Awards and Book Reviews: WINNER: MOM'S CHOICE GOLD AWARD FOR YOUNG ADULT SERIES, 2010 WINNER: 2008 ERIC HOFFER BOOK AWARD, NOTABLE FINALIST, ForeWord Magazine BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD, 2007 THE MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW: CHILDREN'S BOOKWATCH, October, 2007 "Highly recommended for young adult library collections." ST LOUIS JEWISH LIGHT "[ZAN-GAH] is told with such verve, energy, and style that it will appeal to readers of all ages and sensibilities....Shickman's lively imagination is obvious on every page....The power of Shickman's words becomes apparent in the very first chapter....heart-pounding prose..."––Robert A. Cohn, Editor-in Chief Emeritus NOMOTC'S NOTEBOOK "This is a great read for young adults. They may find something within themselves just as Zan-Gah did."—Debbier Ciardi, National Organization of Mothers of Twins Club THE BISMARCK TRIBUNE (Citizen Reviewer) "ZAN -GAH is a very interesting, exciting and suspenseful book. During the book, I always felt a burst of emotions.....A wonderful book for all ages. I picked up this book and couldn't put it down until the end. If I had to read this book 1,000 more times, I would. I love this book...."—Madelyn H., age 12 SUKO'S NOTEBOOK "Instantly, magically, I was drawn into this darker, colder, crueler world....Author Allan Richard Shickman creates a primeval world that's savage, vivid, believable, and deeply moving. I genuinely cared about [the characters], especially Zan, the protagonist, as well as Dael, Lissa-Na, Pax, Rydl, Sparrow, Chul, and many others, who truly come to life. I could visualize the various clans, the Ba-Coro, the Noi, and the wasp people (who emulated the ways of this stinging insect and used poison-tipped spears). The author is a master storyteller, and the adventures are exciting and unlike any I've ever read before. "—Susan Ortlieb I READ TO RELAX "Reluctant readers should find the subject matter compelling and will be hard pressed to put this book down."—Jessica Miller, Young Adult Librarian MAMARES'S REVIEWS "...it's almost like seeing a movie. I recommend it highly! FREDA'S VOICE "This story had everything you could want in an adventure. Making you turn the page to find out what happens next, as you follow the life of one very courageous lad....a thought provoking and well told tale."—Freda Mans GIRLS WITHOUT A BOOKSHELF "...A fast-paced, vivid and riveting read....I could almost see it as vividly as if I myself were part of Zan-Gah's adventures and misfortunes; there were times I felt as if my ears had been filled with war cries and drum beats and my heart was racing....Such is Shickman's talent in storytelling."—Dwayne Halim LUXURY READING "...each page seems to turn itself in eagerness to continue with the spellbinding tale Shickman has woven....ZAN-GAH...provides both a role model and a depth of story rarely achieved in young adult fiction."—Hannah M. A FANATIC'S BOOK BLOG "A new and amazing type of fiction that cannot be compared to anything else because it is so unique. Truthfully, I loved this book! Allan writes with a depth that is truly intense. Each and every scene in the book is written in such vivid detail that those of you with good imaginations will find yourselves walking the same paths as Zan does. There were times when I was so involved in this book that I didn't hear my phone ring."—Jessica Torres RAGING BIBLIOMANIA "...meticulously plotted and developed....very believable....this would be a great read for young readers, but also for adults...."—Heather Figearo ESCAPE THROUGH THE PAGES "...a fun yet fearful adventure." HERS FOR THE READING "It doesn't take long for the action to get started. And, once it does, the reader doesn't get a chance to come up for air....I'm definitely going to recommend it to my thrill-seeking little cousins." EPINIONS.COM "Fast-moving adventure story....Shickman's Website says he came up with the idea for [ZAN-GAH] while sharing a cave deep underground with hundreds of bats. It certainly might explain why he was able to so authentically and powerfully describe the settings found within the book. With any luck, he'll do some more spelunking and give us more of these adventuresome novels rich in language and history. " —Bridgette Redlass A SEASON TO READ "Fast paced; with main characters (and their enemies) that leap off the page."—Wanda A MOMENT WITH MYSTEE "My 11 year old son is next in line to read this one. It's a definite have for your young reader's book collection." LOVES TO READ "...a powerful story....My younger brothers read it as well and thought it was 'Awesome!'"—Adriana BOOK GIRL OF MAR-Y-CASTELL "Girls could like it too but I do think boys would really fall for this one."—Blodeuedd WENDY'S MINDING SPOT "I was captured by page 1 and couldn't put it down." GIVING READING A CHANCE "this little stunner....definitely a book for your teen, teen friend, or for you."—Veens POTTER PERCY, AND I "There were a ton of twists that were fun and exciting. It turned out amazing."—Anne BIBLIOPHILE SUPPORT GROUP "By the end I had run the gamut of emotions (among them: suspense, shock, heartbreak, revulsion, inspiration)....It almost felt like it was true, it was quite something....Wow."—Mrs. Ron Weasley WE ADORE A HAPPY ENDING! "...fun for young teens who would enjoy a good adventure book. My only complaint is that this book is not translated into Dutch."— Nina (she's from Holland) A BLOG ABOUT NOTHING "...definitely a great story of strong family love and courage....very interesting and fun to read."—Cynthia Aguirre THE CANTICLE "...the author's writing style shines through....a strong moral base...."—Michael Young, author of THE CANTICLE KINGDOM THE DIARY OF A BOOKWORM "This book is so unusual compared to anything I've read in years, that I would recommend it for that alone. But I can almost guarantee any 11-13 year-olds in your life will appreciate it as well."—Rhiannon Ryder THE HEART OF DREAMS "Zan-Gah defies the trends within YA Genre and stands out. Allan Richard Shickman has written an original fast paced adventure, taking place within a whole fresh environment."—Mevurah Deleon DEAREST DREAMS "...vividly crafted characters...colorful and real. The books introduce themes of courage, endurance and healing without preaching. These morals are ones that every mother wants to instill in her son, and they are introduced to the reader naturally...." KEEP READING TO YOUR CHILD "ZAN-GAH is a journey and a great pre-historic read....Allan Shickman's rich, detailed prehistoric world building left me feeling like I was part of the journey."—Katie B (Mundie Moms) BOOK JOURNAL "I was very very glad I read [ZAN-GAH]....If a book can make a kid curious about the theme and also eager enough to read more about it, I would say it is a great pick. I would recommend it to all tween and teen readers who love books with adventurous themes."—Sheweta Nadig THE BOOK OWL "ZAN-GAH...blew away my expectations and left me wanting more....definitely one of my surprise favorites of the year! I look forward to reading the sequel."—McKenzie NOMOTC'S NOTEBOOK "This is a great read for young adults. They may find something within themselves just as Zan-Gah did!"—Debbie Ciardi BITES "...a good story filled with suspense, action, hope and love....This isn't your standard historical fiction, that's for sure."—Donna PINEAPPLES & PYJAMAS "...there was action and suspense—and I didn't know where it was going—which I love in a book. I would definitely recommend this book...."—Michelle Edwards HOLES IN MY BRAIN "...well written and unique....My favourite part of the book would be the dramatic action scenes which I thought the author wrote wonderfully."—Audrey C. MISADVENTURES OF A TEENAGE BOOKWORM "This really is an action packed book, filled with somewhat surprising twists and turns and danger at every corner. Honestly, this book was way better than I thought it would be." READAHOLIC "I really liked this book and I think it would be a great way to help kids enjoy reading."—Bridget DEBBIE'S BOOK BAG!!! "...easy to read and a great story line....this book could easily be used by reading groups in schools or as an advanced reading book for middle and high schoolers....Shickman has done a great job of creating a story that will appeal to all ages." BOOK RAT "Shickman wrote very human characters and a very human story....rawly honest....says some powerful things....This is more mature and philosophical than one generally comes across in books for this age group, and I think that's a good thing....it will easily find an audience with precocious kids, young teens and adults...."—Misty READING VACATION "If you like high adventure and lots of action, these books may be for you....Warriors, weapons, wild animals....it's all there.....Battles are fought and the action never stops."—Melina, age 10 SPELLBOUND BY BOOKS "By the end of this, I was reaching for book 2....This is a fresh perspective on the young adult market and I haven't seen anything like it at all."—Melissa LOST FOR WORDS "Captivating, interesting and empowering. Many teens and tweens will enjoy this book."—Corrine RAMBLINGS OF A COFFEE ADDICTED WRITER "The author, A. R. Shickman, has written a wonderful coming-of-age story....Male readers will enjoy reading about Zan's adventure into the unknown, and female readers will like the love that Zan has for his twin. I recommend this book to everyone."—Billy Burgess Feature articles: ST LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, WEST END WORD, WATERLOO-CEDAR FALLS COURIER, DES MOINES REGISTER, SOUTHEAST MISSOURIAN Reader comments: “Allan Richard Shickman’s ZAN-GAH is a terrifically exciting adventure that will appeal to young adults and their elders too. Richly imagined and beautifully written, with characters and settings unlike any I’ve read, I believe ZAN-GAH will be read and reread for many years to come.”—SCOTT PHILLIPS, best-selling author of THE ICE HARVEST and COTTONWOOD. “I refused to turn off the lights because I was enjoying ZAN-GAH so much, and the next day ... I took it with me on the subway to get those last few pages in between Brooklyn and Manhattan. This 35 year-old loved it...I kept saying ‘I know it's supposed to be a children's book...but it's really, REALLY good!!!’”––SADIE NARDINI, yoga master and author of ROAD TRIP GUIDE TO THE SOUL. “ZAN-GAH is one of the best books I ever read…a truly gripping book. The characters are so real I feel like I know them. It gets deep into the mind of not only one, but several of them. I give this book five stars. I could read it over and over.”—Sam L., age 13 "I am a librarian at an elementary school and in this capacity I read hundreds of books each year. I am always excited to come across an unexpected gem as was the case with ZAN-GAH. A fifth grade student at school told me about this book and about how much he enjoyed it, so I decided to read it myself and was very glad I did. It is the story of Zan, a boy in his early teens living in prehistoric times, and the many adventures that shape the man he becomes. Through action that is exciting and believable Zan slowly changes into a young man whose choices change the course of his clan’s future. This is one of those books that has the rare combination of rich characters and a fast paced plot. I have already recommended this book to several of my big readers and each has had nothing but praise for it. I plan on putting ZAN-GAH on my short list of books for those kids who like historical fiction and those who enjoy realistic action books."––Joe Corbett, New City School Librarian "ZAN-GAH is rich with character,plot, and emotion. I was amazed. I felt like I was reading Kipling."—Barry Crook, Library Media Specialist "I always recommend books the entire family could read and discuss. ZAN-GAH is the perfect book, for boys, girls, teens, parents and grandparents. You will love it!"—Joan Burtelow, middle and high school reading teacher I read ZAN-GAH last year to my 6th graders and am again reading it with this year's 6th graders. It's story line matches our Ancient World History curriculum beautifully.—DeAnn K., middle school teacher "What an intriguing story for a boy—full of rites of passage, love, friendship, honor, and growing into manhood—essential elements of every human especially boys even in this modern day. The messages of the story are subtle and never overtake the story, but like the aroma of freshly baked bread, the messages are an enhancement to the story and make this a book worth reading....This is a story any child would and could read and enjoy. Well done!"—anonymous judge, Benjamin Franklin Awards “ZAN-GAH was very interesting for a girl my age. I would read it again.”—Elaine H., age 15 "I read a lot of books, so I know a good book when I see one. ZAN-GAH is full of creativity and suspense. A wonderful book.”—Elan S., age 11 “I am going to ask my teacher to read it to the class.”—Rider S., age 12 "I read your book twice, I liked it so much. I am telling people I know to read it!!"––Christianne J., age 11 "Dear Aunt C., Thank you for the wonderful book...."—Taylor L., age 12 "Zan-Gah was very brave and smart. I don't read very much because I think it's boring, but this is one of the few books I've read and liked."—Ryan, age 13 "My mom is always on me for not reading. It's always very hard for me to find a good book. But I think I've found a perfect book for me and that book is ZAN-GAH."—Marisa B., age 11 "We love ZAN-GAH at S. Middle School. It is always checked out of the library."—Pat L., Library Media Specialist "It really is quite an incredible book and many of the kids are enjoying it."—Kim J., Middle School teacher “In ZAN-GAH, I entered a world that was terrifying, yet beautiful. This book left me where the best novels aways do—wanting more.”—Bonnie M., teacher “There are parts of ZAN-GAH that I keep thinking about even though I read the story several months ago. I imagined it so much that it feels like I saw the movie of it too.”—Jonah H., age 10 “I dreamed about ZAN-GAH in the red terrain of the Land of Red Rocks. ZAN-GAH really seeped into me.”—Ally B, Jonah’s mom, psychologist “I felt transported into another time. I could not put ZAN-GAH down until I finished it, and I cried at the end. The words are delicious. For ages 11 to 111.”—Patricia G., English teacher "ZAN-GAH has valuable content for all ages, inculcating attitudes of loyalty, persistence, and caring. I liked it so much that I bought a copy for every student in the class.––Rosalie B., elementary teacher and volunteer with children "I read ZAN-GAH to a group of students up to age 13. Each and every one of them enjoyed the adventures of this brave boy. What courage and resourcefulness Zan exhibited to those children."—Donna H., teacher's aide "ZAN-GAH paints a detailed picture of the three societies in the book. The plotline is well developed."—Claire N., age 16 “At times, I felt that I was watching the story unfolding rather than simply reading it."—Hilarie N., Claire’s mom, academic administrator “ZAN-GAH is full of surprises. I enjoyed it, and so will young adult readers.”––Margaret M., lawyer "Jack is 12...and admits he does not do much 'extra' reading. However, after reading parts of ZAN-GAH, he thought that would be one book he would read."—Carlene G., Great-Aunt "I am a nurse practitioner and my brain is always in diagnostic mode. Dael definitely has post-traumatic stress disorder and maybe a smidge of bipolar disorder. Interesting reading, in fact I think I'll read it again."––Johnette R., nurse "ZAN-GAH is a fascinating and imaginative adventure story for the young folks, as well as the young at heart. It has all the elements that capture the imagination–danger, suspense, emotional turmoil, trials and tribulations, failure and success. This book would make an excellent action movie! My wife and I are giving our grandson a copy; he is sure to enjoy ZAN-GAH."––Robert P., watch and clock specialist "I highly recommend ZAN-GAH. We have given this book to all four grandchildren, ages 11, 14, 18, 22. Each of them loved it. We've also given it for gifts to tweeners, teens and young adults. My husband and I are in our 60s -- we loved it, too. You can't go wrong with this book."—Lou (anon.) "Everyone in our family has read this delightful book. It's chockful of mystery, excitement, intrigue. I heartily recommend it...." —Ola J., real estate agent "I am planning to purchase the book for my 12-year grandson. The story told of courage and adventure, with some good moralistic overtones–a coming of age story in a community/tribal setting."—Kathy W. "...Balances the adventure's frightening events with the sense of wonder in the beauty of the world...."—Cricket G., teacher "The author developed the setting, characters and plot quickly. Zan was born into conflicts, family against family and tribe against tribe."—David A., retired social worker "Can't wait for Zan-Gah's next adventure."—Anon. "You cannot not like this book. It's like a movie on paper!"—Janice B., beautician "I loved this book! It tells a great adventure story with vivid scenes, well-developed characters, and many surprises and twists along the way. I recommend it for readers of all ages."—Anon. "ZAN-GAH is an exciting tale, artfully told, about a boy-hero. Every sentence conjures images so vivid that I feel as if I saw a movie rather than reading a book."—Barbara D., a grandmother "I loved reading ZAN-GAH! For me the book was more than just an adventure story. I felt like I was witness to an important moment in humanity's history."—David S., application developer "It is refreshing to see a book of this quality published for pre-teens and teens. It is age-appropriate in content, but still challenges the intellect of avid readers of this age group. I know several kids who will want to read ZAN-GAH" — Diane P., editor "ZAN-GAH is a super book and I look forward to the sequel."—Richard S., store manager “I cried at the end.”—Burton S., age 69 Readers' Comments on the sequel, ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY: "ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY is a fun read, recommended."—MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW, "Small Press Bookwatch" THE CANTICLE "...it deals with the deep dilemmas and fierce confrontations between characters. The author does a great job in bringing the ancient world to life...."—Michael Young, author of THE CANTICLE WICKED AWESOME BOOKS "Shickman's prose cannot be rivaled here and I feel lucky to have read such a beautifully woven tale. He is able to take the barest of lines, and layer it with such complexity and emotion....Fraught with tension and a looming darkness, ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY delivers another spectacular chapter in Zan-Gah's moving story."—Nikki I READ TO RELAX "This fast paced, easy to read book includes love, betrayal, jealousy, courage, inventiveness, and fanaticism, making for an exciting read. Each character grows in interesting ways and many concepts about right and wrong, good and evil, are explored. A good pick for a middle school reader looking for excitement!"—Jessica Miller, Young Adult Librarian WENDY'S MINDING SPOT "Stunning....The descriptions are magnificent and the action superb. Young adults and adults alike will enjoy this series. I certainly did!" FREDA'S VOICE "A must read, and a HUGE recommendation!"—Freda Mans BITES "I like this series simply for just how different it is from all the other YA stuff out there right now....I couldn't stop turning the pages....What I liked most is the realism."—Donna A SEASON TO READ "A tense read that explores the darker reaches of a disturbed mind, this action adventure held my attention through to the finish."—Wanda GIRLS WITHOUT A BOOKSHELF "ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY touches on psychological impairment that Shickman deliberately bares to the bones....The tension, uncertainty and danger was palpable on every page....The quality of Shickman's prose is in a league of its own....absolutely wonderful....a powerful, complex novel."—Dwayne Halim A FANATIC'S BOOK BLOG "I was impressed with how quickly the story grabs your attention....another beautifully woven story....Shickman has created a unique and intriguing world that I enjoyed so very much."—Jessica Torres ESCAPE IN A BOOK "In this novel we get thrown head first into the drama. Let me tell you, Mr. Shickman, that I did not see that one coming!"—Ladybug A MOMENT WITH MYSTEE "My 11 year old will be reading this after he finishes the first....I feel this is a must have on any young adult reader's book shelf." THE DIARY OF A BOOKWORM "More compelling than the first book....it seems likely there will be more ZAN-GAH to come."—Rhiannon Ryder BIBLIOPHILE SUPPORT GROUP "I really appreciate both Zan-Gah novels for their sincerity and amazing storytelling....both horrifying and poignant."—Mrs. Ron Weasley RAGING BIBLIOMANIA "Shickman did a really wonderful job fleshing out all these aspects of the plot....these books would be perfect for middle grade readers and would likely stretch their imaginations and vocabulary...."—Heather Figearo PINEAPPLES & PYJAMAS "...very relevant in today's society and family."—Michelle Edwards READAHOLIC "...a powerful and emotional story...."—Bridget LOVES TO READ "...even more enjoyable than the first book....some pretty intense subject matter....one of the most beautiful and touching endings...."—Adriana A MOMENT WITH MYSTEE "...a must have on any young adult reader's book shelf." SPELLBOUND BY BOOKS "...a great follow up to the first book...."—Melissa LOST FOR WORDS "...it captured my attention right away from the start....stunning and evocative....Action abounds...."—Corrine "I really liked the second book in the ZAN-GAH series. It has a great plot line, and a lot of drama."—Elan S., age 13 ST. LOUIS JEWISH LIGHT "[The author's] ability to create a detailed prehistoric world peopled with mythic characters invites comparison to the best in the fields of fable, fantasy and science fiction."—Robert A. Cohn "The author has painted a richly colored landscape and filled it with vibrant characters. Themes of forgiveness, dealing with hatred, brains overcoming might, and of loving another, add great depth to the story....Great material for high school students."—Barry Crook, Library Media Specialist, North Kirkwood Middle School "I was completely caught up in ZAN GAH: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE, and have now read the equally gripping sequel, ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY. Once again Shickman has provided a host of richly realized characters, a fabulous sense of place and lots of action. This book brings Zan-Gah into adulthood at a time when his clan is going through much change. The strength of Zan's leadership is sorely tested by the actions of his twin brother whose deep emotional wounds have led to great bitterness and anger. I found many parallels to today's world and thought on numerous occasions how this book could lead to great discussions with school groups. But in the end it is the rich characters and believable action that carry the day. ZAN GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY should find a ready audience with those who have enjoyed Gary Paulsen's HATCHET, Watt Key's ALABAMA MOON, or Michelle Paver's WOLF BROTHER A most worthy read. Recommended for 6th grade up."—Joe Corbett, New City School Librarian “ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY is even better than ZAN-GAH: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE. That surprised me because I usually prefer the first of any series. THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY, however, benefits from the relationship between the two adult brothers and makes for a richer, and for adults, a more relatable experience. At the same time, for younger readers, a story of sibling rivalry is as immediate as it gets. There is such a fullness in the developing relationship between Dael and Zan, and the reader can’t help but sympathize with each of them. Another plus to both novels, but I was more aware of it in the second, is the rich vocabulary. The word choices are always appropriate and never dumbed down as happens in much young adult fiction."—Joan Burtelow, middle and high school reading teacher "ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY is an engaging, thought-provoking and genuinely exciting novel. Allan Shickman has a definite gift for storytelling."—Kurt S., ESL Instructor "I have not associated human virtues and failings to the primitive men and women who preceded the present day human race until my reading of ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY."—Donald S., court administrator "Once I started reading ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY, I couldn't put it down! I had to see what Dael was going to do next!"—Donald L., professor of mathematics "Riveting....Young and old alike will enjoy and be moved by this exquisitely written story."—Gerard S., PhD (retired) "I read ZAN-GAH AND THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY in one fell swoop and enjoyed the whole thing."—Kaye S., geologist "I really enjoyed it and didn't want to put it down. I read it in a day."—Scott S., tattoo artist "I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope you are working on a third."—Joyce G., retired "Character traits, morals, and life lessons weave throughout the ZAN-GAH stories which allow for great book discussions....I anxiously await Zan-Gah’s next adventure!"—Kimberly S., Middle School Librarian "Strictly in terms of his writing, phraseology, timing, cadence, rhythm, dialogue (especially dialogue), exposition, and narrative voice...Shickman is an unsurpassed master. I can honestly think of no other writer, famous or not, who supersedes him. Indeed I can think of nothing else I have ever read that compares."—Reuben H., vendor |