Book Review: Mayne Island Skeletons by Amber Harvey

Mayne Island Skeletons is not only a fun read for children 9 to 12 years of age but it also teaches many valuable lessons—such as how to be a good friend.

Mary Magdalene Sommers’ mother is attentive and reliable; whereas, Brent Green is the son of a neglectful parent. Despite these differences, Magda values Brent’s friendship. She continues to believe in his good character even in the face of negative public opinion. In fact, she works tirelessly to prove his innocence and to secure his safety.

Through Magda’s example children are empowered to solve their own mysteries and resolve their own problems.

Thank you Amber Harvey for this uplifting read.

Author links

Amber's website:  Tree with Roots

Guest Post: author Amber Harvey

How/why did you start to write?
One summer, when I was around eleven, my friends were away and I was bored. Since my parents didn't believe children had to be entertained, I was left to sort out this problem for myself. An avid reader, my mind was always filled with stories, and having access to a notebook, a fountain pen, and some wildly exciting red ink, I began to write.


How did you become an author?
If an author is someone who is paid for their writing work, I guess it was when I started writing for a seniors' magazine, in my fifties. If it's someone who's published, I guess it was when Peter Gzowski chose one of my letters to publish in his The Fourth Morningside Papers.


How long ago?
That was 1991, or 20 years ago.


What did you do before embarking on your writing career? Was it an asset to your writing? How?
I have taught school for around 20 years, have been a counsellor for 15 years, and have been a parent for a total of 75 years (35 + 40). I was also a child, and that's mostly what I write about.


What inspires you?
I'm inspired by life and its challenges, especially those faced by young people.


Parting words
My parting words are, if you love to write, write.

Books by Amber Harvey

 (from right to left) Magda's Mayne Island Mystery, Mayne Island Aliens, Mayne Island Skeltons