Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster

Book review by Michael Berry, Common Sense Media
Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 8+

Haunting tale of friendship and magic in Victorian times.

Jonathan Auxier Fantasy 2018
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Parents say

age 9+

Based on 2 reviews

Kids say

age 10+

Based on 1 review

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

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What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Sweep is a fantasy novel set in Victorian times, written by Jonathan Auxier (The Night Gardener). The story of a female chimney sweep and her friendship with a "monster" named Charlie, it addresses such issues as child labor and anti-Semitism. There are some violent scenes, including children burning in chimney fires or falling from roofs.

Community Reviews

DRB75
DRB75 Adult
February 6, 2019
age 9+

Intriguing story with multiple layers.

Sweep was the 'bed time read' book for me and my 9 year old and my child still fondly remembers the characters of Nan, Charlie, Toby, Miss Bloom in the story! They are very engaging . One gets involved with them deeply. The character of the Sweep is especially imaginative and charming. Although there are magical events in the story, they are quite believable; unlike the ones in the book' Peter Nimble and his magical eyes ' written by the same author. Overall it's a very good read for kids 9 and up. One can deal with the story at various levels as there are multiple layers involved. It can be the story of magic and / or friendship or it can be one discussing social issues.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
alex_young
alex_young Adult
September 25, 2019
age 8+

A story of Hope and Friends

I thought the book was a delightful read for both my child and I. It was a thrilling and intriguing book, no gory or extremely scary events. I think that many would enjoy reading this book.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

As SWEEP opens, 11-year-old Nan Sparrow ranks among the best "chimney boys" in Victorian London, even though she happens to be a girl. But when she gets caught in a chimney fire, she figures her days are over, until she wakes up in the attic of an abandoned building. At first believing she's alone, Nan discovers a strange creature hiding with her: a golem made from soot and ash. The artificial man grows in size and strength until he has the ability to protect Nan as she attempts to lead her own life, free from the cruel master who wishes to enslave her again.

Is It Any Good?

The Victorian Age may seem a long time ago, but as this clever, moving, and insightful novel shows, the problems people faced then still impact modern-day readers. With Sweep, Jonathan Auxier has constructed a complex fable of friendship and sacrifice. Nan, Charlie, Toby, and the vile Mr. Crudd are vivid creations, and the story uses them all to their best effect. Full of suspense, action, and humor, Sweep has the feel of a classic, and it should appeal to a wide range of readers.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Sweep portrays child labor in Victorian times. Why is it now illegal to employ children under a certain age?

  • A character in Sweep is basically sold into slavery as an indentured servant. Do such things happen today? If so, how do people prevent the practice?

  • What does it mean to be an "anti-Semite"? How do Jewish people cope with prejudice today? What effect does the media have on bigotry?

Book Details

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