What do you think?
Rate this book
Helga Returns
James’ second adventure begins with a footprint. He once again calls out to his Icelandic magical friends, Syvok and Matthias, to discover what it means. He will find Helga, the troll who left the footprint.
James follows Helga to Yamas, the troll village. Will they be left on a glacier or will they save the Guardian Troll from danger? Will Syvok and Matthias reach James in time to save him when the earth tremors?
James follows Helga to Yamas, the troll village. Will they be left on a glacier or will they save the Guardian Troll from danger? Will Syvok and Matthias reach James in time to save him when the earth tremors?
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Nystrom
9 books36 followersWendy is enjoying her new adventures of writing world and you are welcome to visit her blog, facebook or twitter Wendys Book Case
I am a writer, a wife, and a mother of three wonderful children. Wendy grew up in St. Paul, MN, and has lived at different points in her life in Minnesota, Texas, Idaho, Colorado, West Virginia, and Iceland. She currently resides in Michigan (USA). Wendy is an avid reader of many different genres; she love adventures; and devotes some of her time to being active in schools, the local library, and other community projects. She earned a BA in Geography concentration Urban Planning. Wendy began writing children stories in 2005 while living in the wonderful country of Iceland.
Blogs and other accounts
wendysbookcase.wordpress.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wendys-...
http://twitter.com/#!/wbnystrom
I am a writer, a wife, and a mother of three wonderful children. Wendy grew up in St. Paul, MN, and has lived at different points in her life in Minnesota, Texas, Idaho, Colorado, West Virginia, and Iceland. She currently resides in Michigan (USA). Wendy is an avid reader of many different genres; she love adventures; and devotes some of her time to being active in schools, the local library, and other community projects. She earned a BA in Geography concentration Urban Planning. Wendy began writing children stories in 2005 while living in the wonderful country of Iceland.
Blogs and other accounts
wendysbookcase.wordpress.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wendys-...
http://twitter.com/#!/wbnystrom
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 13, 2013
Helga Returns
James and Syvok Adventure 2
Written by Wendy Nystrom Illustrated by Kelly Murray
What a delightful story for children.
I love the language usage which is simple and descriptive all in one. It is written for children but is never patronizing and it manages to introduce them to concepts not necessarily familiar like Fjord's glaziers etc.
Also due to indigenous names it will introduce young readers to new sound structures that will prove to be invaluable in the future for them. One such example is Syvok, James partner in crime.
Helga a troll is a sweet character that is introduced for the first time in this the second book in the series that has a naivety that makes her all the more endearing. The one person I do feel bad for in this book is James' mother. If only the poor woman knew… lol. Good thing she does not.
All in all I found it delightful and a nice change of pace for me.
I am sure this will delight many a young boy and girl and thus worth the 5 * rating I am giving it.
WaAr
James and Syvok Adventure 2
Written by Wendy Nystrom Illustrated by Kelly Murray
What a delightful story for children.
I love the language usage which is simple and descriptive all in one. It is written for children but is never patronizing and it manages to introduce them to concepts not necessarily familiar like Fjord's glaziers etc.
Also due to indigenous names it will introduce young readers to new sound structures that will prove to be invaluable in the future for them. One such example is Syvok, James partner in crime.
Helga a troll is a sweet character that is introduced for the first time in this the second book in the series that has a naivety that makes her all the more endearing. The one person I do feel bad for in this book is James' mother. If only the poor woman knew… lol. Good thing she does not.
All in all I found it delightful and a nice change of pace for me.
I am sure this will delight many a young boy and girl and thus worth the 5 * rating I am giving it.
WaAr
October 7, 2014
Fun book! My son and daughter loved all the mythical creatures in the book, and had fun finding the hidden dragon in all the pictures.
James goes on a trip with his family and they find a giant footprint. Later after they went home, James moon rock that he wore around his neck, from his first adventure started to glow and get warm. And James and Syvock are off for another adventure where they meet Helga, the troll who grows on you. Can't wait for the next adventure!
James goes on a trip with his family and they find a giant footprint. Later after they went home, James moon rock that he wore around his neck, from his first adventure started to glow and get warm. And James and Syvock are off for another adventure where they meet Helga, the troll who grows on you. Can't wait for the next adventure!
July 6, 2013
Taea (Age 6) will start our review as usual. "I liked this one better than the first one. I want to go to Iceland one day to see the places in the stories."
Okay now that Taea had her small but very nice say in it, it's my turn lol! This story seems longer than James Saves the Moon. I found it a bit more enjoyable as well. James and Syvok can never seem to keep themselves out of trouble and this time was almost bad. But they made a new friend to share their adventures with. Being a children's book, I let the lack of contractions slide since children normally don't learn about those till second or third grade (I think) and not using them makes it a bit easier for the children to read the story. As with first book, this one too names places in Iceland and weaves another piece of their legendary lore into a memorable story. Wendy has made fans out of my children and they eagerly await to hear book 3.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws
Okay now that Taea had her small but very nice say in it, it's my turn lol! This story seems longer than James Saves the Moon. I found it a bit more enjoyable as well. James and Syvok can never seem to keep themselves out of trouble and this time was almost bad. But they made a new friend to share their adventures with. Being a children's book, I let the lack of contractions slide since children normally don't learn about those till second or third grade (I think) and not using them makes it a bit easier for the children to read the story. As with first book, this one too names places in Iceland and weaves another piece of their legendary lore into a memorable story. Wendy has made fans out of my children and they eagerly await to hear book 3.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws
March 21, 2016
http://kachildrensbookreviews.blogspo...
We won this book and I am glad we did. We have read the first adventure and got to meet James and Syvok so we already knew who they were. In this book James is with his family and sees a big footprint, it doesn't look like it is a regular footprint so James goes out on an adventure with his friend Syvok and Matthias to find out whose it is. What James doesn't expect is to find a troll as he has never seen one before. But the question will be asked will Helga and James find themselves in trouble and have to be on the glacier or will they be okay.
I really enjoyed this story and the adventure it is isn't a normal adventure you are meeting creatures that no one hardly writes about anymore. Now this book does not have many pictures and it focuses more on the story. Which some kids will like and others may not. I was weary on how K would be with no pictures but he is starting to enjoy chapter books that have little to no pictures.
Now I asked K some questions on the story and here are his answers.
1. Did you like the story?
"Yes, it was good."
2. What was your favorite part?
"All of it. Though I didn't like the eyes of the characters they seemed to big for them."
3. Who was your favorite character and why?
" I liked all the characters. The trolls, dragons, and James."
4. Would you read the book again?
"Yes I would"
5. Would you recommend this book to your friends?
"Yes I would because they may like dragons and trolls as well."
We won this book and I am glad we did. We have read the first adventure and got to meet James and Syvok so we already knew who they were. In this book James is with his family and sees a big footprint, it doesn't look like it is a regular footprint so James goes out on an adventure with his friend Syvok and Matthias to find out whose it is. What James doesn't expect is to find a troll as he has never seen one before. But the question will be asked will Helga and James find themselves in trouble and have to be on the glacier or will they be okay.
I really enjoyed this story and the adventure it is isn't a normal adventure you are meeting creatures that no one hardly writes about anymore. Now this book does not have many pictures and it focuses more on the story. Which some kids will like and others may not. I was weary on how K would be with no pictures but he is starting to enjoy chapter books that have little to no pictures.
Now I asked K some questions on the story and here are his answers.
1. Did you like the story?
"Yes, it was good."
2. What was your favorite part?
"All of it. Though I didn't like the eyes of the characters they seemed to big for them."
3. Who was your favorite character and why?
" I liked all the characters. The trolls, dragons, and James."
4. Would you read the book again?
"Yes I would"
5. Would you recommend this book to your friends?
"Yes I would because they may like dragons and trolls as well."
September 8, 2013
My Thoughts - 4 out of 5 unicorns - Kids will really enjoy it!!
**Won in a giveaway at Wendy’s Bookcase
This story is a children’s book and about 35 pages long with lots of fun pictures. I couldn’t get my son to sit and read with me. He is too interested in being outside with his friends right now.
At the start of the book, it reviews some of the things learned about Iceland. There are some great lessons built into this book as well like not judging someone based on rumors and going out of your way for others even though they may not do the same for you. I always tell my son he needs to be nice to everyone whether they are nice to him. He asked me why before, and I asked him how do you feel when someone is not nice to you. He told me bad, and then I asked do you want to make someone else feel that way. He told me no. I think this is a lesson every child should learn and maybe we can stop bullying for good.
Characters in this adventure were James, Syvok, and Matthias from the first adventure, but we also meet another new friend named Helga. This adventure is inspired by a footprint discovered by James, and he wants to see who it belongs to.
I think this is a great book to sit down and read with new readers. You can use voices and make it an adventure, and kids will learn that they can see other worlds by reading. When I visit by nieces and nephews, I will have to read this with them.
**Won in a giveaway at Wendy’s Bookcase
This story is a children’s book and about 35 pages long with lots of fun pictures. I couldn’t get my son to sit and read with me. He is too interested in being outside with his friends right now.
At the start of the book, it reviews some of the things learned about Iceland. There are some great lessons built into this book as well like not judging someone based on rumors and going out of your way for others even though they may not do the same for you. I always tell my son he needs to be nice to everyone whether they are nice to him. He asked me why before, and I asked him how do you feel when someone is not nice to you. He told me bad, and then I asked do you want to make someone else feel that way. He told me no. I think this is a lesson every child should learn and maybe we can stop bullying for good.
Characters in this adventure were James, Syvok, and Matthias from the first adventure, but we also meet another new friend named Helga. This adventure is inspired by a footprint discovered by James, and he wants to see who it belongs to.
I think this is a great book to sit down and read with new readers. You can use voices and make it an adventure, and kids will learn that they can see other worlds by reading. When I visit by nieces and nephews, I will have to read this with them.
March 6, 2013
Wendy Nystrom has a knack for keeping ADHD/Special needs children entertained and enthused.
My son is 9, and he adores this book more than I can tell you! He daily reads Helga and also James Saves the Moon. Something about it just captures him. Wendy has some of the most eye-catching illustrations made to capture the essence of the story. The more I've read this the more I realize, it really is a story of lessons, but adventure, and a journey as well. James and his best friend Syvok take a journey, and on that journey they learn many things children need to know in life. Wendy has an extra-ordinary ability to write in details of her story that capture a child. Helga is a troll who makes a return after many years of quiet, and why was Helga not there to begin with, and who saved Helga in the midst of chaos---find out by reading! I love what James has going on, and how true to life the story could be. Honestly, this is a remarkable follow-up to Wendy's first book-James Saves the Moon! Your children will be captivated by a story of another land-they may never be able to venture to in person, but in imagination and spirit James will be their best friend! Adventures and thrill ravel the pages! *Thanks for this awesome adventure Wendy!*
My son is 9, and he adores this book more than I can tell you! He daily reads Helga and also James Saves the Moon. Something about it just captures him. Wendy has some of the most eye-catching illustrations made to capture the essence of the story. The more I've read this the more I realize, it really is a story of lessons, but adventure, and a journey as well. James and his best friend Syvok take a journey, and on that journey they learn many things children need to know in life. Wendy has an extra-ordinary ability to write in details of her story that capture a child. Helga is a troll who makes a return after many years of quiet, and why was Helga not there to begin with, and who saved Helga in the midst of chaos---find out by reading! I love what James has going on, and how true to life the story could be. Honestly, this is a remarkable follow-up to Wendy's first book-James Saves the Moon! Your children will be captivated by a story of another land-they may never be able to venture to in person, but in imagination and spirit James will be their best friend! Adventures and thrill ravel the pages! *Thanks for this awesome adventure Wendy!*
January 28, 2013
I was given and e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
Helga returns is James' second adventure. While out with his parents at the Fjord, James stumbles across what looks like a huge footprint. His mother takes a few photos for him and prints them out as soon as they get home. He calls on Syvok so he can find out if it really is a footprint and what could actually make one that size. Syvok seems to think is was made by a troll named Helga, that went into hiding long ago. Of course James has to know for sure. So, James and Syvok head out on an adventure, with the help of travel by Matthis. After being dropped off, James and Syvok find themselves in a mess. It was indeed a footprint made by Helga. James and Syvok get separated, and that is where the real adventure begins. To find out what they have gotten themselves into, you will have to join them on their adventure.
I enjoyed this book. It was a little advanced for my 5 year old son, but I think it will be one he will enjoy in the near future. I look forward to seeing what journeys lie ahead.
Originally posted on the Mystical World of Book Reviews.
Helga returns is James' second adventure. While out with his parents at the Fjord, James stumbles across what looks like a huge footprint. His mother takes a few photos for him and prints them out as soon as they get home. He calls on Syvok so he can find out if it really is a footprint and what could actually make one that size. Syvok seems to think is was made by a troll named Helga, that went into hiding long ago. Of course James has to know for sure. So, James and Syvok head out on an adventure, with the help of travel by Matthis. After being dropped off, James and Syvok find themselves in a mess. It was indeed a footprint made by Helga. James and Syvok get separated, and that is where the real adventure begins. To find out what they have gotten themselves into, you will have to join them on their adventure.
I enjoyed this book. It was a little advanced for my 5 year old son, but I think it will be one he will enjoy in the near future. I look forward to seeing what journeys lie ahead.
Originally posted on the Mystical World of Book Reviews.
April 16, 2014
Another great adventure for James and Syvok…
Wendy Nystrom has done it once again by delivering a fun, adventurous story with a sprinkle of educational facts. For newcomers to the series, James and his family have moved from the U.S. to Iceland. As he travels and learns about his new surroundings, the reader takes a journey with him.
In this installment, James and his family travel to the island Hriseyi to see an iceberg traveling down the fjord. While there and off exploring, James discovers a very large foot print. His mom photographs it and gives him a print. James shares the photograph with Syvok and thus their adventure to find Helga the troll begins.
The Helga Returns is a cleverly written and beautifully illustrated read. Children will be sucked in to James’ adventure with the descriptive tones and odd creatures he encounters. A great read for kids and their parents.
Wendy Nystrom has done it once again by delivering a fun, adventurous story with a sprinkle of educational facts. For newcomers to the series, James and his family have moved from the U.S. to Iceland. As he travels and learns about his new surroundings, the reader takes a journey with him.
In this installment, James and his family travel to the island Hriseyi to see an iceberg traveling down the fjord. While there and off exploring, James discovers a very large foot print. His mom photographs it and gives him a print. James shares the photograph with Syvok and thus their adventure to find Helga the troll begins.
The Helga Returns is a cleverly written and beautifully illustrated read. Children will be sucked in to James’ adventure with the descriptive tones and odd creatures he encounters. A great read for kids and their parents.
January 28, 2013
HELGA RETURNS REVIEW
I purchased this book from Amazon.
Ms. Nystrom once again creates a wonderful mystical adventure in which she uses the wonderful Icelandic backdrop for a beautiful mythology. The story of James, Syvok, and Matt, continues as the battle the mountain trolls of Iceland in a wonderfully warming tale. All ages can get absorbed in to magical journey of friendship, bonding, and an impervious boy who’s innate curiosity leads us all into the depths of our imaginations.
Thanks to Ms. Nystrom for wonderfully woven adventure through Icelandic folklore to spin a tale that leaves you feeling gratified and yet wanting more of our precious pair and their intelligent transport.
August 3, 2012 – AB
I purchased this book from Amazon.
Ms. Nystrom once again creates a wonderful mystical adventure in which she uses the wonderful Icelandic backdrop for a beautiful mythology. The story of James, Syvok, and Matt, continues as the battle the mountain trolls of Iceland in a wonderfully warming tale. All ages can get absorbed in to magical journey of friendship, bonding, and an impervious boy who’s innate curiosity leads us all into the depths of our imaginations.
Thanks to Ms. Nystrom for wonderfully woven adventure through Icelandic folklore to spin a tale that leaves you feeling gratified and yet wanting more of our precious pair and their intelligent transport.
August 3, 2012 – AB
January 8, 2014
James, Syvok & Matthias are back together again for a brand new adventure - searching for the giant - Helga. Helga finds James peering in her window she grabs him up just as Syvok manages to escape. Helga is lonely and looks to keep James as her "pet". When Helga returns to her village with James, to let The Elders decide what to do with him, they form a friendship that I am sure will last - but will The Elders decide to leave Helga at Hofsjokullm a glacier in the interior of Iceland?
Another delightful tale from Wendy. We love learning about Iceland through her wonderful stories and are always eager to learn more after. My daughter was a little sad there wasn't more of Matthias this time but she stayed engaged until the end.
Another delightful tale from Wendy. We love learning about Iceland through her wonderful stories and are always eager to learn more after. My daughter was a little sad there wasn't more of Matthias this time but she stayed engaged until the end.
October 25, 2015
Helga is a troll and hasn’t been seen for many years. When she returns it is James who first discovers the clue she has left behind.
What follows is an adventure filled with magic, dragons, a fairy and of course, trolls. At one point it seems like James is as good as gone and may end up left as just a memory as he is banished to an iceberg. What can he do to stop this? How can he prove his worth to the Troll Council and Elders?
It will all be explained once you read all the adventure contained in this fun book. There may even be some new friends made and alliances formed.
It’s just another great James And Syvok adventure and I’m personally looking forward to the next one.
What follows is an adventure filled with magic, dragons, a fairy and of course, trolls. At one point it seems like James is as good as gone and may end up left as just a memory as he is banished to an iceberg. What can he do to stop this? How can he prove his worth to the Troll Council and Elders?
It will all be explained once you read all the adventure contained in this fun book. There may even be some new friends made and alliances formed.
It’s just another great James And Syvok adventure and I’m personally looking forward to the next one.
September 27, 2013
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I love James and Syvoks adventures in book one and Helga Returns is no different I loved it even more. Every child should be encouraged to have an imagination and friends are a very important part of that. The adventures james, Syvok and mMatt go on in Iceland are magical and exciting and with dragons as every little boys dream pet how can you go wrong. Helgas Return is a super way to get them reading. Such great story telling and artistry in the illustrations as well. Thanks for such an amazing book Wendy.<3
I love James and Syvoks adventures in book one and Helga Returns is no different I loved it even more. Every child should be encouraged to have an imagination and friends are a very important part of that. The adventures james, Syvok and mMatt go on in Iceland are magical and exciting and with dragons as every little boys dream pet how can you go wrong. Helgas Return is a super way to get them reading. Such great story telling and artistry in the illustrations as well. Thanks for such an amazing book Wendy.<3
February 12, 2013
This series is one of my all time favorites. I fell in love immediately with the first book, 'James Saves the Moon', and was so excited when I learned that the main character, James was setting onto another adventure in the second book, 'Helga Returns'! I don't want to give away spoilers, but I will say travel with James on another adventure, and you never know what magical friends you'll meet along the way!!!
January 15, 2014
James is back and even better!!Another absolute favorite for my boys! James goes on an adventure of a lifetime with his trusty friends!!! Who left the giant footprint? Where will it lead him? What happens next??? My boys just can't get enough!!! They adore the fact they get to continue to find the dragons which continues over from the first book, James Saves the Moon!!!
February 12, 2013
My kids & I really enjoyed Helga Returns. How can you go wrong with dragons, fairies, trolls, & magic? Great graphics too! This was a terrific sequel to James Saves the Moon.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews