HOME SCHOOL BOOK REVIEW
Book: Tombs of Dross: Book One of The Lorian Stones
Author: Lew Anderson
Cover Illustrator: Bradley J. Knefelkamp
Publisher: TreeStone Publishing, republished 2018
ISBN-13: 978-1548854263
ISBN-10: 1548854263
Related website(s): http://en.gravatar.com/lewaanderson (author)
Language level: 2
(1=nothing objectionable; 2=common euphemisms and/or childish slang terms; 3=some cursing and/or profanity; 4=a lot of cursing and/or profanity; 5=obscenity and/or vulgarity)
Recommended reading level: Ages 10 – 18
Rating: ***** 5 stars
(5 stars=EXCELLENT; 4 stars=GOOD; 3 stars=FAIR; 2 stars=POOR; 1 star=VERY POOR; no stars=NOT RECOMMENDED)
Category: Fantasy
Reviewed by Wayne S. Walker
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Anderson, Lew. Tombs of Dross: Book One of The Lorian Stones (Published in 2012 by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; republished in 2018 by TreeStone Publishing, Northfield, MN). Fifteen year old Isaac and his thirteen year old brother Zachary (Zac) have recently moved from the city. While the boys are exploring the property behind their family’s farm with their almost thirteen year old friend Brielle (Breezy), the three young teens discover a stone pillar with strange yet beautiful engravings which lead them into a mysterious world of excitement, intense danger, and deep friendship where they meet peculiar people, extraordinary creatures, and unnatural forces. Through shipwrecks and battles with beasts and men, they are hunted and pursed, yet befriended and, entwined in an ancient plot, they fight to survive. Where are they? Why are they there? What will happen to them? And will they ever get back home?
Tombs of Dross is Book One of the “Lorian Stones” trilogy by Lew Anderson. It is identified as “Engaging Christian middle grade and teen adventure fantasy.” Author Anderson said, “I wrote the Lorian Stones Trilogy as a Christian alternative for upper middle grade and teens (including my own children) seeking adventure fantasy without a focus on magic. Swords and bows replace spells and wizardry; perseverance, trust, and hope in the darkest hour prevail as themes throughout. The books are very action based, while conveying spiritual principles.” With its emphasis on strength and courage, endurance and faith, friendship and trust, it definitely has a “Chronicles of Narnia/Lord of the Rings”-ish type of feel to it.
Some fighting and killing occur, so the intensity level would be PG, with a suggested age from 10 and up. A childish slang term for the human posterior is sometimes found, but no cursing or profanity is used. It is a good read for youngsters and adults alike, and highly recommended as a compelling, delightful book for all those who love full-fledged fantasy adventure tales of hope and friendship in the midst of danger and trial, with a budding romance to muddle things up. The last chapter is a real cliff hanger, setting the stage for the sequels, Battles Grim: Book 2, and Pillars and Power: Book 3. There is also a prequel entitled Horse Boy.
