Max the Mighty - Rodman Philbrick - Freak the Mighty Book 2

Max the Mighty 

Freak the Mighty Book 2

Rodman Philbrick

Scholastic Canada

ISBN 9780590579643

eISBN 9780545628228

ASIN B00C2YW62C

I was recently having a discussion with a young man in his early 20’s and asked about his favourite book, because that is what bibliophiles do. He immediately said this Freak the Mighty, the volume that precedes this one. I looked it up later in the day and discovered there was this book, which we bought him a copy of, of which he was unaware and also a movie. I enjoyed that first one so much I had picked up 3 other volumes by Philbrick before I even finished it! And this second story is another excellent read!

I have been publishing reviews for 21 years now, first in papers and magazines and then on my blog and other platforms. I was cancelled by Amazon a few years back, but continue to read and write reviews because I must. I have tagged Scholastic over 450 times on my blog for reviews of books, or for my Top Ten Lists each quarter or year. I was greatly surprised I had not encountered this author or these books. Back to the book at hand. The description of this volume state:

 “A companion to Newbery Honor winning author Rodman Philbrick's Freak the Mighty. This is the dramatic, heart-wrenching tale of Max and Worm, two outsiders who turn to each other for survival.

Meet Maxwell Kane, the brooding giant-of-a-boy who escaped from his basement hiding place and faced the real world in FREAK THE MIGHTY.Still grieving over the loss of his best friend, Kevin, Max finds himself defending a young, solitary girl cruelly nicknamed "Worm" because she loves to read so much.When Max gets blamed for a horrific crime, he and Worm are forced to run for their lives. They flee across America -- hunted by the police, and pursued by the mysterious man known as the Undertaker. The only way they can survive is to confront Worm's darkest and most revealing secret. And that means facing something more frightening than death itself.”

This is another incredibly moving story. This one takes place almost entirely on the road. On a grand adventure. In some ways it is still a classic buddy story. Even if the buddies are an oversized youth, a young girl who lives in books, and a few people along the way who help them on their journey or quest. It is clear that some abuse has gone on, though we are spared the details and depth of it. 

It again reminds me a lot of the works of Andrew Clements or Gordon Korman. I am really surprised I had not encountered the author previously. These first two books are so good; I picked up three others by the author and plan on reading many more under all his pen names as well. 

This is one of those touching stories you could read over and over again. It is a classic. It is a great read for young readers and those who read to them. And it is touching and moving even for us older folks. It is a fantastic story I can easily recommend. And I know I will be reading more by Philbrick and the various names he publishes under!

Books by Rodman Philbrick:

Max the Mighty Series:

Freak the Mighty (1993)

Max the Mighty (1998)

…

 

House on Cherry Street Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. The Haunting (1995)

2. The Horror (1995)

3. The Final Nightmare (1995)

…

 

Werewolf Chronicles Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. Night Creature (1996)

2. Children of the Wolf (1996)

3. The Wereing (1996)

…

 

Visitors Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. Strange Invaders (1997)

2. Things (1997)

3. Brain Stealers (1997)

…

 

Wild Series:

1. Wildfire (2019)

2. Wild River (2021)

3. Wild Wave (2024)

4. Wild Blizzard (2026)

…

 

Other Books:

Shooting Star (1982)

The Black Moon (1989) 

Brothers and Sinners (1993)

The Fire Pony (1996)

Abduction (1998) (with Lynn Harnett)

The Mighty (1998)

The Last Book in the Universe (2000)

Dark Matter (2000)

Rem World (2000)

The Journal of Douglas Allen Deeds (2001)

Coffins (2002)

The Young Man and the Sea (2004)

Lobster Boy (2005)

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg (2009)

Listening To Kids In America (2011)

Zane and the Hurricane (2014)

The Big Dark (2016)

Who Killed Darius Drake? (2017)

We Own the Sky (2022)

…

Written as William R Dantz:

Pulse (1989) (as by William R Dantz)

The Seventh Sleeper (1991) (as by William R Dantz)

Hunger (1993) (as by William R Dantz)

Nine Levels Down (1995) (as by William R Dantz)

Written as by W R Philbrick:

The Big Chip (1990) (as by W R Philbrick)

…

J.D. Hawkins Series:

1. Shadow Kills (1985)

2. Ice for the Eskimo (1986)

3. Paint It Black (1989)

4. Walk on the Water (1991)

…

 

T.D. Stash Series:

1. The Neon Flamingo (1987)

2. The Crystal Blue Persuasion (1988)

3. Tough Enough (1989)

…

Written as by Chris Jordan:

Randall Shane Series:

1. Taken (2006)

2. Trapped (2007)

  aka Lost

3. Torn (2009)

4. Measure of Darkness (2011)

…

Conspiracy 365 June - Gabrielle Lord

Conspiracy 365 June
Gabrielle Lord
Scholastic
ISBN 9781443104739

Scholastic Australia

eISBN 9781921988585

ASIN B00BFV1FUC

The story just keeps getting better, and more intense with each offering. I read the first two volumes in this series back in 2011; I had planned on reading them one a month as they were released. But that did not happen. My son started reading them in 2026 and he is in his late teens so I decided to pick them back up and finish the series. I have read one a month over the last four months and am keeping pace at a month ahead of the calendar.

When I read the first 2 it was a new series from Scholastic, Conspiracy 365, is another unique approach to books that will draw readers in and keep them addicted. Much like the 39 Clues or Skeleton Creek books, it approaches storytelling in a new and different way that with draw an addicted following of readers. The story is about the life of Callum (Cal) Ormond. Almost like a year-long version of the TV series 24. The story will be told over 12 books, one released each month. And we now know the story continued with a shorter follow up series.

The description of this volume states:

“Stripped of his identity and imprisoned in an insane asylum, Cal's search for the truth has never looked more hopeless. Nobody knows where he is and he has no way to get in touch with his mates. He's also lost all the clues he had to the Ormond Singularity: the family secret that's turned his life into a nightmare. Against all odds, somehow Cal must escape to carry on his father's quest. He has 245 days. The countdown continues.

The clock is ticking. Any second could be his last.”

About the author we are informed:

“Gabrielle Lord is one of Australia's bestselling crime writers for adults. Following the Conspiracy 365 series, she already has plans for another three adult novels and two more young adult books. Research is everything, Gabrielle says. 'Out of my contacts with experts (who are always far too modest to describe themselves that way) I get not only the fine-tuning necessary for today's savvy readers, but also wonderful incidents and images that enrich and enlarge my books.”

This sixth instalment keeps up the intense plot, but this one is much more of a slow burn. How are you going to top surviving attack dogs, a fire, and crashing an experimental plane? Cal escapes the crashed plane but now needs to elude the authorities and they now suspect him of arson and murder as well. He relies on two friends, and they both come through in this one. Some new clues are discovered and some new dangers uncovered; including a very thinly veiled threat. Some great pieces of the puzzle are worked on. But there is still a long way to go to New Year’s Eve. Can Cal keep it up? To find out read this and the other instalments in this great series!

These books were originally published in Australia and North America by Scholastic, unfortunately it appears eBook editions were never released in Canada. This is another great instalment in a great series. Of note for this 6th instalment there are two key variations of the covers, some have Cal wearing a toque or beanie and some do not. Most of the other volumes have fairly similar covers I am not sure why such a drastic change for some editions of this volume. At the time of the writing of this review Goodreads had 23 editions. Of those based on this cover it seems a pretty even split. 

These books have a few cool features. In each book, the page numbers start at the highest and count down. The chapter and section headings are Dates and Time. This was an excellent sixth instalment in the series and I know I will have to read all 12 books; the story is so good I cannot put it down. Give them a try you will not be disappointed.

Books by Gabrielle Lord:
Conspiracy 365:
Series Overview
January (2011)
February (2011)

March (2011)
April (2011)
May (2011)
June (2011)
July (2011)
August (2011)
September (2011)
October (2011)
November (2011)
December (2011)

…

Conspiracy 365 Black Ops:

Missing (2013)

Hunted (2013)

Endgame (2013)

…

48 Hours Series:

The Vanishing (2017)

The Medusa Curse (2017)

…

Gemma Lincoln:

Feeding the Demons (1999)

Baby Did a Bad Thing (2002)

Spiking the Girl (2004)

Shattered (2007)

Death by Beauty (2012)

…

Jack McCain:

Death Delights (2001)

Lethal Factor (2003)

Dirty Weekend (2005)

…

Other Books:

Fortress (1980)

Tooth and Claw (1983)

Jumbo (1986)

Salt (1990)

Whipping Boy (1992)

The Stranger Inside: An Erotic Adventure (1994)

Bones (1995)

The Sharp End (1998)

Monkey Undercover (2006)

…

Saint Sebastian The Soldier Who Wouldn’t Stay Down - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Saint Sebastian: 

The Soldier Who Wouldn’t Stay Down

Paddy Bréagnamh

Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Pettyfeather Publishing

ISBN 9798899681288

ASIN B0GY141NDH

ASIN B0GX2YVQJV

There are currently 11 volumes available in this series dedicated to specific saints and 3 the focus on 52 female saints. I have enjoyed them a lot and keep checking for when new ones are released. I have benefited from reading them all and recommended each of them to several people. I especially loved the volume on Pope Leo XIV. This volume I picked up shortly after it released and read it the within a few days. It was one of 4 new titles that released in 2026. The description of the book is:

“Shot with arrows. Left for dead.

He didn’t just survive—he came back.

Saint Sebastian was a Roman soldier who refused to give up—even when it cost him everything.

In the heart of the Roman Empire, Sebastian had it all: honor, rank, and a place among the emperor’s most trusted guards.

But he also carried a secret. Sebastian was a Christian—and he risked everything to live out his faith. When his secret was discovered, he was sentenced to death. Tied to a post. Shot with arrows. Left for dead.

But Sebastian survived. And instead of escaping, he made an extraordinary choice: He went back.

Today, Saint Sebastian is honored as the patron saint of athletes—because his story is about more than survival.

It’s about:

     • Endurance — pushing through when things get hard

     • Resilience — refusing to give up

     • Courage under pressure — standing firm when it matters most

What’s Inside

     • A powerful, true story told in a clear, engaging narrative style

     • A focus on real-life courage kids can understand and apply

     • Reflection questions to encourage meaningful conversations

     • Timeline and historical context to deepen understanding

Perfect for:

     • Kids ages 8–12

     • Families looking for faith-filled, character-building stories

     • Young athletes learning perseverance and discipline

     • Classrooms, homeschool, and Catholic education

     • If your child has ever faced pressure, doubt, or the temptation to give up, Saint Sebastian’s story offers a powerful reminder:

You can stand firm—and keep going.”

I now suspect that the author, Paddy Bréagnamh, is a pen name, I can only find these volumes in this series and the previous one on Saint Patrick in several bookstores online. This tenth volume I have read shortly after it was released, at the same time this one was released another volume released and 2 more followed shortly after.

 The chapters and sections in the volume are:

Dedication

Introduction

1. A Soldier in the Greatest Army in the World

2. The Secret Mission

3. The Secret Comes Out

4. Left for Dead

5. The Return

6. A Saint for Soldiers, Athletes, and the Sick

7. Stand Firm Like Sebastian

Reflection Questions

Timeline of Saint Sebastian

Author's Note

Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series

The dedication in this volume states:

“For everyone who has ever had to choose between fitting in and standing up for what they believe.”

This volume is written for young readers, it would be considered an early chapter book. Each chapter has illustrations. The material is well put together. It is a good introduction to the saint. I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume they are:

“He was a Roman soldier—trained to endure pain, never break under pressure, and serve the emperor without question. He had rank, respect, and the favor of the most powerful man in the world. Today, he is honored as the patron saint of athletes—because he showed what it means to endure, push through, and never give up. But his greatest test wasn’t physical. It was whether he would stand firm when it cost him everything.”

“He was likely born in Milan, a prosperous city in northern Italy. He trained like a soldier: disciplined, strong, and able to endure what others could not. He was also deeply faithful, raised as a Christian at a time when Christianity was not just unpopular, but dangerous. Christians refused to worship the emperor’s gods. They met in secret. And they were sometimes arrested and killed for their beliefs.”

“Sebastian was led away. He did not argue or plead. Those who watched him go said he walked with the same calm he had always carried. He had already decided what mattered most.”

“Over the centuries, Sebastian's patronage expanded in surprising directions. Every group that claimed him saw the same thing. Soldiers claimed him because he was one of them: a man who understood loyalty and the cost of standing firm under fire. Athletes claimed him because they understood what his body had endured. A man shot through with arrows who still recovers. That is the kind of strength athletes recognize. Those suffering from illness had been turning to him for centuries. And archers, somewhat wryly, claimed him too.”

“The first part was quiet. For years, before anyone knew he was a Christian, Sebastian did the hidden work of faith: visiting prisoners, encouraging the frightened, helping people hold on when they wanted to give up. Nobody awarded him for it. He did it because it was right. Quiet courage builds who you are.”

“Decide now, in the quiet, before the hard moment arrives. Decide that your faith is not something to be embarrassed about. Decide that the people around you who are struggling need you to show up for them—not perfectly, not loudly, just faithfully.”

“I wrote this book for young people who are beginning to understand that faith isn't always easy. Sebastian's life is an answer to those moments, honest and real: this is what it looks like to decide, ahead of time, that God is worth it. I hope his story stays with you. And I hope it reminds you that the God who kept Sebastian's soul whole through every trial is the same God walking beside you right now.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. I am well beyond the recommended age for this book and series, being in my mid-50’s. In fact the youngest of my four children are 15 and 18, and they have both read books in this series and enjoyed them as well. This book and series are great read for the young and the young at heart! I would love to see how the author would handle Pier Giorgio Frassati, Charles de Foucauld, John Henry Newman, and many of my other favourite saints. But these books are so go no matter who is profiled next I know I will pick it up.

This latest release in this series, is another fantastic read. The series keeps getting better and better. It was an excellent little read in a great series.  

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2026 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Books in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series:

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day 

Blessed Carlo Acutis: The Boy Who Showed the World Jesus 

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz: The Brave Witness 

Pope Leo XIV: From Chicago to the Vatican: The First American Pope 

Saint Joan of Arc: The Girl Who Heard God's Call 

Venerable Augustus Tolton: Priest of Freedom 

Saint Thomas the Apostle: From Doubt to Devotion

Saint Patrick: The Boy Who Forgave 

Saint Catherine of Bologna: The Artist Saint 

Saint Sebastian: The Soldier Who Wouldn’t Stay Down 

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha: The Girl Who Walked Two Hundred Miles 

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon: The Boy Who Crossed the Mountains 

…

Lives of Women Saints: 52 True Stories of Courage, Faith, and Character 

The Lives of Women Saints Coloring & Activity Book 

The Lives of Women Saints Workbook 

Mini Saints & Missionaries Seven Saints for Boys A First Communion Collection of Courage and Faith 

...

Freak the Mighty - Rodman Philbrick - Freak the Mighty Book 1

Freak the Mighty 

Freak the Mighty Book 1

Rodman Philbrick

Scholastic Canada

ISBN 9780439286060

eISBN 9780545600279

ASIN B00B9FX6JC

I was recently having a discussion with a young man in his early 20’s and asked about his favourite book, because that is what bibliophiles do. He immediately said this volume. I looked it up later in the day and discovered there is a second volume, of which he was unaware and also a movie. I wanted to give this a try and it was a most excellent read!

I do not recall hearing about Scholastic Gold prior to this volume. The desctiption of the branding is:

“Scholastic Gold is a curated line of acclaimed middle-grade paperback novels from Scholastic, featuring popular authors and bonus content. It highlights high-quality children’s literature, including both new and classic titles with added, exclusive material to enrich the reading experience for young readers, teachers, and librarians.”

This volume would definitely fit in that category. I have been publishing reviews for 21 years now, first in papers and magazines and then on my blog and other platforms. I was cancelled by Amazon a few years back, but continue to read and write reviews because I must. I have tagged Scholastic over 450 times on my blog for reviews of books, or for my Top Ten Lists each quarter or year. So my surprise at Scholastic Gold was real and I look forward to check out the collection. But back to the book at hand. The description of this volume state:

“An unexpected friendship leads to a life-changing story in this timeless classic by Newbery Honor author Rodman Philbrick.

Freak the Mighty joins the Scholastic Gold line, which features award-winning and beloved novels. Includes exclusive bonus content!

"I never had a brain until Freak came along . . . "

That's what Max thought. All his life he'd been called stupid. Dumb. Slow. It didn't help that his body seemed to be growing faster than his mind. It didn't help that people were afraid of him. So Max learned how to be alone. At least until Freak came along.

Freak was weird, too. He had a little body -- and a really big brain. Together Max and Freak were unstoppable.

Together, they were Freak the Mighty.”

This is an incredibly moving story. It was one I could really relate to. I repeated grade 1 and then in grade 2 was diagnoses with a dual form of dyslexia. Because of the dyslexia I did not read when young and because or repeating I was the biggest in the class for many years. This story does an amazing job of capturing self-doubt and struggles because of difficulties in class or school. 

This is a classic buddy or school story. It reminds me a lot of the works of Andrew Clements or Gordon Korman. I am really surprised I had not encountered the author previously. This book was so good; I picked up three others by the author before finishing it. 

This is one of those touching stories you could read over and over again. It is a classic. It is a great read for young readers and those who read to them. And it is touching and moving even for us older folks. It is a fantastic story I can easily recommend. And I know I will be reading more by Philbrick and the various names he publishes under!

Books by Rodman Philbrick:

Max the Mighty Series:

Freak the Mighty (1993)

Max the Mighty (1998)

…

 

House on Cherry Street Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. The Haunting (1995)

2. The Horror (1995)

3. The Final Nightmare (1995)

…

 

Werewolf Chronicles Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. Night Creature (1996)

2. Children of the Wolf (1996)

3. The Wereing (1996)

…

 

Visitors Series: (with Lynn Harnett)

1. Strange Invaders (1997)

2. Things (1997)

3. Brain Stealers (1997)

…

 

Wild Series:

1. Wildfire (2019)

2. Wild River (2021)

3. Wild Wave (2024)

4. Wild Blizzard (2026)

…

 

Other Books:

Shooting Star (1982)

The Black Moon (1989) 

Brothers and Sinners (1993)

The Fire Pony (1996)

Abduction (1998) (with Lynn Harnett)

The Mighty (1998)

The Last Book in the Universe (2000)

Dark Matter (2000)

Rem World (2000)

The Journal of Douglas Allen Deeds (2001)

Coffins (2002)

The Young Man and the Sea (2004)

Lobster Boy (2005)

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg (2009)

Listening To Kids In America (2011)

Zane and the Hurricane (2014)

The Big Dark (2016)

Who Killed Darius Drake? (2017)

We Own the Sky (2022)

…

Written as William R Dantz:

Pulse (1989) (as by William R Dantz)

The Seventh Sleeper (1991) (as by William R Dantz)

Hunger (1993) (as by William R Dantz)

Nine Levels Down (1995) (as by William R Dantz)

Written as by W R Philbrick:

The Big Chip (1990) (as by W R Philbrick)

…

J.D. Hawkins Series:

1. Shadow Kills (1985)

2. Ice for the Eskimo (1986)

3. Paint It Black (1989)

4. Walk on the Water (1991)

…

 

T.D. Stash Series:

1. The Neon Flamingo (1987)

2. The Crystal Blue Persuasion (1988)

3. Tough Enough (1989)

…

Written as by Chris Jordan:

Randall Shane Series:

1. Taken (2006)

2. Trapped (2007)

  aka Lost

3. Torn (2009)

4. Measure of Darkness (2011)

…

Saint Catherine of Bologna The Artist Saint A Catholic Story of Creativity, Practice, and Faith - Paddy Bréagnamh - Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Saint Catherine of Bologna The Artist Saint: 

A Catholic Story of Creativity, Practice, and Faith

Paddy Bréagnamh

Mini Saints & Missionaries Library

Pettyfeather Publishing

ISBN 9798899681264

eISBN 9798899681264

ASIN B0GWYPR7Z6

There are currently 11 volumes available in this series dedicated to specific saints and 3 the focus on 52 female saints. I have enjoyed them a lot and keep checking for when new ones are released. I have enjoyed them all and recommended a few of them to several people. I especially loved the volume on Pope Leo XIV. This volume I picked up shortly after it released and read it the within a few days. The description of the book is:

“Saint Catherine of Bologna: The Artist Saint tells the story of a young woman who used her gifts to create with care, discipline, and purpose.

Catherine loved to learn. She loved to draw, write, and make music. But she didn’t become skilled all at once. She grew through practice: by showing up each day, making mistakes, and beginning again.

Over time, she discovered something important. Creating could be more than something you enjoy. It could be a way of focusing your attention, using your gifts well, and offering your work to God.

Why her story matters:

Saint Catherine of Bologna is known as the Artist Saint—a patron of artists, students, and anyone learning to create with purpose. Her story speaks directly to young readers who are:

     • learning a skill

     • practicing something new

     • trying to improve

     • or figuring out how to use their talents

A thoughtful gift for children preparing for First Communion or choosing a Confirmation name, this book helps readers connect their talents and daily efforts with their faith.

Especially well-suited for creative children.

What’s inside:

     • A clear, engaging biography written for ages 8–14

     • A focus on creativity, discipline, and steady growth

     • Real-life lessons about practice, patience, and perseverance

     • Reflection questions to help readers apply what they’ve learned

     • A timeline of Saint Catherine’s life

     • “Words to Remember” inspired by her example”

I now suspect that the author, Paddy Bréagnamh, is a pen name, I can only find these volumes in this series and the previous one on Saint Patrick in several bookstores online. This ninth volume I have read shortly after it was released, at the same time this one was released another volume released and 2 more followed shortly after.

 The chapters and sections in the volume are:

1. A Girl Who Loved to Learn and Create

2. Choosing a Different Path

3. Learning, Practicing, Beginning Again

4. The Seven Spiritual Weapons

5. Creating as Prayer

6. Leading with Quiet Strength

7. Becoming a Saint

8. What Catherine Teaches Us

Create Like Catherine

Reflection Questions

Biographical Timeline

Author’s Note

Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series

This volume is written for young readers, it would be considered an early chapter book. Each chapter has illustrations. The material is well put together. It is a good introduction to the saint. I highlighted a few passages while reading this volume they are:

“When she drew, she paid attention to how colors fit together. When she read, she listened to how the words sounded. When she practiced music, she repeated small sections until they felt right. She wasn’t trying to stand out. She simply cared about doing things well.”

“Catherine paid attention. She learned how to speak with confidence. How to carry herself. How to listen before answering. She noticed how people behaved when they wanted power, and how they behaved when they had it.”

“She still looked for quiet. She still preferred careful work over quick attention. And while others were focused on being seen, Catherine was more interested in what she could make—something thoughtful, something lasting, something done well.”

“Catherine found herself thinking about different questions. What was true? What lasted? What made a life meaningful, not just impressive?”

“She was thirteen when she made her decision. Catherine left the court and joined a small group of young women in Ferrara who were living a religious life together. Their days were simple and structured—prayer, work, silence, and shared responsibility. There were no fine clothes, no constant visitors, no need to perform.”

“Life in Catherine’s new community was quiet—but it was not easy.”

“The quiet made it easier to notice everything that was unsettled inside her. When she tried to pray, her thoughts wandered. When she worked, she sometimes rushed or lost focus. When she tried to be patient, she found herself frustrated instead.”

“Catherine had learned how to begin again. Now she began to do something more. She started to write down what helped. She gathered her thoughts into a small book. She gave it a clear title: The Seven Spiritual Weapons.”

“Catherine did not create these works to be admired. She created them to be used. To help someone pause. To help someone focus. To help someone pray.”

“Over time, her story continued to spread. Her writings—especially The Seven Spiritual Weapons—were copied, read, and passed on. People returned to them not for dramatic stories, but for clear, practical guidance.”

“Today, Catherine of Bologna is known as the patron of artists and of the liberal arts, as well as a patron against temptation.”

“Catherine shows that creativity isn’t separate from faith. The way you work—how carefully you pay attention, how you return when something is difficult—can become part of how you live your faith.”

I hope those quotes give you a feel for this volume. This latest release in this series is another excellent read. The series keeps getting better and better. It was an excellent little read in a great series.  

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2026 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Books in the Mini Saints & Missionaries Library Series:

From Pirates to Parades: The Story of Saint Patrick and His Day 

Blessed Carlo Acutis: The Boy Who Showed the World Jesus 

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz: The Brave Witness 

Pope Leo XIV: From Chicago to the Vatican: The First American Pope 

Saint Joan of Arc: The Girl Who Heard God's Call 

Venerable Augustus Tolton: Priest of Freedom 

Saint Thomas the Apostle: From Doubt to Devotion

Saint Patrick: The Boy Who Forgave 

Saint Catherine of Bologna: The Artist Saint 

Saint Sebastian: The Soldier Who Wouldn’t Stay Down 

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha: The Girl Who Walked Two Hundred Miles 

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon: The Boy Who Crossed the Mountains 

…

Lives of Women Saints: 52 True Stories of Courage, Faith, and Character 

The Lives of Women Saints Coloring & Activity Book 

The Lives of Women Saints Workbook 

Mini Saints & Missionaries Seven Saints for Boys A First Communion Collection of Courage and Faith 

...

The Tempest - Stratford 2026

The Tempest

2026

Stratford Festival

Director Antoni Cimolino

Set and Costume Designer Julie Fox

Lighting Designer Imogen Wilson

Composer Berthold Carrière

Sound Designer Ranil Sonnadara

Movement Director Adrienne Gould

Fight and Intimacy Director Anita Nittoly

Executive Producer David Auster

Creative Planning Director Jason Miller

Casting Director Ari Weinberg

In the weeks leading up to seeing this production, I reread The Pelican Classic edition of the play, and watched the video version directed by Cimolino from 2018. A frequent description of the 2018 version was ‘Visually stunning!’, that could easily be said again for this staging. It truly is a force. The lights, the sounds, the staging turns it into an epic presentation.

Over the last few years my children and I have been attending Stratford and reviewing all the plays we attend. We have a great appreciation for the bard, and typically attend all plays of his works, and usually a few others as well. Prior to attending my son and I try and read a copy of the play, usually the Oxford School Shakespeare or the Pelican Classic Editions. And we often try and watch a production or 2 before seeing it in person. I believe the festival has put on The Tempest 9 times, the first being in 1962 and this season 2026, which we will be attending next week. Prior to attending this staging we watched the 2018 presentation. That film version we watched was the penultimate production of it. It was also directed by Antoni Cimolino, 2026 is his final season as artistic director and he selected plays based on his favourites from his tenure at the festival. It is  fascinating to compare this version on stage in 2026 with the version that was on  stage in 2018 and on film in 2019.   

The summary of the play on the festival site states:

“The storm is only the beginning 

On an enchanted island, a deposed duke uses his magical powers to conjure a storm at sea, bringing him face to face with the brother who betrayed him. As old quarrels are resolved, love blossoms for a new generation.”

The synopsis in the house program states:

“Exiled from Milan by his treacherous brother, Antonio, the former Duke Prospero has lived on a remote island for 12 years with his daughter, Miranda. There, through his study of magic, he commands the spirit Ariel and rules over the island’s otherworldly inhabitants, including the creature Caliban. When the ship carrying Antonio, Alonso, the King of Naples, and Alonso’s son Ferdinand passes nearby, Prospero conjures a powerful storm to bring them ashore. As the castaways are separated and led through strange trials, Prospero sets in motion a plan for justice, reconciliation and renewal – while Miranda and Ferdinand’s unexpected encounter opens the possibility of a brighter future.”

When we go and see the play in person we have an almost an hour drive home, and usually spend the time discussing the performance. My daughter in an unneeded confession shared that three times she literally jumped out of her seat. The opening storm, you literally feel yourself caught out in a thunderstorm, you can feel the sound and lightning strikes, it is very visceral and draws those in attendance in immediately.

The full cast is:

The Island

Prospero – The Former Duke Of Milan - Geraint Wyn Davies

Miranda – His Daughter - Ashley Dingwell

Ariel – A Spirit, Servant To Prospero - Marissa Orjalo

Caliban – Servant To Prospero - Jonathan Goad

The Court

Alonso – King Of Naples - David Collins

Ferdinand – His Son - Dakota Jamal Wellman

Antonio – Duke Of Milan, Prospero’s Brother - Gordon S. Miller

Sebastian – Alonso’s Brother - Micah Woods

Gonzala – Councilor To Alonso - Fiona Reid

Trinculo – Alonso’s Chef - Josue Laboucane

Stephano – Alonso’s Butler - Ben Carlson

Francisco – Courtier To Alonso - Michael Wamara

Adrian – Courtier To Alonso - Landon Nesbitt

Shipmaster - Emilio Vieira

Boatswain - Jamie Mac

Spirits

Iris - Michelle Giroux

Ceres - Jenna-Lee Hyde

Juno - Allison Lynch

Ship Sailors and Spirits Of The Island

Jacqueline Burtney

Paul Dunn

Jakob Ehman

Katarina Fiallos

Jenna-Lee Hyde

John Kirkpatrick

Allison Lynch

Rose Napoli

Landon Nesbitt

Maher Sinno 

Emilio Vieira

Michael Wamara

The Understudies:

Iris, Juno - Jacqueline Burtney

Prospero - Ben Carlson

Trinculo, Sailor, Spirit - Paul Dunn

Caliban, Sailor, Spirit - Jakob Ehman

Miranda, Ceres, Spirit - Katarina Fiallos

Sailor, Spirit - Jenna-Lee Hyde

Stephano, Spirit - John Kirkpatrick

Ariel, Sailor, Spirit - Allison Lynch

Gonzala, Sailor, Spirit - Rose Napoli

Francisco, Adrian, Sailor, Spirit - Maher Sinno 

Rehearsal Understudy - Shannon Taylor

Antonio, Boatswain - Emilio Vieira

Sebastian, Ferdinand - Michael Wamara

Alonso - Micah Woods

One of the things the kids and I often talk about is our favourite performers. We typically call out or top 5. And share why. My daughter who is 15 immediately shouted the Jelly Fish. And they were done in an incredible way. But our actual picks are:

My top ranking for the performers would be:

Geraint Wyn Davies as Propsero

Marissa Orjalo as Ariel a Spirit

Dakota Jamal Wellman as Ferdinand

Ashley Dingwell as Miranda

My son's (18) top picks are:

Jonathan Goad as Caliban

Josue Laboucane as Trinculo

Dakota Jamal Wellman as Ferdinand

Geraint Wyn Davies as Propsero

Allison Lynch as Juno

My daughters (15) were:

Marissa Orjalo as Ariel a Spirit

Ashley Dingwell as Miranda

Geraint Wyn Davies as Propsero

Dakota Jamal Wellman as Ferdinand

Allison Lynch as Juno

I will note three of the cast are in both the 2018 and 2026 production, they are: 

David Collins

Emilio Vieira

Josue Laboucane

This was an excellent production. We attended the first public performance, and were amazing by the play. It is visually stunning. The set is amazing. And the Spirits are amazing. The costumes are outstanding. My daughter was creeped out by 2 of them, and loved some of the others. The costume covered in clams and barnacles that said on the set piece and completely blended in was excellent. And the set pieces of shells, chests and even the piano in a sort of crate were awesome. The casting was perfect. I have been a long-time fan of the works of Geraint and that appreciation has grown as I have seen him in productions over the last few seasons. A story that takes place over a single afternoon that has so much packed into it. 

My kids and I often keep an eye out for the filming taking place at Stratford, and would go back to see this again for the filming without hesitation. I am incredibly thankful my children have discovered a love for theatre, and for the amazing productions at Stratford. I loved seeing two productions of this play directed by Antoni Cimolino but yet very different staging’s and presentations. It is a real masterpiece. I highly recommend it, if you have the chance go this season, and if not maybe on Stratford@Home or other streaming in the future!

Note: Photos by David Hou/Stratford Festival or our own.

Reviews of Other Stratford Productions:

The Tempest - Stratford Festival 2019 

Richard III – 2022

Hamlet – 2022

The Miser – 2022

King Lear – 2023

Frankenstein Revived – 2023

Grand Magic – 2023

A Wrinkle in Time – 2023

Goblin MacBeth - 2023

Something Rotten – 2024

Romeo & Juliette – 2024

Cymbeline – 2024

Twelfth Night – 2024

Macbeth - 2025 

As You Like It - 2025  

The Winter's Tale - 2025 

Annie - 2025 

Anne of Green Gables - 2025 

Goblin Oedipus -  2025 

The Tempest - 2026  

Something Rotten – 2026 

A Midsummer's Night Dream - 2026 

Othello - 2026 

Saturday, Sunday, Monday - 2026 

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Reviews of Shakespeare Movies:

Cymbeline – 2014

The Hallow Crown 2012-2016

Macbeth - 2015

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Related Posts:

A Weekend of Three’s A Trip to Stratford

Romeo & Juliet - Oxford School Shakespeare 

MacBeth - Oxford School Shakespeare 

King Lear - Oxford School Shakespeare 

Cymbeline - The Pelican Shakespeare

Twelfth Night - The Pelican Shakespeare

Macbeth - Pelican Shakespeare 

As You Like It - Pelican Shakespeare  

The Winter's Tale - Pelican Shakespeare

The Tempest - Pelican Shakespeare 

A Midsummer Night's Dream - Pelican Shakespeare 

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Books by Ted Neill:

Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare Series:

Hamlet

Othello

Twelfth Night

As You Like It

A Mid Summers’s Night Dream

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