Charles A. Salter

Charles A Salter’s Kare Kids Adventures remind me of those much-loved Enid Blyton stories of my youth. Enterprising youngsters take on evil gangsters and win, with a few sensible precautions, some clever planning, and, of course, a healthy dose of self-confidence. Meanwhile readers learn details of Norway, Vikings, fjords, mountains, myth and legend, and berserkers... because that lost secret just might the clue to where berserkers got their power.

The story starts with twins Josh and Hannah already traveling on a train, following clues left by thieves. A precious sunstone has been stolen from their uncle’s museum. The police will surely be too slow to find it, so the youngsters hope to get it back. On the way they’ll learn a few Nordic phrases, question experts, attend exciting ceremonies, and fall into terrible danger. But it all works out in a nicely plotted chapter book, with sections just the right length for easy reading, well-presented text, simple dialog, and enough complicated words to challenge without scaring readers away.

Kare Kids adventures are a fun, and this one’s another good entry to the series. Enjoy.

Disclosure: I was given a copy by a publicist and I voluntarily offer my honest review.… (más)

This is the fourth book in this series. I have read every book. Each one has an entertaining story. This book was no exception. I enjoyed the travel to another country. Josh and Hannah were very brave for their age. She showed that if you put your mind to it that you can do anything. You don't have to be afraid. Unlike the other books in this series, this one touched on a bit of history with Viking Chieftain Leif Erikson. This added another fun element to this story. Back to Josh and Hannah. As a young reader, they will relate to both of them. Even if you are a boy or a girl; you can cheer for them both. There was plenty of action to keep the story exciting. In addition, I found that there were not too many big words that they older nephews will be able to read this book on their own with little adult interaction. This is a bonus.… (más)

I have read all of the books in this series. What keeps me coming back is the great lessons that Mr. Salter incorporates into his books for his younger audience. He teaches children that they can think for themselves as well as take action and help. The first two books I would say young girls would really like as they feature girls as the lead roles but in this book, this time it is three boys. Just like with the other two books, this book was a quick read. There was lots of action to keep the story moving. Matt, Ryan and Jack were great together. They each brought something to the story. No single brother outshined the other two. Although, as an adult it would be good to follow up with your children after reading this book to make sure they understand that guns are dangerous and not play toys and they can do serious damage. The brothers were using them in this book. Which children may think it is ok to handle guns as the brothers did. Overall, another good read from Mr. Salter.… (más)

Good old-fashioned adventure set in a modern world, Charles Salter’s Kare Kids adventures place ordinary children into extraordinary situations where wise application of skills and knowledge will rescue them from danger. In this third book, the children are three sons of a naval officer, and the danger is a threat to the whole US Navy. But it all starts quietly enough with three boys pretending to be soldiers and spies in the woods. Martial arts are for self-defense, Marines always cover their tracks, and the Jedi have powerful mind-tricks in this tale. But everything works together to rescue the boys from the clutches of evil men just in time to warn the navy.

Nicely plotted, with fun characters and pleasingly modern references, Three Brothers manages to pit clever boys against bumbling thieves without dissolving into slapstick, and uses an exciting narrative as a good springing board for independent thought. A fun story for middle grade, 8-12 year olds, it’s another great addition to the Kare Kids collection.

Disclosure: I received a copy from PRbytheBook and I offer my honest review.… (más)