He joins three other equally spoilt, friendless, incorrigible youngsters: Victoria, a proper English Miss, (she’s the
nicest) Elton, spoilt beyond words, and Addison, a Goth, with a boulder on
her shoulder, whose mother is glad to see the back of her for two weeks.
During the ride to their destination, Sal warns
about the dangers they should be aware of – snakes, crocodiles, toads, and poisonous
plants.
Instead of the luxurious retreat they had imagined and had been paid for, the group end up at
a totally rundown summer camp. This has been mismanaged for years by the cranky Sal, and her young and equally cranky son, Roy.
The parents have been duped into believing this is to be an enlightening experience their children won’t forget.
Once there. They have no choice.
There is no way they can stay in the rooms they are
allocated, due to the filthy conditions.
No Wi-Fi or phone.
The entire place plus pool, has been neglected for a very long time.
Sal informs them she is expecting an inspector to arrive in a short time, to check everything, and give her the all-clear to reopen.
The children cause a ruckus, and several times, try to
escape to return home.
It is when Branson successfully puts forward a proposal which they all agree to, that Roy becomes part of the group, and it promises to be a holiday they will never forget.
All begin as dysfunctional characters, but are
transformed by their unity and learning experiences.
A strong story line and terrific characters showcase through dialogue, the importance of communication between parent and child and the necessity of friendships to a person’s well-being.
Nathan Luff is the author of the successful The Nerd Herd and Family Disasters series, and Bad Grammar.
Title: Jungle EscapeAuthor: Nathan Luff
Publisher: Walker, $16.99
Publication Date: 1 February 2025
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760659257
For ages: 10+
Type: Junior Fiction