Shimmer

by Jennifer McBride, Lynda Nixon

Strong protagonists of both genders face friendship, decision-making, and moralityKora, a powerful genie and the heir to the Genesian throne, is suddenly banished to Earth to keep her safe after her homeland is threatened. Meanwhile, everything is going wrong in David's life on Earth. When he accidentally summons Kora from her globe, his whole world is turned upside-down, and her magic powers might just be the solution to the chaos. But commanding a genie is notoriously tricky--especially when she's also an angry teenage girl. Unable to part from each other, and with their loved ones in danger, Kora and David discover that the best way to help themselves is to first help each other. This topical tale deals with contemporary adolescent issues and features an interesting character dynamic.

Genres: Magic

231 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2013

About the author

Jennifer McBride was born and raised in Western Australia, where she lives with her husband and two daughters. She enjoys reading, writing and watching movies, with a particular love of fantasy and science fiction. After many hectic years balancing secretarial work and parenting, she has finally found time to co-author her first children’s novel, Shimmer. When she is not writing, Jennifer loves travelling, watching the Fremantle Dockers and spending time with her family.

Reviews

[Krystal Gagen-Spriggs · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a delightfully easy read. The story of the heir to the genie throne sent to earth for protection from the half-human/half-genie intent on taking over. She ends up "harnessed" to a troubled teenage boy in WA and together they workout how to keep each other safe, as well as solve some mysteries surrounding their fathers' fates. Recommend for 8-12 year olds looking for an easy fantasy adventure.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Easy to read story about young teen friendship and romance. The genie / fantasy storyline is great for younger teens (girls) who are either not keen readers, want to try a new genre, or don't like stories just about love / romance / relationships.

[Lola Grynt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty nice book that drowns out the world without having to think much about it. Read this while camping a few years ago with my cousins. Even being 15-16 I felt the intended audience was younger due to the themes and writing style. I found the different timelines pretty interesting.

[Sharon L Norris · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘To learn how to rule you must first learn how to serve.’

This is the lesson that needs to be learnt by Kora Archein, a powerful teenage genie who will one day rule the Imperial Empire of Genesia.

With her world facing annihilation at the hands of the evil half-genie, half-human warlord Vennum, thirteen-year-old Kora is furious when she is sent to Earth with her protector, the hovering armourowl Amurru, and harnessed to annoying teen David Wolfe instead of staying to fight on Genesia.

David tests her patience daily with his increasing list of wishes to be granted. He enlists Kora's help to find his missing father, but her decision to do so has far-reaching consequences for both of them and their respective worlds as the increasingly powerful Vennum hunts them down.

Surprisingly subtle in its handling of the themes of servitude, personal expectations, friendship and fatherhood, this fast paced story never loses momentum. The reader is taken on a magic carpet ride across time, space and different dimensions as Kora and David pool their individual skills and cunning to face their nemesis,Vennum, and his army of enslaved genies.

[Lyn Battersby · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lyn is a judge for the Aurealis Awards. Any reviews, ratings or opinions provided by Lyn do not represent the views and/or opinions of the Aurealis Awards Panel or Committee.

I shall be rating this book once the awards are announced.

[Claire Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please note, I represent the publisher of this book.

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

fast paced and easy to read. It's witty and humorous. A wonderful read for its intended audience.

[Claire Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please note, I represent the publisher of this book.