This is another 9-12 / middle-grade book. What can I say? I loved The Storm Keeper’s Island from the get-go. It’s magical and enchanting, mysterious and filled with storms.

Here is my review of The Storm Keeper’s Island by Catherine Doyle.

Synopsis

When Fionn Boyle sets foot on Arranmore Island, it begins to stir beneath his feet …

Once in a generation, Arranmore Island chooses a new Storm Keeper to wield its power and keep its magic safe from enemies. The time has come for Fionn’s grandfather, a secretive and eccentric old man, to step down. Soon, a new Keeper will rise.

But, deep underground, someone has been waiting for Fionn. As the battle to become the island’s next champion rages, a more sinister magic is waking up, intent on rekindling an ancient war.

Review

This was a lovely story, filled with magic and the brilliant wonder of nature – mainly the storms. I really enjoyed the whole thing.

The story begins with Fionn and his sister Tara visiting their grandfather. Fionn suffers from fear of the sea, and the relationship between him and Tara is a typical sibling rivalry. 

I very much liked that. As a middle child myself, I found their interactions very realistic! You could tell from the get-go that Tara is a typical young teenager, with Fionn just beginning to grow up and find his place.

I very much liked Malachy Boyle as well. He was a clear character of humour, fun, and wisdom. Sharing his knowledge with Fionn despite suffering from his age-related illness of what I am guessing is Altzeimers. That was done well, even though it made me sad to read how he’d forget things and think Fionn was his son.

The story progresses fairly well, with explanations from the characters about The Storm Keeper and the magic of the Island. Malachy imparts knowledge where it is needed and the plotline of finding the sea cave is tied-in nicely to the discoveries of magic that Fionn experiences.

I also liked the myths and legends of Arranmore – the Irish legends really – slipped in for good measure and worked nicely with the plot. I’m intrigued to see how the other books in the series will progress. 

Fionn’s character throughout is done very well. He grows into himself and learns along the way. His fears that hold him back at the beginning are still there at the end, but he learns to become brave in spite of them.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Whether you’re 11 or 33, it’s a lovely enchanting story to read. I’m keen to get to the next in the series.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.