Doctor Who: The American Adventures will be released on Oct. 25, skillfully bringing the quirky 12th Doctor to life in six child-friendly stories.
On Oct. 25, the Penguin Group UK will release Doctor Who: The American Adventures by Justin Richards. The book follows the 12th Doctor on six escapades through United States history. A fun read, the quirky character comes to life in this child-friendly book.
As evidenced in his writing, Richards is no stranger to Doctor Who. The author acts as a consultant in various capacities for the BBC regarding television and literary branches of the Doctor Who range. Richards turns this knowledge to the page in Doctor Who: The American Adventures, bringing the 12th Doctor to life with kids of nine to twelve in mind.
Excellent bedtime reading
Doctor Who: The American Adventures spans various locations within the 50 states between 1815 and 2017. Educational tidbits are thrown in along the way, without feeling as though characters are stopping for lessons. Readers find that Richards accounts for his intended age group in content. However, he manages not to excessively simplify the language.
The first story in Doctor Who: The American Adventures contains minimal dialogue. It is therefore difficult to assess exactly how 12-like the Doctor is. As the stories progress though, the Doctor’s personality shines through. Additionally, the plot line in each consecutive story becomes slightly more advanced. A couple moments are scattered throughout the book in which pivotal plot information is given far too easily. It appears, however, these instances are nods to very young audiences rather than a lack of storytelling capability.
Hints of social commentary found in the show are quietly present in this book. Though the Doctor is a less complicated hero in these stories than fans are accustomed to, readers will smile at classic words woven in. Consequently, adult fans of the BBC TV series along for the ride in Doctor Who: The American Adventures will find themselves entertained.
Richards successfully delivers a series of fun stories in this book, which stay true to the Doctor Who universe. Fans looking for quality time with their children – and to indoctrinate the next generation of Whovians – will enjoy Doctor Who: The American Adventures.