The Introverted Bookworm

Title: Rivers – 10 short stories

Author: Chris Charlton

Genre: Children’s realistic fiction aged 11+ (but may suit a younger audience as well)

Ten unique stories are weaved into a collection of fictional tales loosely set around the location of various major rivers from around the world. In the first story, The Amazon – The Bite, Brandon, an indecisive young man who is seeking adventure, is unsure about where to explore on his travels. His confident friend, Alex, suggests that they both visit the Amazon together. Carefully undertaking preparations for the trip – such as taking a crash course in Portuguese – the pair set off for Manaus, the biggest city in the Amazon Basin. However, after Alex is unexpectedly bitten by a snake, and things begin to turn ugly, Brandon is forced to learn a few life lessons as a result of his friend’s near-brush with death.

In a similar tale of unforeseen challenges, Bernie, and Richard – two friends who venture to Egypt in order to see the sights and visit the renowned Pyramids of Giza –  encounter their own dilemma when they are both attacked by crocodiles whilst taking an ill-fated dip in the Nile. Similar lessons regarding the merits of exercising caution, and being realistic about the risks involved when travelling, are learned by other characters in some of the remaining stories, where they are forced to deal with unexpected and potentially dangerous situations.

The main message that runs throughout this collection is a solid one that will be appreciated by most parents: proceed with caution, be well-prepared, and embrace travel with an open mind that is willing to adapt, show determination, and learn from mistakes. The realistic elements of travel are further developed by careful inclusion of the various preparations which are necessary for success – for example, checking the weather beforehand, proper budgeting for flights, and reading up on local history and culture. The stories are well balanced, in that they do not romanticise travel. Forearmed is forewarned, and adaptability – as well as an appreciation for life – is paramount to success.

It is clear that the author himself appreciates the excitement of travel. The truly life affirming aspect of adventure can be found within these stories. From the lush descriptions of fresh produce and delicious street food that can be enjoyed in Vietnam, to the smell of incense and the evocative, spiritually resonant atmosphere of the Ganges, these short tales of people who have overcome the odds in order to fulfil their dreams make inspiring reading for children. The diversity of characters (which range from young people to grandparents) encompasses the spectrum of humanity’s spirit of adventure and resilience in the face of danger and setbacks.

One area that could be improved is if some endnotes could be provided, which include an explanation of unusual cultural terms (such as what kind of food ‘koshari’ is) at the end of the book, so that you and your child can look these up easily without needing to consult the internet.

Rivers – 10 Short Stories is an entertaining alternative to longer, more complex children’s fiction. Charlton has produced an engaging collection of stories that successfully encapsulates the joy, as well as the potential pitfalls and life lessons to be learned, of travel and adventure.