Islands have featured in fiction and in particular in children’s fiction for many years. From Kirrin Island in Enid Blyton’s Famous Five series to Stephenson’s Treasure Island, the islands in Kensuke’s Kingdom and Robinson Crusoe and also in picture books, like Struay in the Katie Morag series. Islands are often synonymous with adventure and sometimes with secrets too. Just in time for the end of term and summer adventures here are two new books for children that will make young readers want to visit an island soon.

The Wanderdays: Journey To Fantome Island by Clare Povey

The first in a new series by Clare Povey, The Wanderdays is a fast paced adventure featuring strong friendships, close family bonds, a dastardly villain and with an environmental message at its heart.

Flo and Joseph Wanderday’s mum is one of the world’s greatest explorers, but she’s gone missing on her latest expedition in the North Atlantis Ocean. Through an environmental journalist and old friend of their mum’s Flo, Joseph and their best friends Funmi and Isaac discover the sinister reason for Nellie Wanderday’s trip. This was no ordinary expedition and Mum was trying to uncover crimes committed by Sir Frederick Titan, a much-loved TV presenter who claims to be a protector of the natural world. Unknown to the public he has been using his position to exploit and destroy habitats for personal gain. The four friends find a map and follow clues taking them to a secret island to save Mum and expose Titan’s dangerous plans.

There is an appealing traditional feel to this exciting children’s adventure. The four children complement each other well and make a great team, the tension mounts and there are clues and twists for readers to attempt to solve alongside our heroes. The relationship between the siblings is conveyed well, with Flo assisting her younger brother to cope with his anxiety and OCD with calm understanding. Clare Povey threads a strong environmental message through her story without it detracting from the adventure. This is a terrific start to a new series with great appeal for readers of about 9-12 and a super summer read. Published in June by Usborne Books with an eye catching cover by Ben Mantle.

The Secret of Golden Island by Natasha Farrant

The Secret of Golden Island is quite possibly the perfect summer read for children. Natasha Farrant writes with skill and understanding ensuring her exciting adventure also conveys the hope, positivity and belief in infinite possibilities that young readers relish and appreciate.

When Skylar and Yakov’s paths cross each is dealing with personal trauma. Skylar’s adored Grandfather has recently had a stroke and she feels guilty that she was not with him at the time. Yakov is in England staying with his Aunt whilst his mother and sister remain in war torn Ukraine and he is desperate to go home. Each of them recognise something in the other, the worry and sadness but also the need for support and friendship. But most importantly, the need for hope. When they find out about a competition to win a nearby island they are united in their desire to bring about change in their lives and in the lives of their families.

The two new friends team up to compete against a formidable group of opponents with their efforts further complicated by the need to keep their actions secret from their families. Skylar and Yakov face mounting danger as they pit their wits against their foes and they must conquer their own fears as the competition becomes a race against time. This has all the traditional elements of a classic children’s adventure; relatable protagonists, a seaside setting, clues to solve, a beautiful island, legends, a secret underground tunnel, friendship, bravery and even a pirate song. However it is more than that. Natasha Farrant also explores themes of war, separation, loss and anxiety with a sensitive touch. Personally I find this author’s books a lovely reminder of childhood favourites but, importantly, they acknowledge the manner in which children are exposed to issues perhaps more than they were in the past. The ending of this exciting adventure is enormously satisfying and also highlights the continuing reasons for hope in a troubled world. I loved this and have a feeling its target audience will do so too. Published on 1st August by Faber Books and highly recommended.

I should like to thank Usborne Books, Faber Children’s Books and Bethany Carter for my proof copies.