Review of The Island

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Island" by Brian Conte.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Title: THE ISLAND
Author: Brian Conte

From the beginning, I was enthralled and enchanted by this delightful little book. The end crept up so quickly and left me wanting more. While reading the book, I was reminded of movies such as 'Castaway', 'Robinson Crusoe', and 'Lord of the Flies'. Even though the stories are very different, I felt a similarity in feel. It was simple enough for a child to read, yet it had depth and maturity that would satisfy the most intellectual readers.

We meet a ten-year-old boy stranded and alone, with hints that his father was lost at sea. As all small children would, he feels sad and lonely, and our hearts go out to him. His mother does not expect him back for another two weeks, and the situation seems terrible. Will he be able to find food and water? Reader, read on to find out.

I read the book in an hour and couldn't put it down. The plot develops nicely, and the prose has more depth as the book continues. The little scenarios throughout the book are delightful, showing how important small mercies are in times of need. The boy grows in maturity throughout and learns a few valuable life lessons.

The book's lack of illustrations is a unique feature that enhances the reader's experience. The narrative is so vivid and descriptive that it effortlessly sparks the reader's imagination. The mental images of the island, the boy's struggles, and the beauty of nature are more than enough to bring the story to life. In fact, the absence of illustrations allows the reader's imagination to run wild, creating a more immersive reading experience.

The book's simplicity and straightforwardness make it a comfortable and enjoyable read for everyone. The editing and chapter lengths are perfect, making it easy to follow the story. The absence of complex plot twists or confusing narratives ensures that the story is accessible to all readers. There's nothing to dislike about this book, and I wholeheartedly award it five stars. While younger children might need illustrations for context, I recommend this book for older children and adults who will appreciate its simplicity and depth.

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The Island
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes

[Emmanuel Chima 3]

*The Island* as a captivating and immersive read, combining simplicity with emotional depth. It highlights the book’s ability to evoke vivid imagery and life lessons through its straightforward narrative. The absence of illustrations is noted as enhancing the reader's imagination. Overall, it seems like a touching story well-suited for readers of all ages.

[Nuella Joseph]

*The Island* for its engaging narrative, vivid descriptions, and emotional depth, likening it to classic adventure stories. Its simplicity and lack of illustrations are seen as strengths, fostering imagination and accessibility. Recommended for older children and adults for its impactful yet straightforward storytelling.