How to go on an adventure…while drinking tea!
“Would you like an adventure now,” he said casually to John, “or would you like to have your tea first?”
Wendy said “tea first” quickly, and Michael pressed her hand in gratitude, but the braver John hesitated.
“What kind of adventure?” he asked cautiously.
I love that part of J.M Barrie’s Peter Pan, when Peter and the Darling children chat about what they will do next while mid-flight. Who can blame Wendy for wanting to opt for tea (whether a cup or a lovely dinner)? On the other hand, I’d be equally as curious, as John is, about the prospect of exploring.
So, how does one answer such a question?!
As someone who has always been drawn to a good adventure, I’ve found that some of the best I’ve experienced have been in books. In particular, middle-grade books. Whether its exploring unusual worlds, navigating friendships or overcoming fears, middle-grade books so often deliver memorable adventures. What’s even better is that many have been enjoyed in the comfort of my pyjamas (much like Wendy, John and Michael) and wait for it…with a cup of tea in hand!
So, how does one answer such a question?! By doing both at the same time.
Here are four fun reads for your next big adventure…
Wundersmith, Jessica Townsend
The second book in Jessica Townsend’s magical series, Wundersmith takes us back to the world of Nevermoor. We join Morrigan as learns more about life in the Wundrous Society, her abilities and who she can and cannot trust.
The Explorer, Katherine Rundell
Four children alone in the Amazon. What could possibly happen? Adventure in its truest sense, Katherine Rundell takes us into the depths of the jungle where we learn a thing or two about survival and friendship. Tarantulas with that cup of tea anyone?
The Phantom Tollbooth, Norton Juster
This wacky classic is weird and wonderful in all the best ways. Zip around with Milo as he explores the Land of Expectation, the Doldrums, the Mountains of Ignorance and the Castle in the Air.
A Most Magical Girl, Karen Foxlee
Head on over to Victorian England to meet witches, wizards and a whole lot more. When Annabel Gray is sent to stay with two eccentric aunts, she finds herself on a mission to rescue a sacred wand from the dangerous underworld that exists beneath London.
Happy reading…and sipping!
Catherine is the author of middle-grade science-adventure, Quark’s Academy.
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