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The Secret World of Curly Jones #1
New Worlds: The Secret World of Curly Jones #1
Eleven-year-old Curly Jones’ life has become unbearable. A target of constant bullying, change seems impossible…that is, until new girl, Belle, arrives. Not only does Belle bring friendship, she provides an introduction to the Secret World; a world of magic, adventure and unexpected friends. But it’s not all fun and excitement. When an unwelcome visitor threatens the Secret World, Curly will need every ounce of courage to discover his own magic and fight for its future.
- GenresFantasy
136 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2017
About the author
Louise Guy
31 books56 followersLouise Guy, bestselling author of six novels, blends family and friendship themes with unique twists and intrigue. Her characters captivate readers, drawing them deeply into their compelling stories and struggles. Previously published by Lake Union, she lives in Australia. Her latest book My Sister's Baby is published in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 16, 2022
Interesting
There was lots I liked about this book. The characters of Curly and Belle were great. I loved how they faced life’s challenges and their friendship was lovely.
Curry’s bullying was truly horrendous, but I liked how he took it gracefully and I loved how Belle put them in their place by being Curly’s friend. I think the teacher should have been fired for how he behaved.
The secret world is so magical, I loved the descriptions of the animals and flora. I also really loved how they got to the secret world. It was so much fun. The magic and world had lots of potential.
Unfortunately, there were a few things that disappointed me. I don’t like the idea of chocolates changing the behavior of people. Well, I think it’s a fun idea to explore, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth to show magically altering someone against their will in a positive light.
I liked Boompa at first, but for an all powerful mentor figure he was terribly defeatist. I didn’t like how he was so happy for everyone to die. I don’t know why Curly and Belle listened to him after that. I think Fred should have been put in charge. I also didn’t like how he decide to call Fred by that name because his true name was too long. As someone with an unusual name, I don’t like when people decide to call me something else because my name is too difficult. Fred should have decided on his name.
I also didn’t like how the main conflict was resolved. While I liked Curly and Belle’s involvement, they had too little to do. They weren’t told anything, and then it was over. I felt a bit cheated.
Overall there were some really lovely, charming aspects to this story but it’s ultimately let down by an underdeveloped plot.
There was lots I liked about this book. The characters of Curly and Belle were great. I loved how they faced life’s challenges and their friendship was lovely.
Curry’s bullying was truly horrendous, but I liked how he took it gracefully and I loved how Belle put them in their place by being Curly’s friend. I think the teacher should have been fired for how he behaved.
The secret world is so magical, I loved the descriptions of the animals and flora. I also really loved how they got to the secret world. It was so much fun. The magic and world had lots of potential.
Unfortunately, there were a few things that disappointed me. I don’t like the idea of chocolates changing the behavior of people. Well, I think it’s a fun idea to explore, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth to show magically altering someone against their will in a positive light.
I liked Boompa at first, but for an all powerful mentor figure he was terribly defeatist. I didn’t like how he was so happy for everyone to die. I don’t know why Curly and Belle listened to him after that. I think Fred should have been put in charge. I also didn’t like how he decide to call Fred by that name because his true name was too long. As someone with an unusual name, I don’t like when people decide to call me something else because my name is too difficult. Fred should have decided on his name.
I also didn’t like how the main conflict was resolved. While I liked Curly and Belle’s involvement, they had too little to do. They weren’t told anything, and then it was over. I felt a bit cheated.
Overall there were some really lovely, charming aspects to this story but it’s ultimately let down by an underdeveloped plot.
June 21, 2021
Curly Jones is eleven years old. He is bullied by his fifth-grade classmates and a mean teacher. Nothing seems to be going right until he meets a new neighbor, Belle. He is happy to learn she will be in his class.
Belle introduces him to a secret world. She shows him a magic tree house that transports her to a fantasy world. Curly cannot believe that Belle accepts him as her best friend. Together, they enter a secret world with magical creatures and fascinating adventures.
Curly discovers that Belle has magical powers, but that is just the beginning. After a few trips through the tree house portal, Curtly discovers a long-lost heritage that affords him the power to change his life and that of others.
This is the beginning of an adventure/fantasy series that will appeal to the eight to twelve year old reader. The book is an easy read with short chapters that are perfect for reluctant readers.
Belle introduces him to a secret world. She shows him a magic tree house that transports her to a fantasy world. Curly cannot believe that Belle accepts him as her best friend. Together, they enter a secret world with magical creatures and fascinating adventures.
Curly discovers that Belle has magical powers, but that is just the beginning. After a few trips through the tree house portal, Curtly discovers a long-lost heritage that affords him the power to change his life and that of others.
This is the beginning of an adventure/fantasy series that will appeal to the eight to twelve year old reader. The book is an easy read with short chapters that are perfect for reluctant readers.
June 19, 2021
great for younger even younger MG age but I was trying to find books for older MG not yet YA.
July 12, 2021
They discovered that curly had powers
It is very nice
Very encouraging
Very inspiring
very engaging
Very interesting
Very out of this world
To children my age
It is very nice
Very encouraging
Very inspiring
very engaging
Very interesting
Very out of this world
To children my age
May 23, 2017
My 12 year old nephew read this book - in his words, 'This book should get 6 out of 5. I loved it. Can't wait for the next one.'
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews