Book details
Island Tales
Description
Two classic stories about the Isle of Scilly from War Horse author and former Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo.
The Wreck of the Zanzibar:
Life on the Scilly Isles in 1907 is bleak and full of hardship. Laura's twin brother, Billy, disappears, and then a storm devastates everything. It seems there's little hope . . . that is until the Zanzibar is wrecked on the island's rocks and everything changes.
Why the Whales Came:
Gracie and her friend, Daniel have always been warned to stay away from the Birdman and his side of the island. They find a message in the sand and discover the Birdman is not who they thought. Then the children get stranded on Samson Island . . .
Michael Morpurgo is the master storyteller behind An Eagle in the Snow, Listen to the Moon, Private Peaceful, and An Elephant in the Garden. Michael has written more than one hundred books for children and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.
Age
7-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
304 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Storytelling: Michael Morpurgo is renowned for his captivating storytelling style, which draws readers into the narrative and makes the characters and their adventures come alive.
- Themes of Adventure and Friendship: 'Island Tales' often explores the themes of adventure and friendship, offering readers a chance to escape into a world of exploration and camaraderie.
- Moral and Ethical Lessons: The stories in 'Island Tales' frequently impart important moral and ethical lessons, making them not only entertaining but also educational for readers of all ages.
- Cultural and Environmental Awareness: Through the various settings and plots within 'Island Tales,' readers gain awareness and appreciation for different cultures and the importance of environmental conservation.