Sometimes I wonder why adults think children’s books are not for them. Journey to the River Sea is a great example of a kids’ book you don’t want to miss! The plot is so exciting, you won’t be able to put it down. Read it with a young person you love or simply enjoy it for yourself.
Award-winning author Eva Ibbotson takes us on an epic journey with characters you’ll love and despise. You’ll follow orphan Maia to the Amazon where she’s been sent to live with her relatives on a rubber plantation in 1910. Full of excitement and romantic ideas about her new life, Maia soon discovers that her family never leaves the house and her twin cousins are spiteful and mean.
“Those who think of the Amazon as a Green Hell, bring only their own fears and prejudices to this amazing land. For whether a place is a hell or a heaven rests in yourself, and those who go with courage and an open mind may find themselves in Paradise.”
I felt like I was living in the rainforest alongside Maia. Her love of her surroundings and desire to explore the mysterious and powerful Amazon is in sharp contrast to her relatives. My kids and I were cheering Maia on as she cleverly and courageously managed her dreadful conditions. We learned why being responsible to others has far reaching consequences and respecting the natural world is essential.
Maia’s ability to form deep friendships, her open-minded nature, and her love of all things wild and free made her the most loveable character. She reminds us that how we see the world is up to us.
Helps with: adventure, friendship, being open minded, courage, independence, love, fear, honouring the natural world, valuing each other, prejudice, learning about the Amazon rainforest and native cultures.
Author: Eva Ibbotson
Publisher: MacMillan Children’s Books, 2001