Paul Haven

Oliver has been forced to move to the Middle East with his parents and finds life very boring. But then his friend, Zee, tells him about overhearing a conversation about the Brotherhood of Arachosia. They are determined to find out about the brotherhood and end up being catapulted into a mystery involving a carpet, seven keys and a great treasure.
Whilst this story takes place in an imaginary country the detail seems realistically Middle Eastern and adds to the flavour of this exciting story. This book would suit readers aged 10 and up.… (mehr)

Great adventure book for middle school readers. The story centers around Oliver who has moved to Balabad with his family as his father, a reporter is stationed there. The action follows the adventures of Oliver and his two friends who become involved an elaborate adventure while discovering what happens in a series of thefts and the disappearance of their friend, Haji. The setting is the fictional middle eastern country of Balabad and the theme is typical adventure themes of good vs. evil, taking us outside ourselves, and heroes who become trapped where the only way to safety is through greater jeopardy. The characters are likeable and believable and the story keeps the reader entertained throughout the book. For the TL this would be a good addition to the middle school LMC. This adventure story will not become dated soon so it should have a long shelf life.… (mehr)