6.45 am
It was grey and rainy outside, and gloomy quiet within.
Arkie, TJ and Edie were sitting at the kitchen bench and Cleo was snoozing at their feet.
Seven envelopes were lined up in front of them, each one with a time marked on it, all two hours apart.
Arkie and Edie were staring at the first envelope, untouched pieces of toast beside them.
TJ was munching on Muesli and banana, and slurping her hot chocolate.
‘How can you eat at a time like this TJ?’ said Arkie. ‘It’s not normal. My stomach’s in twisty knots.’
Arkie Sparkle is part of a global treasure hunting clan. She might only be 11 years old, but she’s been learning from masters all her life. It’s Day 7 of the race to rescue Arkie’s parents from mad Uncle Sebastian. Arkie and her supporters have triumphed through the first six instalments of this Treasure Hunter series. This time he’s set a series of challenges – pitting Arkie, TJ and Edie against Clem and Cate – in Antarctica. They are to begin in Scott’s hut. If, and only if they win, will Arkie learn where her parents are being held. Arkie doesn’t believe Clem is as evil as his father, but the others are not convinced. The race begins and Arkie and co set off once more. This is their last chance. Black and white illustrations are scattered throughout and there are several different text types.
‘Day 7: Antarctica’ is the seventh instalment in this race around the world. Arkie needs to marshall all her resources if she is to save her parents. ‘Antarctica’ is an explosive paced treasure hunt where the hunters have to deal with a relative who is not playing fair. She and her helpers persist and there are themes of good triumphing over evil sure to stir the heart of all those on the side of justice! For no matter how dastardly Sebastian’s plots are, Arkie succeeds in the end. Each instalment (book) is short, with potentially challenging words highlighted in different fonts. There are plenty of wonderful gadgets and technology to assist their endeavours. Ideal for readers who want gutsy, enterprising main characters. Recommended for mid primary readers.
Arkie Sparkle, Treasure Hunter Tick Tock: Day 7 Antarctica, Petra James
2013 Macmillan
ISBN: 9781742612102
review by Claire Saxby, Children’s Author
Available from good bookstores or online.