Silas and Ben-Godik and Silas and the Runaway Coach can easily stand on their own as good literature, yet when one knows that they are part of a series, the reader will probably devour all of them and still want to read more. Through Silas, Bodker has created one of the most delightful boys in all of children's literature. He has such a zest and love of and for life! In addition to Silas is a complete cast of vividly memorable characters of all types. If for no other reason, Bodker's works should be read for her character portrayal. These two works are filled with the fast paced adventure, suspense and drama which young readers crave in their books. (pp. 447-48)