An Unusual Island

An Unusual Island is a guaranteed hit with any tween who enjoys a fun read! When Janie and her family win a contest that they had never entered in the first place, they receive a prize they never would have expected in their wildest dreams: a trip to an island — but it’s not just any island. Janie finds herself on a peculiar island full of strange plants, a curious absence of life, and mysterious meals being provided for her family from an anonymous host. When her family finally meets the bizarre inhabitants, the bird-people, of the odd island, they are tasked to help save the entire species! Janie and her brother must make a choice of which side to be on in the bird-people’s war, and one wrong choice could mean being stuck on the eccentric island forever and never seeing their parents again.

The novel unravels with a very colorful and unique plot. The chapters are well organized and flow with ease, connecting the adventures of various characters to one another. D.L. Finn has created a story like no other, and her descriptive writing projects a vibrant image in the reader’s mind. She describes the unusual island and its spectacular bird-people in a nicely detailed and illustrative way. With spunky characters and a creative storyline, An Unusual Island stands out, ensuring a special place on your list of favorite books. The author has also done a fantastic job of keeping the story light and fun, while still tying in traditional themes of trust, decision-making, and teamwork. The variety of themes alternate throughout Janie’s journey, producing an engaging and page-turning story. This book is strongly recommended to anyone ages 8-13 who wants a unique and fun book.