Josh Stone and the Fifth World

by S.M. LaDuke

When Molly, the family dog, goes missing, Josh Stone discovers she has been living a secret life almost too strange to believe. As Josh investigates into Molly’s strange existence, he finds himself in the middle of an alien plot against the earth that puts not only his family he has sworn to protect in jeopardy, but humans all around the world.

Now he's working with the most unlikely ally to end the threat and save the world.

Genres: Young Adult

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 20, 2019

About the author

S.M. LaDuke grew up as an Army brat, never living anywhere more than 3 years at a time. She lives in the south with her husband and 2 kids, where she loves to run, travel and read- all of which inspire her writing. The Crystal Skull Series is her first series for the middle grade reader.

Reviews

[Rosie Rizk · Rating 2 out of 5]

It started off really good, and I thought it would be a cheerful middle grade book. A few chapters in, however, the book became a lot darker and involved too many characters who kept changing their names and features. It also became too sci-fi for me. It started to feel more like an alien shooter video game than the middle grade fantasy book I was expecting.

I can see how some young SciFi fans might find this enjoyable. If you like a lot of action and exploding aliens, this is your book.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read the title the first thing that came to mind was Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull. While some elements throughout the book reminded me of that storyline, this book tooks things in a different direction. The characters are relatable and develop as the story continues. Suspense builds and you keep turning the pages to find out what happens. Great read from start to finish.

[Terri Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am writing this review after receiving an advanced copy from goodreads.
I loved this suspenseful, action packed story that kept me wondering what was next until the very end. The characters come to life with the attention spent on details and descriptions of places they visit. It's a great book for young children!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book! This book was an amazing adventure with lots of twists and turns!! I was not able to put this one down! The development of the characters and the journey they were on kept me on the edge of my seat! I can’t wait to see what journey Josh takes us on next!

[Sumer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to receive an advanced copy of this book! It was such a fun and exciting book to read! The characters are personable and the book kept me wanting to read more! Hard to put down!

[Janeandjerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this and hated when it ended.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this YA action/adventure/scifi! Well thought out, well written. Middle grade (and older) kids will love this!

Josh is a great character for kids to emulate.

[Derek Gurr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much! It was a fun adventure with a little sci-fi and a little Indiana-Jones-esque artifact-hunt backdrop.

[Lyndi Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Josh, in Josh Stone and The Fifth World, The Crystal Skull Series Book 1, by S. M. LaDuke promises his little sister he will find her missing dog, he has no idea he, his family, and the world are in such danger. He is a likeable, brave and adventurous young teen boy who joins an unusual team who fights to find the crystal skulls and hide them from their enemy.

This highly imaginative story is full of action. Despite being abducted, his friend and family being held hostage, and contracting a virus, Josh remembers what his father said about not looking at the problem and seeking a solution. He forges a way to go rescue his friends, family and the world. Tweens and young teens will enjoy following Josh on this fact-paced adventurous ride with portals to other places. But with the leader of their enemy still at large, safety can only be temporarily and I expect Josh will soon be using his ingenuity to fight more battles.

[Andie LaDuke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing, it was thrilling and exciting. Character well described and developed. :)

[Feather Chelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tons of alien fun

I can’t wait to gift this book to my 12-year-old. He’s really going to love it! With great characters and aliens masquerading as our beloved pets, this book is perfect for any middle grades reader who enjoys lots of action. It would make a great read aloud for the whole family as well. I’m looking forward to reading the next one.

[Elias Danko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fanatic story!! A must read for Indian jones fans