Journey to Joona

The Joona Trilogy #1

by Kim V. Engelmann

Transported to the kingdom of Joona, three children join forces to undo the magic of an evil swan.

Genres: Fantasy, Childrens, Christian, Christian Fiction

Paperback

First published March 1, 1995

Reviews

[Charis Jackson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book when I was 13 and loved it. It's been one I've wanted to end again because of how it made me feel. How ever I found myself editing as I read. If you do read it, keep in mind it was written a while ago and some of the language has become offensive. However, for some young kid out there, it could be their new Narnia type of adventure.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far one of the most enchanting books I've ever read! :)

I remembering reading this trilogy in 4th grade upon a friend's suggestion. It was incredibly captivating and my first dive into fantasy lit. I wish the books were more widely known. Took me until this year to finally rediscover the titles for these books - couldn't find them for the longest time!

[L. Poulson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was one of my favorite books as a gradeschooler. I read it more times than I can count. I was excited to read it with my kids and my 9 year old LOVED it. But true confession: as an adult I barely survived. The writing is excruciating. If I have to hear about swan lips stretching into a grin, the enchanting smell of pine and lilac, or "gee-whiz" used as an expression of wonder one more time, I might puke.

The author's attempt to write a parallel Narnia is transparent and kind of embarrassing. The allegory is so blatantly obvious that my kids were able to predict events having never read the book before. The world building has some glaring inconsistencies, not to mention the story itself. Can a gigantic swan that two chapters ago was flying with 3 children on his back really be hefted and carried by a 9 year old after being shot? 🤔

Anyway, all that to say, this book is wildly popular and beloved by 8-10 year olds, but that is its niche audience and anyone else reading it should do so with the lowest of expectations. But it's still possible to enjoy it when seen through children's eyes.

[Natalie Helberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exciting and engaging story that paves the path to connecting with spiritual beings. Laurel, the Swan, appears to Margaret who has recently suffered a great loss. Laurel helps Magaret understand grief, forging new friendships and finding peace during great tragedy. Children aged 7-12 will find Englemann's understanding of spiritual guides and humanity particularly warm and helpful. This is a book your child can easily love!

[Shirley Ciferri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Journey with Margaret and her friends as they travel an unknown path. Using swans as spirit guides, Margaret and her friends challenge evil and try to make good prevail. During this journey they'll learn about suffering, healing and frienship. Children 7-12 will experience a spiritual fantasy that underlines the importance of God and Our Savior while connecting at an age level understanding. This is an excellent start to reading book series and witnessing triumph over tragedy.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my all time favorite series growing up. It's packed with adventure and friendship. Kim V. Engelmann is a fantastic author, who creates a whole other world. Truly stunning and a must read middle grade book.

[Ashley Fuhr · Rating 4 out of 5]

My grandmother bought me these for me when I was a little girl. I loved them then and wanted to try them again as an adult. I saw they were originally published by NavPress (currently merging with Tyndale) so I knew they must be religious/Christian novels. As an adult you notice the blatant ties to Christianity, the Trinity, prayer, and being saved. I still greatly enjoyed this lighthearted read as an adult and will continue to read the next two installments of this series. This first book has great lessons of friendship, kindness, and service which apply to any young person. Definitely recommend.

[Yvonne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Reading this with Ellie. Fun!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was OK... I guess...