The Storm Keeper's Island by Catherine Doyle

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Bloomsbury, 2018. ISBN 9781408896884
(Age: 9+) Recommended. "When Fionn Boyle sets foot on Arranmore Island, it begins to stir beneath his feet . . . Once in a generation, Arranmore Island chooses a new Storm Keeper to wield its power and keep its magic safe from enemies. The time has come for Fionn's grandfather, a secretive and eccentric old man, to step down. Soon, a new Keeper will rise. But, deep underground, someone has been waiting for Fionn. As the battle to become the island's next champion rages, a more sinister magic is waking up, intent on rekindling an ancient war." (Publisher)
This will certainly be one that does not gather dust on the shelf. It is a gorgeous read full of adventure with magic interwoven throughout the story-line. It is also packed with a range of emotions allowing you to go on a true roller coaster ride. The relationship between Fionn, his grandfather and father supports this. Fionn is a powerful character who immediately connects with the reader and Arranmore Island is a place we all yearn to visit. It is certainly a clever author that can write a book that will appeal to the younger reader and also an adult audience. I would recommend the book for readers 9 and up and for both girls and boys. It fits into fantasy, adventure, family and a touch of mystery. I believe this is part of a trilogy and I am sure many children will be left hanging and waiting for the release of the second book. A must have for the collection.
Kathryn Schumacher

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