  | Bayberry Island : an adventure about friendship and the journey home (Brambleheart) Author: Cole, Henry | |
| Price: $21.88 | ||
Summary:
Volume 2--Twig's fantastical adventures continue as he and his animal friends set sail on a dangerous journey downriver to reach a magical island of dragons.
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: MG Reading Level: 4.70 Points: 2.0 Quiz: 189380 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (03/15/17)
School Library Journal (05/01/17)
Booklist (03/15/17)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 03/15/2017 The adventures begun in Brambleheart (2016) continue as chipmunk Twig endeavors to return the baby dragon, Char, to his home with the help of Lily, a rabbit, and Basil, a weasel. As the four friends set sail on the Spirit, they grow concerned for the well-being of Char, who is listless and not eating. A sense of urgency descends on the group, which pulls together as a team to navigate their tiny ship and get Char home. Obstacles—some minor, some dramatic—impede their progress, but kindly creatures met along the way always lend a hand. Cole has an excellent sense of how to write a compelling adventure for young or sensitive readers. Gentle suspense is woven into scenes to keep the plot moving forward, but the story is firmly anchored in its warm portrayal of friendship. Storms, shipwreck, betrayal—all are surmountable with friends by your side. Adding to the story’s charm are Cole’s pencil illustrations, softly depicting the small animals’ bravery in a huge, unpredictable world. A sweet, satisfying adventure. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 05/01/2017 Gr 3–6—In this slim sequel to Brambleheart, Cole picks up the adventures of young chipmunk Twig, his rabbit friend Lily, and their nemesis-turned-accomplice Basil the weasel right where they left off, sailing out to sea in a found boat. On a mission to return lost baby dragon Char to his family, the young animals cheerfully leave everything they know behind, braving unknown creatures, high seas, and, finally, shipwreck with resourceful optimism. Exposition and character development are almost nonexistent, and readers who skipped Brambleheart may find themselves a little out of sorts. However, Cole's writing is actually more suited to straightforward adventure, and this sequel is a fun and fast-moving, if not deep, read. Detailed pencil drawings enhance and enrich the simple text. VERDICT An enjoyable read-aloud or easy middle grade selection for readers of gentle nature fantasy.—Katya Schapiro, Brooklyn Public Library - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
