Baby Island : Book Review

"Baby Island" by Carol Ryrie Brink is an enchanting children's book that takes readers on an exciting and heartwarming adventure. Following the shipwreck of two young sisters named Mary and Jean, the story begins as they find themselves stranded on a deserted island. With only their resourcefulness and determination, the girls must navigate the challenges of survival.

However, the girls soon discover that they are not alone. They encounter four young boys who are also stranded on the island. Together, the group of children form a bond and embark on a journey to create a home and family in their newfound paradise.

Brink's storytelling skills shine through as she masterfully weaves together elements of adventure, friendship, and ingenuity. Each character is well-developed and relatable, with their unique traits and skills adding depth to the narrative. Mary, as the older sister, assumes a leadership role, while Jean's innocence and vulnerability bring a touch of sweetness to the story. The bond that forms between the siblings and the newfound boys is heartwarming and captivating.

One of the strengths of "Baby Island" lies in Brink's ability to create a vivid and detailed setting. Descriptions of the island's lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife transport readers into the story, allowing them to experience the thrilling adventures alongside the children. The importance of resourcefulness and problem-solving is emphasized as the characters must find innovative ways to meet their basic needs and ultimately survive on the island.

The pace of the story is well-balanced, combining action-packed moments with reflective interludes. Brink presents numerous exciting challenges and obstacles for the children to overcome, from encounters with wild animals to treacherous storms, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The natural and age-appropriate dialogue further brings the characters to life, creating an immersive reading experience.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Carol Ryrie Brink's book "Baby Island" among readers has been mixed. On one hand, some readers found the adventurous and heartwarming storyline enjoyable, while others found it unrealistic and lacking in depth.

Those who enjoyed the book praised its charming and engaging plot. The concept of two young girls stranded on a deserted island with four babies was described as intriguing and exciting. The story was said to be fast-paced and imaginative, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end. Readers also appreciated the resilience and resourcefulness of the main characters, Mary and Jean.

However, there were readers who found the premise of the story to be too far-fetched and unrealistic. They found it hard to believe that two small children could successfully care for four babies alone on an uninhabited island. Some reviewers felt that the resolutions in the book were overly convenient and lacked credibility. This led to a sense of disconnect and dissatisfaction.

Some readers praised Carol Ryrie Brink's writing style, noting her ability to create vivid imagery and capture the innocence and determination of the young characters. They found her prose engaging and suitable for young readers. However, others criticized the lack of depth in character development and the simplistic nature of the writing.

The emotional impact of the story received mixed reactions as well. Some readers felt a strong attachment to the characters and were moved by the bond they formed with the babies. However, others found the emotional aspects of the book lacking, with shallow character arcs and minimal exploration of deeper themes.

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