Sunday 13 November 2016

'Journey to the river sea' by Eva Ibbotson

Orphan, Maia, travels out to the Amazon in 1910, excited to begin her new life with her cousins. But she is shocked to discover that, far from enjoying Brazilian culture, they have created their own miniature England in their drab, highly-disinfectanted, home.

Maia is far more adventurous, however, and she and her eccentric governess are determined to explore their exotic surroundings - full of screeching monkeys and wild jungle flowers. She makes new friends, including travelling child-actor, Clovis, who longs for English stodgy puddings, and the mysterious Finn, with a big family secret.

But Maia’ adventures, and her friendship with Finn, ultimately lead her into danger. If you love stories with adventure and heart then read this beautifully-written story to find out if she survives her cruel scheming relatives and the darker side of Amazonian life...