, and save the children, all while Modo keeps his true form hidden from Octavia, who he is madly crushing on. He doesn't trust that she will see past his deformities and only see his ugliness.
Modo is grateful for Mr. Socrates and the education and training he has provided for Modo. Octavia pokes at these notions, questioning his unwavering reverence for Socrates. Throughout his adventure, he starts to question the actions of Mr. Socrates - like when he deserted him in the streets of London, but quickly represses these feelings.
The Hunchback is the first of several books in this series. It is a fun story. I liked that even though Mr. Socrates came to save London, at the expense of the children fueling the metal giant, it was Modo and Octavia that did so. I hope as the series progresses, that Modo, himself, can accept himself as more than his deformities. I would recommend this book to fourth through sixth grade.
September 19, 2019
This was a really hard one to get through. I'm not a huge steampunk fan. I won't shy away completely from reading this genre, but for me to like it, the book has to be really well done. THIS was not that. Had it not been for a decent narration, I would have been beyond bored out of my mind. And I feel like this was poorly plotted and, sadly, anticlimactic. (However, I don't think it was that climactic to begin with.)
Two stars instead of one because a tween might like this. Maybe.
Two stars instead of one because a tween might like this. Maybe.
December 2, 2023
Different. Took me a bit to get into it but I’m enjoying it.
March 1, 2011
If you want a more in depth preview: It definitely combined the classics of the Hunchback of Notre Dame (most notably in the main character) and that of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. (In one of the other characters and some of the plot). However, as a whole the novel was definitely original and new. A steam punk coming of age set in a world of classics.
The plot itself was twisted and convoluted, and yet also straight forward. I would say that if you're paranoid it makes it a much more difficult read, and if you're trusting it becomes an even easier read.
One of the things that they mention is the Greek myth of King Lycaon, but I lost the reference so I couldn't compare that they said to what was in the book. Here's the myth of Lycaon, so if anyone's read this I'd love to know if the reference is accurate.
Other than the two characters that obviously come from the classics there is also a cast of characters which are sometimes over the top, but in their world it fits in. Men with steam powered limbs or metal hands. Secret organizations bent on the destruction of the British Empire, and others bent on being its salvation rub elbows with the rest of the London underworld.
It's not a dark and gritty novel, but it's not light and happy either. This is mostly because there can be no happy ending for Modo who is forever deformed. On the other hand, although it is aimed at teens it's not all emo and whining about what he wants, although he does experience perfectly normal bouts of self-pity (as anyone does).
Over all, I think it was a good book. And though it didn't drag me under with every word it was a fast read and kept me entertained. It's not a deep thinking book, but neither is it a bit of fluff; especially if you are the kind that lives it with your characters and wants to try to figure out what's coming next. If a sequel ever appeared (and I hope one does) I would definitely be willing to add it to my 'To Be Read' pile, but I didn't enjoy it enough to drop everything and read it when it comes out.
If you like X try Y:
My first recommendation is to check out the classics previously mentioned. Both the Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde have their influence on this book. Another influence, which plays in a much more minor way seems to be Frankenstein.
If you liked the semi-dark tone and the male narrator main character you should try Darren Shan's Cirque du Freak (which is the first in the Cirque du Freak series, also called the Darren Shan saga).
Clockwork Angel has a similar tone, but a female lead and more beauty to it. Or if you want to stick with a male narrator and the steampunk, but kick out the dark tone try Airborn (which has a much more adventurous tone).
Finally, if you enjoy the secret societies operating beneath the notices of the normal townies. You might try the Secret History of the Pink Carnation. It's a light romance, especially in the beginning, but the secret societies get deeper the deeper you get into the series. It's also adults only, not for teens.
The plot itself was twisted and convoluted, and yet also straight forward. I would say that if you're paranoid it makes it a much more difficult read, and if you're trusting it becomes an even easier read.
One of the things that they mention is the Greek myth of King Lycaon, but I lost the reference so I couldn't compare that they said to what was in the book. Here's the myth of Lycaon, so if anyone's read this I'd love to know if the reference is accurate.
Other than the two characters that obviously come from the classics there is also a cast of characters which are sometimes over the top, but in their world it fits in. Men with steam powered limbs or metal hands. Secret organizations bent on the destruction of the British Empire, and others bent on being its salvation rub elbows with the rest of the London underworld.
It's not a dark and gritty novel, but it's not light and happy either. This is mostly because there can be no happy ending for Modo who is forever deformed. On the other hand, although it is aimed at teens it's not all emo and whining about what he wants, although he does experience perfectly normal bouts of self-pity (as anyone does).
Over all, I think it was a good book. And though it didn't drag me under with every word it was a fast read and kept me entertained. It's not a deep thinking book, but neither is it a bit of fluff; especially if you are the kind that lives it with your characters and wants to try to figure out what's coming next. If a sequel ever appeared (and I hope one does) I would definitely be willing to add it to my 'To Be Read' pile, but I didn't enjoy it enough to drop everything and read it when it comes out.
If you like X try Y:
My first recommendation is to check out the classics previously mentioned. Both the Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde have their influence on this book. Another influence, which plays in a much more minor way seems to be Frankenstein.
If you liked the semi-dark tone and the male narrator main character you should try Darren Shan's Cirque du Freak (which is the first in the Cirque du Freak series, also called the Darren Shan saga).
Clockwork Angel has a similar tone, but a female lead and more beauty to it. Or if you want to stick with a male narrator and the steampunk, but kick out the dark tone try Airborn (which has a much more adventurous tone).
Finally, if you enjoy the secret societies operating beneath the notices of the normal townies. You might try the Secret History of the Pink Carnation. It's a light romance, especially in the beginning, but the secret societies get deeper the deeper you get into the series. It's also adults only, not for teens.
June 13, 2012
Mr. Socrates found Modo when he was four years old, hunchbacked and deformed, locked in a cage by gypsies who charged pennies to come and stare at the “Demon child.� He paid for Modo’s education and for the upstairs room where he lived hidden from the world. His only companions were Mrs. Finchley, a retired actress who served as his governess, and Tharpa, Mr. Socrates� man who taught him hand-to-hand combat and physical fitness. It was not the most ordinary of childhoods, but then, Modo was not an ordinary child. Beyond his unsightly appearance, he had one unique trait: he didn’t have to be that way. You see, the talent that first interested Mr. Socrates in little Modo, was that he could change form. His facial features, his hump, the bones in his arms and legs, they were all moveable if he concentrated hard enough. Of course, after several hours his muscles would grow tired and he would revert to his normal self. But for a few hours at a time, Modo could be anyone he wanted…or Mr. Socrates wanted.
One night, ten years after he had first been freed from the gypsies, Mr. Socrates took him out for his first mission� and threw him out of the carriage. Modo’s first mission was survival—on his own on the streets of London. His only way of supporting himself was to advertize in the papers as a private investigator, using his talent for disguise to find information no one else could. It was working out nicely, until she showed up. Modo had never seen anything so lovely as the girl who slid her little note under his door. He could hardly wait to put her mind at ease about her brother. He was still picturing which face he would put on if he ever met her as he went off in search of Mr. Horatio Featherstone.
Deep below the city, a Mr. Hyde has been working on a great machine—his masterpiece, the culmination of his entire career. Mechanized prosthetic limbs, living dogs with metal skeletons—those would be child’s play compared to the great machine he was going to create. Mr. Hyde had no real interest in the plans of the Clockwork Guild; he was a scientist, not a politician. But the Guild could get him the materials he would need for his creation, so, in exchange, he provided them with enough of his special tonic for the eight young men they had selected. The victims thought they were coming to a scientific lecture. One of them, Horatio Featherstone, was so excited he didn’t even realize he was being followed.
One night, ten years after he had first been freed from the gypsies, Mr. Socrates took him out for his first mission� and threw him out of the carriage. Modo’s first mission was survival—on his own on the streets of London. His only way of supporting himself was to advertize in the papers as a private investigator, using his talent for disguise to find information no one else could. It was working out nicely, until she showed up. Modo had never seen anything so lovely as the girl who slid her little note under his door. He could hardly wait to put her mind at ease about her brother. He was still picturing which face he would put on if he ever met her as he went off in search of Mr. Horatio Featherstone.
Deep below the city, a Mr. Hyde has been working on a great machine—his masterpiece, the culmination of his entire career. Mechanized prosthetic limbs, living dogs with metal skeletons—those would be child’s play compared to the great machine he was going to create. Mr. Hyde had no real interest in the plans of the Clockwork Guild; he was a scientist, not a politician. But the Guild could get him the materials he would need for his creation, so, in exchange, he provided them with enough of his special tonic for the eight young men they had selected. The victims thought they were coming to a scientific lecture. One of them, Horatio Featherstone, was so excited he didn’t even realize he was being followed.
November 30, 2009
Reviewed by Theresa L. Stowell for TeensReadToo.com
Mysterious Mr. Socrates found a one-year-old child in the back of a gypsy cart with the label "L'Enfant du Monstre." Thinking the child was just physically deformed, Mr. Socrates turned to go; however, the toddler called out to him, and when he looked again, a reformation was taking place. This infant was able to change his facial features, so the deformity disappeared for a few moments. Mr. Socrates immediately recognized the value in this ability.
Four short years later, Modo shows advanced intellectual ability. He is able to read, complete complex mathematical equations, and study languages. Mrs. Finchley, a governess, has been hired by Mr. Socrates to care for him and Tharpa, an Indian man, has been retained to teach him combat skills. The only stipulations on Modo's life are that he cannot leave the three rooms that Mr. Socrates has declared as his and that he must concentrate only on studies that will increase his intelligence.
Though he can feel and even see a protrusion on his back, he is not allowed to see himself until at five, when he is given a mirror by Mr. Socrates. Modo is devastated by what he sees. His face, in fact his whole head, is deformed.
When Modo turns fourteen, Mr. Socrates finally allows him out of his rooms. Unfortunately, the journey that Mr. Socrates takes him on is not the gift he had hoped it would be. On the train to London, Mr. Socrates informs him that he will be aiding in the protection of England. His first task is to survive on the London streets without warning or help.
As the story progresses, Modo succeeds in that first task, so Mr. Socrates and a secret society called the Permanent Association send him on more difficult and dangerous assignments. Together with another agent, fifteen-year-old Octavia Milkweed, he undertakes a series of adventures in an effort to save the grandson of the queen.
Slade's gripping tale touches the heart, and readers will root for Modo and Octavia as they show the adults around them that loving others and offering mercy are among the strongest traits people should desire. The most important theme in the book is that physical appearances do not always reflect a person's heart.
Mysterious Mr. Socrates found a one-year-old child in the back of a gypsy cart with the label "L'Enfant du Monstre." Thinking the child was just physically deformed, Mr. Socrates turned to go; however, the toddler called out to him, and when he looked again, a reformation was taking place. This infant was able to change his facial features, so the deformity disappeared for a few moments. Mr. Socrates immediately recognized the value in this ability.
Four short years later, Modo shows advanced intellectual ability. He is able to read, complete complex mathematical equations, and study languages. Mrs. Finchley, a governess, has been hired by Mr. Socrates to care for him and Tharpa, an Indian man, has been retained to teach him combat skills. The only stipulations on Modo's life are that he cannot leave the three rooms that Mr. Socrates has declared as his and that he must concentrate only on studies that will increase his intelligence.
Though he can feel and even see a protrusion on his back, he is not allowed to see himself until at five, when he is given a mirror by Mr. Socrates. Modo is devastated by what he sees. His face, in fact his whole head, is deformed.
When Modo turns fourteen, Mr. Socrates finally allows him out of his rooms. Unfortunately, the journey that Mr. Socrates takes him on is not the gift he had hoped it would be. On the train to London, Mr. Socrates informs him that he will be aiding in the protection of England. His first task is to survive on the London streets without warning or help.
As the story progresses, Modo succeeds in that first task, so Mr. Socrates and a secret society called the Permanent Association send him on more difficult and dangerous assignments. Together with another agent, fifteen-year-old Octavia Milkweed, he undertakes a series of adventures in an effort to save the grandson of the queen.
Slade's gripping tale touches the heart, and readers will root for Modo and Octavia as they show the adults around them that loving others and offering mercy are among the strongest traits people should desire. The most important theme in the book is that physical appearances do not always reflect a person's heart.
February 26, 2012
The Hunchback Assignments
Arthur Slade
Narrated by Jayne Entwistle
Listening Library, 2009
ISBN 0739380206
Unabridged Audio Book
Modo is an abandoned child in Victorian London, a child with such a fearsome appearance that no one could possibly care for him. Mr. Socrates, though, a mysterious gentleman of means, takes Modo in and raises him in a somewhat aloof fashion but with a purpose in mind. A governess and a man with martial skills are his only companions and teachers but the approval of Mr. Socrates is of utmost importance to Modo.
Besides the education and training he has received, Modo has learned to develop and control, to a certain extent, his unusual physical powers. Unwilling to let the world see his face, he wears a mask, but he also has the ability to transform his appearance for brief periods. This ability is of special importance when he is suddenly forced to fend for himself as a test of his readiness to take his place as a spy at the age of 14 for the Permanent Association, secretive defenders of Queen Victoria and Great Britain. Fend for himself he does, finding that he can support himself as a detective, and thus he meets a client, Miss Octavia Milkweed, and embarks on a most unusual case.
The Hunchback Assignments UK Cover
Technically, this is young adult fiction, but many elements make it very appealing to an older reader who will recognize many of the literary shout-outs. A combination of steampunk, fantasy, mystery, espionage and action adventure lead to great fun and the villainous Clockworld Guild, with the mad scientist Dr. Hyde and his dastardly invention, may prove to be an ongoing adversary for Modo, Octavia and the Permanent Association.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will look forward to future installments; I wish Mr. Slade would write faster. I do have to say he has a terrific website (see the link above) and this is one time I think the UK and US covers are equally cool. Also, Jayne Entwistle, already one of my favorite narrators, has done a great job again.
Very highly recommended for young adults and adults.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, March 2010.
Arthur Slade
Narrated by Jayne Entwistle
Listening Library, 2009
ISBN 0739380206
Unabridged Audio Book
Modo is an abandoned child in Victorian London, a child with such a fearsome appearance that no one could possibly care for him. Mr. Socrates, though, a mysterious gentleman of means, takes Modo in and raises him in a somewhat aloof fashion but with a purpose in mind. A governess and a man with martial skills are his only companions and teachers but the approval of Mr. Socrates is of utmost importance to Modo.
Besides the education and training he has received, Modo has learned to develop and control, to a certain extent, his unusual physical powers. Unwilling to let the world see his face, he wears a mask, but he also has the ability to transform his appearance for brief periods. This ability is of special importance when he is suddenly forced to fend for himself as a test of his readiness to take his place as a spy at the age of 14 for the Permanent Association, secretive defenders of Queen Victoria and Great Britain. Fend for himself he does, finding that he can support himself as a detective, and thus he meets a client, Miss Octavia Milkweed, and embarks on a most unusual case.
The Hunchback Assignments UK Cover
Technically, this is young adult fiction, but many elements make it very appealing to an older reader who will recognize many of the literary shout-outs. A combination of steampunk, fantasy, mystery, espionage and action adventure lead to great fun and the villainous Clockworld Guild, with the mad scientist Dr. Hyde and his dastardly invention, may prove to be an ongoing adversary for Modo, Octavia and the Permanent Association.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will look forward to future installments; I wish Mr. Slade would write faster. I do have to say he has a terrific website (see the link above) and this is one time I think the UK and US covers are equally cool. Also, Jayne Entwistle, already one of my favorite narrators, has done a great job again.
Very highly recommended for young adults and adults.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, March 2010.
April 13, 2011
You may also read my review here:
At the tender age of one, Modo is rescued from a traveling freak show by the mysterious Mr. Socrates, who takes him in and raises him to be well read and knowledgeable in the fighting arts. Deformed and never knowing his mother and father, Modo comes to rely on Mr. Socrates, the kindly housekeeper, Mrs. Finchley, and his fighting instructor, Tharpa, who was also taken in as a child by Mr. Socrates. At age 14, Modo is taken into London (his first time outside of his rooms), and given his first “assignment�: to survive on his own. Mr. Socrates assures Modo that he will find him when the time is right, and, terrified, Modo sets out alone. Six months later, after discovering he has a talent for finding lost things, he sets himself up in a modest room upstairs from a pub and begins taking on clients under the name Mr. Wellington. Modo has another talent too. He can transform himself, for hours at a time, into someone completely different , escaping from the hunchback and hideous countenance that has haunted him his whole life. When he meets the beautiful and mysterious Octavia Milkweed, also an agent for Mr. Socrates, he’s drawn into a shadowy world of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder.
This was just a delightful steampunk adventure! Combining elements of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Hunchback Assignments takes its readers on a romp through a gaslit London full of treachery, secret societies, evil scientists, and clockwork monstrosities. Modo is an endearing character, and Octavia is a spunky delight as our heroine and Modo’s crush. If you like your adventures with 19th century flair and Dickensien touches, you’ll love this book. In The Hunchback Assignments, Arthur Slade has created a world that I’ll look forward to returning to time and time again!
At the tender age of one, Modo is rescued from a traveling freak show by the mysterious Mr. Socrates, who takes him in and raises him to be well read and knowledgeable in the fighting arts. Deformed and never knowing his mother and father, Modo comes to rely on Mr. Socrates, the kindly housekeeper, Mrs. Finchley, and his fighting instructor, Tharpa, who was also taken in as a child by Mr. Socrates. At age 14, Modo is taken into London (his first time outside of his rooms), and given his first “assignment�: to survive on his own. Mr. Socrates assures Modo that he will find him when the time is right, and, terrified, Modo sets out alone. Six months later, after discovering he has a talent for finding lost things, he sets himself up in a modest room upstairs from a pub and begins taking on clients under the name Mr. Wellington. Modo has another talent too. He can transform himself, for hours at a time, into someone completely different , escaping from the hunchback and hideous countenance that has haunted him his whole life. When he meets the beautiful and mysterious Octavia Milkweed, also an agent for Mr. Socrates, he’s drawn into a shadowy world of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder.
This was just a delightful steampunk adventure! Combining elements of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Hunchback Assignments takes its readers on a romp through a gaslit London full of treachery, secret societies, evil scientists, and clockwork monstrosities. Modo is an endearing character, and Octavia is a spunky delight as our heroine and Modo’s crush. If you like your adventures with 19th century flair and Dickensien touches, you’ll love this book. In The Hunchback Assignments, Arthur Slade has created a world that I’ll look forward to returning to time and time again!
October 22, 2011
Make that a 3.5 star rating.
First off, if I remember correctly, this is a YA book, so I have to keep that mind in reviewing it. The writing is well done, and the characters are very well done. Modo's life, and him growing as a character was interesting to watch, as was Octavia's softening towards him and losing her bitchy/selfish attitude.
The world for this book is actually fairly interesting, with Slade's take on steampunk to be fairly unique in some regards, especially with Hyde's formula and the effects it has as well as the applications towards the climax of the story.
I enjoyed this book. Would I recommend it? I don't think most of my friends would read something like this to be honest. But again, that's because it's YA. I would definatly read this to my children however, which says a lot I think.
In the end, if you have YAs I would suggest this book to them, especailly if they like steampunk. If you are looking for a steampunk novel yourself and want a light read, this is perfect. If you are looking for something darker, I would suggest somewhere else.
One last note, there is one death in this book at the end that I think the author handled very, VERY well, and I was impressed by it. I can't say who as that would ruin it, but I think it was handled very well, especially for a YA novel.
First off, if I remember correctly, this is a YA book, so I have to keep that mind in reviewing it. The writing is well done, and the characters are very well done. Modo's life, and him growing as a character was interesting to watch, as was Octavia's softening towards him and losing her bitchy/selfish attitude.
The world for this book is actually fairly interesting, with Slade's take on steampunk to be fairly unique in some regards, especially with Hyde's formula and the effects it has as well as the applications towards the climax of the story.
I enjoyed this book. Would I recommend it? I don't think most of my friends would read something like this to be honest. But again, that's because it's YA. I would definatly read this to my children however, which says a lot I think.
In the end, if you have YAs I would suggest this book to them, especailly if they like steampunk. If you are looking for a steampunk novel yourself and want a light read, this is perfect. If you are looking for something darker, I would suggest somewhere else.
One last note, there is one death in this book at the end that I think the author handled very, VERY well, and I was impressed by it. I can't say who as that would ruin it, but I think it was handled very well, especially for a YA novel.
February 27, 2011
YA (more middle school and up) Steampunk adventure. I give it 4.5 stars.
Loved it. So much fun. Modo (abandoned near Notre Dame) has a disfigured face and hunchback, but also has the power to shapeshift. As a baby, Mr. Socrates buys him from a traveling freak show and raises him, training him to be a future agent for a secretive English society. He grows up and finds himself investigating missing orphans, scientific experimentation, and threats against the country from an evil organization. And he has cool gadgets and a partner in fellow orphan Octavia. I'm not going to go into the details - had too much fun reading it to want to spoil Modo's adventures.
I would say that there was one part at the end where I wished it had been handled differently, but then I remembered the age group that this is focused on and it makes sense.
Modo is superhuman in his abilities, but his caring of others (despite Mr. Socrates' efforts to isolate him), his longing to be accepted, to be able to show his face and find his own family makes him endearing and relatable. There are enough unanswered questions to populate many more books (such as who Mr Socrates is really, where Modo came from, etc). Looking forward to the next one.
Loved it. So much fun. Modo (abandoned near Notre Dame) has a disfigured face and hunchback, but also has the power to shapeshift. As a baby, Mr. Socrates buys him from a traveling freak show and raises him, training him to be a future agent for a secretive English society. He grows up and finds himself investigating missing orphans, scientific experimentation, and threats against the country from an evil organization. And he has cool gadgets and a partner in fellow orphan Octavia. I'm not going to go into the details - had too much fun reading it to want to spoil Modo's adventures.
I would say that there was one part at the end where I wished it had been handled differently, but then I remembered the age group that this is focused on and it makes sense.
Modo is superhuman in his abilities, but his caring of others (despite Mr. Socrates' efforts to isolate him), his longing to be accepted, to be able to show his face and find his own family makes him endearing and relatable. There are enough unanswered questions to populate many more books (such as who Mr Socrates is really, where Modo came from, etc). Looking forward to the next one.
July 22, 2012
An enticing and exciting YA novel of Steampunk in Victorian England, “The Hunchback Assignments� merges factual history with the alternate universe of steam, clockwork mechanisms, mad scientists, and global conspiracy. On one hand is an upscale, rather elitist organization calling itself the “Permanent Association,� determined not only to preserve Great Britain from anarchists, but intent as well on keeping Britannia the ruler of a great and far-flung empire of Manifest Destiny. Opposed to this is a global collection known as “The Clockword Guild,� whose members are completely without heart or compassion, who think nothing of enslaving orphans, street children, and even members of royalty, to their ends. The plot is fast-paced, and in the characters of poor hunchbacked Modo-until the age of 1 a “freak� in a tiny travelling gypsy carvan; Octavia Milkweed, former orphan turned pickpocket; and “Mr. Socrates,� as well as the trinity of evil (Fuhr; Hakkandottir; and Dr. Hyde) we encounter individuals as fully fleshed out and real as Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, and their nemesis Professor Moriarty. I recommend this delightful novel, and its series.
October 30, 2009
Arthur Slade has really done it again with this first book in his new steampunk series. Without a doubt, The Hunchback Assignments was one of my favourite books of the year - an exciting read from start to finish. Set in an alternative Victorian era, Slade takes his readers through the streets, alleys, rooftops and sewers of London. Modo, the main character, is a deformed hunchbacked boy with the ability to shapeshift - one of my favourite characters of all times. He is an amazing hero that is strong, clever, and vulnerable at times. He was adopted by Mr. Socrates as a young child in a travelling freakshow and was kept secluded for many years while he was trained to be a secret agent for the Permenant Association. With the ability to shapeshift, you can only imagine what happens when Modo is sent out into the city to fend for himself. Once a terrifying secret plot to ruin London is uncovered, the action-packed adventure begins. The steampunk aspect of this book adds a whole new level of creepiness, danger, and intensity.
A definite must-read.
A definite must-read.
February 25, 2010
I love picking up a book and immediately thinking of several kids to give it to. There's a historical setting, which is there more for atmosphere than anything else, an orphaned hunchback with a knack for rearranging his features, a benevolent (or is he?) father figure, plenty of steampunk-ish machines, a few strolls through London's sewers, plenty of action, mysterious associations and secret plots...what more do you need? Plus, the audio version is perfectly narrated, with accents and enough differences between the voices so that you always know who's talking. It makes for a great read-aloud, particularly with all the fantastic names.
It's the first in a new series, but it strikes a fine balance where the action of this book is wrapped up, but larger questions remain about the Permanent Association, Modo's past and future, etc. There's plenty of action, but story also raises moral questions and the characters are complex and interesting, and I hope that we learn more about them in later installments. I'd say 5th or 6th grade and up.
It's the first in a new series, but it strikes a fine balance where the action of this book is wrapped up, but larger questions remain about the Permanent Association, Modo's past and future, etc. There's plenty of action, but story also raises moral questions and the characters are complex and interesting, and I hope that we learn more about them in later installments. I'd say 5th or 6th grade and up.
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