Mystery of the Map: Poptropica, Book 1
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Mystery of the Map: Poptropica, Book 1 is the first volume in a series of graphic novels based on the popular gaming website Poptropica, created by Diary of a Wimpy Kid author Jeff Kinney. Three kids find themselves on a mysterious tropical island and must fight off an aggressive band of Vikings in their search for a way home. Violence is suitably slapstick and cartoony, with no real sense of jeopardy. A great choice for reluctant readers.
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What's the Story?
After their hot-air balloon is steered off course, Oliver, Maya, and Jorge find themselves stranded on a mysterious island populated by extinct animals and angry Vikings. Luckily, Oliver has a magical map that provides clues about how to escape. But they'll only get to use it if they can escape the Vikings and foil Octavian, the crook responsible for their plight.
Is It Any Good?
Colorful, funny, and fast-paced, this graphic novel spin-off from the popular gaming website will likely appeal to both hard-core fans and newcomers. MYSTERY OF THE MAP: POPTROPICA, BOOK 1 is a quick and easy read, with at least one joke or sight gag per page. The characters and their motivations are simple, but Oliver, Mya, and Jorge have plenty of personality, thanks to their jelly-bean faces and bubble eyes. Author Jack Chabert devises intriguing situations, and illustrator Kory Merritt choreographs the action with wit and flair. The story ends with lots of questions unanswered, leaving readers ready for further adventures.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about online games. Which ones are best suited for age 6 to 13? What elements make for a good game?
How do Oliver, Mya, and Jorge work together to protect themselves from danger?
How do you find friends that you can rely on?
Book Details
- Author: Jack Chabert
- Illustrator: Kory Merritt
- Genre: Adventure
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Friendship, Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Amulet Books
- Publication date: March 1, 2016
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 6 - 9
- Number of pages: 112
- Available on: Nook, Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: September 25, 2020
Our Editors Recommend
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The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby
Superhero comic novel full of slapstick and bathroom humor.
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Big Nate: In a Class by Himself: Big Nate, Book 1
Milder than Wimpy Kid and a sure hit with boys.
For kids who love graphic novels
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