Goldkeeper   by Sally Prue Oxford University Press, 2004, 296 pages, ISBN 0192719505

How easy was it to get stuck into this book?
This book follows Sebastian, a very average young boy who is flabbergasted when he is picked to become the apprentice for the High Priest of the city's powerful temple. It has quite a novel approach, although it may not appeal to all.

Who are the main characters?
The main character is Sebastian Blewitt, a young boy who is astounded when he is offered the prestigious title of High Priest's apprentice to the temple of Ora. However, he soon realises the benefits that this offers, and accepts quickly enough. Other important characters in the book are his parents, Mr Meeno, a sinister gangster who controls most of the cities criminal world, the high priest himself, and Turville, the cheerful and jovial temple handyman, who looks after the apprentice and his every need.

What's the storyline?
When Sebastian realises the power of his position, he begins to exploit it in every way possible - passing new laws, performing dangerous and exciting displays within the sacred temple and heaping upon himself every gift he could possibly want. However soon Mr Meeno begins to plot, and Sebastian could lose all of his new found privileges if he does not stop the gangster lord and his cronies from overrunning the temple.

How's it written?
Probably best suited for younger to middling readers.

Other books by the same author that Tim knows about?
Cold Tom

The overall verdict is
Really good stuff

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