4 out of 4 stars
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Island Games: Mystery of the Four Quadrants by Caleb J. Boyer
As an adventure story lover, this title caught my eye as it looked exciting. The story's opening hooks you in straight away; you simply have to find out what happens to the two friends, Ryan and Matthew. The two boys wake up on an unfamiliar island with no recollection of their former lives and no idea why they are there. They just know that they are good friends and that they will have to rely on each other for survival as they negotiate their way through a series of taxing challenges. Their initial fear of the unknown and the need to survive evolves throughout the story into a strong will to conquer and be triumphant in the face of adversity.
The moment of incredulity came when discovering that this book was Caleb Boyer's first novel, written at the age of 12! This does explain some of the phraseology, which is occasionally naive and repetitive; also the language the boys use, referring to each other as 'dude' and the 'peeing of pants'! However, the story line is gripping and you will find yourself rooting for these two friends on their perilous adventure.
The Four Quadrants refers to the areas of the island that the boys venture through as they progress through the story.There is an unseen power which is seemingly controlling their fate, but it is actually their determination, cumulative knowledge and teamwork which influences the outcomes of events and is the true determiner. It is a story of hope, survival, friendship and the awakening to the achievements humans can make if they are courageous and support each other. Several chapters end with cliff hangers and it is hard to put this book down. As each new challenge is presented, it gives the boys more opportunities to prove themselves.
Much of the story is carried by the easy dialogue between these two friends. They talk as teenage boys would: naturally but humour and with occasional discord. They are good friends at the start and true friends by the end.
Island Games was written as a metaphor for human existence. It sends a powerful message about how we should live together and support one another. Such a profound message is amazing from such a young writer. It tells us that life is full of dangers and opportunities but that to live fully we need to face things head on with courage, resilience, determination and we need others on our 'team'. No man is an island and if we work together there is nothing we can't achieve.
I finished this book wanting more. Where do Ryan and Matthew go? What happens to them next? Will they escape? Any book which leaves you eager for more is well worth the read.
I would give this book 4 out of 4 as it is gripping with a powerful message, full of adventure,peril and excitement.
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Island Games
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