ARA Review by soumi+ of Orphan Wish Island

[soumi+]

[Following is an OnlineBookClub.org ARA Review of the book, Orphan Wish Island.]

---

4 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Orphan Wish Island by Sarah Anne Carter

This is a captivating tale that takes readers on a magical journey through the life of Miriam, a young girl who faces the challenges of growing up as an orphan. The story begins with a tragic event – the loss of Miriam's parents in a car crash when she was just eight years old. As she adjusts to her new life with her aunt and uncle, another unexpected twist awaits her. Her guardians decide to leave for Kenya to work at an orphanage, leaving Miriam to live with her Grandma.

The heart of the story unfolds on the night after Miriam's twelfth birthday when she stumbles upon a miraculous discovery. Glowing writing on the attic door in her room leads her to a secret and enchanting tropical island. There, she encounters fairies who reveal a unique gift to Miriam and other orphans – the ability to make yearly wishes. These wishes come with a catch, though; they only come true if the child is willing to work hard for them.

Throughout the book, Miriam's journey is not just about making wishes but also about growing and learning. She wishes for things to help her in life and encounters valuable lessons about hard work, friendship, trust, and loyalty along the way. The most intriguing aspect is that each year, Miriam's parents also get to make a wish for her on the island, and the reader is left in suspense, not knowing the contents of these wishes until the end.

Sarah Anne Carter masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers engaged and eager to discover Miriam's next wish. Her writing style is both engaging and heartwarming, making it easy for readers to empathize with Miriam and her journey. Carter's personal background adds to the story-telling as she has lived in various places around the world bringing authenticity and depth to the story's settings and character development.

Orphan Wish Island is a delightful and thought-provoking read that will resonate with readers of all ages. It's a tale of hope, resilience, and the power of self-discovery. Miriam's annual visits to the magical island are not only a source of wonder but also a reminder that wishes are most meaningful when one is willing to work for them. The book beautifully captures the essence of the human spirit and the importance of family, making it a must-read for those who enjoy heartwarming and fantastical tales. Sarah Anne Carter's storytelling shines in this enchanting narrative, making it a truly captivating and enjoyable book that will keep you turning the pages until the very end, so I would rate this book four out of five stars.

***
View Orphan Wish Island on Bookshelves