The Hunter and the Hunted

Now here’s a curiosity; the author of this book is 11 years old! Jake and his mother, plus the rest of the family in stages, get caught up in a cross-UK chase involving a much coveted map, the ownership of which could bring about massive destruction if it gets into the wrong hands.

There’s an obedient Alsatian as well, who only joins in the Lake District. It is all a load of improbable hokum but an achievement none the less for that. The plotting is sure-footed if a shade derivative and the dialogue does creak a bit. Characterisation is a touch Blytonesque but give the lad due credit and watch out for him in future. Use it to show youngsters what can be achieved by a member of their peer group.