I am the Messenger

Reader reviewed by Steve

First off I feel it necassary to let you know that I am not a big reader and only enjoy books that just seem to find their way to me. Anyway, I have no clue how I stumbled upon this one, but have no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't see things the same without finding it. This book is simply amazing, actually feeling like it touched me in some way. I have no time to tell specifics on the whole book, other than that there is no doubt in my mind that a yound adult like myself will love this book.

Reader reviewed by kate

This book is simply wonderful. I read this two days straight, constantly. I never wanted to put it down.

The concept seems like something tired-- following clues and everything that comes with it-- but I was very surprised at the new take and twists that occurred. I adored the Doorman, and rooted for Ed throughout the entire story. The author created very likeable character and a realistic setting-- the descriptions were top-notch. It was funny and easy to follow, which was a tough feat considering all the clues and hints along the way.

Though it was a fun read, it also provided the more serious aspect which caused for a little deeper thinking. Ed realized more about the meaning of life through those cards than anything-- it had me wishing someone would set me up with something like that! The elements of suspense and excitement and romance were all there-- and totaled a very wonderful book.

I would recommend !!

Reader reviewed by kelly

This is one of the greatest books I've ever read. It's addictive once you start the first sentence and it sucks you in until you're absolutely drowning in it... Drowning in the plot, the characters, the sheer, raw gloriousness of the whole thing. I applaud Markus Zusak. Well done!

I'm one of the few people who enjoy the ending. You just have to read the book a few times and use your thinking cap to get the gears running smoothly enough to crack what Markus is trying to get through to you. He's trying to get his (and Ed's) message heard. Just think, okay?

This book makes me restless. I want my opportunity, my ace in the mail. I just hope I get to write about it myself.

...And now I've got nothing left to say.

Reader reviewed by Grace

I Am the Messenger is a beautifully written and moving book. I loved the plot, with the mysterious Aces and what Ed learns from them. I loved the way Markus Zusak told the story, with honesty and humor, how real all of his characters were. Ed is a message to all of us to strive to be the best that we can be, and to pay more attention to the people around you and really show that you care.

Reader reviewed by Saba

Ed Kennedy is just an all-round failure - or so he thinks. After stopping a bank robbery, however, playing cards begin to arrive in the mail, written over with cryptic messages. As Ed decodes them, he finds that each message is actually a task, set for him to do.
Slowly, he makes his way through all the aces, until the only task left for him to do is to find out who's sending the messages...

I loved this book because it isn't very hard to start - you can get into the book right away. It's bold writing style is aspirational and unique, including humour, detail and even suspense.

Reader reviewed by thelockerboy

'I Am The Messenger' is a thrilling novel written by who I believe is one of Australia's finest up and coming authors. Zusak's writing is one of simplicity, yet heart gripping honesty and depth.

If you enjoyed this novel go and treat yourself to his others.

Reader reviewed by bookworm9

Nineteen-year-old Ed Kennedy is an underage cab driver who lives in a shack with his smelly, ancient, but beloved dog, the Doorman, and spends a lot of time playing cards with his three best friends. Ed thinks his life is pretty pathetic, until he begins getting playing card aces in the mail, each with three people he has to help.

The premise of the book is as simple as that. The reality of it is a lot more complicated, as Ed faces everything from being sent to kill a rapist to being asked to help some people who are near and dear to him. Throughout, he wonders who is sending him these bizarre messages, and why he is the Messengeror is he?

This was one of the most unique and downright GOOD books Ive read in awhile. I could say it was part coming-of-age novel and part brilliant thriller, but really this book defies all labels. Its just a plain good story, and though a few of the people Ed is sent to help fade into the woodwork too quickly (the ice cream lady, Bernie the movie guy, and even Ritchie), theyre more then made up for with the other vibrant interactions Ed has (all three people on the first card, the confrontation with his mom, and Marvs secret, for starters). Ed is a great character who had me rooting for him the whole way.

If it hadnt been such a good book, the ending would have ruined it, and as it was, it was very disappointing, being both maddeningly didactic and ambiguous. Its only saving grace was that it was happy, which Ed deserved. But ending aside, this is a must read.

Reader reviewed by Sandra

Ed Kennedy is introduced to us as a 19 illegal cab driver who's main purposes in life are to taxi people around town, and play cards with his three friends. A bit of a sad life, if you look at it. One day, he thwarts an attempted bank robbery, and gets his 10 minutes of fame. Life then goes back to normal. Or does it?

After his 'act of heroism', Ed begins receiving Ace cards, listing a potporri of things from names to movie titles. Now it's his job to figure out what to do with the information. Along the way, Ed helps various characters to a better life, including himself.

Ultimately, this was a story of self-discovery. Ed, began as a useless 19 year old without much purpose in life, and became someone who knew what to do with his life. It was a pretty powerful message to me.

I would recommend this book to nearly anyone and everyone I know. You don't really have to think while you're reading this, so it's pretty light on the cranium. Also, you could connect to Ed. Who doesn't ever feel like they can't do anything to change the world?

Reader reviewed by Wes


This book is a very good book. I could be better or very close the the book Holes. It isn't approptite for younger kids though. I reconmend it to anyone that has to do a summer reading project like i just did. It's great and keeps you interested till the end.