Benjamin Blank

Barry Hutchison
Juvenile FantasySteampunkAlternate History
Cover image for Benjamin Blank series
Juvenile FantasySteampunkAlternate History

Summary

Within the bustling streets of Eldoria City State and the shadowed corners of Shadowlands, Benjamin Blank’s adventures unfold amid whispers of ancient mysteries and modern chaos. With each step, he unravels layers of secrets about his origins and the strange abilities he begins to suspect are his own. Facing betrayals and alliances, he must decipher clues left by a long-forgotten prophecy, all while balancing the pressures of childhood and the weight of burgeoning powers. Every encounter pushes him closer to a truth that could reshape everything he believes about his world—and himself.

'Benjamin Blank' stands as a notable entry in Hutchison's career, blending sharp wit with imaginative worldbuilding that appeals especially to older teens and young adults. While it hasn't garnered major literary awards, it has a dedicated fan base appreciating its inventive storytelling and relatable protagonist. Critics have praised its pacing and humor, though some find the series' tone inconsistent at times. The series is often seen as a fresh take on the coming-of-age fantasy genre, balancing dark themes with lighthearted moments. Its unique premise and engaging character dynamics make it a significant work in Hutchison's portfolio, solidifying his reputation as a versatile voice within contemporary fantasy literature.

Main Titles

1
The Shark-Headed Bear-Thing
Book cover for The Shark-Headed Bear-Thing
In the shadowed realms of Benjamin Blank, a young hero finds himself caught between worlds when a mysterious beast with a shark-headed visage begins to plague his homeland. This creature, both...
In the shadowed realms of Benjamin Blank, a young hero finds himself caught between worlds when a mysterious beast with a shark-headed visage begins to plague his homeland. This creature, both terrifying and tragic, hints at ancient secrets buried deep within the land's history. As Benjamin uncovers clues about the monster's origins, he grapples with dangerous truths that threaten to reshape his understanding of reality. The journey is perilous, filled with allies and enemies alike, each harboring secrets of their own.
2015 Year
2 Publications
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2
The Swivel-Eyed Ogre-Thing
Book cover for The Swivel-Eyed Ogre-Thing
Benjamin’s adventures take a wild turn when he encounters the Swivel-Eyed Ogre-Thing, a bizarre and cunning creature whose odd appearance conceals a sharp mind and a dangerous agenda. This...
Benjamin’s adventures take a wild turn when he encounters the Swivel-Eyed Ogre-Thing, a bizarre and cunning creature whose odd appearance conceals a sharp mind and a dangerous agenda. This enigmatic being shakes the foundation of Benjamin’s worldview, challenging him to question what he thought he knew about creatures and their motives. As the Ogre-Thing's true intentions slowly come to light, Benjamin must navigate a treacherous landscape of deception and danger to survive and uncover the deeper mysteries behind this strange new foe.
2015 Year
2 Publications
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3
The Moon-Faced Ghoul-Thing
Book cover for The Moon-Faced Ghoul-Thing
The darkness deepens when Benjamin faces the Moon-Faced Ghoul-Thing, a haunting entity that embodies shadows and secrets from a forgotten age. This spectral creature draws Benjamin into a web of...
The darkness deepens when Benjamin faces the Moon-Faced Ghoul-Thing, a haunting entity that embodies shadows and secrets from a forgotten age. This spectral creature draws Benjamin into a web of ancient lore and forbidden knowledge, forcing him to confront fears he never knew he had. As the ghoul’s influence spreads, the lines between friend and foe blur, demanding Benjamin’s courage and wit. In this critical confrontation, he must discover his true strength to halt the rising tide of darkness threatening to consume everything.
2015 Year
1 Publications
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