The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool
by PJ LaRue
Illustrated by Aristides Rodriguez
Chapter Book
Pages: 63
For ages: 5 to 10
Join Exciting Princess Adventures and Learn Life Lessons Along the Way Have you ever wanted to ride a dolphin or dreamed of playing on a rainbow as if it were a waterslide? How would you feel if someone tried to kidnap you, and you were forced to move to Hawai'i to hide and live with people you don't know? That happened to Harmonie. Come meet Harmonie, her new Mystic Princess friends, and find out what happens when her enemies, the Children of Ares, find her again.
Purchase * Goodreads
MY TIDBITS
This story starts out right in the middle of an action scene. Harmonie is almost kidnapped, but saved by her brother Eros in the last moment. We learn right away about the secret behind Harmonie and Eros' parents as well as the danger Harmonie finds herself in. As beginnings go, it's captivating and launches the story full force. Still, I would have enjoyed having just a bit more time to learn to get to know the characters.
This isn't a only a story about Harmonie but envelopes an entire rainbow of characters. Although the 'bad' guys are mentioned, the story shifts to Harmonie's protectors. Living on Hawaii, these girls are special in their own right, each possessing a 'super' power. t's a lovely group of girls (with respectable parents). They mold together seamlessly, forming a wonderful bond of friendship--and it's exactly this which makes this story so warm. I love the trust the parents put into the girls, and the way the girls work together. There are many good messages in here.
This isn't a complex story but set just perfect for lower readers. The author never goes into heavy descriptions or explanations but lets the plot unfold. It's not an especially tense or dangerous plot, either. Although Harmonie is the target of the God of War and his children, the danger is kept fitting for the intended age group. I think that especially children ages 6 to 8 will enjoy this and get their first glimpse into myths and Greek gods.
BOOK BUZZ
"The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool has a delightful plot. P. J. LaRue uses mythological characters to tell a lively story of bravery and friendship. The book teaches important lessons on strengths and weaknesses, conservation and safety. This is the first book in the Mystic Princesses series, and I cannot wait for the next princesses' adventure to come. Young girls will love The Mystic Princesses adventure on their bedside table." ~ Kelly Santana, Readers' Favorite Book Reviews
"A lovely book for children with colourful pictures and any child who reads it will be looking for a sequel." ~ 5 Star Review, Diane, Amazon
"'The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool' is a confidence boosting book for children, giving them important information. It is the first in a series and I look forward to reading more about Harmonie and her friends." ~ 5 Star Review, Mary C., Goodreads
"This early chapter book is perfect for children ages six through ten. It does not portray wimpy princesses, but strong, respectful and independent female role models involved in many adventures in which they learn to overcome their weaknesses, act against bullying, and cooperate with friends and family to promote human welfare and peace. Short chapters interspersed with illustrations will maintain interest if the book is read aloud for younger children. Introduce your little princess to this one." ~ 5 Star Review, Barbara M., Amazon
"The short chapters would make this ideal for younger girls who are newer to reading Chapter Books. The colourful illustrations are excellent, and compliment this warm story nicely. A new series for girls, offering a fun way to learn valuable life lessons." ~ 5 Star Review, M.J. Kinsmen, Amazon
About the Author: PJ LaRue
PJ LaRue wrote poetry in high school, but she discovered writing children’s books and short stories later in life. Her writing inspirations are hiking, photography and environmental consciousness, but she links these interests to much larger social issues. A person very close to PJ was molested as a child, making PJ passionate about providing child safety tips. And, PJ was bullied in the third grade by girls much larger than she, who demanded that PJ give them her lunch money. As a result, PJ is committed to spreading the word that bullying must be stopped.
One of PJ’s goals is to help educate children, parents and caregivers, in a fun way, using her children’s book series, The Mystic Princesses. Because PJ loves to travel, the princesses will visit many locales, learning about environmental concerns along the way.
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