Emily Rodda, The Hungry Isle (The Star of Deltora #4), Scholastic Australia, 1 Sept 2016, 176pp., $15.99 (pbk), ISBN: 9781742991337
The Hungry Isle forms a memorable conclusion to Emily Rodda’s Star of Deltora quartet. To prepare for this review, I read the first three novels in quick succession. The series drew me in quickly with its strong world building and focused plot, which centers on Britta’s quest to become Apprentice Trader of the Rosalyn fleet.
This final book opens mid-voyage, on the eponymous Star of Deltora, on which Britta travels from island to island, making the most valuable trades she can in an effort to outdo her three competitors. The first half of the book jumps right into the action with its story of betrayal, mutiny and the ever-present menace of the Staff of Tier. On the Hungry Isle itself, Britta faces her hardest trials yet, while attempting to save her fellow travelers with her well-honed trader skills. Tensions are high throughout: long-held secrets are spilled, battles fought and friendships tested on land and sea. The story delivers a very unexpected plot twist towards the end and the story threads are tied up in a satisfying way.
After finishing, I was left with a desire to read more of the adventures of Britta, Jewel and Sky on the high seas – or rather, the nine seas – of the Deltora world. I loved the way these three female characters, despite competing against each other, were able to overcome their circumstances and become supportive friends. This well-crafted series recaptures to the spirit of adventure and comradeship found in the original and highly successful Deltora Quest stories.
Study notes are available from the Scholastic Australia website.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Foster
