Despite the objective quality of the narrative [in Child of Fire], both the story and the characters lack dimension; and even if the author is aware of the historical, psychological, and linguistic elements of the Southwest, he fails to arouse a genuine interest in his hero. There are a few bright spots in the realistic scenes of bull fighting and cock fighting; but, in general, the offhand manner of the style only adds to the banality of the story. (pp. 695-96)
Paul Heins, in a review of "Child of Fire," in The Horn Book Magazine, Vol. L, No. 6, December, 1974, pp. 695-96.
This is a free excerpt of 103 words. There are 107 words (approx.
1 page at 300 words per page) in the full critical essay.
Read the rest of this Criticism with our O'Dell, Scott 1903–: Critical Essay by Paul Heins Access Pass.
