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The Islanders #1
The Islanders
An instant New York Times bestseller!“Storytelling for young readers at its finest—equal parts summer adventure and environmental suspense…[a] love letter to family, friendship, and the natural world.” —Kwame Alexander, New York Times bestselling author of The CrossoverFrom New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe comes a beautiful story of friendship, loss, and the healing power of nature in her first book for middle grade readers.Eleven-year-old Jake’s life has just turned upside-down. His father was wounded in Afghanistan, and his mother is going to leave to care for him. That means Jake’s spending the summer on tiny Dewees Island with his grandmother. The island is a nature sanctuary—no cars or paved roads, no stores or restaurants. To make matters worse, Jake’s grandmother doesn’t believe in cable or the internet. Which means Jake has no cell phone, no video games...and no friends. This is going to be the worst summer ever!He’s barely on the island before he befriends two other kids—Macon, another “summer kid,” and Lovie, a know-it-all who lives there and shows both Jake and Macon the ropes of life on the island. All three are struggling with their own family issues and they quickly bond, going on adventures all over Dewees Island. Until one misadventure on an abandoned boat leads to community service. Their punishment? Mandatory duty on the Island Turtle Team. The kids must do a daily dawn patrol of the beach on the hunt for loggerhead sea turtle tracks. When a turtle nest is threatened by coyotes, the three friends must find a way to protect it. Can they save the turtle nest from predators? Can Jake’s growing love for the island and its inhabitants (be they two-legged, four-legged, feathered, or finned) help to heal his father?
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2021
183 people are currently reading
8072 people want to read
About the author
Mary Alice Monroe
71 books5,675 followersMary Alice Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 30 books, including her new novel, Where the Rivers Merge, the first book in a duology and her historical debut. The second book is titled The Rivers End. Release date has not been set yet.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
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June 21, 2021
Mary Alice Monroe’s first book for middle graders? Sign me up!
Isn’t this cover adorable? I’ll give you some quick thoughts on this sweet book.
Jake’s life has been challenging lately. His father has been wounded in Afghanistan, and his mom needs to leave to take care of him. Jake will spend summer with his grandmother. She lives on a remote, quiet island.
Jake makes friends quickly that summer. They travel all over the island with their adventures. When they get into a little trouble, their community service is working on the turtle team, looking for turtle tracks on the beach. Jake truly grows to love this island and his friends.
This book reminded me a little of the four years I lived on an island with my family. It had a few restaurants and commercial things to do within driving distance, but my brother and I explored our backyard (the Bogue Sound) and its marshes, learned about wildlife, hunted for shells, and had the time of our lives being outside every day, especially during the summer.
This is such a great book for middle graders and their parents. It’s full of heart, friendship, and island adventures.
I received a gifted copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Isn’t this cover adorable? I’ll give you some quick thoughts on this sweet book.
Jake’s life has been challenging lately. His father has been wounded in Afghanistan, and his mom needs to leave to take care of him. Jake will spend summer with his grandmother. She lives on a remote, quiet island.
Jake makes friends quickly that summer. They travel all over the island with their adventures. When they get into a little trouble, their community service is working on the turtle team, looking for turtle tracks on the beach. Jake truly grows to love this island and his friends.
This book reminded me a little of the four years I lived on an island with my family. It had a few restaurants and commercial things to do within driving distance, but my brother and I explored our backyard (the Bogue Sound) and its marshes, learned about wildlife, hunted for shells, and had the time of our lives being outside every day, especially during the summer.
This is such a great book for middle graders and their parents. It’s full of heart, friendship, and island adventures.
I received a gifted copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
June 9, 2021
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is a sweet story about three eleven year olds who spend the summer together: no wifi, no video games: completely off the grid!
I realize that there are several books in this series. This is a middle school level book, so although I did love the descriptions of birds, plants and turtles, this was a slow read for me because characterization was pretty basic.
Jake's drawings were a bonus: Lucky the dog was adorable, as were the baby turtles. This will make great reading for a middle schoolers. I'm going to rate this one a 3.5 out of 5.
This is a sweet story about three eleven year olds who spend the summer together: no wifi, no video games: completely off the grid!
I realize that there are several books in this series. This is a middle school level book, so although I did love the descriptions of birds, plants and turtles, this was a slow read for me because characterization was pretty basic.
Jake's drawings were a bonus: Lucky the dog was adorable, as were the baby turtles. This will make great reading for a middle schoolers. I'm going to rate this one a 3.5 out of 5.
July 30, 2022
The Islanders was written by authors Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May. It was a diversion from Mary Alice Monroe usual beach reads. This time she targeted younger readers. It was meant to be read by middle school age children, but in my opinion, anyone at any age would enjoy this heartfelt book. The Islanders read seamlessly even though both authors collaborated to write this fabulous book. It was about a summer adventure that eleven year old Jake was forced into taking. What eleven, almost twelve year old boy, would choose to spend a whole summer with his grandmother on an island that was completely off the grid? He was going to Dewees Island. There were no cars, restaurants or stores. It was a nature preserve. To make matters even worse, Jake’s grandmother, Honey, had no internet or cable connection at The Bird’s Nest, her home. How could Jake survive a whole summer without his cell phone, video games of the internet? Jake was sure that this was going to be the worst summer of his entire life.
Both of Jake’s parents were in the military. His mom was a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force and his father was an officer in the Army. Jake’s father had been injured in Afghanistan and his mother was going to help take care of him. Jake’s grandmother, Honey, her father’s mother, offered for Jake to come to Dewees Island for the summer so his mom could be with his father. The uncertainty of his father’s injury played heavily on Jake’s heart.
When Jake’s ferry arrived at Dewees Island, Honey was there with her golf cart waiting to take Jake to her home, The Bird’s Nest. Honey offered to teach Jake how to drive the golf cart. That seemed promising. When they arrived at The Bird’s Nest, Jake was surprised to see how neglected everything was. It looked as if no one had cleaned the inside of the house in a very long time or had taken care of the outside in quite a long time as well. His grandmother showed Jake is father’s old room. It was a really cool loft. Jake soon became fascinated with all the things he discovered in that room. Honey made it clear from the beginning that Jake would be responsible for certain chores and needed to be outside as much as possible. She gave him a journal to record all the things he might discover and come across as he explored the island. Probably the worst discovery Jake made was the condition of the food Honey had in the refrigerator. Most of it was past the date suggested to be used and much of it was either moldy or sour. Jake would have to figure out what was going on in Honey’s life to allow her to live with conditions like that.
Just as Jake was about to give up totally, he met two other kids. Macon was there for the summer like Jake. His family had bought a house on the island and they were there so his pregnant mother could rest. Lovie lived on the island with her mother and often visited her aunt who lived right near Jake’s grandmother. The three of them became instant friends. Maybe the summer would not be so bad after all. One day, the three friends found a boat that seemed to be abandoned. They decided to start it up and use it. Boy was that a bad idea. That act led to the “best punishment” they could have been given. The three friends were placed on Turtle duty. They were expected to wake up before the sun and patrol the beach for loggerhead sea turtle tracks and check existing nests. Slowly, over time, Jake learned what it meant to be a naturalist. He came to love everything about the Lowcountry. His relationship with his grandmother grew and evolved. The many discoveries Jake made over that summer were relayed to his father through daily letters which his father contributed to his recovery.
The Islanders taught many lessons throughout the pages of the book. It taught about how to adapt to unfamiliar circumstances and conditions, how to accept what you are presented with, how to face challenges and find solutions that work, how to help others, what friendship means and entails to allow it to grow and become stronger and how to appreciate family and friends to the fullest. I really enjoyed reading The Islanders and will recommend it to many of my past students to read. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Aladdin, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Division, for allowing me to read this paperback ARC of The Islanders by Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May through a goodreads give away in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Both of Jake’s parents were in the military. His mom was a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force and his father was an officer in the Army. Jake’s father had been injured in Afghanistan and his mother was going to help take care of him. Jake’s grandmother, Honey, her father’s mother, offered for Jake to come to Dewees Island for the summer so his mom could be with his father. The uncertainty of his father’s injury played heavily on Jake’s heart.
When Jake’s ferry arrived at Dewees Island, Honey was there with her golf cart waiting to take Jake to her home, The Bird’s Nest. Honey offered to teach Jake how to drive the golf cart. That seemed promising. When they arrived at The Bird’s Nest, Jake was surprised to see how neglected everything was. It looked as if no one had cleaned the inside of the house in a very long time or had taken care of the outside in quite a long time as well. His grandmother showed Jake is father’s old room. It was a really cool loft. Jake soon became fascinated with all the things he discovered in that room. Honey made it clear from the beginning that Jake would be responsible for certain chores and needed to be outside as much as possible. She gave him a journal to record all the things he might discover and come across as he explored the island. Probably the worst discovery Jake made was the condition of the food Honey had in the refrigerator. Most of it was past the date suggested to be used and much of it was either moldy or sour. Jake would have to figure out what was going on in Honey’s life to allow her to live with conditions like that.
Just as Jake was about to give up totally, he met two other kids. Macon was there for the summer like Jake. His family had bought a house on the island and they were there so his pregnant mother could rest. Lovie lived on the island with her mother and often visited her aunt who lived right near Jake’s grandmother. The three of them became instant friends. Maybe the summer would not be so bad after all. One day, the three friends found a boat that seemed to be abandoned. They decided to start it up and use it. Boy was that a bad idea. That act led to the “best punishment” they could have been given. The three friends were placed on Turtle duty. They were expected to wake up before the sun and patrol the beach for loggerhead sea turtle tracks and check existing nests. Slowly, over time, Jake learned what it meant to be a naturalist. He came to love everything about the Lowcountry. His relationship with his grandmother grew and evolved. The many discoveries Jake made over that summer were relayed to his father through daily letters which his father contributed to his recovery.
The Islanders taught many lessons throughout the pages of the book. It taught about how to adapt to unfamiliar circumstances and conditions, how to accept what you are presented with, how to face challenges and find solutions that work, how to help others, what friendship means and entails to allow it to grow and become stronger and how to appreciate family and friends to the fullest. I really enjoyed reading The Islanders and will recommend it to many of my past students to read. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Aladdin, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Division, for allowing me to read this paperback ARC of The Islanders by Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May through a goodreads give away in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 26, 2021
Jake is 11 years old, and is heading to Dewees Island, SC to spend the summer with his grandmother, Honey. His dad has been seriously injured in Afghanistan, and is recuperating in a military hospital. On the boat trip over, his phone falls overboard, and when he learns that Honey doesn’t have wifi, he fears the summer will be awful. He meets two new friends, Lovie and Macon, and together they learn about the natural world on the island, including helping the team that works with the nesting loggerhead turtles. Jake knows his dad kept a nature journal when he was growing up on the island, and writes to him almost every day to tell him what they are doing. With all of their challenges and adventures, the summer winds up being the best ever, even without video games, texting, and wifi. Recommended for readers of Carl Hiaasen’s books for young readers, or for anyone who enjoys nature. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2021
As a retired teacher (and always a teacher at heart) I love everything about “The Islanders” by Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May. This is a book that is written for middle-grade children, and yet I think it is a book for all ages. The author/s vividly describes the perfect environment for learning about nature. There are animals, plants, trees, water, insects, turtles, and so much more. The authors discuss the importance of caring for the environment and the importance of family, friendship, and learning responsibility and compassion.
Mary Alice Monroe describes her colorful children as inquisitive, curious, and are like sponges absorbing all kinds of important information about life. The adults in the story are eager to compromise and be both teachers and learners. Jake is an 11-year-old boy that is going to be spending the summer with his grandmother on Dewees Island. His father is in a hospital after being hurt in Afghanistan, and his mother has to take care of him. Jake is both confused and conflicted about being away from his parents, and spending the summer with his grandmother, who doesn’t believe in learning from the internet. He meets two other children his age. Macon is another boy who is on the island, and his mother needs rest before she has another baby. The third “friend” is Lovie, who is very familiar with the island, and is willing to show the boys around. There are some secrets that some of the friends have.
After making a mistake, the children are given the “punishment” of being part of the Island Turtle Team. The children learn to track the loggerhead turtles and see where the nests are. There are natural predators on the island, and it is difficult to protect the turtle eggs.
I love that the kids are learning about the cycle of life and the environment. I also appreciate that the children use journals to record what they see. Jake sends letters of encouragement and “tales” of his experiences to his father. If I were in my classroom, I could only imagine the different ways we could discuss, write, illustrate and act out the story. Kudos to Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May for writing such an informative, memorable, and thought-provoking book. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
Mary Alice Monroe describes her colorful children as inquisitive, curious, and are like sponges absorbing all kinds of important information about life. The adults in the story are eager to compromise and be both teachers and learners. Jake is an 11-year-old boy that is going to be spending the summer with his grandmother on Dewees Island. His father is in a hospital after being hurt in Afghanistan, and his mother has to take care of him. Jake is both confused and conflicted about being away from his parents, and spending the summer with his grandmother, who doesn’t believe in learning from the internet. He meets two other children his age. Macon is another boy who is on the island, and his mother needs rest before she has another baby. The third “friend” is Lovie, who is very familiar with the island, and is willing to show the boys around. There are some secrets that some of the friends have.
After making a mistake, the children are given the “punishment” of being part of the Island Turtle Team. The children learn to track the loggerhead turtles and see where the nests are. There are natural predators on the island, and it is difficult to protect the turtle eggs.
I love that the kids are learning about the cycle of life and the environment. I also appreciate that the children use journals to record what they see. Jake sends letters of encouragement and “tales” of his experiences to his father. If I were in my classroom, I could only imagine the different ways we could discuss, write, illustrate and act out the story. Kudos to Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May for writing such an informative, memorable, and thought-provoking book. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
June 19, 2021
Mary Alice Monroe's debut novel for middle grade readers (ages 8-12 is the targeted demo) is absolutely an enjoyable novel for the whole family; readers of MAM's beloved Beach House series will enjoy the appearance of "Little Lovie" from Swimming Lessons, the second book in that series.
This sweet novel about letting kids get outside and unplugged away from electronics, and then learning about the turtle team on the beaches and environmental social issues, is full of good life lessons, and truly an all around fun novel. I may be a kid at heart, because I loved it, and I think you will too!
This sweet novel about letting kids get outside and unplugged away from electronics, and then learning about the turtle team on the beaches and environmental social issues, is full of good life lessons, and truly an all around fun novel. I may be a kid at heart, because I loved it, and I think you will too!
June 14, 2021
The Islanders is a terrific tale about 11-year-old, Jake who comes to Dewees Island, SC, to spend the summer with his grandmother, Honey.
Jake’s father, who’s in the army, has been seriously injured in Afghanistan, and his mother, also in the military (Air Force), is flying out to be with him. Although Jake has no choice in going to the island, he knows he can’t complain in this situation. He just wishes he could see his father too.
Jake’s summer turns out to be one of his best when he meets two kids his own age, Macon, here for the summer from Atlanta, and Lovie, an island native. When three make an unwise decision involving a boat their consequence is working with the island’s Turtle Team. Even though they must get to the beach at dawn, they don’t mind searching for the Loggerhead turtles' nests, which are filled with eggs this time of year, to make sure they safe. Protecting the turtles’ nests and eggs is a responsibility they’re all proud to have.
They’re learning to care for nature and its environment particular to this beautiful island. Now Jake understands why cars and trucks are not allowed on the island, nor lots of stores for shopping other than the essentials for the year-round residents.
Jake also learns that his father kept a nature journal when he was a young boy on this island, so he and his friends decide to do the same with notebooks from his grandmother. They all draw pictures of the animals, plants, and creatures they discover along their daily adventures.
At the end of the summer the, “Dawn Patrol’ as they’ve named themselves, excitedly plan to return next summer, if possible. Jake’s father heals well and Jake is happy to see him and his mom at summer’s end.
This is an excellent, middle-grade, book with an entertaining story and fun characters. The illustrations are sure to enhance any child’s interest in the turtles and nature found on the island.
I highly recommend this for any middle-grade student.
Thank you, Edelweiss and Simon and Schuster.
Jake’s father, who’s in the army, has been seriously injured in Afghanistan, and his mother, also in the military (Air Force), is flying out to be with him. Although Jake has no choice in going to the island, he knows he can’t complain in this situation. He just wishes he could see his father too.
Jake’s summer turns out to be one of his best when he meets two kids his own age, Macon, here for the summer from Atlanta, and Lovie, an island native. When three make an unwise decision involving a boat their consequence is working with the island’s Turtle Team. Even though they must get to the beach at dawn, they don’t mind searching for the Loggerhead turtles' nests, which are filled with eggs this time of year, to make sure they safe. Protecting the turtles’ nests and eggs is a responsibility they’re all proud to have.
They’re learning to care for nature and its environment particular to this beautiful island. Now Jake understands why cars and trucks are not allowed on the island, nor lots of stores for shopping other than the essentials for the year-round residents.
Jake also learns that his father kept a nature journal when he was a young boy on this island, so he and his friends decide to do the same with notebooks from his grandmother. They all draw pictures of the animals, plants, and creatures they discover along their daily adventures.
At the end of the summer the, “Dawn Patrol’ as they’ve named themselves, excitedly plan to return next summer, if possible. Jake’s father heals well and Jake is happy to see him and his mom at summer’s end.
This is an excellent, middle-grade, book with an entertaining story and fun characters. The illustrations are sure to enhance any child’s interest in the turtles and nature found on the island.
I highly recommend this for any middle-grade student.
Thank you, Edelweiss and Simon and Schuster.
July 21, 2025
5⭐️!!!!!!
Welcome to an official Charlotte’s BookNook book review! Make sure to go follow my YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@charlottes_bookn...) if you haven’t already. I post video reviews and all sorts of clean bookish content! Now let’s get this review started.
No. Words.
The most immaculate summer vibes you could ever ask for. This is a new favorite book for me. The morals and lessons taught were spot on and I learned soooo much about nature and turtles. All the characters were unique, loveable and unforgettable. I loved how we followed a military boy, a local girl, and an African American city boy. I loved their friendship and character development. Every scene painted such a perfect picture in my head and this was impossible to put down. I could ramble for hours about this book but no matter your age, pleaseeee pick this up! It’s cozy, comforting, and the perfect summer read.
Language:
None
LGBTQ+:
None
Romance:
This isn’t romance but I thought I’d mention it here: a kid pees on a kids jellyfish sting and tells the girl in the group to look away.
Violence:
Kid is stung by jellyfish and is in a lot of pain. Mentions of taking the stingers out and he’s fine afterwards. It wasn’t a scary scene.
Religious Views:
Mentions of prayer and thanking God. Characters bless their dinner in a prayer like form but don’t thank a certain deity. Lots of mentions of being lucky or lucky.
Authority Roles:
The. Best. All the adults were amazing role models in their own way. Lots of diversity and respectable people. All the kids say yes sir and ma’am to adults and all adults teach the kids lessons with rewards and respect. No age ting or old is seen as dumb!
Welcome to an official Charlotte’s BookNook book review! Make sure to go follow my YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@charlottes_bookn...) if you haven’t already. I post video reviews and all sorts of clean bookish content! Now let’s get this review started.
No. Words.
The most immaculate summer vibes you could ever ask for. This is a new favorite book for me. The morals and lessons taught were spot on and I learned soooo much about nature and turtles. All the characters were unique, loveable and unforgettable. I loved how we followed a military boy, a local girl, and an African American city boy. I loved their friendship and character development. Every scene painted such a perfect picture in my head and this was impossible to put down. I could ramble for hours about this book but no matter your age, pleaseeee pick this up! It’s cozy, comforting, and the perfect summer read.
Language:
None
LGBTQ+:
None
Romance:
This isn’t romance but I thought I’d mention it here: a kid pees on a kids jellyfish sting and tells the girl in the group to look away.
Violence:
Kid is stung by jellyfish and is in a lot of pain. Mentions of taking the stingers out and he’s fine afterwards. It wasn’t a scary scene.
Religious Views:
Mentions of prayer and thanking God. Characters bless their dinner in a prayer like form but don’t thank a certain deity. Lots of mentions of being lucky or lucky.
Authority Roles:
The. Best. All the adults were amazing role models in their own way. Lots of diversity and respectable people. All the kids say yes sir and ma’am to adults and all adults teach the kids lessons with rewards and respect. No age ting or old is seen as dumb!
April 11, 2021
I was immediately captivated by this book right from the beginning and enjoyed it right till the end. Mary Alice Monroe is a beautiful writer and her descriptions of nature are so vivid!!
Jake is brought to Dewees Island in SC to stay with his grandmother, Honey, as his father is in the service and has been injured in Afghanistan. His mother needs to go to take care of him and Jake is not looking forward to staying with his grandmother with no WiFi, no TV, no friends and daily chores that will keep him very busy.
Jake meets Lovie and Macon and they quickly become friends and start spending every day together. After making a mistake with a boat, they become members of the Dawn Team of the turtle team and have to patrol the beach at 630am every morning. Each one has been given a journal to draw and write about the nature around them each day.
I believe this incredible book will appeal to a wide range of readers. This book is about friends, family, taking chances, and helping others without realizing it. I loved it and will be recommending to everyone who loves the Beach House series and to elementary school media specialists to purchase for their libraries!!! Mary Alice Monroe has written a spectacular book!!! Loved it!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Aladdin for an early digital copy of this book!!
Jake is brought to Dewees Island in SC to stay with his grandmother, Honey, as his father is in the service and has been injured in Afghanistan. His mother needs to go to take care of him and Jake is not looking forward to staying with his grandmother with no WiFi, no TV, no friends and daily chores that will keep him very busy.
Jake meets Lovie and Macon and they quickly become friends and start spending every day together. After making a mistake with a boat, they become members of the Dawn Team of the turtle team and have to patrol the beach at 630am every morning. Each one has been given a journal to draw and write about the nature around them each day.
I believe this incredible book will appeal to a wide range of readers. This book is about friends, family, taking chances, and helping others without realizing it. I loved it and will be recommending to everyone who loves the Beach House series and to elementary school media specialists to purchase for their libraries!!! Mary Alice Monroe has written a spectacular book!!! Loved it!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Aladdin for an early digital copy of this book!!
May 8, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Mary Alice Monroe and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for the ARC of The Islanders. This is my personal review.
Mary Alice Monroe has given us a book that is totally amazing! I adore all of her books I have read. She has written a beautiful story set in Dewees Island, SC just off the Isle of Palms. She writes with just descriptive words that it makes me feel like I am actually there.
Jake is going to spend time with his Grandmother Honey while his Mom is away with his father after he was injured in Afghanistan.
He is on his way and drops his phone in the water leaving him with no way to communicate because there is no wifi at his Grandmothers house. He is convinced his summer is going to be one of the worst of his life. He soon meets Lovie and Macon, and they quickly bond and become friends.
Circumstances happen and they get into a bit of trouble and for their punishment they are put on a team called Island Turtle Team who meet at the crack of dawn to help protect the turtles.
The life lessons they learn and the friendships they have makes for a story that will touch anyone who reads this book.
Mary Alice Monroe has given us a book that is totally amazing! I adore all of her books I have read. She has written a beautiful story set in Dewees Island, SC just off the Isle of Palms. She writes with just descriptive words that it makes me feel like I am actually there.
Jake is going to spend time with his Grandmother Honey while his Mom is away with his father after he was injured in Afghanistan.
He is on his way and drops his phone in the water leaving him with no way to communicate because there is no wifi at his Grandmothers house. He is convinced his summer is going to be one of the worst of his life. He soon meets Lovie and Macon, and they quickly bond and become friends.
Circumstances happen and they get into a bit of trouble and for their punishment they are put on a team called Island Turtle Team who meet at the crack of dawn to help protect the turtles.
The life lessons they learn and the friendships they have makes for a story that will touch anyone who reads this book.
June 9, 2021
Jake just found out that he will be spending the summer at Dewees Island, NC with his grandmother - his father was injured in Afghanistan and his mother had to leave to care for him.
An Island life for the summer sounds like paradise, but not for eleven year old Jake when there is no cell reception, no WIFI, and no video games. But Jake meets and befriends Macon and Lovie - and quickly they get in trouble and now punished with a mandatory community service on the Island Turtle Team - they patrol the beach at dawn, note their observations in their journal all the while keeping the loggerhead turtles safe.
This middle grade book is such a fun and well written story that will appeal to a wide variety of audience. The story addressed beautiful themes of family, new friendships, caring for others and learning to love and care for nature.
I really enjoyed this tender, heartwarming and lovely read. I know you will enjoy it too! Do check this out to add to your summer TBR.
An Island life for the summer sounds like paradise, but not for eleven year old Jake when there is no cell reception, no WIFI, and no video games. But Jake meets and befriends Macon and Lovie - and quickly they get in trouble and now punished with a mandatory community service on the Island Turtle Team - they patrol the beach at dawn, note their observations in their journal all the while keeping the loggerhead turtles safe.
This middle grade book is such a fun and well written story that will appeal to a wide variety of audience. The story addressed beautiful themes of family, new friendships, caring for others and learning to love and care for nature.
I really enjoyed this tender, heartwarming and lovely read. I know you will enjoy it too! Do check this out to add to your summer TBR.
July 15, 2022
This was a great family read for us. Several different times my husband and I mentioned books we enjoyed at the same ages as our kids are only to have them echoed in the pages: Hatchet, Where The Red Fern Grows and more. The Islanders is a great story of making new friends from all walks of life and I'm eager to have another summer with them in the sequel. I bet Big Al will surely make another appearance.
June 16, 2021
All the stars for this book, dare I say this is my favorite Mary Alice Monroe book? I’ve read it twice and it will definitely be a recommended summer read to any kid who asks! The important messages throughout the book plus an amazing ending! Parents and kids will both love this book!
September 1, 2021
Trigger warnings: military injury/loss of limb, miscarriage (mentioned), incarcerated family member
Jake Potter is a tween who is so not excited about being forced to spend his summer in Dewees Island, SC without restaurants, stores, video games, TV, or WiFi. He is visiting his grandmother while his father recovers from an injury.
Helen Potter (Jake calls her Honey) is Jake's grandmother who is suffering from the loss of her husband who recently died. She feels anxiety about her son, Jake's father, and has become withdrawn from normal life. Jake is told that Honey needs him, and the statement proves to be true.
Jake is able to shake Honey out of her sad existence. She has stopped cooking and has spoiled food in the fridge when Jake arrives, no longer cleans her house, and has stopped helping the local Turtle Team protect nests on the beach. With Jake there, Honey comes out of her shell and begins to live life again.
Jake makes two friends on the island and they go on many adventures together. They spend a lot of time at the Nature Center learning about the birds and marine life that live on Dewees Island. Each of Jake's friends has a family struggle of their own; Lovie's biological father is in prison and she doesn't have contact with him while Macon's mother has lost several children and is on bed rest to prevent miscarrying her current pregnancy.
Michael Crouch's higher-pitch voice is perfect for a prepubescent teenager.
Recommended for children interested in nature, adventure stories, or marine biology.
I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read the review here: https://guenevol.wixsite.com/novelmav...
Jake Potter is a tween who is so not excited about being forced to spend his summer in Dewees Island, SC without restaurants, stores, video games, TV, or WiFi. He is visiting his grandmother while his father recovers from an injury.
Helen Potter (Jake calls her Honey) is Jake's grandmother who is suffering from the loss of her husband who recently died. She feels anxiety about her son, Jake's father, and has become withdrawn from normal life. Jake is told that Honey needs him, and the statement proves to be true.
Jake is able to shake Honey out of her sad existence. She has stopped cooking and has spoiled food in the fridge when Jake arrives, no longer cleans her house, and has stopped helping the local Turtle Team protect nests on the beach. With Jake there, Honey comes out of her shell and begins to live life again.
Jake makes two friends on the island and they go on many adventures together. They spend a lot of time at the Nature Center learning about the birds and marine life that live on Dewees Island. Each of Jake's friends has a family struggle of their own; Lovie's biological father is in prison and she doesn't have contact with him while Macon's mother has lost several children and is on bed rest to prevent miscarrying her current pregnancy.
Michael Crouch's higher-pitch voice is perfect for a prepubescent teenager.
Recommended for children interested in nature, adventure stories, or marine biology.
I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read the review here: https://guenevol.wixsite.com/novelmav...
June 24, 2021
This fabulous middle grade book explores what magic kinds can discover when they allow themselves to unplug and learn all about the wonderful and beautiful things nature has to offer. Three kids who originally are not looking forward to the summer, find each other and develop a great friendship.
All three kids are on Dewees Island, a more remote island off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina. Jake must stay with his grandmother, so his mother can go and take care of his military father, who was injured in action. Macon came to his family’s summer place to help take care of his mom who needs to relax and be off her feet before the baby is born. And Lovie rows her boat to the island each day, so her aunt can watch her when her parents are at work.
Jake is initially annoyed at the lack of wifi and tv. But when he starts to explore nature and write and draw about it in his journal, it brings him closer to his father, who grew up doing the same things he is doing now. Each of the friends discover something special about themselves, that they didn’t think possible. And of course, no Mary Alice Monroe book isn’t complete without some look at the native animals, this time the beloved sea turtles when they assist Jake’s grandma, who is a turtle lady.
I highly recommend this book for children ages 8-12, but as an adult I loved it too and sure other adults would enjoy it too.
All three kids are on Dewees Island, a more remote island off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina. Jake must stay with his grandmother, so his mother can go and take care of his military father, who was injured in action. Macon came to his family’s summer place to help take care of his mom who needs to relax and be off her feet before the baby is born. And Lovie rows her boat to the island each day, so her aunt can watch her when her parents are at work.
Jake is initially annoyed at the lack of wifi and tv. But when he starts to explore nature and write and draw about it in his journal, it brings him closer to his father, who grew up doing the same things he is doing now. Each of the friends discover something special about themselves, that they didn’t think possible. And of course, no Mary Alice Monroe book isn’t complete without some look at the native animals, this time the beloved sea turtles when they assist Jake’s grandma, who is a turtle lady.
I highly recommend this book for children ages 8-12, but as an adult I loved it too and sure other adults would enjoy it too.
June 27, 2021
Wow, I just don’t think I could have loved this more. You can tell how much these authors love this island so the description is vivid and beautiful. I also love how there’s an emphasis on journaling because I have always found it to be important in my own life from a really early age.
Jake is 11, and has to go stay with his grandma on Dewees Island when his father is injured in Afghanistan and his mother goes to care for him.
Jake is certain it’s going to be the worst summer ever, especially when his phone falls into the water before he even gets to Dewees.
His grandma Honey is waiting for him in her golf cart and off they go. It looks bleak when the first few days are drenched in rain, and all Jake has are his fathers childhood books to keep him company. For the record he chooses “My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George which is an all time favorite of mine.
When the rain clears up he goes about his chores on the island and eventually meets two friends Macon and Lovie. They have a lot of fun, get into some trouble and then are put on turtle duty. Their job is to protect loggerhead nests and they develop a sense of responsibility which is awesome to watch unfold.
I love everything this book has to offer for younger ones, but I’d read it myself, no problem. It’s a nature lesson! It’s also riddled with gorgeous pencil illustrations. I highly recommend for kids Summer Reading lists.
Jake is 11, and has to go stay with his grandma on Dewees Island when his father is injured in Afghanistan and his mother goes to care for him.
Jake is certain it’s going to be the worst summer ever, especially when his phone falls into the water before he even gets to Dewees.
His grandma Honey is waiting for him in her golf cart and off they go. It looks bleak when the first few days are drenched in rain, and all Jake has are his fathers childhood books to keep him company. For the record he chooses “My Side of the Mountain” by Jean Craighead George which is an all time favorite of mine.
When the rain clears up he goes about his chores on the island and eventually meets two friends Macon and Lovie. They have a lot of fun, get into some trouble and then are put on turtle duty. Their job is to protect loggerhead nests and they develop a sense of responsibility which is awesome to watch unfold.
I love everything this book has to offer for younger ones, but I’d read it myself, no problem. It’s a nature lesson! It’s also riddled with gorgeous pencil illustrations. I highly recommend for kids Summer Reading lists.
June 26, 2021
The Islanders by Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May is a middle grade book set on Dewees Island, a small nature sanctuary which is accessible only by ferry, and there are no cars, paved roads, stores or restaurants. Eleven year old Jake is sent to spend the summer on this remote island with his grandmother when his mother has to tend to his hospitalized father who has been injured in Afghanistan. Jake is not thrilled about the prospect of being away from his friends, in an “uncivilized” setting with no internet or WiFi and he is worried about his parents, especially his father. But it is not long before he meets Macon and Locke, two other kids his age and they slowly develop a close relationship and spend the summer exploring and learning about the island’s nature and wildlife. Each of the children face their individual family issues and strive to achieve personal goals, giving each other the support and encouragement of unconditional acceptance and friendship. At times, I was moved to tears during some of the events in this amazing book. I highly recommend this wonderful novel to parents and teachers of middle great learners. In addition to the themes of friendship and family, this novel will provide a fresh awareness of nature, the environment and taking care of the wildlife around us. Excellent addition to any classroom or personal library!
August 14, 2021
HEARTPRINT BOOK. I absolutely LOVED this middle grade story set on an island off the coast of South Carolina. I have adored the author’s adult titles for years and was curious as to whether she’d navigate the transition to middle grade well. And did she ever! This collaboration with Angela May absolutely sparkles. The Lowcountry setting is as alive as it is in MAM’s adult stories and the heart of the island is so vibrant. There is a strong nature and conservation message through the book as well as some wonderful friendship and moral lessons. The main characters are early middle schoolers, but I highly recommend this for grades 3-6. NOTE: Jake’s father is in the hospital for an injury sustained while on active duty in the military. There is nothing graphic or violent or scary, but I know this can be triggering for many families.
June 14, 2021
One of my favorite parts of reading and reviewing books is having the opportunity to read them with the young readers in my own life. When I saw that one of my very favorite authors, Mary Alice Monroe, was coming out with a young readers chapter book, I was totally intrigued- and when I saw it featured some of my favorite chracters from The Beach House series, the turtles, I knew it was a must read!
Here is our review, from a 9 year old enthustatic young reader...
" I thought the islanders was great. I liked how they explained a lot about turtles and the nature around them. The characters were fun and adventurous. My favorite part was how they protected the turtles every morning. I would definitely recommend it to everybody!"
Thank you to Atria Books for our gifted copy.
Here is our review, from a 9 year old enthustatic young reader...
" I thought the islanders was great. I liked how they explained a lot about turtles and the nature around them. The characters were fun and adventurous. My favorite part was how they protected the turtles every morning. I would definitely recommend it to everybody!"
Thank you to Atria Books for our gifted copy.
June 28, 2022
This is the type of Middle-grade book that I reread each Summer. It just has the right mood for those who are learning about friendship, and the world around them, or for those who remember spending the Summer outside in nature at the beach with friends.
It's so rich in adventures that we connect with the experience of Jake moving to this island against his will and learning to love it. There's so much to do when it comes to respecting nature and having friends to discover more.
It made me want to keep a sketchbook and draw outside again. The author adds a lot of detail to the chapters making them little lessons. My favorite was the one where Jake compared his drawing notes of birds he saw during the day to the ones in his grandmother's books to learn more about them.
Alongside the story of the three friends looking out for their island and animals, there's the emotional story of their relationship with their families.
I like the style of the author and am now curious about her other works.
It's so rich in adventures that we connect with the experience of Jake moving to this island against his will and learning to love it. There's so much to do when it comes to respecting nature and having friends to discover more.
It made me want to keep a sketchbook and draw outside again. The author adds a lot of detail to the chapters making them little lessons. My favorite was the one where Jake compared his drawing notes of birds he saw during the day to the ones in his grandmother's books to learn more about them.
Alongside the story of the three friends looking out for their island and animals, there's the emotional story of their relationship with their families.
I like the style of the author and am now curious about her other works.
June 2, 2021
The thrill of discovering an island unhampered by constant, parental supervision and learning to defeat tough problems with new found friends makes this a perfect summer adventure to dive into.
Jake is anything but excited about spending his summer on a lonely island with his older grandmother, no friends, and no internet, but with his father healing from a severe accident, he knows he has to help out however he can. The moment he steps onto the island, his views start to change as he learns that he not only can now drive his own golf cart but even has the chance to learn how to go out on his own boat. Better yet, he gets to know two other kids, and after a mishap, they start becoming great friends. Together, they not only learn more about the island, help each other through their own problems, but might even learn something more.
This is simply a wonderfully done book and perfect as a summer read. Jake is easy to connect with, and despite his grumbling moments, exactly the kind of kid anyone would enjoy hanging out with. The idea of roaming free on an island will awaken the small adventurer in many readers and have them wishing they could jump onto the island themselves and join in.
The first pages set the scene and characters up nicely. Jake has a lot on his plate and a lot to work through, but that doesn't bog down or ruin the fun. The two friends he meets have their own, inviting personalities and rough corners, which makes them slide together nicely. It's a great trio for adventure, and they definitely have tons of that.
Nature is big in these pages, but on an island which remains largely untouched by civilization outside of the few residents, that's a given. While environmental issues do dance along with the rest of the tale, the simple joy of heading out and discovering the world overtakes everything and makes it into a fun read. Add the more serious messages of friendship, and Jake coming to terms with his father's circumstances, and it's a rich tale as well. I received an ARC.
Jake is anything but excited about spending his summer on a lonely island with his older grandmother, no friends, and no internet, but with his father healing from a severe accident, he knows he has to help out however he can. The moment he steps onto the island, his views start to change as he learns that he not only can now drive his own golf cart but even has the chance to learn how to go out on his own boat. Better yet, he gets to know two other kids, and after a mishap, they start becoming great friends. Together, they not only learn more about the island, help each other through their own problems, but might even learn something more.
This is simply a wonderfully done book and perfect as a summer read. Jake is easy to connect with, and despite his grumbling moments, exactly the kind of kid anyone would enjoy hanging out with. The idea of roaming free on an island will awaken the small adventurer in many readers and have them wishing they could jump onto the island themselves and join in.
The first pages set the scene and characters up nicely. Jake has a lot on his plate and a lot to work through, but that doesn't bog down or ruin the fun. The two friends he meets have their own, inviting personalities and rough corners, which makes them slide together nicely. It's a great trio for adventure, and they definitely have tons of that.
Nature is big in these pages, but on an island which remains largely untouched by civilization outside of the few residents, that's a given. While environmental issues do dance along with the rest of the tale, the simple joy of heading out and discovering the world overtakes everything and makes it into a fun read. Add the more serious messages of friendship, and Jake coming to terms with his father's circumstances, and it's a rich tale as well. I received an ARC.
May 25, 2021
4. 5 stars
Story starts when eleven year old Jake Potter has been sent to his Grandmother ‘Honey’s’ home on Dewees Island, South Carolina. His father is in the military and recuperating from an injury in Afghanistan and his mother was a lieutenant in the Air Force and knows all about duty so has gone to help.
Jake is a typical kid, wo when he finds out that his grandmother does not have Wi-Fi, nor TV, he is upset about not getting to play digital games or watching TV all day ~ and he actually has chores to do. When he arrives at his Grandmother’s tree house home things start to change. SO the miserable summer he feared he was going to have is looking up.
When the children get in a bit of trouble and they have community service to do ~ we know something ‘good’ I about to happen.
I have read other stories involving the ‘Loggerhead turtles’ and they are always enjoyable.
Awws I want to be a grandma like ‘Honey”.
This is such a delightful enjoyable read. You will fall in love with the characters as well as Dewees Island! Story will leave you with a smile on your face.
Aww it would be would be such fun if next summer there is a “The Islanders Return”!
Want to thank NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for my honest professional opinion.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 15, 2021
Story starts when eleven year old Jake Potter has been sent to his Grandmother ‘Honey’s’ home on Dewees Island, South Carolina. His father is in the military and recuperating from an injury in Afghanistan and his mother was a lieutenant in the Air Force and knows all about duty so has gone to help.
Jake is a typical kid, wo when he finds out that his grandmother does not have Wi-Fi, nor TV, he is upset about not getting to play digital games or watching TV all day ~ and he actually has chores to do. When he arrives at his Grandmother’s tree house home things start to change. SO the miserable summer he feared he was going to have is looking up.
When the children get in a bit of trouble and they have community service to do ~ we know something ‘good’ I about to happen.
I have read other stories involving the ‘Loggerhead turtles’ and they are always enjoyable.
Awws I want to be a grandma like ‘Honey”.
This is such a delightful enjoyable read. You will fall in love with the characters as well as Dewees Island! Story will leave you with a smile on your face.
Aww it would be would be such fun if next summer there is a “The Islanders Return”!
Want to thank NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for my honest professional opinion.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 15, 2021
April 5, 2021
When Jake's dad is injured in Afghanistan, his mom has to leave to take care of him. That means that eleven-year-old Jake will have to spend his summer break with his grandmother Honey on Dewees Island. There are no cars, no stores, no restaurants, oh, and no WiFi, at least at his grandmother's home. What is Jake, the son of a military family, going to do on this island with no video games or internet to distract him? Well, if his grandmother has her way, he'll spend his time outside exploring the island and having adventures all summer long.
Oh, this book. ♥️ It was adorable and touching and comforting, and I just wanted to give it to every eleven year old I know. I learned a lot about island life and loggerhead sea turtles, but the storylines of Honey and Jake held my heart. Their depression and longing was nuanced and so well written. Watching them come together was beautiful and made me miss my own grandmother. I'm hoping to see more of Dewees Island and these characters. Maybe a Lovie or Macon story? 🙏🏼
Oh, this book. ♥️ It was adorable and touching and comforting, and I just wanted to give it to every eleven year old I know. I learned a lot about island life and loggerhead sea turtles, but the storylines of Honey and Jake held my heart. Their depression and longing was nuanced and so well written. Watching them come together was beautiful and made me miss my own grandmother. I'm hoping to see more of Dewees Island and these characters. Maybe a Lovie or Macon story? 🙏🏼
June 25, 2021
The Islanders by Mary Alice Monroe is the author's first middle-grade book.
Jake’s father was wounded in Afghanistan and his mother has to leave to take care of his father.
So, he was sent to spend his summer with his grandmother at Dewees island. Jake is eleven years and staying on this island means no access to Wi-Fi, video games, and cellphones. Soon after he gets there, he befriends Lovie and Macon, they start exploring the island and get into trouble. Their punishment is a mandatory community service on turtles. They have to keep the loggerhead turtle’s safe and keep a record of their observation.
This was a fun and well-written middle-grade story. I liked the island theme and the focus on friendship and nature.
Jake’s father was wounded in Afghanistan and his mother has to leave to take care of his father.
So, he was sent to spend his summer with his grandmother at Dewees island. Jake is eleven years and staying on this island means no access to Wi-Fi, video games, and cellphones. Soon after he gets there, he befriends Lovie and Macon, they start exploring the island and get into trouble. Their punishment is a mandatory community service on turtles. They have to keep the loggerhead turtle’s safe and keep a record of their observation.
This was a fun and well-written middle-grade story. I liked the island theme and the focus on friendship and nature.
July 15, 2022
"This book taught me a lot about how you should not judge a book or a new place or a new food or anything right away and you should always be willing to make new friends. I didn't know that much about turtles and learned a lot during the Coyote steak out when they tried to scare predators away from the turtle nest. I liked that Jake learned to enjoy writing and drawing his adventures just like I do in my travel journal." -Cadee, age 10
August 14, 2022
Excellent read aloud book for my kids from ages 5-13. They all loved it & we can't wait to read the next book!
June 10, 2021
Jake thinks this will be the worst summer ever! He waves goodbye to his mom as he steps onto the ferry for Dewees Island.
Jake is used to seeing his parents leave, as they are both in the military, but this time it’s different. His dad was injured in Afghanistan, and his mom must fly out to be with him. Jake is going to the Island to stay with Honey, his grandma. Jake is worried about his dad and what’s an eleven-year-old going to do on an island with no cable, no wifi, no internet!
Jake is ecstatic when he meets Lovie and Macon, two kids his age. With the nudging of Honey, Jake and his new friends begin to explore the island. After a bit of mischief with an abandoned boat, the kids are assigned turtle duty. They must keep watch on the nests.
The three friends’ summer soon turns into a grand adventure, filled with all sorts of wildlife, swimming, friendship, and shared secrets. Jake keeps a record of it all in his nature journal, just like his dad did when he was a kid.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 is a delightful middle-grade book. With a trio of friends sharing some tough, personal issues, it makes it very relatable for kids today. Yet, the wildlife that is encountered and cared for makes it a whole lot of fun.
Pick up a copy today!
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @maryalicemonroe for an invitation to this tour.
Jake is used to seeing his parents leave, as they are both in the military, but this time it’s different. His dad was injured in Afghanistan, and his mom must fly out to be with him. Jake is going to the Island to stay with Honey, his grandma. Jake is worried about his dad and what’s an eleven-year-old going to do on an island with no cable, no wifi, no internet!
Jake is ecstatic when he meets Lovie and Macon, two kids his age. With the nudging of Honey, Jake and his new friends begin to explore the island. After a bit of mischief with an abandoned boat, the kids are assigned turtle duty. They must keep watch on the nests.
The three friends’ summer soon turns into a grand adventure, filled with all sorts of wildlife, swimming, friendship, and shared secrets. Jake keeps a record of it all in his nature journal, just like his dad did when he was a kid.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 is a delightful middle-grade book. With a trio of friends sharing some tough, personal issues, it makes it very relatable for kids today. Yet, the wildlife that is encountered and cared for makes it a whole lot of fun.
Pick up a copy today!
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @maryalicemonroe for an invitation to this tour.
September 12, 2022
5 stars from 10 yo girl, 13 yo boy, and 50 yo Mom; what a delightful, therapeutic book. My children are thrilled we have the sequel awaiting us in the nightstand for tomorrow night. We loved the characters, island descriptions and focus on nature as well as all the adventures. What first appears to be a simple light story turns into a book filled with depth, therapy, love, friendship, truth, and the challenges of life in general. Amazing work Mary Alice Monroe and Anglea May; may this book have longevity for the ages!
January 22, 2023
Friendship, adventure, island fun…a beautiful story.
May 28, 2021
“If there is one lesson I learned from Lovie, and there were many, is that above all, only one thing matters in life. Family. Who your people are, as she used to say.”
If there is one sentence in Mary Alice’s new book that sums up the entire theme of her entire series it is this one. Another beach house book just in time for summer. After the year we have all been through, it sure felt like coming home to my family! I laughed, I cried, and I read it too quickly. It’s always a real joy to catch up with our favorite island people, see the changes within them and around them. Reading about how they handled the pandemic and created their own pod and tried to find something positive out of being in lockdown reminded me of what so many of us have been doing. And what we continue to do. Shutdowns and lockdowns were tough on everyone but reading about our favorite characters and how they chose to handle themselves through a real life pandemic was so real.
And as always, Mary Alice leaves you wanting more of the story!
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