About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
Left alone for the first time on the island he calls home, Simon is looking forward to a day of personal indulgence.
Simon's sister Ellen only wants to make sure they get their chores done. Their parents are busy trying to convince the government not to close the lighthouse that the family operates, and it's up to the kids to make sure everything runs smoothly. Neither Simon nor Ellen is prepared for the mysterious and potentially dangerous visitor who brings with him an unexpected storm and a riddle that may lead to treasure—treasure that could help them save the lighthouse. Simon and Ellen have to work together to solve the riddle before the stranger—or the weather—destroys their chances.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
Contributor Notes
Kari Jones is a Victoria-based writer and teacher who has a passion for the out-of-doors. She loves to spend time exploring the natural world and dreaming up adventures to share.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Editorial Reviews
"The pace is relentless and the wild, exotic and beautiful setting of the coastal island will intrigue readers who are unfamiliar with coastal life. Action oriented Simon and the responsible clever Ellen will appeal to the intended readers, both boys and girls, who are struggling with reading."
— Resource Links
"A quick read packed with adventure."
— School Librarian's Workshop
"Jones festoons this quick read with several well-shaped action sequences and a steady application of danger in the guise of both the elements and the treasure-seeking villain. An entry in the reliable reluctant-reader Orca Currents series, this story holds plenty of appeal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to fill some of those armchair moments."
— Booklist
"The brother-sister relationship between Simon and Ellen is rightly used as tension to its full extent...Information about tides and Juan de Fuca (an European explorer for whom the Juan de Fuca Strait and the Juan de Fuca plate are named after) is inserted carefully and without intrusion and provides an enriched reading experience. Recommended."
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"This fast-paced adventure story would be perfect for struggling readers. The story captures the reader's interest from the beginning and holds it throughout. The clues are easy to follow, and the book would be a good introduction to mystery stories."
— Library Media Connection
