Penguin Books: Young Adult

September 2002 $16.95

216p pbk

ISBN: 0143001124

This book, The Girl from the Sea, was written by James Aldridge. It is about a boy, Beau, who is hurt in an explosion which causes him many injuries. After he spends two months with his Aunt Mimi to help his injuries, his life changes drastically. On his holiday he meets Lelee, an interesting girl. That’s when all the adventures begin. If you enjoy reading mystery and adventure books then you will love this book.

It appeals to the intended audience because it is more than words on a piece of paper. It is a well written story which appeals to young teenagers.

After a slow start I found myself not wanting to put the book down. The background and setting are very real and you almost feel as if you’re there. The plot was easy to follow and was simple to pick up from where you last read. The story developed to a pleasing climax which you wanted to happen to benefit the characters. The plot was made more enjoyable by the use of believable characters; I really felt as if I knew them.

The use of French made this book more difficult to read than it could have been. The structure of the text made it a relaxing and easy to read alone. This book was written for entertainment and I didn’t see any strong messages. I would highly recommend the book, although I wouldn’t say it’s a classic.

Alexandra, Year 7, Canberra, ACT

Beau has been crippled and almost blinded by an accident and is staying with his Aunt Mimi in the South of France to help him recuperate. While staying there, he meets a girl named Lelee, the daughter of a smuggler. Lelee is intent on looking for a sunken metal treasure box because her father was looking for it.  She finds it but is stopped because it is full of guns…

The story also has romance and sad bits in it. The author James Aldridge wrote the book very well I think and it was never boring.  It was exciting and each page held a new thrilling and exciting adventure.

I recommend this book to readers aged 10 to 15 years. It was a medium level to read; the writing was just right.  However I think the French words should have been translated somewhere in the book.

Wayne, aged 14, rural South Australia