Mathew and Ryan are two teenage boys who happen to be best friends as well. They awake, unsure of where they are or even how they got there. They only remember their names and each other. As they look around, they realize they are on an island and begin to make plans to ensure their escape and rescue. However, as they explore to try to find the sources they need to survive, like fresh water and food, the two boys realize this is game they are playing. With each successful challenge attempt, they are rewarded with fresh water and food, but they must work together as they try to find out how to get off this island, while somehow being transported around to different quadrants of the island to face new challenges and test their friendship and teamwork. How will these two ever get off the island and how did they get there in the first place? Will Mathew and Ryan ever figure out the next steps to obtain their freedom?
Island Games: Mystery of the Four Quadrants by Caleb J. Boyer is a delightful young adult fiction novel. In the beginning it did present some confusion and the confusion did only grow through out the story. Not that it was an awful thing, but I do wish some of the questions that are prosed by the characters would be answered. I have a feeling this book is the first of a series and I will be hunting down the series as I still have questions. I did find the unanswered questions extremely frustrating as I feel that information could be helpful. Otherwise, I do not have any other qualms with this narrative.
Besides the above statements, I loved Island Games: Mystery of the Four Quadrants. The story was compelling and the way everything was described made the story even more intriguing. I found it was hard to put down and stay away from for any amount of time. It was my first book by the author, and it made me want more. The writing style grabs you and keeps your hooked throughout the journey. Everything is smooth and enjoyable. The characters were easy to relate to. They had so many qualities that you see with teenage boys that you can’t help but smile at the two boys’ interactions with each other. It was quite refreshing to read, for sure.
As far as who I believe this book could be enjoyed by, I would recommend those who love Young Adult Fiction books. It was truly enjoyable but lacked anything to make this seem too dramatic or gory. It is a book I would say young adults could enjoy and even children can be read this book. It wasn’t exceptionally scary or had any aspects that would be inappropriate for any age. With everything I have gone over for this story, I do have to say I would rate Island Games: Mystery of the Four Quadrants by Caleb J Boyer three out of four stars. It was very enjoyable and I didn’t want to put it down, but not having all the questions answered did leave me a little unsatisfied and frustrated with the author. I would read it again, but I would have to wait some time or until another book is out to finish answering all my questions. I feel like the ending should have provided some answers, even though it was a bit of a cliff hanger. Overall, it was an amazing tale.
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