As a 10-year-old reader, I found this book both enticing and mysterious. I love how even the first few pages are filled with secrets and clues - therefore, Summerland was impossible to put down. It is the kind of book you ponder over even after you've turned the last page. The plot twist is extremely clever and completely unexpected, and the story-line is utterly believable. As I poured over the pages, I could clearly imagine the settings, and often felt like part of the book. The personality of the main character comes across extremely well. I didn't want it to end!
In my opinion, the main theme of the book is belonging. Friendship is also a key feature. Summerland has dark parts, sections that are enigma upon enigma, but also parts that made me smile. When you think you have sussed it all out, the book takes a sudden turn, and you are left guessing yet again. It is this air of mystery that made me love Summerland even more.
It is a wonderful book that I would definitely recommend, especially to people who are interested in historical fiction and who enjoy guessing outcomes and thinking hard about scenarios. Because of the slightly complicated plot and occasional outbursts of drama that could be upsetting to younger readers, I especially recommend Summerland to ages 10 plus - avid readers especially, but adults and children alike. Overall, this is a superb book by an excellent author that I hope many people enjoy as much as I did.
(I read it in two days!)
In my opinion, the main theme of the book is belonging. Friendship is also a key feature. Summerland has dark parts, sections that are enigma upon enigma, but also parts that made me smile. When you think you have sussed it all out, the book takes a sudden turn, and you are left guessing yet again. It is this air of mystery that made me love Summerland even more.
It is a wonderful book that I would definitely recommend, especially to people who are interested in historical fiction and who enjoy guessing outcomes and thinking hard about scenarios. Because of the slightly complicated plot and occasional outbursts of drama that could be upsetting to younger readers, I especially recommend Summerland to ages 10 plus - avid readers especially, but adults and children alike. Overall, this is a superb book by an excellent author that I hope many people enjoy as much as I did.
(I read it in two days!)