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Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom
Imogene is only five years old when her parents suddenly and mysteriously disappear. Left with no choice but to live with an abrasive relative, she finds comfort in the alliance she's forged with an unlikely friend. She secretly holds dear, her mother's last words.
"Five years, Imogene. I shall come for you in five years."
Imogene sadly soon learns, that things are not always as they seem. Upon reaching the age of ten, she has new confidence, and eagerly awaits her parents' return. Under the encouragement of her friend, Imogene embarks on a journey to an incredible world, learns who she really is, and where her true destiny lies.
"Five years, Imogene. I shall come for you in five years."
Imogene sadly soon learns, that things are not always as they seem. Upon reaching the age of ten, she has new confidence, and eagerly awaits her parents' return. Under the encouragement of her friend, Imogene embarks on a journey to an incredible world, learns who she really is, and where her true destiny lies.
- GenresFantasy
238 pages, Paperback
First published December 16, 2003
14 people want to read
About the author
Teresa Schapansky
48 books23 followersA long, long time ago... on a dark and stormy night... a short story was written for three children to enjoy. Well, to be honest, it may not have been dark and stormy that night, and it wasn't really a long, long time ago. Anyway, one thing led to another, as things often do, and that short story soon evolved into a long story that many people enjoyed.
My first novel, "Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom" was born and although it was for the most part happy and enjoyed favourable reviews, it was lonely. And so, about one year later, "Dager of the Tasman Empire" made its way to the surface. I am pleased to say these two novels are now living happily ever after.
"Imogene" has received the Canada Book Award and Reader's Favorite Award , and "Dager" has received the Literary Classics Seal of Approval. These books are available on Amazon in kindle and paperback formats.
As fate would have it, while reporting an ice fishing (yes, really) event for a local newspaper, I interviewed a fellow frozen... well, fellow and through chattering teeth, we began talking about the craft. As it turned out, he had a vision, and he was looking for someone just like me to help him see it through. We joined forces, and his vision became the 12 book Along the Way series, starring our prehistoric friend Albert, and it is the brainchild of my good friend, Bob Winterford.
My first novel, "Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom" was born and although it was for the most part happy and enjoyed favourable reviews, it was lonely. And so, about one year later, "Dager of the Tasman Empire" made its way to the surface. I am pleased to say these two novels are now living happily ever after.
"Imogene" has received the Canada Book Award and Reader's Favorite Award , and "Dager" has received the Literary Classics Seal of Approval. These books are available on Amazon in kindle and paperback formats.
As fate would have it, while reporting an ice fishing (yes, really) event for a local newspaper, I interviewed a fellow frozen... well, fellow and through chattering teeth, we began talking about the craft. As it turned out, he had a vision, and he was looking for someone just like me to help him see it through. We joined forces, and his vision became the 12 book Along the Way series, starring our prehistoric friend Albert, and it is the brainchild of my good friend, Bob Winterford.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 25, 2019
I have to say, as an adult this was an unusual choice of reads, I had my reasons though. I really wish there were books like this to read when I was a kid, moreover I wish I had had the passion to seek them out. Perhaps I would have read more. One thing I do remember specifically is although I enjoyed reading in my early teens I could never, or rarely find anything that held my interest. Books such as this one would have. A story about family and friends, our need for both with a bit of fantasy thrown in (or was it fantasy?) just for good measure. Imagination is something every child and young adult needs to explore more in my opinion and books such as this become a starting point for such. A simple enough read that opens the door to ideas and ways of thinking we should be instilling in the younger generation, especially today, rather than all the tech nonsense, constant staring at a screen that seems to have become 'the bane of existence' these days.
Wholesome, simple and just plain genuine.
Absolutely recommended, for all ages...
Wholesome, simple and just plain genuine.
Absolutely recommended, for all ages...
February 21, 2016
Imogene was forced to live with her aunt after her parents leave, promising to return when she turns ten. But the birthday passes, and Imogene receives no news. Then one day, her pendant begins pointing her to the sea, and as she plunges in the water and swims to her destiny, she comes to realize she is in fact a mermaid. A princess! And her parents hid her because her evil uncle wants the throne and will stop at nothing to get it.
Schapansky used easy vocabulary for middle-graders to understand, but gave us a witty and smart ten-year-old in the process. Imogene acted mature for her age, making wise decisions that helped the kingdom in great ways. It was interesting to see the concept of day and night under the sea as well as funny little details such as volcano rocks to cook food.
Schapansky used easy vocabulary for middle-graders to understand, but gave us a witty and smart ten-year-old in the process. Imogene acted mature for her age, making wise decisions that helped the kingdom in great ways. It was interesting to see the concept of day and night under the sea as well as funny little details such as volcano rocks to cook food.
March 2, 2017
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is a charming, fairytale adventure that follows the transition of a ten-year-old girl from the modern (surface) world to her true realm, a hidden, land-based kingdom accessible only by sea. Left by her parents with an unloving aunt when she’s five, Imogene discovers, at age ten, that she can breathe water as well as air. She journeys through the ocean to the Pacific Kingdom, where she rejoins her royal parents until she must return to the surface for her own safety. The plan of a short stay goes awry; Imogene’s parents are imprisoned by an evil usurper. How she and her allies set things right makes for a suspenseful, exciting tale.
The clean-read book has a positive tone suitable for young adults and even younger readers who can follow a complex plot and visualize beautiful settings. Set aside “But how…?” objections, and enjoy the ride.
The clean-read book has a positive tone suitable for young adults and even younger readers who can follow a complex plot and visualize beautiful settings. Set aside “But how…?” objections, and enjoy the ride.
January 18, 2016
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is a mix of other wildly popular adventures for younger readers, without the gore and murder situations found in stories for slightly older readers. The story is lengthy, with a vocabulary that may require occasional explanation.
A daughter is left in the care of an uncompassionate relative during her youth, and learns at age ten that she is no ordinary child. Imogene’s strange and compelling love of water nearly gets her in trouble with the relative who thinks perhaps soccer is more suitable. When the time is right, Imogene’s parents do not return…Imogene is drawn to them in their fantastic world. Imogene quickly adjusts to her new life with her quirky new gifts, until the Pacific Kingdom is in danger once more.
As the author notes, it’s up to Imogene to not only learn, but follow her true destiny. I tried to read the story through the eyes of a fourth or fifth grader and enjoyed Imogene’s spunk. As a parent and grandparent, however, I was sometimes dismayed at an occasional lapse of respect for adults, though Imogene’s cantankerous aunt was quite over the top, Lemony Snicket-style. Although I imagine young readers won’t notice the healthy amount of exclamation points on a page, they really weren’t necessary as the dialog and action moved along just fine. I think the story would have been much stronger if the author had chosen only one or two characters to tell narrate, at least at one time, instead of an occasionally confusing multiple point of view style. That would have allowed Imogene to carry the story with her own heroism. The story is aimed at older elementary school female readers, though boys would certainly find much to like as well.
A daughter is left in the care of an uncompassionate relative during her youth, and learns at age ten that she is no ordinary child. Imogene’s strange and compelling love of water nearly gets her in trouble with the relative who thinks perhaps soccer is more suitable. When the time is right, Imogene’s parents do not return…Imogene is drawn to them in their fantastic world. Imogene quickly adjusts to her new life with her quirky new gifts, until the Pacific Kingdom is in danger once more.
As the author notes, it’s up to Imogene to not only learn, but follow her true destiny. I tried to read the story through the eyes of a fourth or fifth grader and enjoyed Imogene’s spunk. As a parent and grandparent, however, I was sometimes dismayed at an occasional lapse of respect for adults, though Imogene’s cantankerous aunt was quite over the top, Lemony Snicket-style. Although I imagine young readers won’t notice the healthy amount of exclamation points on a page, they really weren’t necessary as the dialog and action moved along just fine. I think the story would have been much stronger if the author had chosen only one or two characters to tell narrate, at least at one time, instead of an occasionally confusing multiple point of view style. That would have allowed Imogene to carry the story with her own heroism. The story is aimed at older elementary school female readers, though boys would certainly find much to like as well.
March 27, 2008
Imogene is just an ordinary ten year old girl who finds herself in extraordinary situations. When Imogene was only five years old, she went to live with her Auntie Agnes while her parents dealt with a mysterious family emergency. Imogene had never met her Auntie Agnes before that fateful day but Auntie Agnes seemed very different from Imogene's mother. Imogene's mother was kind, gentle, soft spoken, and loving. Auntie Agnes was harsh, stuffy, loud, and didn't particularly like children. Nonetheless, Imogene's mother calmed Imogene's misgivings saying that Imogene would be safe with Auntie Agnes. Imogene's mother then promised that she'd return for the girl in five years, after Imogene turned ten.
Over the next few years, Auntie Agnes lost all hope that her sister and brother-in-law would return for Imogene. The stuffy old lady found raising a child, especially a particularly active child like Imogene, extremely difficult. Fortunately, Auntie Agnes' butler Sampson quickly befriended Imogene. Sampson and Imogene were the only ones who held out any hope that Imogene's parents would return.
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is an adventure-filled chapter book aimed at older elementary school aged children. Nonetheless, this story is suitable for reading to younger audiences as well as for preteen to early teen readers. The storyline is fun and creative with lots of action, intrigue, and adventure. Imogene is loveable, adventurous, creative, imaginative, and a little stubborn. Every child will feel an immediate connection to this amazing girl. I look forward to more adventures from Imogene.
Over the next few years, Auntie Agnes lost all hope that her sister and brother-in-law would return for Imogene. The stuffy old lady found raising a child, especially a particularly active child like Imogene, extremely difficult. Fortunately, Auntie Agnes' butler Sampson quickly befriended Imogene. Sampson and Imogene were the only ones who held out any hope that Imogene's parents would return.
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is an adventure-filled chapter book aimed at older elementary school aged children. Nonetheless, this story is suitable for reading to younger audiences as well as for preteen to early teen readers. The storyline is fun and creative with lots of action, intrigue, and adventure. Imogene is loveable, adventurous, creative, imaginative, and a little stubborn. Every child will feel an immediate connection to this amazing girl. I look forward to more adventures from Imogene.
May 1, 2016
This book was absolutely charming, a story of a young girl discovering the truth about herself and her family. I am an absolute sucker for stories about someone who's ordinary finding out that that's not the case at all, and this was definitely one of those stories.
Imogene has lived with her aunt since she was five years old - an aunt that she has never particularly clicked with on that level that's so important when it comes to family, especially as a young child. Luckily enough she does mesh with Sampson, the butler, and he becomes her connection in a home that is very different from what she's used to.
Then the moment comes - the moment when Imogene finds out that not all is how it seems, and that there's a lot more to her parents than what she thought. She's drawn into a new and magical world, and on top of that, an adventure - for Imogene is more important than she realizes, and not all is peaceful in the new world she's discovered, either.
I quite enjoyed this book. It's charming and engaging, and has action and adventure as well - it's sure to be enjoyed by younger readers, and a book I'd recommend.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Imogene has lived with her aunt since she was five years old - an aunt that she has never particularly clicked with on that level that's so important when it comes to family, especially as a young child. Luckily enough she does mesh with Sampson, the butler, and he becomes her connection in a home that is very different from what she's used to.
Then the moment comes - the moment when Imogene finds out that not all is how it seems, and that there's a lot more to her parents than what she thought. She's drawn into a new and magical world, and on top of that, an adventure - for Imogene is more important than she realizes, and not all is peaceful in the new world she's discovered, either.
I quite enjoyed this book. It's charming and engaging, and has action and adventure as well - it's sure to be enjoyed by younger readers, and a book I'd recommend.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2016
* I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Delightful! I truly enjoyed this book. It was such a pleasure to read. Children with respect for their parents AND each other. It was a joy to read. It took my back to when I was a kid, well...maybe not the underwater awesomeness :) The book made me imagine again. The last time I said that, I was reading Harry Potter. It was just fun. I found myself often times waiting for one of the children to betray one another, or a parent to turn bad. Not this time. It was so nice to read a book where children weren't disrespectful to their parents, other adults and worse, each other. There was a problem and the characters came together and helped each other to solve it. I was on the edge of my seat anticipating how and if they would be successful. Refreshing. I also couldn't wait to see how the 'plan' played out. I WANTED to keep reading it, I WANTED more. I am looking forward to more. Besides a few editing updates that could be made (a few minor grammatical errors), I thought this was a wonderful read. Beautiful work Teresa! Thank you.
Feeling meter:
Awwee this book was awesome!
Delightful! I truly enjoyed this book. It was such a pleasure to read. Children with respect for their parents AND each other. It was a joy to read. It took my back to when I was a kid, well...maybe not the underwater awesomeness :) The book made me imagine again. The last time I said that, I was reading Harry Potter. It was just fun. I found myself often times waiting for one of the children to betray one another, or a parent to turn bad. Not this time. It was so nice to read a book where children weren't disrespectful to their parents, other adults and worse, each other. There was a problem and the characters came together and helped each other to solve it. I was on the edge of my seat anticipating how and if they would be successful. Refreshing. I also couldn't wait to see how the 'plan' played out. I WANTED to keep reading it, I WANTED more. I am looking forward to more. Besides a few editing updates that could be made (a few minor grammatical errors), I thought this was a wonderful read. Beautiful work Teresa! Thank you.
Feeling meter:
Awwee this book was awesome!
September 21, 2015
Imogene is five when her mother leaves her with her aunt. Her father disappeared the month before. Her mother promises to return for her when she is ten. Imogene is friends with the family butler Sampson and through him she learns the truth about her parents and who she really is. This was a charming tale that I enjoyed reading. Even as an adult I liked reading it and think the author has done a great job in bringing her world to life. I would recommend this book.
September 21, 2015
A great book that has magic in it. A prefect book to read to and with your little girl(s). I would recommend to all.
http://www.amazon.com/Imogene-Pacific...
October 4, 2015
This book was a great magical story for me. I enjoyed it and would read more from this author. I enjoyed the author way of story telling. This was a great book for any age. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 16, 2016
Cute story. Very entertaining.
March 23, 2017
Imogene is a typical young girl who loses both her mother and father at the young age of five to unknown reasons. All she is told is that when she turns ten, they will come back for her.
Five years later, and Imogene discovers her passion for swimming is more than just that, it's in her blood. She is actually the princess of the Pacific Kingdom, a mysterious world hidden beneath the ocean.
The story was written well for the most part, mainly focused on Imogene's thoughts and actions. Though at times she did seem to speak and act as though much older than her ten years. There are a handful of secondary/minor characters, to which we do learn background on some, but none of which are really fully developed.
One thing I believe this book is lacking is world building. There is some, but given the premise, a hidden underwater world that lives much differently than those on the surface, I think it was a missed opportunity, to really build on this idea and create the world, draw the reader in where there imagination can piece it together. The way it is written it was difficult to really see this world, to put yourself in it.
Another thing that bugged me is the lack of action. It was over 60% into they story before anything really happened. There was too much filler for my liking, some of which didn't seem to be very important or really move the plot along. A sizable chunk could be removed without hurting the overall story.
Everything aside, I believe the targeted audience (young adult) will enjoy this story, able to share in Imogene's experiences and the emotional rollercoaster that ensues.
Five years later, and Imogene discovers her passion for swimming is more than just that, it's in her blood. She is actually the princess of the Pacific Kingdom, a mysterious world hidden beneath the ocean.
The story was written well for the most part, mainly focused on Imogene's thoughts and actions. Though at times she did seem to speak and act as though much older than her ten years. There are a handful of secondary/minor characters, to which we do learn background on some, but none of which are really fully developed.
One thing I believe this book is lacking is world building. There is some, but given the premise, a hidden underwater world that lives much differently than those on the surface, I think it was a missed opportunity, to really build on this idea and create the world, draw the reader in where there imagination can piece it together. The way it is written it was difficult to really see this world, to put yourself in it.
Another thing that bugged me is the lack of action. It was over 60% into they story before anything really happened. There was too much filler for my liking, some of which didn't seem to be very important or really move the plot along. A sizable chunk could be removed without hurting the overall story.
Everything aside, I believe the targeted audience (young adult) will enjoy this story, able to share in Imogene's experiences and the emotional rollercoaster that ensues.
October 30, 2025
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is a charming and imaginative underseas adventure about ten year old Imogen who is drawn to an magical kingdom hidden beneath the sea. The world-building is impressive, full of fleshed-out characters and a magical world that comes to life before your eyes.
While Imogen's story is delightful, the major conflict takes a while to kick in. Some early chapters felt slower with lots of dialogue and exposition that might challenge younger readers.
That said, once the pacing does pick up and resolve in a fun way. Imogene is a loveable, relatable heroine with creativity, bravery, and stubbornness inherent in that age group.
The author also weaves in some ongoing themes like climate change and greed in a natural way that doesn't detract from the narrative. Overall, this was an enjoyable read, perfect for all ages, especially middle school. I only wish books like this had been around when I was younger!
While Imogen's story is delightful, the major conflict takes a while to kick in. Some early chapters felt slower with lots of dialogue and exposition that might challenge younger readers.
That said, once the pacing does pick up and resolve in a fun way. Imogene is a loveable, relatable heroine with creativity, bravery, and stubbornness inherent in that age group.
The author also weaves in some ongoing themes like climate change and greed in a natural way that doesn't detract from the narrative. Overall, this was an enjoyable read, perfect for all ages, especially middle school. I only wish books like this had been around when I was younger!
March 18, 2017
Imogene, a five-year-old girl, is left in the care of a bitter aunt. Her parents are king and queen of an underwater world and they must return to their homeland to save their people from an evil enemy. Five years pass and Imogene matures into a delightful and intelligent young lady. When she is finally reunited with her parents she discovers unknown talents which enable her to aid in the rescue of the Pacific Kingdom.
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is a wonderfully imaginative story with fascinating elements which keep readers enthralled from beginning to end. Adventure, magic, and subtle humor await young readers who are sure to connect with Imogene as they thrill in her underwater adventures. Author, Teresa Schapansky introduces youngsters to an environmentally friendly way of life, an aspect which she weaves seamlessly within an engaging plot which kids will find to be entirely entertaining.
Imogene of the Pacific Kingdom is a wonderfully imaginative story with fascinating elements which keep readers enthralled from beginning to end. Adventure, magic, and subtle humor await young readers who are sure to connect with Imogene as they thrill in her underwater adventures. Author, Teresa Schapansky introduces youngsters to an environmentally friendly way of life, an aspect which she weaves seamlessly within an engaging plot which kids will find to be entirely entertaining.
April 21, 2016
Imogene of the Pacific kingdom is a great read. Perfect for younger readers Imogene has to live with her aunt until she is ten. this is a wonderful magical tale about a girl that learns more about herself. This book is the perfect coming of age story that kept me reading until the very end!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews