Publication Date: 4 July 2024

The Blurb

The time has come for four children to be named the new Protectors of Imagination Island. Children all over the world scour the globe in search of lightstreams (portals) to the magical island where anything they imagine comes to life. To become a Protector, they must compete in teams and complete a series of challenges to prove they have what it takes.

Dreamy 10-year-old Luca is afraid of everything, not least the lightstream he stumbles into by accident. Imagination Island is everything that he’s terrified of. But there’s no way out. So he hits on a plan. Work out how to come LAST, and get sent home. That’s what he really wants. Isn’t it?

The Race is ON!

The Review

A vibrant and highly imaginative adventure that will leave you desperate for the next instalment.

Contrary to the usual enthusiastic young heroes we read about, Luca’s primary goal is not to win but to come in last, hoping it will get him sent home. Terrified of everything, especially Imagination Island, his unique perspective adds a refreshing twist to the story, as Luca’s journey becomes one of self-discovery and courage. Mel masterfully develops Luca’s character, portraying his fears and vulnerabilities with sensitivity and depth. It is easy to relate to his initial reluctance and gradual transformation as he navigates the island’s challenges. His journey is not just about winning a competition but about facing his fears and discovering the bravery within himself.

Mel paints a vivid picture of the fantastical Imagination Island, and the challenges are cleverly designed to test the children’s creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. From navigating treacherous landscapes that change with a thought, to devising clever solutions to seemingly impossible problems, the tasks are as imaginative as they are thrilling, highlighting important themes such as the power of imagination, the value of perseverance, and the strength found in collaboration. I also loved the nods to traditional tales within the story – give me ninja sloth over a billy goat any day!

Through an exhilarating mix of teamwork, adventure, and the boundless potential of imagination, Race To Imagination Island encourages children to embrace their creativity, face their fears, and understand the true meaning of bravery and teamwork, and is sure to inspire and enchant, leaving young readers as eager for the next instalment in this exciting new series as I am.

Great for fans of:

• Interdimensional Explorers by Lorraine Gregory, illustrated by Jo Lindley
• Wished by Lissa Evans
• The Lost Magician by Piers Torday

Huge thanks to Farshore for sending me a copy.