Liam and the Keepers of the Runes by Giovanna Rizza: Book Review

 4/5 

This book was sent to me for review. This has not impacted the outcome in any way. The opinions stated are mine and mine alone.

Liam and the Keepers of the Runes begins with a good preface that had a solid message for kids. Giovanna utilizes descriptive writing in a professeional manner that is appropriate for the age level targeted by the book. Balancing this in books for older kids, is a challenging line to walk. Too much and the kids get bored, but what she used was just the right amount. With her introduction she could have done a bit better to capture the reader's attention, it missed that initial hook, that something that peeks the reader's interest. Recovering from this fairly quickly, she provides an interesting storyline that a young reader would find captivating. She is able to engage the reader and show unique trials that kids will find some connection with.

Giovanna also has a wonderfully crafted world with some parts whimsy and fantasy, with some more daunting locations. Her descriptions mixed with images will get their minds going as they paint a picture in their minds. I did feel that the characters were just alright, they could have used more filling out to get past that surface level. Liam has his own separate description prior to the book beginning, and that information needed to find its way into the pages of the book itself, as well as for more than just him. The climatic moment was a good one and continued with some key messages for kids to take away from the book.

Overall, I would recommend this to young reader's who enjoy created worlds, fantasy, and adventure.