Review: Great read. Modern classic....
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 17, 2013
"A Stairway to Danger" is an adventure story in the spirit of classic adventure stories. Within the story-line, Tom is a reader of such classics as Tom Sawyer  and his reading material inspires certain elements within the story-line. It's clear that the author was greatly inspired by these past masters but brings his own uniquely updated spin to play.Woodard chose to set his story in a real Kentucky town that is now a historic village. He also coaches elements of his story in actual history that can't help but to educate the young reader. Woodward handles the sense of setting beautifully. I have not been to Shakertown but have been to Harrodsburg and Danville and can picture perfectly the acres of farm operated by Will's father and the leafy riverbanks where the adventure plays out.Tom and Will are independent in a way that modern children can only dream of being. They see a task and know what must be done and risk all to do it. They don't necessarily give regard to how the people around them feel but 14-year-olds on the cusp of the greatest adventure they've ever had wouldn't naturally consider consequences or how their actions would impact those around them. Add to the mix a brave young girl who helps the boys in their quest and there's something for everyone.The overall story-line flowed beautifully. There was no excess within the plot. I really enjoyed this story and the characters. "A Stairway to Danger" is a great modern classic. I would recommend it for the 12+ young adult.