Emily Rodda (text) and Lucinda Gifford (illustrator), Elvis Eager and the Golden Egg (Monty’s Island #3), Allen & Unwin, January 2021, 176 pp., RRP $14.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781760876999
Here is the latest installment in the adventures of Monty and his friends on the island. There was a big storm last night, and everyone hardly got a wink of sleep. Monty and Tawny are up early and although tired, they have gathered a lot of useful things washed up on the beach. It’s not long before they discover some unusual things washed up – a golden egg and an explorer! The egg quickly hatches into a cute grub-like creature who will only eat gold. But they are soon under attack from some kind of flying monsters – what are they, and what do they want? It’s up to Monty to figure out this mystery and come up with a plan to save the day.
What follows is an engaging adventure story for younger readers. The book is well planned and paced, and all is revealed at the end of course. Some readers may figure it out beforehand from the clues. The black and white illustrations are expressive and full of life and motion, adding interest to the story. While it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone book as it is a separate story from those that have come before. This would be a good addition to primary school and public libraries.
Reviewed by Rebecca Kemble
