Five thrilling books set on islands
Published on: 28 August 2024
Author Jenny Pearson shares her favourite exciting stories set on islands.
In my book Shipwrecked Sebastian and his friends Lina and Étienne find themselves stranded on an island in the Pacific. Islands have long featured in children’s literature – perhaps it is the wildness and separation from civilisation (and those pesky grown ups) that provides a writer the opportunity to test a kid’s mettle. I think we have all wondered how we might fare should we find ourselves shipwrecked. I’m thrilled to be able to share with you some wonderful stories located on islands by some exceptional authors. I encourage you to cast yourselves away into the pages of the following books:
When Michael is stranded on an island after a sailing accident, he meets Kensuke, a former Japanese soldier. Kensuke, an obstinate old man, seems to sabotage any attempts Michael makes to be rescued, yet he is also unswerving in his generosity – sharing water and food and watching over Michael. This poignant tale of trust, respect and courage is masterfully told by one of our very best.
Illustration from Kensuke's Kingdom
Noah’s Gold by Frank Cottrell-Boyce
Noah’s Gold is an island adventure with a difference. Written in the form of letters, it is a story about a school trip that goes disastrously wrong and ends up with children stuck on an island – but not the tropical kind. With his characteristic charm, wisdom and humour, Cottrell-Boyce beautifully portrays the dynamics of a group of kids who are left to fend for themselves with no adult supervision and no technology!
This beautifully written story by Carnegie winner, Katya Balen, is set on the wild Scottish island of Ayrie. Tilda is determined to make Albie, a reluctant newcomer to her home, love the place as much as she does. A story about the bonds that connect you to the places and people you love. Moving and at times funny, Balen’s words completely transported me. A very special book by a hugely talented writer.
Fionn Boyle’s grandfather is the Storm Keeper of the island Arranmore– the maker of storms and wielder of elemental magic that protects against the darkness of ancient sorcery. With Fionn’s arrival, this darkness starts to awaken, leading Fionn to face his fears and protect the people he loves the most. A thrilling tale, with magic stored in candles and an island that seems to live and breathe in both the present and the past.
Illustration from The Storm Keeper's Island
The Secret of Golden Island by Natasha Farrant
From Costa winner Farrant, this story explores environmental themes as well as those of friendship and the power of teamwork. Skylar, who has recently lost her grandfather, and refugee Yakhov find the friendship they both need in each other as they pit themselves against various adults in a competition to win an island. The children uncover some sinister goings on in this thrilling and absorbing tale. Farrant’s writing, as always, is sublime and has that classic feel of an adventure story that will stand the test of time.
Shipwrecked by Jenny Pearson is out now.
