I had extremely high hopes for this book since I loved the Peculiar Children series, and this story was super unusual but just not as fun and addicting as the PC series. This is definitely more for the YA audience, which there is nothing wrong with that, I do enjoy a good YA, but as an adult wanting a story that’s super addicting, keeping me on the edge of my seat and not wanting to put it down, this just wasn’t that for me.

This idea was super unique and I loved about the first 50% but then the story fell flat for me and became a little less entertaining than the first half. I would say give this book a chance because this may be for you, this is just my opinion. I’m also assuming this will turn into a series, but I probably will not be continuing this series if it does continue.

This is my first Ransom Riggs book and definitely won’t be my last. In fact, I am going to read the Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children series next.

Leopold (Larry) Barry is just an average kid with a lot of teen angst. He has recently lost his mother and his father considers him to be an extreme disappointment. Some time after his mother dies, Larry discovers a box with old VHS tapes of a ‘90s fantasy TV show called Max’s Adventures in Sunderworld. Larry along with his best friend Emmet fall in love with the one season show and recreate episodes in their spare time.

Larry begins to see strange things in his daily life, like a raccoon on fire in a tree, which seem to be glimpses of Sunderworld. These hallucinations become more frequent and he is starting to believe that Emmet is right - that he needs to get help again with his mental health. While Sunderworld is an escape from his ordinary and unhappy life and grieving his mother, it suddenly becomes a real place and Larry finds himself in Sunderworld with Emmet. Larry believes that this is the moment he has waited for his whole life - he has finally been chosen for greatness. But is he right?

This is a coming of age and search for self story with a fantasy element that includes magic. Larry is a likable and relatable character as is his bestie Emmet. You will root for these two to succeed on their extraordinary adventure. We also meet some interesting characters in Sunderworld, who I expect will be back in future stories. All of the characters are likable except for Larry’s judgemental dad but he doesn’t seem to figure too prominently in the story. I read Sunderworld quickly — it was a captivating read that will hold your attention. I can’t wait until Volume 2 but I will be busy in the meantime reading Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin YA Reading Group/Dutton Books for an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Ransom Riggs has a talent for creating complex worlds that feel real set within the boundaries of our own world. Sunderworld was one such place and being able to become lost in the wonder, and terror, was an unforgettable experience.

At times I felt like the pacing was off in the book and I would have to push through certain sections. Overall though, this is a solid read that readers will end up falling in love with once they take a trip to Sunderworld.

As a long time fan of Ransom Riggs I was so excited to see that he was publishing the first book in a new series. This book may be called "The Extraordinary Disappointments" but it was far from disappointing.

We follow Leopold - unfortunately nicknamed Larry by everyone in his life - still navigating the grief of his recently passed mother and coming to terms with the lack of relationship with his father. After his mom passed he found a mysterious box of video tapes which unveiled a place of solace for young Leopold - Sunderworld.

Enter Emmett, Leopold's best friend. Throughout their childhood and early teen years, Leopold & Emmett recreated their favorite Sunderworld scenes and stretched their imagination to hope one day to enter Sunder.

Cut to several years later, Leopold is at a forced job interview with his dad (who doesn't hide his distain for Leopold by the way) when he looks out the window and sees a flaming raccoon. Madness, of course, ensues.

Sunderworld Vol. I was a beautiful introduction to this new universe Riggs is sharing with us, I honestly forgot it was the first in a series until the insane cliffhanger at the end. I cannot wait to see where this story goes and hope that we get to see Leopold come into himself like never before.

My thanks for the ARC goes NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Dutton Books for Young Readers. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult Fantasy
Language: There are f-bombs and more, but it's not anything high schoolers don't say and hear
Representation: Diverse races
Themes: Coming-of-age

*SUNDERWORLD, Vol. 1: THE EXTRAORDINARY DISAPPOINTMENTS OF LEOPOLD BERRY* is a wild ride! I seriously can see it as a rollercoaster with the ups and downs, and twists and turns.

Does Sunderworld have a Harry Potter vibe? (Noting this because it seems to be the touchstone for children's literature.) It's similar only in that there is magic and regular folks who are kept out of the magical world. No magical schools or houses thus far. And there are plenty of quirky characters.

I DO NOT want to give away any spoilers.

Here's the main plot: Leopold (aka Larry) sees weird stuff happening and is convinced Sunderworld must exist—otherwise he's hallucinating. Larry is trying to find where he fits in the world, but the world keeps smacking him down.

This book truly feels like it's written for a young adult audience. Feelings of not quite knowing who you are and trying to fit in are so much a part of being a teen. This is one of the best ya fantasy books I've read in a while.

Even though I HATE f-bombs, it is on point to have swearing in the book because teens often swear as a form of rebellion—and now days, most everyone uses vulgar language. Thankfully, there's not sex or spice on the page. This journey really focuses on Larry/Leopold's life and his problems.

It ends on a cliff hanger. Will I be here for the next book? ABSOLUTELY!

Happy reading!

What a wild adventure! This story takes us all over L.A. but not in the way you’d expect.

Leopold “Larry” is setting out on an adventure to better understand his “hallucinations” and following the treasure map his mom left him.

There is an entire magical world within the universe that lives parallel to the natural realm.

The ending, now that had me shocked. I’m desperately needing the next book!

5 stars.

If you are a millennial and have nostalgia for what it was like growing up in the '90's and early 2000's , and for things like Jim Henson movies....you need to pick this one up. It is almost like if you took Stranger Things, made it more fantasy and less sci-fi horror and shifted it to being set in like 2001 you would get this book. It evokes the nostalgia many of us grew up with dreaming that we would be whisked away to a magical world coexisting with out mundane existence expertly, but also with a more sinister edge I have come to love and expect from Ransom Riggs. This book also had me surprisingly up in my feels as the main character dealt with his emotionally abusive father, it hit a little close to home in some places. All in other this story has wormed its way into my heart and I can't wait to see what's next for Leopold and friends.


Thank you so much to Penguin Teen for sending me a review copy.

First, I want to say I freaking LOVE this cover. The crazy thing is Barnes and Noble has an exclusive edition that somehow looks even cooler! This was made for my generation and I am eating it up. I saw it on Tiktok and immediately went to NetGalley to see if I could apply. I was so excited when I was approved.
I've never read anything from Random Riggs but I've heard of his other series, so I was expecting something more geared towards kids. This was YA and on the older side of YA. I was grateful. Several f-bombs and while the MC didn't drink or do drugs there were mentions. No sex or sexual tension either.
I felt so much for Leopold. I hate his dad. I'm soooooo glad that his friend plays a role in the story and isn't forgotten and thrown away. I want only good things for him, but it's clear that's not going to happen anytime soon.
My only complaint about the book was it felt a bit short. The ending was a cliffhanger and I want MORE! This book doesn't come out until the end of August so who knows when I'll get the next one 😭 ...I hope the covers match...

With a charming magical system and excellent world building, Ransom Riggs gives reader of his other works a novel that is both familiar but vastly different. Leopold is a complex and misunderstood protagonist who wishes for a fantasy…until it becomes real life.

This is an excellent first step for any young readers into urban fantasy. If I have a criticism, it’s just that first novels take a lot of world building and by the time, I was getting invested into the novel, it needed. Looking forward to a second volume!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.

70/100 or 3.5 stars

I liked the world Riggs has created, and I am interested in reading more!
Part of this story did feel a little long, but overall, I think readers will like this!

Sunderworld is a fun and quirky read that blends reality with nostalgia by way of a forgotten 90s fantasy TV show. The story follows Leopold Berry, a relatable teen dealing with grief and strained relationships, who discovers that the magical world from his favorite show is actually real. The world-building is super cool, very unique and dripping with nostalgia making it super easy to get immersed into.

Leopold’s friendship with Emmet adds a lot of heart to the story, and I loved how the book explores deeper themes like loss, self-worth, and choosing your own path. If you enjoy fantasy with a bit of nostalgia, you should definitely check this one out!

I received this book from the publisher but my opinions are my own and completely unbiased. 👾

Sunderworld Vol. 1, out August 27th, was definitely a surprise for me! The book follows Leopold (Larry) Berry, whose obsession with his favorite television show, becomes more than the normal escape that it tends to be usually.
The world that Riggs sets up through this book is frightening and threatening and thrilling. I have read the first three books of the Ms. Peregrine's books by Riggs so I knew I was in for some craziness, but nothing like this. From page like 10, the Sunderworld leaking into the real world becomes engrossing and very interesting.
I also loved the friendship between Emmett and Larry. It reminded me of some of my adventurous buddies that I had in high school and the adventures that we would have together.
I cannot wait for Vol. 2 and will probably now go read the rest of the Ms. Peregrine's books.
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group, Dutton Books for Young Readers, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sunderworld Vol. 1: The Extraordinary Disappointments of Leopold Berry hits shelves August 27th! Keep an eye out for it!

I really wasn’t sure if this book was for me. I opened my kindle expecting very little. Wow. I was totally wrong. Leopold and Emmet grabbed me and wouldn’t let go! I am amazed by the world building in this first book. My only complaint was that the book ended in a bit of an abrupt way. I need more of Leopold and Sunder. Now, please. Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin/Dutton for letting me read and review this book. My review is my honest opinion and I wasn’t compensated in any way.

Sunderworld Vol 1: The Extraordinary Disappointments of Leopold Berry follows Leopold, a perfectly average teenage boy who occasionally has odd visions akin to Max’s Adventures in Sunderworld, a television program from the 90s that he found on VHS in his late mother’s belongings. As he continues to disappoint his father, Leopold soon learns that his hallucinations may be more real than he thought.

When I read ARCs, I write the reviews as I go so I capture my feelings better and don’t forget information. With Sunderworld, though, I was far too engrossed in the pages to exit my reading app. Seriously, I adored this book. I was hooked from page one. I instantly connected with Leopold’s voice, and the pacing was great in my opinion.

The worldbuilding in Sunder is very well done, and I love the little quirks of the magic system. It’s not so complex that you would need a glossary, but not so simple that you would find it boring. The tone of it all definitely leans more fantasy than magical realism, but I felt the same awe as when I read MR.

Leopold is great main character. The story subverts the chosen one trope in a really interesting way, and he’s a kid anyone would root for. He has an adorable friendship with his classmate Emmet, and a truly awful relationship with his dad.

The book explores themes of grief and expectations, as well as the idea that heroes are made. It has magic, friendship, mystery, and puzzles—something for everyone.

I was so shocked when the book ended. I need a sequel yesterday. I really recommend this one!

I absolutely devoured this book! The world building was just out of this world and I really love a MC that represents the underdog in all of us. I loved how Leopold was able to connect with his mother through relived moments. This book was executed so well and I can’t wait for the next one!

Having read and enjoyed most of Ransom Riggs’ other works, I had high hopes for this book, and for the most part, it didn’t disappoint.

Leopold (Larry) is a fun protagonist to follow, as are his adventures in a land that may or may not be all in his mind.

Sunderworld was a nostalgic trip of a read, and I’d definitely be interested in Vol. 2.
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Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Larry (Leopold) adored a classic 80s live-action children's show named Sunderworld while growing up. However, ever since his mother's passing, he has been experiencing glimpses of Sunderworld manifesting in real life. Feeling like he's losing his sanity, Larry confides in his loyal best friend, who tries to reassure him but inadvertently stumbles into the Alternate World. Facing his childhood fantasies turning into reality, Larry discovers that he might not be the hero he always believed himself to be... ...or is he?

This was such a strange and unusual book. I really had a hard time not to compare it to Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. I'll admit I had some doubts in the beginning, though the promise of the concept kept me going, and I did get a little lost around the middle.

The more I read, the more I realised this wasn’t for me.

Thank you Netgalley for providing digital advanced copy in exchange for honest review.

I was hooked on the intriguing premise of Sunderworld from the moment I read this book's synopsis, but the first book in this new series ultimately delivered a lot of setup for future books without really going much of anywhere in this one. The pacing was all over the place, and the plot jumps between several main objectives at dizzying speeds as the lines between Sunder and Los Angeles begin to blur.

At the end of Volume 1, there are still MANY questions to be answered about the inner workings of Sunder and its magic system and much to still be learned about the promising cast of characters. There was a lot of action without a lot of resolution, but it was interesting and entertaining enough that I'd like to see where the rest of the series takes us. 3.5 out of 5 stars

Shoot, I really wanted to like this and I just- I didn’t. 🥲

Which sucks because the cover rocks and the premise is a banger. I think if you’re into YA urban fantasy you’ll dig this book. I saw this and was like oh hell yeah, I read 1.5 books from the Miss Peregrine series and I’d love to see what else Ransom Riggs has got for us.

It’s my usual complaint for YA, I personally think I am too old to really enjoy it anymore. And let me be clear I am only speaking for myself, I am not speaking for you, dear reader. If you love YA, great, I love that for you!! This book will probably work for you and that’s awesome!

I say the same thing these days but it’s true, I don’t want to be a hater, I want to enjoy this book and have fun! But I simply did not. 17 year old me would have eaten this up and left no crumbs though.

But hope is not lost, maybe the second book picks up and gets better. Despite discovering that I don’t enjoy YA anymore time and time again, I refuse to give up!

Thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Young Readers Group, and Dutton Books for Young Readers for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Leopold Barry (commonly referred to by the rhyming nickname/surname combo of Larry Barry) has been perfectly average all his life. His father tells him so regularly. Other than his somewhat overactive imagination and the tragic premature death of his mother, Leopold has never had a single defining characteristic besides being basic. But when the supposed figments of Leopold's imagination start coming to life for real, Larry Barry may just have a change in fortune and future.

This book is an absolute delight. I felt positively giddy reading it, and cannot wait to explore more of Sunderworld in the continuing series. I was seriously so absorbed in the world building and characters that the ending took me completely by surprise; I couldn't believe I had already finished, and it left me hungering for more. Thank you to Netgalley and Dutton YA for the review copy.