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The Islanders #2
Search for Treasure
The sequel to New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe’s The Islanders, a beautiful story of friendship, loss, and the healing power of nature.
Jake Potter is back on Dewees Island for another summer with his beloved grandmother, Honey. This time, Jake is excited that his dad will be there as he continues to recover from his injuries sustained in Afghanistan. But Jake also knows they both need get used to a new normal, which isn’t easy.
Jake also discovers that his two best friends, Macon and Lovie, are struggling as well. Macon is adjusting to being a big brother, while Lovie is navigating a new relationship with her dad, who has long been absent in her life. To cheer everyone up, Jake decides that the trio needs a new mission, just like they had the previous summer in saving the turtles. He discovers that his dad loved spending time in an old tree fort on the island, and there is a special treasure box hidden somewhere nearby. Jake just knows if he can find it, maybe his dad will be happy again—and he knows Macon and Lovie are the perfect fellow treasure hunters!
Their search leads them to discover there might be actual buried treasure somewhere on Dewees, all while they battle some unwelcome guests on the island, of both the two- and four-legged kind! On the three friends’ biggest quest yet, they realize that the treasures they really want in life were with them all along.
Jake Potter is back on Dewees Island for another summer with his beloved grandmother, Honey. This time, Jake is excited that his dad will be there as he continues to recover from his injuries sustained in Afghanistan. But Jake also knows they both need get used to a new normal, which isn’t easy.
Jake also discovers that his two best friends, Macon and Lovie, are struggling as well. Macon is adjusting to being a big brother, while Lovie is navigating a new relationship with her dad, who has long been absent in her life. To cheer everyone up, Jake decides that the trio needs a new mission, just like they had the previous summer in saving the turtles. He discovers that his dad loved spending time in an old tree fort on the island, and there is a special treasure box hidden somewhere nearby. Jake just knows if he can find it, maybe his dad will be happy again—and he knows Macon and Lovie are the perfect fellow treasure hunters!
Their search leads them to discover there might be actual buried treasure somewhere on Dewees, all while they battle some unwelcome guests on the island, of both the two- and four-legged kind! On the three friends’ biggest quest yet, they realize that the treasures they really want in life were with them all along.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published June 14, 2022
94 people are currently reading
3804 people want to read
About the author
Mary Alice Monroe
71 books5,691 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 22, 2022
Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May revisited this adorable middle grade storyline heading back to the island.
Isn’t this cover adorable? I’ll give you some quick thoughts on this sweet book.
Jake is still adjusting to the changes in his life, and his friends have their own challenges. This summer, he decides they need a new distraction to lift their spirits, and it’s going to be a treasure hunt. Everyone loves a treasure hunt, right?!
Off they go, searching Dewees Island for treasure, and along the way, they discover more about the local wildlife and themselves.
This is another positive and uplifting book for middle graders and their parents. It’s full of heart, friendship, and island adventures.
I received a gifted copy.
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 is still adjusting to the changes in his life, and his friends have their own challenges. This summer, he decides they need a new distraction to lift their spirits, and it’s going to be a treasure hunt. Everyone loves a treasure hunt, right?!
Off they go, searching Dewees Island for treasure, and along the way, they discover more about the local wildlife and themselves.
This is another positive and uplifting book for middle graders and their parents. It’s full of heart, friendship, and island adventures.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
March 18, 2022
Lovie, Jake, and Macon are three kids who call themselves the Islanders. When they learn that someone has found treasure on the island, the friends decide to seek out some treasure. Jake's dad Eric, a war hero and amputee, had a treasure map with his best friend when he was growing up on Dewees Island, and they are determined to locate it. The beauty of nature, and their friendship, are really the best treasures in this enjoyable book. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the opportunity to review an advance copy.
January 19, 2022
SEARCH FOR TREASURE is the sequel to the #2 New York Times bestselling middle grade book THE ISLANDERS. I'm the co-author of this book series.
In SEARCH FOR TREASURE, Jake Potter is back on Dewees Island for another summer with his grandmother and two best friends. This time, Jake is excited that his dad will be there too as he continues to recover from his injuries sustained in Afghanistan, which hasn't been easy.
Jake soon learns there is treasure to discover on the island—possibly in his dad’s old, forgotten childhood tree fort. Jake believes that if he can find that old spot to lead them to buried treasure, maybe his dad will be happy again. His friends, Macon and Lovie, join him as treasure hunters, and the search is on--as long as they can steer clear of invaders and Big Al, the biggest gator on the island. Their summer of wild adventures soon reveals that the very best treasures were with them all along.
The Islanders Search for Treasure is the sequel to the #2 New York Times bestselling children's book The Islanders by bestselling authors Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May.
This book touches on the topics of:
family life as an amputee
major life changes
friendships
depression
technology and screen time
coastal wildlife
respecting and protecting nature
effects of climate change
Please add SEARCH FOR TREASURE to your "To Read" shelf today.
In SEARCH FOR TREASURE, Jake Potter is back on Dewees Island for another summer with his grandmother and two best friends. This time, Jake is excited that his dad will be there too as he continues to recover from his injuries sustained in Afghanistan, which hasn't been easy.
Jake soon learns there is treasure to discover on the island—possibly in his dad’s old, forgotten childhood tree fort. Jake believes that if he can find that old spot to lead them to buried treasure, maybe his dad will be happy again. His friends, Macon and Lovie, join him as treasure hunters, and the search is on--as long as they can steer clear of invaders and Big Al, the biggest gator on the island. Their summer of wild adventures soon reveals that the very best treasures were with them all along.
The Islanders Search for Treasure is the sequel to the #2 New York Times bestselling children's book The Islanders by bestselling authors Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May.
This book touches on the topics of:
family life as an amputee
major life changes
friendships
depression
technology and screen time
coastal wildlife
respecting and protecting nature
effects of climate change
Please add SEARCH FOR TREASURE to your "To Read" shelf today.
May 31, 2022
TITLE: Search for Treasure
AUTHOR: Mary Alice Monroe & Angela May
ILLUSTRATED BY: Jennifer Bricking
PUB DATE: 06.14.2022 Pre Order Now
REVIEW:
So happy to be back in Honey’s Dewees island - which only means one thing - Summer is here! The trio of friends - Jake, Macon and Lovie are back with a new mission and it’s a search for a missing treasure. I love the growth in the characters and their family relationships, whether it’s dealing with friendships, major life changes and disabilities, to grief and sadness, the story is uplifting and perfect for young readers and middle grade readers, while also teaching about the beauty of nature and climate change.
AUTHOR: Mary Alice Monroe & Angela May
ILLUSTRATED BY: Jennifer Bricking
PUB DATE: 06.14.2022 Pre Order Now
REVIEW:
So happy to be back in Honey’s Dewees island - which only means one thing - Summer is here! The trio of friends - Jake, Macon and Lovie are back with a new mission and it’s a search for a missing treasure. I love the growth in the characters and their family relationships, whether it’s dealing with friendships, major life changes and disabilities, to grief and sadness, the story is uplifting and perfect for young readers and middle grade readers, while also teaching about the beauty of nature and climate change.
June 16, 2022
A middle grade book that is not just for middle grades. Learn about the lowcountry of SC. Learn the importance of friends and family.
Learn about nature and the importance of unplugging.
Highly recommend this read! Share it with your children or grands or just read it for you. You will not be disappointed.
Learn about nature and the importance of unplugging.
Highly recommend this read! Share it with your children or grands or just read it for you. You will not be disappointed.
June 26, 2022
I adored meeting Jake and his friends Lovie and Macon in 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬, so I was excited to explore Dewees Island with them for another summer adventure!
Jake is back on the island and hopes to have fun with his pals, Lovie and Macon. It’s been tough with his dad trying to recover from the injuries he received in Afghanistan.
But when the friends see an article at Honey’s Nature Center claiming that some of Blackbeard’s treasure may be on the island, they are off on their next adventure.
I love how this story is not just about friendship and adventure - which is so fun, by the way, but the authors show that caring for the environment is very important. Family plays a big part, too, as Jake worries about his dad, who struggles with depression. This series is terrific and I highly recommend it for kids and adults alike.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @maryalicemonroe and @angelamaybooks for a spot on tour and a gifted copy. (I loved all the special gifts too)!
Jake is back on the island and hopes to have fun with his pals, Lovie and Macon. It’s been tough with his dad trying to recover from the injuries he received in Afghanistan.
But when the friends see an article at Honey’s Nature Center claiming that some of Blackbeard’s treasure may be on the island, they are off on their next adventure.
I love how this story is not just about friendship and adventure - which is so fun, by the way, but the authors show that caring for the environment is very important. Family plays a big part, too, as Jake worries about his dad, who struggles with depression. This series is terrific and I highly recommend it for kids and adults alike.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @maryalicemonroe and @angelamaybooks for a spot on tour and a gifted copy. (I loved all the special gifts too)!
June 5, 2022
Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May are back with the sequel to their instant New York Times bestselling middle grade novel: The Islanders, with SEARCH FOR TREASURE; where Jake, Macon, and Lovie are back on Dewees Island for another summer without technology and spending more time with nature; this summer they become fascinated with Big Al and the other alligators on the island of Dewees, while they hunt for buried treasure with the help of Macon’s new metal detector.
An adorable novel for children 8-12.
An adorable novel for children 8-12.
June 20, 2022
“Nature makes children of us all” -Honey
I was so glad to be back on Dewees Island. It’s a year later and the gang is getting back together, but a lot can change in a year. Jake is hoping being back on the island will help his dad process his new prosthetic leg as well as the horrific memories from Afghanistan.
Macon has a new baby sister and is finding out it’s a little more difficult than he anticipated.
Lovie’s dad is back in her life and it’s tough reincorporating him.
There’s a treasure hunt, some island shenanigans, and a really great group of friends to make sure everything turns out alright.
I love how vivid the island is in my mind, I also love the emphasis on journaling.
Conservation is such an important part of the story and im here for it!
This is the PERFECT middle grade series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
An easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 14, 2022
Search for Treasure, (The Islanders, #2), by Mary Alice Monroe with Angela May was a delightful book (recommended age group 8-12 years old or grades 3-7th). The fun-loving characters from The Islanders, (The Islanders, #1), Jake, Macon, and Lovie, are back and full of their adventurous spirits. I loved everything about this story, especially the way Mary embraces nature to weave life lessons into her stories. I also loved the reference Jake made of his favorite book, Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, as that too was my son’s favorite book in his younger years. Search for Treasure, (The Islanders, #2), by Mary Alice Monroe with Angela May is a children’s book I highly recommend.
I won an Advanced Readers Copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
I won an Advanced Readers Copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
August 10, 2022
Written by perennial favorite Lowcountry author, Mary Alice Monroe and her long-time publicist, Angela May, I absolutely loved this book, the second in the series of summer adventures. Set on Deewee's Island, a barrier island in South Carolina, the island is a nature preserve and no cars are allowed, only golf carts. With no internet and no stores, the entertainment is provided by Mother Nature herself showing off with the pristine shoreline and an abundance of wildlife residents including shore birds, alligators, birds of prey and more.
Jake and his two friends spend their summers on the island and this summer, Jake's father will be there. After being seriously injured in Afghanistan, he is recovering and learning to adapt to his prosthetic leg and the many challenges he faces. Since Jake's father spent his summers on this very same island as a young boy, Jake and his friends are delighted to learn some history about their adventures, including something special hidden somewhere on the island.
This is a fun story for all ages and especially ideal for reading to or reading with young kids. Middle schoolers will enjoy the friendship and the shenanigans as well as the search for the "treasure".
I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series.
Jake and his two friends spend their summers on the island and this summer, Jake's father will be there. After being seriously injured in Afghanistan, he is recovering and learning to adapt to his prosthetic leg and the many challenges he faces. Since Jake's father spent his summers on this very same island as a young boy, Jake and his friends are delighted to learn some history about their adventures, including something special hidden somewhere on the island.
This is a fun story for all ages and especially ideal for reading to or reading with young kids. Middle schoolers will enjoy the friendship and the shenanigans as well as the search for the "treasure".
I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series.
June 13, 2022
Jake Potter is back on Dewees Island. So are his friends Macon and Lovie. SEARCH FOR TREASURE is a sequel to last summers THE ISLANDERS. Not just for kids, this novel is perfect and just in time for Father's Day. The escapades of the three young people are fun and yet filled with rich conservation topics as well as complicated relationships between parents and kids.
It's such a delight to disconnect and be on Dewees Island with these special people.
Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May have done it again!
It's such a delight to disconnect and be on Dewees Island with these special people.
Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May have done it again!
July 24, 2022
12 days and 10 state work trip/vacation ends today. We listened to the first book in this middle grade series headed West and the second coming back East. We learned a lot of animal facts and enjoyed the friendship of the three kids, now age 12, and the adults of The Island. Jake and his Dad are also centered in this second story showcasing military families and sacrifice while also healing physical and emotionally.
June 5, 2022
This is the second in the series but it can be read as standalone. I loved the theme of communication not only between the group of friends but with the adults as well. The adventures they went on were fun and educational. There was good teamwork and problem solving that was realistic as there were ups and downs along the way. I loved seeing how the group worked through the problems they came across. Throughout the book there were illustrations of what the kids encountered and I loved how they all had journals and each person used it in a different way. This book kept my attention and was a fast read, great for summer.
Thank you @maryalicemonroe @angelamaybooks @suzyapprovedbooktours and @simonkids for the gifted copy
Thank you @maryalicemonroe @angelamaybooks @suzyapprovedbooktours and @simonkids for the gifted copy
July 13, 2022
Decent middle grade book, lovely illustrations.
October 13, 2022
Excellent book about friendship, loyalty, love, encouragement , hope, and doing what is right regardless of the cost. A greet entertains book by with plenty of life’s lessons. Well done!
September 12, 2024
Such a fun follow up with characters I'm invested in. Hope there is a book 3. I love how the nature facts get slid in here and there
April 30, 2024
Rating by 8 year old
June 20, 2022
Search for Treasure is the second book in The Islanders series, and it is not just for middle graders; it is for everyone. It brought me back to many of my childhood memories especially the summertime ones. This is a wonderful story of family and friends, and it is also educational. Families will enjoy reading this together and maybe get the incentive to get outside and enjoy each other and nature.
August 11, 2022
Great story as usual. Cant wait for # 3!
July 10, 2022
Second book in this chapter book series for school age kids set on Dewees Island, and i’ve loved them both!
August 23, 2022
What worked:
The book addresses various emotional issues. Jake’s father lost a leg in the war and he’s struggling to accept his life as an amputee. He’s very self-conscious and sensitive about it and he will shut down emotionally when he’s reminded. The characters discover another veteran on the island with experiences from Vietnam and Jake, Lovie, and Macon learn a lesson about not judging others based on their appearances. Jake and Lovie’s friendship may become something more although it’s challenged by the appearance of two “Invaders”. The three main characters are best friends but each of them is forced to adapt to changing situations. Jake is especially frustrated by his father’s behavior as he battles with new challenges created by his prosthetic.
The overall book has a wholesome tone, which is not typical for today’s middle-grade novels. The main characters are respectful to their parents and don’t make irresponsible decisions. Dewees Island is a nature sanctuary so it doesn’t have any stores, restaurants, or other businesses. Cars aren’t allowed so residents travel the island on golf carts or by walking. Jack is shocked to learn his grandmother Honey now has internet service but she won’t let it interfere with his ability to commune with nature, friends, and family. She runs a nature center and has a strong personality. She’s determined to protect the plants and animals on the island and she’s aware that sometimes visitors need to be protected from the alligators.
Readers can learn a bit about U.S. history and about the wildlife found off the coast of South Carolina. The main characters are determined to find treasure and their initial research is on the history of Black Beard and shipwrecks in the area. Sea turtles lay eggs on the island and a team of residents is dedicated to protecting their nests and the hatchlings. Alligators roam in the wild and information about their habits is included in the plot with sea otters, dolphins, and other creatures making appearances. A tropical depression (not a hurricane) engulfs the island early in the story and readers will learn how these storms can affect the habitat.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot doesn’t create high drama or suspense which may not attract middle-grade readers. However, the story depicts young kids adventuring together in a very realistic way. They want to find a treasure but are willing to adjust their plans to more reasonable expectations. They confide in adults when they need help instead of making reckless choices that will only get them in further trouble. It’s refreshing to read realistic fiction that truly feels realistic.
The Final Verdict:
Good friends support each other, no matter what. The plot is easy to follow without any unnecessary, gimmicky twists. The author still forces the characters to adapt to changes and the story reinforces what true friendship might look like. I recommend young readers give this book a shot.
The book addresses various emotional issues. Jake’s father lost a leg in the war and he’s struggling to accept his life as an amputee. He’s very self-conscious and sensitive about it and he will shut down emotionally when he’s reminded. The characters discover another veteran on the island with experiences from Vietnam and Jake, Lovie, and Macon learn a lesson about not judging others based on their appearances. Jake and Lovie’s friendship may become something more although it’s challenged by the appearance of two “Invaders”. The three main characters are best friends but each of them is forced to adapt to changing situations. Jake is especially frustrated by his father’s behavior as he battles with new challenges created by his prosthetic.
The overall book has a wholesome tone, which is not typical for today’s middle-grade novels. The main characters are respectful to their parents and don’t make irresponsible decisions. Dewees Island is a nature sanctuary so it doesn’t have any stores, restaurants, or other businesses. Cars aren’t allowed so residents travel the island on golf carts or by walking. Jack is shocked to learn his grandmother Honey now has internet service but she won’t let it interfere with his ability to commune with nature, friends, and family. She runs a nature center and has a strong personality. She’s determined to protect the plants and animals on the island and she’s aware that sometimes visitors need to be protected from the alligators.
Readers can learn a bit about U.S. history and about the wildlife found off the coast of South Carolina. The main characters are determined to find treasure and their initial research is on the history of Black Beard and shipwrecks in the area. Sea turtles lay eggs on the island and a team of residents is dedicated to protecting their nests and the hatchlings. Alligators roam in the wild and information about their habits is included in the plot with sea otters, dolphins, and other creatures making appearances. A tropical depression (not a hurricane) engulfs the island early in the story and readers will learn how these storms can affect the habitat.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot doesn’t create high drama or suspense which may not attract middle-grade readers. However, the story depicts young kids adventuring together in a very realistic way. They want to find a treasure but are willing to adjust their plans to more reasonable expectations. They confide in adults when they need help instead of making reckless choices that will only get them in further trouble. It’s refreshing to read realistic fiction that truly feels realistic.
The Final Verdict:
Good friends support each other, no matter what. The plot is easy to follow without any unnecessary, gimmicky twists. The author still forces the characters to adapt to changes and the story reinforces what true friendship might look like. I recommend young readers give this book a shot.
June 18, 2022
Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May, the authors of “The Islanders SEARCH FOR TREASURE” have written an enlightening, captivating, and delightful novel for children of all ages, and adults as well. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. As a teacher, I admit to loving this fictional story with so much thought-provoking information!
Jake Potter and his friends Macon and Lovie are at Dewees Island this summer with his grandmother. Jake and Macon are dealing with challenging events in their families. Jake’s father is adjusting to a prosthetic leg, after coming home wounded from Afghanistan, and Macon is dealing with a new baby in the house. The island provides a wonderful opportunity for adventure, exploring nature, and learning about the natural wildlife.
The three friends are given notebooks to use as journals by Jake’s grandmother to make notes of interesting things. The three friends study the history of the island and find that pirates and lost ships landed on the island and there have been some coins discovered. They are now obsessed with finding treasure.
What exactly is a treasure and what can treasure be worth? I love the way that the authors discuss the importance of family, friendship, and kindness. Jake and his friends realize they have to be encouraging and kind to each other and other people as well as the animals and wildlife that inhabit the island. Also, I appreciate that the authors mention the difficulties with physical and emotional handicaps and the importance of support and love. I would highly recommend this amazing book!
Jake Potter and his friends Macon and Lovie are at Dewees Island this summer with his grandmother. Jake and Macon are dealing with challenging events in their families. Jake’s father is adjusting to a prosthetic leg, after coming home wounded from Afghanistan, and Macon is dealing with a new baby in the house. The island provides a wonderful opportunity for adventure, exploring nature, and learning about the natural wildlife.
The three friends are given notebooks to use as journals by Jake’s grandmother to make notes of interesting things. The three friends study the history of the island and find that pirates and lost ships landed on the island and there have been some coins discovered. They are now obsessed with finding treasure.
What exactly is a treasure and what can treasure be worth? I love the way that the authors discuss the importance of family, friendship, and kindness. Jake and his friends realize they have to be encouraging and kind to each other and other people as well as the animals and wildlife that inhabit the island. Also, I appreciate that the authors mention the difficulties with physical and emotional handicaps and the importance of support and love. I would highly recommend this amazing book!
June 6, 2022
One of my favorite women’s fiction authors has written a second installment in this middle grade series about three friends that spend each summer together on Dewes Island, South Carolina.
This summer focuses on Jake, Macon, and Lovie searching for evidence of Blackbeard’s treasure. During this search, physical treasure becomes less important than the appreciation of being with family and friends.
There are also two new visitors to the island that the friends call “the Invaders” whose lack of respect for the natural environment could get them seriously hurt.
This book not only is a great jumping off point for discussions about nature it is also a great time to talk with your middle grade reader about mental health.
In this book, Jake’s dad comes to Dewes Island for the summer, which was his childhood home. He is dealing with losing his leg after being injured in Afghanistan the year before. This injury has affected him more than just physically and Jake worries about his dad.
A great summer read for all kids (and this adult enjoyed it too)!
This summer focuses on Jake, Macon, and Lovie searching for evidence of Blackbeard’s treasure. During this search, physical treasure becomes less important than the appreciation of being with family and friends.
There are also two new visitors to the island that the friends call “the Invaders” whose lack of respect for the natural environment could get them seriously hurt.
This book not only is a great jumping off point for discussions about nature it is also a great time to talk with your middle grade reader about mental health.
In this book, Jake’s dad comes to Dewes Island for the summer, which was his childhood home. He is dealing with losing his leg after being injured in Afghanistan the year before. This injury has affected him more than just physically and Jake worries about his dad.
A great summer read for all kids (and this adult enjoyed it too)!
June 28, 2022
So in Searching for Treasure we are back on Dewees Island exploring a luscious part of South Carolina. These preteens have a lot to unpack this summer and what a wonderful place to do it.
While this is the second novel in the series I felt it could have been read as a stand alone, but hey, that first book The Islands was fantastic too, so check it out!
In this novel we find that the three main characters that are dealing with their own personal issues. Jakes father is dealing with coming home and adjusting to a new normal with his prosthetic leg. Mason has a new baby sister and Lovie’s father is back in her life.
We read this together as a family and my kids loved hearing more about the characters and their families, they also enjoyed the treasure hunt. I loved this group of friends, they were there for each other and it was a great example for my kids. I also appreciated the conservation aspect of the book. It is a well written story and I hope there are more to come. (For reference my kids are 14, 11, 9 and 4).
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
While this is the second novel in the series I felt it could have been read as a stand alone, but hey, that first book The Islands was fantastic too, so check it out!
In this novel we find that the three main characters that are dealing with their own personal issues. Jakes father is dealing with coming home and adjusting to a new normal with his prosthetic leg. Mason has a new baby sister and Lovie’s father is back in her life.
We read this together as a family and my kids loved hearing more about the characters and their families, they also enjoyed the treasure hunt. I loved this group of friends, they were there for each other and it was a great example for my kids. I also appreciated the conservation aspect of the book. It is a well written story and I hope there are more to come. (For reference my kids are 14, 11, 9 and 4).
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
July 7, 2022
A return to Dewees Island in the MG sequel to The Islanders!
🐊
Jake’s back on the island, ready to see his BFFs, even though they haven’t talked much throughout the school year they’ve been on the mainland. Turns out a lot can change in a year. Macon has grown and has a mustache, but is also struggling being a big brother while Lovie is adjusting to having a relationship with her imprisoned father. Jake wants everything to be like it once was so when he hears about someone finding gold on the island he makes it his mission to find the treasure. Perhaps that will also help with his own issues as his father struggles with the loss of his leg, his career in the military and the friends he lost as well. Can this summer help heal them all?
🏴☠️
I am so into this series! I love the authors’ ability to take serious topics and also make them relatable to this age. This is the making of a classic series that will stand the test of time. I need more!
CW: depression, climate change, prison
🐊
Jake’s back on the island, ready to see his BFFs, even though they haven’t talked much throughout the school year they’ve been on the mainland. Turns out a lot can change in a year. Macon has grown and has a mustache, but is also struggling being a big brother while Lovie is adjusting to having a relationship with her imprisoned father. Jake wants everything to be like it once was so when he hears about someone finding gold on the island he makes it his mission to find the treasure. Perhaps that will also help with his own issues as his father struggles with the loss of his leg, his career in the military and the friends he lost as well. Can this summer help heal them all?
🏴☠️
I am so into this series! I love the authors’ ability to take serious topics and also make them relatable to this age. This is the making of a classic series that will stand the test of time. I need more!
CW: depression, climate change, prison
May 17, 2022
I received this from a Goodreads giveaway.
I always love pretty much anything about a Mary Alice Monroe book since she writes about the islands around Charleston, where I live. She always manages to evoke vivid imagery, and was able to capture some of that in her books in The Islanders series. However, I think there was quite a bit of carryover from the first to the second book and there was at least one part where I thought it may have been reusing the same words (though that may be a misplaced sense of deja-vu). The illustrations were cute in this book, but actually seemed less “polished” than the ones in the previous… if they’re supposed to be Jake’s, it seems a little strange they’d go back in level of detail.
Either way, I thought it was a cute middle grade book, and if Goodreads had a half-point scale I’d give it a 3.5.
I always love pretty much anything about a Mary Alice Monroe book since she writes about the islands around Charleston, where I live. She always manages to evoke vivid imagery, and was able to capture some of that in her books in The Islanders series. However, I think there was quite a bit of carryover from the first to the second book and there was at least one part where I thought it may have been reusing the same words (though that may be a misplaced sense of deja-vu). The illustrations were cute in this book, but actually seemed less “polished” than the ones in the previous… if they’re supposed to be Jake’s, it seems a little strange they’d go back in level of detail.
Either way, I thought it was a cute middle grade book, and if Goodreads had a half-point scale I’d give it a 3.5.
June 24, 2024
When Jake, Lovie and Macon return to DeWeese Island for another summer things are different. Jake’s dad, an amputee from his service in Afghanistan, is struggling and Jake hopes his return to his boyhood home will help. Macon’s new baby sister is seriously changing his schedule and responsibilities. Lovie is her friendliest self and some tourist kids interfere with her time with Jake and Macon and feelings are hurt.
The Islanders are interested in looking for Blackbeard’s treasure but what they find is so much more valuable: Jake’s dad finds himself through his past and his childhood friend, Jake and Macon realize that Lovie’s friendship is more valuable than treasure and they all learn that people can’t be undervalued because they look a bit rumpled, damaged and intense.
The Islanders are interested in looking for Blackbeard’s treasure but what they find is so much more valuable: Jake’s dad finds himself through his past and his childhood friend, Jake and Macon realize that Lovie’s friendship is more valuable than treasure and they all learn that people can’t be undervalued because they look a bit rumpled, damaged and intense.
May 24, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. This is book two in the fun series, The Islanders. Set on Dewees Island, we're back to exploring the island with Jake, his dad, and his two best island friends! This middle grade book was such a fun read, and I know that it definitely helped me to feel like I was escaping to the island, even if just for a short time. As an adult who loves children's stories as much as adult stories, I enjoyed this read. However, I personally enjoyed the first book a little better than this one. But I know that kids will love the search for treasure in this story! This is a fun summer read not to be missed!
June 1, 2022
Thank you Simon Audio for the gifted audiobook.
The second installment in this series was just as delightful as the first! I loved going back to Dewees Island and getting to be with the Islanders again. I adore a treasure hunt book and this one was so fun as the kids learned about each other as they searched for clues. One thing I love about these books is that the kids do have pretty responsible adult oversight that doesn't hinder the plot, but adds to it. That is so rare in middle grade novels to have good adults, but good adults who are great characters themselves are an extra bonus. They are dealing with their own personal growth and they get to do it admirably along with the kids.
The second installment in this series was just as delightful as the first! I loved going back to Dewees Island and getting to be with the Islanders again. I adore a treasure hunt book and this one was so fun as the kids learned about each other as they searched for clues. One thing I love about these books is that the kids do have pretty responsible adult oversight that doesn't hinder the plot, but adds to it. That is so rare in middle grade novels to have good adults, but good adults who are great characters themselves are an extra bonus. They are dealing with their own personal growth and they get to do it admirably along with the kids.
September 28, 2022
The Islander books have captured my son’s imagination, and my heart. We read both books currently available in the series together at bedtime in less than a month, and are wishing there were more available. The writers really bring Dewees Island to life. We have had a lot of fun researching there island and learning more about the things that sparked our interest in the book. Kind of sad it’s a private island. I would love to take a trip there with my kids! These are stories about the importance of nature, family, and friends. The story of Jake and his father learning to deal with some very hard changes in their lives are beautifully written. Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
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