Review of Island Games

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Island Games" by Caleb J. Boyer.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Title: Island Games
Author: Caleb J. Boyer

This is a cracking children's book. It has all the elements to keep a young reader riveted to the page. It is fantastical and magical, with two boys as the central heroes, a part many children would love to imagine themselves in. Their adventure occurs on a tropical island, with mystery, strange noises, land 'movements' and more, which children will enjoy.

Right from the beginning of the book, I felt as if everything was 'inside' of a dream. It all seemed very surreal. It begins with the two boys, Ryan and Matthew, lying unconscious on a beach. They slowly come to, wondering what on earth has happened. They are stranded and alone. I like the tone of the opening chapter, with the sound of the waves and the feel of the sand almost palpable. Their memories seem affected, yet they can remember playing a video game. A nearby cargo boat has supplies to keep them going, but only for now. Reader, read on.

Matthew and Ryan are likeable, typical boys, with Matthew being slightly more responsible and forward-thinking. They are having fun, but things will change, as the reader will find out. Hearing water running and needing hydration, they find themselves in a jungle with mysterious animals, strange temples and more. Together, as a team, they must solve a mystery; through this effort, they will mature and grow.

I would have loved some illustrations; having a pictorial 'feel' of the island would have been nice. But, there again, it's a good idea to leave it to the young reader's imagination as to what the boys and the place looked like.

I enjoyed this well-edited novel and found nothing to dislike. It developed rapidly to hold the young reader's attention, with a thought-provoking ending. I will award ‘Island Games’ five out of five stars.

******
Island Games
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon