This little book is the first in an adventure series for children. It is an enjoyable way to learn about the UAE – the United Arab Emirates – without being there to do it.

Canadian author Darlene Foster has written an entertaining and educational book that gives the reader insight into life in the UAE. She has created a believable character, twelve-year-old Amanda Ross, whose desire to travel leads to the amazing opportunity to leave Canada for a month’s vacation with relatives living in the far away Arabian country. Not long after her arrival, Amanda purchases a perfume flask that mysteriously was saved just for her. She soon discovers why as she is thrust into an exciting adventure on a secret mission she will never forget.

This story was written for preteen readers, but is one anyone would enjoy. Darlene writes vivid pictures, masterfully delivering descriptive insights into the lifestyle of the people of the United Arab Emirates with its rugged desert regions, while drawing the reader into a memorable adventure.

This may be the book to start a child on a journey through the written word, especially since it is the beginning of a series. ( )