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Journey Through Ash and Smoke
Journey Through Ash and Smoke
Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: May 7, 2018
Review
Ranger is back for another adventure in book five of the series. Ranger is a time traveling golden retriever with specialized training in search and rescue. He usually is the one doing all the rescuing, but in this Viking Age Iceland adventure, Ranger finds himself in some tough situations. This time it is a courageous girl named Helga who offers assistance and helps Ranger get out of danger more than once. Young readers will be on the edge as Ranger deals with a scary journey through dark smoke and ash. The clearly written text is broken into 16 short chapters with occasional B&W illustrations that complement the story. The Author's Note section at the end is of particular interest as it provides background information on the week long trip doing research in Iceland. B&W photographs of the area are also included. A Further Reading Section with a listing of books and websites is also included along with a Sources section and information about the author. To close out the book, is a preview of Ranger's next adventure in San Francisco where he helps out in the aftermath of the great earthquake. This book will be especially liked by young readers who enjoy the Magic Tree House. A recommended series for both school and pubic libraries.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Messner, Kate
Illustrator: Messner, Kelley
Illustration Quality: very good
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Book Type: chapter book fiction
Genre: adventure,fantasy,historical fiction
Audience: grades k-3
Binding Type: reinforced trade binding
Binding Quality: very good
ISBN: 9780545909792
Price: 17.99