The launch of an exciting new fantasy series for 7-12 year olds. Cole Randolph was just trying to have a fun time with his friends on Halloween (and maybe get to know Jenna Hunt a little better). But when he and his friends break into a spooky house with the scariest rep in town, it turns out to be the start of an adventure on a whole different level!
As his friends are mysteriously sucked away into another realm Cole dives in after them and finds himself in a magical place called The Outskirts. Made up of five kingdoms, The Outskirts lie between wakefulness and dreaming, reality and imagination, between life and death. It’s an in-between place. And once you find your way to the Outskirts, it’s very hard to leave…
MOVE OVER PERCY JACKSON, THERE’S A NEW HERO IN TOWN!
Available as paperback from your prefered book retailer for $14.99
Adventurous, intriguing and insightful into the pre-tween world.
Looking at a boy with a glowing sword and a massive scorpion calls to you from the front cover, it calls out to you…Adventure! Epic Battles! Fantastical Creatures!
From the very first words that jump off the page…’weaving down the hall, Cole avoided a ninja, a witch, a pirate…’ Our imagination take flights! We are engaged! We meet our main character, we know it’s Halloween, we meet his mate Dalton and we know about a girl-friend (emphasis) on the friend – Jenna. We are transported and already relating to the characters – our new friends.
In the very first pages we get a sense of who Cole is, a very smart boy who may or may not have a little crush on this girl and to prove he’s ‘cool’ like the other kids sets up to meet at the ‘Spooky alley house’…but don’t forget the haul of candy!
For a group of kids in a haunted house on Halloween you know and feel something is going to happen. Even if you’re too cool for trick-a-treating, don’t really like that girl ‘more’ than a friend, cause you really want to hang…but also cause you’re not afraid…You know you want to…Go on! Open that ‘white door with a plain brass knob’…read on, you know you want to know what happens…go on I dare you!
My eleven year old nephew absolutely loved this book. I bought it to encourage him to read now he wants to read more. Great fantasy book that is fun to read for kids and the young at heart. Brandon Mull writes in such a manner that you are drawn into a magical fantasy world.
This is a great book for pre teens, teens and adults (I’m a kid at heart), anyone who enjoys fantasy mystery. Brandon Mull is a great writer and it’s hard to put the book down once you start reading. He transforms you into another world so you enjoy reading. Great book to encourage children to read, that’s why I gave it to my 11 year old nephew,
I have finally manged to pry this book out of my son’s hand so that I could actually look at it! He ploughed through the book in records speed and then gave it to Dad to read as well – huge thumbs up all round in this household. Suitable for readers 9 to 99 and my nephew is currently reading it. Yes, we will be tracking down the series as it is a Fabulous adventure!
My son is just starting to read books and he couldn’t put this book down it keep him on the edge of his sit, and he loved it that much he read it again
My daughter loves these types of books so was very excited to receive the book yesterday. Her first impressions after reading a few chapters is that the book is very exciting! She tells me so far she really likes the story which is about a boy named Cole. She didn’t want to give all the details and spoil it for other readers but it starts with Cole and his friends going into a haunted house where they get kidnapped. Cole goes down a ladder to rescue his friends and finds himself in another universe. She couldn’t wait to keep reading it today and took it to school for silent reading time. She recommends it for kids over nine.
I dared to drop into the darkness with Cole…and I was transported…engaged…and ready to see this adventure out with him. You are immersed with the need to help his friends, to learn more about the place that couldn’t possibility exist – but it does and each word and each step that Cole makes, you need to know what happens next! Its a page turner and a tale twister! The immersion into this strange new world, the adventures he undertakes but with the final end game to rescue his friends always at the back of your mind. There is courage and determination and sheer luck on Coles part. You feel his sense of defeat of being sold as a slave, scared when he runs his first mission, relieved when he survives another day and that eventually he makes friends in a strange world.
It’s his story, that crosses with another character, to help him reach his end goal but to perhaps enable him to help someone else along the way. There is no guile to who he is or his lack of bravery, he is indeed an accidental hero but with a heart of gold that bonds you to him. To travel with him to rescue his friends, to help others along the way and to really live the adventure of the Outskirts! There are lessons to be learned in these books, that resonant outside of the covers of this magnificent novel.
The imagination of the author, the detail and the ability to keep the reader engaged is a testament to his wordsmith. His ability to capture the imagination of young readers has branched out to capturing the imagination of a mother of two! I have been given the opportunity to revisit my childhood through this book, to read through the eyes of a male author (very rare for me) and to learn a little more about my pre-tween son’s world of books and maybe find a common bond not just in reading by the adventures of these books with him.I cannot wait for the next book in the Five Kingdoms Trilogy: Skyraiders series. A need to know that Cole and his band of mismatched friends will complete their next quest, my curiosity of the world in which he is trapped in, what is shapecraft and if they can save his friends and topple the HighShaper! If you’re not reading Brandon Mull, you need to get on it – NOW!
I bought this book for my 11 year old nephew as a present, hoping he would develop a love of reading as his mother and Auntie have. He absolutely loved it and now I’m keen to borrow it and see what it’s like. I will be tracking down the other titles in the series for Christmas presents.
My 11 year old son loved this book. He can’t wait for more to come out. Read it at night and also over the school holidays. I was very surprised that he wrote a book review about it at school as well. Told me doesn’t wanna give to much away to me as he wants me now to read it. Gr8 book, thankyou for allowing us to read it and review it..
My eleven year old nephew absolutely loved this book. I bought it to encourage him to read now he wants to read more. Great fantasy book that is fun to read for kids and the young at heart. Brandon Mull writes in such a manner that you are drawn into a magical fantasy world.
This is a great book for pre teens, teens and adults (I’m a kid at heart), anyone who enjoys fantasy mystery. Brandon Mull is a great writer and it’s hard to put the book down once you start reading. He transforms you into another world so you enjoy reading. Great book to encourage children to read, that’s why I gave it to my 11 year old nephew,
I bought this book for my 11 year old nephew as a present, hoping he would develop a love of reading as his mother and Auntie have. He absolutely loved it and now I’m keen to borrow it and see what it’s like. I will be tracking down the other titles in the series for Christmas presents.
I got Five Kingdoms: Sky Raiders for my nephew who said he thought it a good book. Loving science fiction / adventure novels myself I was keen to find a book out there that catered to young kids so this was a great find. It’s easy for them to relate to the characters and the story is interesting.
My nephew loved this book and it was his first introduction to science fiction / fantasy adventure novel. Being a fan of this genre myself it was good to find something that I could surprise my nephew with. He found it really absorbing and intriguing and couldn’t put the book down till the end. A great read for a ten year old! I wish there had been more young child friendly science fiction adventure novels when I was younger!
My 11 year old son loved this book. He can’t wait for more to come out. Read it at night and also over the school holidays. I was very surprised that he wrote a book review about it at school as well. Told me doesn’t wanna give to much away to me as he wants me now to read it. Gr8 book, thankyou for allowing us to read it and review it..
I only got half way through the first chapter before my son lost interest but he is only 7 and if it’s not star wars or Lego at the moment it’s just not cool! I got through 3 chapters before I ran out of time to sit and read (I also have a 2 yr old and a 4 month old so reading time is few and far between) But from what i did read it was captivating, so I donated the book to my son’s library and so far it hasn’t touched the shelf! One of the students read it and now her mum is asking where she can find them!
My ten year old daughter loved this book so much that she can’t wait for the next one to come out! I’ve tried asking her about it but she doesn’t want to give to much more away than I have in the previous review. She finished the book and said it was amazing. As stated previously probably better for kids over 9 or ten because of the content. She would definitely recommend this book for boys or girls.
This is one of those books that both tweens and parents could enjoy together. Love that there is strong female character and lots of twists and turns. I also like that it will carry on over several books in order to get to the other worlds!
I have finally manged to pry this book out of my son’s hand so that I could actually look at it! He ploughed through the book in records speed and then gave it to Dad to read as well – huge thumbs up all round in this household. Suitable for readers 9 to 99 and my nephew is currently reading it. Yes, we will be tracking down the series as it is a Fabulous adventure!
My son is just starting to read books and he couldn’t put this book down it keep him on the edge of his sit, and he loved it that much he read it again
I found this book rather in ticking as now each evening I get time to sit down with my eldest daughter and read to her which is connecting us more, it’s even better that it’s a book that we can talk about together, I would define toy continue to buy this series and read with her.
The first few chapters were a bit difficult to get into as the ‘love story’ is established and Cole gets through the shock of the new world, but from about the middle of the book onwards the writing smooths out into the adventure and the second half is a good easy read. Looks like this is the first of at least 5 books, so it is worth considering how your child will deal with waiting for the next book to continue the story (if they are more than 6 months apart then your child will probably outgrow the series before it ends).
Even I was excited when we opened the package, with the cover catching our attention straight away. It seemed to be in line with the style of story my son enjoys, so off to his bedroom armed with snacks!
After a speed read of the first couple of chapters – I left him to it! So far, so good as he hasn’t put it down, so hopefully this will become a favourite for our family
I thought this sounded like a great book for my 9yr old, who loves fantasy stories, and devoured all the HP books and is a great little reader. Unfortunately the first few chapters started off with the lead character being romantically attracted to a girl, and my 9yr old son wasn’t impressed. If your child is still in the ‘girls are icky and gross’ stage they may find it a little hard to get into. We haven’t finished reading the book yet, as it only arrived a few days ago, so hopefully when we finish it we’ll be able to give it a more positive review.
A well written, engaging book aimed at the "tween" reader.
I just got this book today and after reading two chapters was hooked!
The language is simple and engaging and I will be interested to see what my 12 year old son thinks of the story line. I think, if he can get past all of the “words”, that the plot will be one that is relate-able – boy likes cute girl, wants to be the hero and save her and his best mate – with enough twists and turns and excitement to keep him engaged and reading.
My daughter loves these types of books so was very excited to receive the book yesterday. Her first impressions after reading a few chapters is that the book is very exciting! She tells me so far she really likes the story which is about a boy named Cole. She didn’t want to give all the details and spoil it for other readers but it starts with Cole and his friends going into a haunted house where they get kidnapped. Cole goes down a ladder to rescue his friends and finds himself in another universe. She couldn’t wait to keep reading it today and took it to school for silent reading time. She recommends it for kids over nine.
Thanks MOM for this book. We got it yesterday and my son is very excited to start reading it. He is 7 so not sure if this book is going to be up his ally just yet as it looks for kids a little older maybe 10+. I know they say not to judge a book by its cover but it draws you in. Can’t wait to update everyone on our progress and happy reading!
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Article
Meet The RTDs Fans Are Calling “Japan In A Can”
If you thought the ready-to-drink world had already peaked, think again. Monsutā has dropped not one, but two seriously impressive additions to the lineup, and both make cracking open a can a moment to savour.
As the Best SIPS Monsutā review team uncovered when they put the two new sips to the test, Premium Highball and Purple Grape Chūhai may be worlds apart in flavour, but both nail that sweet spot between easy and elevated.
Whisky, made effortless
Monsutā Premium Highball Whisky, Citrus & Soda Highball is a crisp, clean and clever twist on mixed whisky drinks that perfectly suits the Australian climate.
“For someone who won’t usually reach for whisky, this premixed whisky is a lovely surprise. It is delicious and refreshing, greatly balanced with the citrus flavour and the bubbly soda. What a great alternative at our recent BBQ. Our guests enjoyed it and thought it was a nice change! Will be a hit in our household party this summer!”
Other fans have been quick to praise the drink’s balance between alcohol content and its refreshing flavour profile.
“Punchy but not over the top with alcohol content, the balance between the citrus and the whiskey flavour is spot on. Perfect for a “one and done” sort of person or someone who wants to sit on a drink and watch some form of entertainment. Leaves a good flavour in the mouth afterwards.”
True whisky taste with a dash of citrus.
For the whisky lovers who are dubious about enjoying their favourite spirit in an RTD format, consider your worries gone. Monsutā uses quality Japanese whisky for an authentic flavour that speaks for itself.
“Tried the Monsuta Whisky & Soda recently and honestly didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. It’s light, smooth and actually tastes like real whisky, not that artificial flavour some premix drinks have. The balance is spot on, not too sweet or too strong, just clean and really easy to drink. I had mine straight from the can and it was perfect after a hot day. Definitely one I’ll be keeping in the fridge this summer.”
Personality-packed!
While The Premium Highball has all the hallmarks of a classic warm-weather sip, Monsutā Purple Grape Chūhai is a true extrovert, with big flavour that’s impossible to miss. But it’s definitely not all sweetness in this sip.
“I really had no idea what to expect from these drinks but when I first opened the can I was hit with the smell of grape. The flavour reminded me of grape hubba bubba and it wasn’t overly sweet. The vodka, shochu and soda blend perfectly to create a refreshing, delicious drink which I will definitely purchase again.”
“When I first opened the can, I noticed a very pleasant grape aroma. Upon tasting it, the grape flavour really stood out and it reminded me of hubba bubba. I liked that the grape flavour wasn’t overly sweet, making the drink enjoyable rather than sickly.”
Your fridge called – it wants these!
And everyone is raving about the punch it packs!
“Normally, I don’t enjoy grape-flavoured drinks, but I was shocked at how delicious and easy this was to drink. It was super crisp and refreshing and had the perfect amount of grape flavour that wasn’t too overpowering and sweet. Considering this drink is 7.3% alcohol, it packs the perfect punch that leaves you wanting more. Would definitely recommend this drink to all my friends!”
Both ready for your fridge – now!
Fans have spoken and given this duo an average of 4.05 out of 5 stars on their reviews. So if you’re an RTD lover chasing something fresh, give these cans a crack and taste for yourself what all the fuss is about.
Japan in a can? That really does sound interesting! I wouldn’t mind knowing what Japan tastes like 🙂 I love the idea of the grape flavour but I’m not sure about whiskey. It would definitely be an interesting mix. The trial team gave great feedback and I’m now even more interested in giving it a taste test
I wasn’t picked for this trial – what a shame – but it sounds quite tasty. I’m someone who likes to nurse a drink for a while (mostly because I don’t drink a lot in terms of quantity) and savor the drink. These sound like great options for drinkers like me.
7:20 pm
Adventurous, intriguing and insightful into the pre-tween world.
4:42 pm
Fun reading
11:27 pm
Recommended book
2:22 pm
Fantastic Five Kingdoms
6:50 pm
Just love it
10:25 am
Exciting reading for kids
9:19 am
Age has no limit when reading this book!
5:10 pm
Best book I read my whole life
10:37 am
Nephew is now reading
2:49 pm
Fanastic read..
4:42 pm
Fun reading
11:27 pm
Recommended book
10:37 am
Nephew is now reading
10:29 pm
loved this read
8:47 pm
Good read
11:19 pm
Great little escape for kids!
2:49 pm
Fanastic read..
11:42 am
Great Older Child/Young Teenager Read
1:06 pm
Loved it!
12:15 pm
Great Book
7:26 pm
awesome read
2:22 pm
Fantastic Five Kingdoms
6:50 pm
Just love it
9:25 am
Intriguing
8:44 am
Starts slow but does get better
1:09 am
Kingdom Saviour and Scorpinan Lord!
7:34 pm
Is this a kissing story?
2:55 pm
A well written, engaging book aimed at the "tween" reader.
10:25 am
Exciting reading for kids
4:20 pm
Can't wait to get into this book
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