Storm Tide

by Kari Jones

Left alone for the first time on the island he calls home, Simon is looking forward to a day of personal indulgence. His sister Ellen only wants to make sure they get their chores done. Their parents are busy trying to convince the government not to close the lighthouse that the family operates, and it's up to the kids to make sure everything runs smoothly. Neither Simon nor Ellen is prepared for the mysterious and potentially dangerous visitor who brings with him an unexpected storm and a riddle that may lead to treasure—treasure that could help them save the lighthouse. Simon and Ellen have to work together to solve the riddle before the stranger—or the weather—destroys their chances.

Genres: Mystery, Childrens

112 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

I am a writer living in Victoria where I alternate between writing and teaching. I love writing about kids in action, kids exploring their world, and kids solving problems for themselves. In "Shimmy" I got to combine two of the things I love the most: dancing and writing, and in At The Edge of the World, I explored how kids become adults. I like to set my books in places I have lived, so that I have an excuse to visit some of my favorite spots in the world.

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was won as a Goodreads book. Thank you. Arrived in perfect time for grand child's visit.
Story was easy to read, and enjoyed by gran and child alike.
Storyline. Young son and daughter of light house keeper are left "All Alone" on the island for the day. Parents, not believing anything would go wrong, take off in a boat for the mainland. Storm comes in, parents unable to return to island due to bad weather. The children find they are not on island alone. A unwelcome treasure hunter is on the island, several adventures occur with all ending well. Great summer read for children, light and easy to carry in their back pack.

[Wendy Kuzma · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of a brother and sister whose parents are lighthouse keepers. They are left alone on the island for a day when a stranger appears. Then a storm comes, preventing their parents from returning to the island. There is mystery and intrigue along with a treasure hunt in this fast-paced story with limited vocabulary. This book is a good recommendation for those reluctant teen readers.

[BCPL Youth Services Librarian]

Click to see book in BCPL's online catalog

[Kristina Franken · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book for anyone

FTC: I received a free copy of this book and was not reimbursed in any other way.

[Justin Aguiniga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine living on an island with just your parents and sister- away from other people. Until a mysterious man arrives on the island, almost drowning on the shore. This is what happens in Storm Tide by Kari Jones. This book is full of mystery and adventure. The author keeps the reader hooked into the book by leaving things unknown and gives some cliffhangers. The author also includes detailed imagery. When the main characters Simon and Ellen are in a boat during a storm, I was able to picture how hard steering was in the massive waves. I recommend the book Storm Tide to anyone who likes short stories, mystery, and adventure. This book will leave you feeling surprised! The plot of this book had more tension than the book Shiloh.

[E · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short, sweet, limited vocabulary, and gets moving quickly. Perfect for reluctant readers.

[Erin Reidy · Rating 2 out of 5]

In this story, the main character, Simon, is not my favorite character. I feel he doesn't have any emotion. For example, when he was in a dangerous situation don't even express any emotion. The text states "'You and your sister are pathetic. You even left the boat out for me.' He laughs, and my spine tingles. He sounds like the Joker in Batman. As he talks, I search with my fingers around the rock face, under the small cracks, anywhere my fingers can go." (pg 89) He stated an action, not an emotion. It didn’t make sense to me! I can’t relate to the character at all because he had no emotion I couldn’t agree with his purpose. I couldn’t relate to a creepy guy catching me on a boat. I will agree the character changed in the story. He went from a playful young boy to a brave man. When Simon and his sister were going to save the man from the storm they show a lot of bravery because they knew that if they went to go save the man they would be risking their own lives. Overall, it was an iffy book and I hope I didn’t change your mind on reading it. :)

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simon and his sister Ellen are left alone on the island for the day. He plans what adventures he can have with his parents away. His sister reminds him of the chores they need to see to. When Simon stumbles on a tent set up near the lighthouse, he realizes they aren't alone on the island. Why is the man here? What motivates the man to take risks that will endanger not only himself, but the two children who make the choice to try to save him?

[Fisher S · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was alright.