2007-07-10 "Magic Lantern" delivers bright light

I missed my dinner last evening because I couldn't put down Mr. Lewis' book, "The Magic Lantern of Kimbustan". Dinner is rather important to me; thus my husband commented that he too can't wait to read this book!
Time travel is one of my favourite themes when written deftly with appropriate rhythm, research, and timing. "The Magic Lantern of Kimbustan" brilliantly spans cultures and eras. I am impressed. The last forty pages had me gasping with many "oh-my-goshes" and "will he/she be alright?"
I loved this book, also, for the way characters were defined .. right down to body language exhibiting fear, excitement, love, and wonder. I also liked reading-between-the-lines in this story. I had wondered, for instance, if Irene and Agnes would turn out to be "true" friends. Two ladies loving the same gentleman .. well, it left room for speculation.
Overall, the book was a wonderful ride. Cultures, classes, eras, and adventures twisted and turned - sometimes colliding, or passing by in a whisper. Children everywhere - even "kids" in their 50's - will want to hear more from J.H. Lewis. I enjoyed every moment of it!