4.5/5
This book was sent to me by the author for review, which has not impacted the outcome or results. The opinions stated are mine and mine alone.
Having reviewed book 1 of this series, I had higher expectations for book 2. I looked for improvements and growth. In Journey Into the Past, I was not disappointed. The intro was far better in this book. Goanta crafted it in a way that will draw kids in and make them wonder what is coming next. Once again, it had stunning visuals that assist in telling the story. I can't imagine a child who would not look at the pictures and be amazed. Like the introduction, the rest of the book captures the reader's attention. One example of this is in the use of descriptive writing. Goanta is descriptive, but not to the point of it possibly losing a child. With kid's books this is a fine line that an author has to walk. At no point did I feel that a child's attention would wane.
I did find that when Dahlia arrives she is confused for longer than she should have been, but this was a minor detail. Another minor detail was that Dahlia seemed a bit shallower. However, it is a second book, so much of her depth was crafted in book 1. Looking at the concept and twist, these were both interesting and fun. I could see kids enjoying that. To wrap it up, the ending also was creative and fun.
Overall, I would happily recommend this book to parents with kids who have a creative mind.
