Middleworld

When Max's archeologist parents leave for a dig in Central America, he is set on a boring summer of video games, TV and junk food. When Zia, their housekeeper, sends him off with a packed backpack and a plane ticket, Max is not prepared for what's waiting. His parents have gone missing and it's up to Max to save them. With the help of Lola, a talkative Maya girl and two howler monkeys, Max is in for an adventure of a life time. What will it take to rescue his parents? Does Max have it in him to live out this real life video game? I was skeptical when I saw the cover of this book and a quick flip through showed that each chapter contained pictures. I was expecting a childish easy read at maybe a JR high level. I was completely wrong. Jon and Pamela Voelkel have created an amazing thing with The Jaguar Stones. Middleworld was an amazing book. The way they laid out the adventure in this novel was well thought out and presented perfectly. I was drawn in and enthralled from beginning to end. I absolutely adored the characters of Max and Lola and I found that they complimented each other perfectly. I don't think there is a better team of characters out there. I loved reading this book and learning about all the Maya life that existed in the past that the Voelkel's painted. The setting, challenges and characters of this work were beautiful mastered and so realistic that they leap from the pages. I can not wait for the next book in this series and I can honestly say this is a great book for anyone middle age and older to experience. Well done! Originally posted at my blog Draw A Blank Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Goodman Media and Egmont USA. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Young teen Max Murphy is disappointed when his parents cancel their trip to Italy for an archaeological dig in San Xavier. Worst of all, he is left home alone with only his housekeeper. But suddenly Max is sent to San Xavier, thinking his parents have sent for him. But when he arrives in the small country, near his parents' Mayan excavation, Max discovers that his parents are missing. With the help of a young local girl and the mysterious Jaguar Stones, Max embarks on a journey to find his parents and rescue them from the Mayan Underworld. Max is an average American boy, self-centered and addicted to video games. But along his journey through Central America, he learns several lessons and begins to slowly grow up and become a more likeable person. Max's mysterious companion Lola, on the other hand, is wise but harsh. Though I am curious about her past, I found myself more annoyed by her brash personality than anything. I'm hoping she softens more as time goes on. Among the highlights of this book, is the creative integration of ancient Mayan culture and religion. The story is educational, fascinating, and fun. The series is marketed to young readers, but people of all ages will enjoy this fast-paced adventure through the jungles of Central America. With plenty of mystery, adventure, humor, and magic, Middleworld is an exciting start to a promising series.

Middleworld is a great book, but be sure to purchase the paperback edition. The hardcover version is out of print and incomplete. The paperback also includes tie-ins to The Jaguar Stones Book Two, which will be published in hardcover by Egmont USA in Spring 2011.

One of the best books I've ever read, can't wait till the next one comes out.

The thrilling scenes of this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's like the book is pulling you into the ancient Maya world. When the book was over, I was pining for a sequel.J & P Voelkel are two extremely talented writers. I recommend this book for all ages! It is Sherlock Holmes and Harry Potter rolled into one book that will have your eyes popping out. It includes action, mystery, romance and fantasy: the recipe for a good book. This is one of the best books I've ever read.