Library Journal
Gr 7-9-In 1959, William Montreux, 14, lives with his mother and abusive father in Bonville, France, near the site of the Normandy invasion in 1944. On the hill above the village is a rundown castle known as the "Crouching Dragon." On occasion, unusual sounds and smoke come from it. Willi is drawn to the mysterious structure and eventually meets its reclusive resident, Roger Guiscard. From him, the teen learns that his mother and Guiscard worked for the French resistance during the war. Other students are drawn to the castle and embark on a restoration project that includes displaying collections of World War II weapons as well as medieval spears, swords, and armor held within. Simultaneously there is a cattle-rustling operation in the area and the mayor blames Willi for the missing animals. Although the novel is interesting and compelling, it has some flaws. The fact that Charles de Gaulle, who is in the area to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Normandy, mediates the problem between the town's people and the students over the future of the castle is too convenient and unbelievable. This story has elements of realistic fiction, historical fiction, and mystery, and, basically, it's all too much for one novel.-Debbie Feulner, Northwest Middle School, Greensboro, NC Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.