Ahhh. What can I say? Natasha Farrant has done it again with a brilliant new adventure that’s sure to captivate young readers.
The story brings together Skylar and Yakov, two children facing their own tough situations. Skylar’s life has been turned upside down by her grandad’s stroke, leaving her feeling out of place and struggling with school, especially after an incident that gets her suspended. Yakov, on the other hand, has had to flee his homeland because of war, leaving his family behind and trying to adjust to life with distant relatives in a completely new environment. Both are dealing with loneliness and the challenge of finding where they fit in.
Their paths cross when they both discover The Golden Island, which is being offered as a prize in a competition. The island becomes their beacon of hope, and they decide to team up to try and win it. What follows is a lively and suspenseful adventure as they face off against some rather dodgy competitors and tackle a series of tricky challenges. The competition is fierce, and it pushes Skylar and Yakov to their limits, but it also brings them closer together.
Farrant does a fantastic job of blending an exciting story with deeper, more serious themes. She touches on the impact of war and illness in a way that’s thoughtful but still accessible for younger readers. The pace is spot on—there’s never a dull moment, but there’s also plenty of space to get to know Skylar and Yakov and understand what they’re going through.
The Golden Island itself is a magical place, full of hidden caves, wild landscapes, and a mysterious past. It’s not just the setting for the adventure, but also a place where the characters begin to heal and find hope. The descriptions of the island really bring it to life, making it feel like a character in its own right.
The real heart of the story, though, is the friendship that develops between Skylar and Yakov. Both of them are dealing with their own struggles, but through their adventure, they find strength in each other. Their bond is what keeps the story grounded, adding an emotional depth that makes it more than just a simple adventure tale.
And let’s not forget the cover! David Dean’s illustration is vibrant and eye-catching, perfectly capturing the spirit of the story. It’s the kind of cover that draws you in and makes you want to dive right into the pages.
All in all, this book is a fantastic read for kids around 9-12 years old. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and emotion, with plenty to keep readers hooked from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling escape or a story with a bit of depth, this one’s a winner. Definitely a top pick for summer reading!
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