I liked the book cover and from the start it feels like this is going to be an epic tale, and it was. The story is set in 1989 at Beacon island, Batavia’s graveyard, that although the most impressive sea vessel of the age became wrecked in 1629.
The author uses an unusual writing style that once you acclimatise with, it is really consuming. I liked that the chapters alternate between the characters Mayken and Gil and their respective time zones of 1628 and 1989 and this keeps your imagination ticking over and your interest held. I did really like the historically, interesting concept of having two characters telling their stories from their two very different time zones which are over 300 years apart. Although living in very different times the two children are both relatable as they struggle with their own fears and curiosities, sadness and loss, friendships and trust and events that are beyond their control.
The author uses an unusual writing style that once you acclimatise with, it is really consuming. I liked that the chapters alternate between the characters Mayken and Gil and their respective time zones of 1628 and 1989 and this keeps your imagination ticking over and your interest held. I did really like the historically, interesting concept of having two characters telling their stories from their two very different time zones which are over 300 years apart. Although living in very different times the two children are both relatable as they struggle with their own fears and curiosities, sadness and loss, friendships and trust and events that are beyond their control.