Jon Bragg Blue Essence by Kenney Myers is a thrilling adventure story filled with Norse mythology. The story explores the life of teenager Jon Bragg and the links his community has with the Norse God’s; Thor, Loki and Bragi. Jon is a regular, if not introverted, sixteen-year-old, with a passion for reading and poetry. His world is tipped upside-down when ‘Coach’ and his son Dustin move to Grinwell.

Jon Bragg’s Blue Essence is set in the town of Grinwell Iowa, in the present day. There are vivid descriptions of the cold and bitter winter conditions on Grinwell.  The detailed clothing descriptions and music and technology choices all give the time setting an authentic feel. It contrasts well with the Norse mythology that is embedded in the story. The vivid descriptions immediately draw the reader into the story and make the setting feel authentic.

There are a handful of intriguing main characters in this novel, Jon, his parents, sister Jill and best friend Marc and Dustin, his father – Coach. Minor characters include other school mates and schoolteachers. The main characters are well described, in what they wear and their physical attributes. Jon’s small frame contrasts with Dustin’s athletic prowess. Their personalities are also well described, and also contrasting in unique and interesting ways that play off of one another well. Jon is quiet and reserved, Dustin is confident and self-assured. The dialogue differentiates each of the characters with vocabulary choices matching each character colorful persona. The relationships between the characters is interesting, as author Kenney Myers highlights the different social strata in high school and the differing relationships children and parents can have.

Although the story is told from numerous points of view, it is easy to differentiate as the characters are well developed and individual. The character names are indicated at the top of each chapter. The story immediately draws you in, beginning with Jon’s sixteenth birthday. This book is of particular interest if you enjoy reading about Norse Gods. Although mythology is an integral part of the story, the myths weave in and out of the story, combining modern day living with Norse mythology.

Jon Bragg Blue Essence is a riveting young adult fantasy novel that draws on Norse mythology in uniquely compelling ways to tell a rousing story that will keep readers fully engaged with this memorable book.

Pages: 197 | ASIN: B08VKSR87S