Perfect for children from 11 to 14 years, Just Keep Going is the latest book in the ‘Just’ series, although you don’t need to read the first two books to enjoy this new one.
Becky lives with her mum in the UK, and before the pandemic, she used to love visiting her dad in New Zealand. But this time, things are different. Her mum can’t get a spot in MIQ, so she is stuck alone with her dad and step-mum and their new baby, so she is feeling a bit put out with the changed situation. Worse, her windsurfer hasn’t arrived yet.
But things take a turn for the better when she can borrow a windsurfer from a kind neighbour and she makes new friends. But several unusual things happen that somehow seem related to the obsidian stone she finds on the beach. A bottlenose dolphin won’t leave her alone and seems to want to communicate something. And what might have this to do with the people poaching fish from the marine reserve?
Just Keep Going is an engaging read with delightful characters and wonderful messages about the environment and the importance of friends and family, with the main character who proves to be resourceful, caring and brave. It's also got a great sense of place. I’m sure you will want to read the others in the ‘Just’ series if you read this installment, but it works beautifully as a stand alone read as well.
Reviewer: Karen McMillan
Lighthouse Media Group