The Hotel Under the Sand

The Hotel Under the Sand is simply the most charming children's book (ages 8-11) that I have read in recent memory. Emma, a brave little girl, is lost at sea and washes up on a desert island. There she discovers a magical hotel where time is stretched out so that you can vacation as long as you wish (I seriously need that). She also discovers some stalwart friends (like a ghost, a chef, and a pirate) and uncovers the mysteries of the hotel in a wonderfully creative treasure hunt. There are also excellent illustrations that skillfully capture the flavor of the story. I could say more, but I wouldn't want to spoil the book for you. The Hotel Under the Sand is suitable for children, but also for older readers who just want an old-fashioned adventure (not like, say, Twilight) told from the perspective of a spunky little heroine who is based on a real little girl named Emma. It's truly a breath of fresh air.

We ordered this book before we went on vacation, so I would have something to read on the plane. My kids got their hands on the book first, and loved it! It was a quick read for them, kept them entertained with the fast paced action and adventure of Emma and her friends. I was finally able to read it over the past 2 days, and did not want to have to put it down. While I would have liked to see more, I realize this book was geared toward younger readers, and allows them to start getting hooked on Kage Baker's books, like a lot of adults have. I can't wait to see what else she has rolling around her fantastic brain.

I have read most of the stories Kage Baker has published and I found "The Hotel Under the Sand" to be a delightful blend of fantasy and science fiction for the younger reader. I too recognize certain "stock" characters from Ms. Baker's stories. I find the characters charming in this context, Ms. Baker has her own mythological archetypes to draw from and we see different renditions of them in her shorter stories. I call this a Steam Punk Fairy Tale, for that is exactly what it is. A delightful story to read to my daughter, or have her read to me, at bedtime. Adventures abound, magic happens, a strong and intelligent young lady overcomes all obstacles with the help of friends. Excellent seed for fertile minds to dream over!