The Secret of Golden Island
Natasha Farrant
Faber Children’s Books

Yakov has had to leave his war ravaged home country and now is staying with relations. He struggles to fit in at school and cope with being away from his loved ones. Skylar’s struggles are with how she feels after her grandfather’s stroke (he’s always been her rock) and a bullying incident at school for which she is suspended.

Skylar: ‘I’m not crying.’ Yakov: ‘I know.’ These are the very first words the two children exchange and somehow this brief interaction is the beginning of a friendship, one they both desperately need. Both of them too have a strong desire to change things for the better and not just for themselves but for those they love. It’s this that brings them even closer to one another as they enter a competition, the prize for which is the ownership of the nearby Golden Island. How though can two children compete successfully against adults with schemes and plans of their own?

Certainly, the call of the island is very strong but the quest they embark upon must be kept secret from family members and they only have one another to rely upon for their safety. As the adventure progresses Skylar and Yakov’s friendship deepens, they reveal more about themselves allowing things they’ve kept deep inside to be exposed.

Trying to solve the clues they’ve been given, the pair come up against some competitors who will go to any length to achieve what they want. Can they overcome all the obstacles that arise during their quest, including a desperate race against time with way more at stake than the competition?

Totally gripping, compassionate and exquisitely told, this book swept me away and as I reached the final paragraphs I felt tears welling up, such is its power.

A wonderful read for older KS2 readers and beyond.