The Seven Stones
In The Seven Stones, prehistoric-era siblings Kadya and Ruark are thrown into a desperate struggle for survival. The teens’ once peaceful world crumbles as violence and greed consume their village. They are left searching for answers and their missing family. With only whispers of an ancient legend to guide them, they embark on a perilous journey through the wilderness, where a mysterious gemstone holds the key to their fate.
Kadya and Ruark’s quest includes many exciting adventures that are accessible to young readers. Their foraging for food, finding shelter, and navigating an unforgiving landscape rife with hostile invaders will keep young readers turning pages. However, the lack of character development, the generic wilderness setting, and a weak thematic core might leave parents and teachers wanting a bit more.
The story is filled with death-defying climbs, harrowing kidnappings, and encounters with the mystical. However, the author turns the audience’s attention elsewhere when the action becomes intense or a character seems on the verge of a meaningful transformation. While the author does bring the plot to a satisfying conclusion, several other elements of the story feel a bit unfinished. I recommend this book for readers 12 and up who enjoy an easy-to-read action adventure.
