Alan Frost
The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe
(Shawn From the Shed, Book 3)
Two orphans, a border collie, and a nutty inventor travel to the Viking Age. What could possibly go wrong?
Faced with a troubling vision but armed with the knowledge that their previous trips through time changed history for the better, Johnny, Ella, Ginny, and Shawn set off on a new adventure – this time to Denmark, in the year 903.
Their arrival plunges them into the heart of a Viking blood feud. Encountering thieves, raiders, the roaring North Sea, and a ruthless Viking warlord, the group must find a way to fix history and save themselves as well as the lives of innocent victims. But with someone as quirky as Shawn on your team, quite a lot can go wrong.
In an adventure on land and at sea, during a time when mighty longships lurk in the waters like mythical beasts, they will need all their ingenuity and cunning. This time, they will have to overcome their own fears and draw upon everything they have learned so far. Because this time, the enemy has his sights set on them.
Sometimes, to beat a Viking you need to think like a pirate – or a knight!
Age group: Middle grade (8-12)
Genre: Sci-fi/time travel
Self-Publishing Review
A history-packed plunge into the wild realm of raiders, longships, and heroic courage, The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe by Alan Frost is a riveting new adventure novel for young readers. In this third book of the Shawn from the Shed series, Johnny, Ella, and their quirky neighbor travel back in time more than a thousand years to Denmark in the Middle Ages, searching once again for a special person who just might change the course of history. Educational, original, poetic, and entertaining for parents and children alike, this middle grade series skillfully weaves historical fact into a page-turning adventure, slyly teaching children through its combination of authentic detail, action, and creative whimsy.
Reedsy Discovery Review
...Time gallops at full speed ahead for Johhny, Ella, Ginny, and Shawn. As they once again set off on another hair raising, yet wildly comical time traveling adventure in The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe (Shawn From the Shed book 3) written by Alan Frost....
... Frost's audience is middle school aged children (but is fun for all ages) and with each book he manages to capture the attention of readers with day to day reality for the featured time period. And also teach a little history. This time he even adds poetry into the mix.
I give The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe (Shawn From the Shed book 3) by Alan Frost, 5 out of 5 stars. For making history fun and exciting. I can't wait for the next installment.
Literary Titan Review
...Frost’s writing makes the past feel alive, capturing not just the external world of 903 Denmark but also the intricacies of Viking culture. The descriptions are vivid, from the bustling markets to the quiet, tense moments in longhouses. What stands out is the depth with which Frost explores Viking society, challenging stereotypical notions of Vikings as mere raiders. He weaves in their roles as traders, explorers, and complex social beings, adding layers of authenticity to the narrative. The plot balances action and humor effortlessly...
... Frost’s blend of action, education, and comedy ensures an engaging read for all ages.