Mystery Of The Dazzling Death Games

Filled with imagination and creativity. Perfect for 8-13 age group.

Genre: Children's Fantasy

Rating: 3/5

Coming from a budding 13 year old author, this book is perfect for preteens. However, as an adult, this is a slow read and it might not be for you. This definitely wasn't for me.

The book follows the adventures of 3 siblings, Murphy, Skipper, and Zara in the Land of Imagination. On a boring afternoon, the kids find a button that teleports them to this land of Arphs (creatures of the Land of Imagination), but they end up getting trapped in the land. The only way to return is to play the games created by the imagination of children on earth, and find their way to the exit gate.

I found the book to be highly creative and filled with author's young imagination. There were proper twists and turns, and the author tried to put a few messages in between. I particularly liked the climax which teaches the lesson of forgiveness. I was surprised to see such a young mind grasping the evils of death penalty and advocating against it.

Unfortunately, the book does not do justice to the “mystery” in it's title. I feel there was a lack of suspense in the book. That is also why it was such a slow read for me. I think a few elements of mystery and suspense would've kept the reader engaged. The book also seemed to be quite stretchy and I found the writing to be a bit verbose.

But overall it isn't a bad read. And I am positive it will appeal to preteens and children.