Reviews

The Phoenix and the Carpet by E. Nesbit

razzmataz's review against another edition

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3.0

I thought this book was ok in the end.
My favourite part was when the phoenix thought the fire office was his temple.
I also feel sorry for the carpet because it got trodden on so many times.

lejoy's review against another edition

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3.0

This was a disappointment. I really enjoyed Five Children and It, although in hindsight I don't remember it very well and if it was anything like its sequel I can't imagine why I liked it so much. Although Nesbit's wit is still at work in this book, ultimately the children are so unlikeable that it wasn't any fun to spend time with them. They are selfish, entitled brats, the boys bullies and the girls drips. I was surprised by that last part because I'm pretty sure Nesbit was a feminist and had some feminist themes in the other books of hers that I've read, but no sign of it here. The introduction also warns that she was racist and classist, so you're in for a ride. I feel really sorry for both the phoenix and the carpet and I'd rather never see any of these kids again.

chrisannee's review against another edition

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5.0

Nesbit does a delightful job creating a modern-esque fairy tale.

aunt_clara's review against another edition

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5.0

Wonderful tale of a bygone age!

natniss's review against another edition

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3.0

The self-involvement of the children and their disregard for others beyond their family makes them quite unlikeable. Some of their misadventures are funny and interesting but others drag on.

ikbenella's review against another edition

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3.0

A fun read which would probably actually be enjoyable for children (take note, Mr Kingsley).

smithological_stories's review against another edition

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adventurous funny medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

kylasedai's review against another edition

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3.0

Slightly less fun than the first, but still a "jolly good time"

nedge's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Problematic imperialist views indicative of the times, otherwise charming, witty and forward thinking for its day

kim_reads87's review against another edition

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4.0

I enjoyed this book. It was imaginative and transports you into a fantastic world. The children were likeable. I liked the element of magic and the magic carpet really opened up the possibilities for adventures.