Quest of the Keys

by Scotty Sanders

Quest of the Keys, a new fantasy fiction book by author and leadership coach Scotty Sanders, which tells an intriguing and adventurous story while imparting personal development and success principles for young adults.

"Quest" tells of the journey of Decklen, a young man who left home in disgrace only to narrowly escape slavery and death in the Minca Silver Mines. Sworn to return for those he left behind and joined by an unlikely sojourner, he sets out for the majestic realm of Leonesse. Before striking out on his new journey, Decklen receives assistance from the sage Octavius. But rather than swords and strategy, Decklen is presented a locked golden cylinder containing an ancient scroll. Tasked with opening the scroll, Decklen and his companion find themselves on an unexpected path of danger and discovery, in search of hidden keys that unlock the true secrets to success…and determine the fate of an entire kingdom.

Genres: Fantasy

170 pages, Unknown Binding

First published September 1, 2012

Reviews

[Deeanne]

I really wanted to like this book. However it got boring rather quickly. I just have no desire to finish it anymore.. :/

[Kevin Lynam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been personally involved with this book from concept through production, I wish to thank everyone who has taken time to submit a review here on Good Reads. Each perspective is valuable, and appreciated. Having said that, it may also help to know more of who this book is intended for, and why it was written...

With Quest of the Keys, the goal was never to go toe-to-toe with the latest fantasy-fiction bestsellers. Rather, Scotty Sanders (the author) set out to translate his career of leadership coaching and personal development into a set of 8 core principles which young readers could understand and begin incorporating into life.

Shortly after the book was released, work began on accompanying curricula and student / teacher resources to bring the "8 keys" into the classroom. Today, "Quest of the Keys" has expanded into a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing these principles into the lives of as many youth as possible.

The real message and opportunity for young readers is within the story - not the story itself. Despite being a fantasy-fiction narrative, the hero doesn't solve problems with magic or mystical powers. He faces the challenges of life by learning and applying the keys - and that same "real world" power is available to anyone who is willing to simply listen, learn and apply what they learn.

In this regard - and as a fantasy fiction nut who grew up on Tolkien and CS Lewis - I consider Quest of the Keys one of the most positively oriented and intentionally helpful books ever released in the genre.

Thanks for taking time to read this review.

We look forward to reading yours soon!

[Jenny LoBello · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an action packed story of a son (Decklen) who took his inheritance and set out on his own to live in the ways of the world. Like many others he is sucked into the world and barely able to escape slavery and even death. He returns to his hometown to complete the "Quest" in which he was offered years ago by the elder of the city. The "Quest" takes him through the eight keys to success. The journey is not easy, but the adventure is exciting and dangerous as Decklen and his companion unlock each key to success.

I recomend this book for all ages, but young readers will be drawn in by the story while learning personal development characteristics along the way. "Quest of the Keys" teaches all of the important character development traits our young people should know to become the future, responsible leaders of our world.

[Brad Marchman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quest of the Keys is a book that you can't put down. There are certain books you read fast because of the great action and content, and this is one of those books. All ages will be caught up in this ageless story set in the mythical land of Leonesse. Just as a fictional getaway, this book delivers.
However, in addition to being an exciting, fun read it teaches as it entertains. The "keys" Decklen, the main character, is after are keys to experiencing a rewarding and fulfilling life. Within the context of a great story, Scotty Sanders weaves in leadership principles that can challenge and encourage us all as we live in the real world to do so with purpose and passion.
I recommend Quest of the Keys wholeheartedly for young teens all the way through to older adults. You will not be disappointed.

[Kandrea Cheney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book as over 500 copies were donated to my school's library to do a campus-wide reading initiative. The story teaches great life lessons throughout and would be great for teaching flashback, theme, text-to-self connections, inferencing, and predictions. I did feel like the story ended quite abruptly with lots of unanswered elements AND there is no sequel, but that could leave a great writing opportunity for the students.

[Roxann Brennfoerder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for pre-teens and teens on building character and developing life habits for a fulfilling life of well-being! With a fantasy plot and the hero's ups and downs, the reader can discover ways to make their life better through planning, perseverance and other keys to life.

[Phia Bella · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personally, this wasn't my favorite book. I found it to be boring at times but there were moments where it was interesting. I think it may be because I had to read this for class but I still would give it 3 stars.

[Cheryl Wicker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book very much. Quest of the Keys combines adventure and exciting characters to tell a truly inspirational story. The book teaches self-improvement skills along the way. And although I am not a teen, I find them very helpful.

[Book Critic · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is awful. The characters are cliche, the story and plot are cheesy, and the whole book tries to jam success tips throughout the chapters down your throat. This was a mandatory book for my ELA class, and the only thing I can say after reading it is that I'm glad I'm done!

[Soumya · Rating 2 out of 5]

The ancient scrolls are maddening. It made me wonder if this was a self help book masquerading as fiction. Seriously, it said things like "divide and conquer" "plan" "set your priorities"

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book, good story, a bit graphic at times for young readers, but looking forward to the next one. Left us hanging at the end.

[Beth Crawford · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely a self help book in fantasy clothing. I like Covey's Seven Habits better.

[Nichole · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a cross between self-help/leadership principles and fiction. Great story and everything flowed nicely. A little transparent, but good potential for use with kids.

[Scott Wozniak · Rating 5 out of 5]

The principles in this fable on how to be a success in life are classic. There's nothing new about these ideas, many of them include quotes from other authors, but they're true and well explained, covering choosing a larger purpose, prioritizing, being tenacious, and building trust with others (to name a few).

What is special about this book is the story. This is a fun adventure worthy of reading even if the deeper principles weren't there. And the way the truths are incorporated is so skillfully done that the story never slows down for a boring lecture.