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Beware! Reviews inevitably contain spoilers, some more than others. To avoid reading spoilers accidentally, read with one eye closed and the other slightly averted.
October 26, 2010 - Roger Eschbacher
Interesting characters, compelling story, and a unique setting all add up to a very positive reader experience with "Island of Fog". Technically "written for kids", as an adult aficionado of YA/middle-grade literature, I found this book to be perfectly satisfying – in the same way I've enjoyed the Harry Potter books or similarly targeted works by Neil Gaiman. In short, it's a perfect pass-along sf/f read for your kid after you're finished with it. I'll be downloading the next two books in this series very soon.
March 9, 2010 - Max38
Keith Robinson's novel, Island of Fog, is one of those miraculous rarities. Like Elizabeth George Speare's The Witch of Blackbird Pond and Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, the book appeals both to juvenile and adult readers. Younger readers will enjoy the work's abundant action and eccentric humor, while adults will be captivated by Island of Fog's explorations of such mature themes as trust, paranoia, and self-reliance in a world gone tragically awry.
The plot centers around Hal Franklin, a boy on the cusp of adolescence. In many ways, Hal is a typical boy, frustrated by bullying, wisecracking classmates, numbing school assignments, and growing responsibilities at home. However, Hal lives in an extraordinary setting. He, along with his parents, a small number of peers, and their parents as well, reside on a small, drab island that is at all times engulfed by an impenetrable fog. They are refugees, supposedly the only survivors of a modern world destroyed by some mysterious ecological catastrophe. These survivors- without electricity and other conveniences- eke out a living managing small farms.
The weirdness doesn't end there. Hal and his best friend, Robbie, go out wandering through the woods, bored, restless youths eager for excitement. They find it. To their astonishment, they find that the fog comes from a mysterious hole in the ground. Should they cover up the hole and see the sunshine for the first time in their lives? Before they decide what to do, they are run off by a bizarre sphinx-like creature called a manticore. Hal and Robbie are understandably terrified, but their restlessness continues unabated. For them, getting away from the island becomes a bleak obsession. They concoct a crude raft, hoping to reach the mainland, but up comes a massive sea serpent from the dark depths of the ocean. They expect to die, but the protective monster merely nudges them back to shore. Again, they are shaken up, but their curiosity and restlessness continue to grow.
To make matters seemingly worse, a beautiful stranger arrives. The jittery parents instruct the children to obey her at all costs. She takes an intense interest in the children although it's apparent that she doesn't really care for kids all that much. She asks them if unusual things are happening to their bodies- which they are. With a mixture of fascination and dread, Hal, Robbie, precocious Abigail, timid Dewey, and the other kids are slowly, rather imperceptibly, transforming into monsters. The stranger- Miss Simone- also hints that, in return for their cooperation, she'll whisk them all away to a fantastic, sunny new world. Should they trust the aloof Simone? Is she their friend, or does the probing woman want to lock them away in a laboratory? Such questions lead to intelligent, but entertaining, meditations on fear, civil disobedience, and rebellion.
It's an odd, unorthodox narrative, but it is deeply satisfying. Robinson's enthusiasm for his work can be found on every page, and his crisp, simple writing style makes reading the book fun and easy to read. Robinson does deal with some weighty issues, but his droll sense of humor keeps the mood light.
At times, the book seems rather cluttered. It brims with subplots and is full of dragons, mermaids, centaurs, goblins, and other legendary creatures. Fantasy readers will love such details, but general ones might find it all to be a bit confusing. In addition, Robinson uses too much dialogue at times. He should be more mindful of the literary rule of "show, don't tell." Still, it's an enjoyable, quick, engaging book, and it comes highly recommended.
–-Jonathan Maxwell, the author of Murderous Intellectuals: German Elites and the Nazi SS
The plot centers around Hal Franklin, a boy on the cusp of adolescence. In many ways, Hal is a typical boy, frustrated by bullying, wisecracking classmates, numbing school assignments, and growing responsibilities at home. However, Hal lives in an extraordinary setting. He, along with his parents, a small number of peers, and their parents as well, reside on a small, drab island that is at all times engulfed by an impenetrable fog. They are refugees, supposedly the only survivors of a modern world destroyed by some mysterious ecological catastrophe. These survivors- without electricity and other conveniences- eke out a living managing small farms.
The weirdness doesn't end there. Hal and his best friend, Robbie, go out wandering through the woods, bored, restless youths eager for excitement. They find it. To their astonishment, they find that the fog comes from a mysterious hole in the ground. Should they cover up the hole and see the sunshine for the first time in their lives? Before they decide what to do, they are run off by a bizarre sphinx-like creature called a manticore. Hal and Robbie are understandably terrified, but their restlessness continues unabated. For them, getting away from the island becomes a bleak obsession. They concoct a crude raft, hoping to reach the mainland, but up comes a massive sea serpent from the dark depths of the ocean. They expect to die, but the protective monster merely nudges them back to shore. Again, they are shaken up, but their curiosity and restlessness continue to grow.
To make matters seemingly worse, a beautiful stranger arrives. The jittery parents instruct the children to obey her at all costs. She takes an intense interest in the children although it's apparent that she doesn't really care for kids all that much. She asks them if unusual things are happening to their bodies- which they are. With a mixture of fascination and dread, Hal, Robbie, precocious Abigail, timid Dewey, and the other kids are slowly, rather imperceptibly, transforming into monsters. The stranger- Miss Simone- also hints that, in return for their cooperation, she'll whisk them all away to a fantastic, sunny new world. Should they trust the aloof Simone? Is she their friend, or does the probing woman want to lock them away in a laboratory? Such questions lead to intelligent, but entertaining, meditations on fear, civil disobedience, and rebellion.
It's an odd, unorthodox narrative, but it is deeply satisfying. Robinson's enthusiasm for his work can be found on every page, and his crisp, simple writing style makes reading the book fun and easy to read. Robinson does deal with some weighty issues, but his droll sense of humor keeps the mood light.
At times, the book seems rather cluttered. It brims with subplots and is full of dragons, mermaids, centaurs, goblins, and other legendary creatures. Fantasy readers will love such details, but general ones might find it all to be a bit confusing. In addition, Robinson uses too much dialogue at times. He should be more mindful of the literary rule of "show, don't tell." Still, it's an enjoyable, quick, engaging book, and it comes highly recommended.
–-Jonathan Maxwell, the author of Murderous Intellectuals: German Elites and the Nazi SS
February 10, 2010 - Imogen Rose (author of PORTAL)
It's hard enough being twelve and dealing with the unavoidable changes starting to manifest as one slowly develops into adulthood. Imagine adding to these a sudden transformation into another being! This is what Hal and his seven friends face on the Island of Fog, a place where these eight friends have lived all their lives. Shrouded in a mysterious fog, this island is home to only these eight children and their parents. Hal and his friends are determined to find answers to explain their transformations and also the mysterious fog. Keith Robinson takes us on an intriguing journey with a chockfull of surprises on the way. The Island of Fog is a page turner and I look forward to reading the sequel.
May 27, 2010 - R. Nabulsi
Keith Robinson has created a captivating tale for all ages with interesting characters, high adventure and fantastical creatures. I am close to 40 and I truly could not put Isle Of Fog down until I had read the last page. Every reader will find a character that they can root for and with whom they can identify. The background story is as interesting as the main characters and serves an as a perfect stage on which to tell this coming of age story. This is a fun book to read to young kids but is still fascinating enough that you will read ahead to find out what happens next after the kids have gone. I initially didn't realize it was ever intended for young adults until I read the jacket cover of Robinson's second book. And that says something for the universal appeal crafted by the author.
February 9, 2010 - Jana Janeway (author of THE MENGLIAD)
ISLAND OF FOG by Keith Robinson is a wonderfully constructed, well-paced fantasy, with just enough realism to make it all believable.
The two main characters, Hal and Robbie, are likeable twelve year olds, and are perfectly depicted as they interact with each other, their friends, the school bully, and their parents.
Their situation is unusual, and they know it. The island is forever shrouded in fog, yet stories of life before moving there tell of sunshine and blue skies. Longing to experience this firsthand, the two friends set out to block the `fog-hole' - the cave that seems to be the source of the fog. Their first attempt is what starts this story in motion.
Things are changing for the eight children on the island, which is becoming noticeable to them. Well, most of them. Enter Abigail. The slightly annoying girl has a secret she wants to share with Hal, and him alone. This takes effort, but she finally gets him alone, his attention undivided. Even when faced with proof, Hal doesn't believe what he sees, or at least that he is destined for the same fate.
Soon, however, especially after an attack in Black Woods, Hal accepts what is happening, and uses his and his friends' unique circumstances to get to the bottom of the mysteries of the island once and for all. Have their parents been lying to them? Have their parents been lied to by the mysterious stranger who suddenly shows up? What really happened to the people Out There, on the mainland?
All questions are answered in this amazing action-packed tale, leaving you both satisfied and thirsty for more.
Everything is described in vivid detail, giving the reader a clear vision of locations and characters, and the dialog is spot-on, bringing the people to life. You come to care about them as if they were your children, your friends, or your neighbors. You are drawn in from the start, wanting to know what is happening, rooting for them as dangerous situations present themselves. I shared their concerns, their suspicions, and most importantly, their desire to learn the truth.
This novel is sure to capture your attention, whether you are nine years old or ninety-nine, or any age in between. I highly recommend ISLAND OF FOG, and am personally looking forward to the postman delivering the sequel, LABYRINTH OF FIRE.
The two main characters, Hal and Robbie, are likeable twelve year olds, and are perfectly depicted as they interact with each other, their friends, the school bully, and their parents.
Their situation is unusual, and they know it. The island is forever shrouded in fog, yet stories of life before moving there tell of sunshine and blue skies. Longing to experience this firsthand, the two friends set out to block the `fog-hole' - the cave that seems to be the source of the fog. Their first attempt is what starts this story in motion.
Things are changing for the eight children on the island, which is becoming noticeable to them. Well, most of them. Enter Abigail. The slightly annoying girl has a secret she wants to share with Hal, and him alone. This takes effort, but she finally gets him alone, his attention undivided. Even when faced with proof, Hal doesn't believe what he sees, or at least that he is destined for the same fate.
Soon, however, especially after an attack in Black Woods, Hal accepts what is happening, and uses his and his friends' unique circumstances to get to the bottom of the mysteries of the island once and for all. Have their parents been lying to them? Have their parents been lied to by the mysterious stranger who suddenly shows up? What really happened to the people Out There, on the mainland?
All questions are answered in this amazing action-packed tale, leaving you both satisfied and thirsty for more.
Everything is described in vivid detail, giving the reader a clear vision of locations and characters, and the dialog is spot-on, bringing the people to life. You come to care about them as if they were your children, your friends, or your neighbors. You are drawn in from the start, wanting to know what is happening, rooting for them as dangerous situations present themselves. I shared their concerns, their suspicions, and most importantly, their desire to learn the truth.
This novel is sure to capture your attention, whether you are nine years old or ninety-nine, or any age in between. I highly recommend ISLAND OF FOG, and am personally looking forward to the postman delivering the sequel, LABYRINTH OF FIRE.
November 23, 2009 - Laura Canning (Airstrip One Publications)
I've been meaning to review Island of Fog for some time, since reading it a few months ago. I've also been lucky enough to get a sneak preview of the sequel, Labyrinth of Fire, which is also a brilliant read. Keith Robinson creates a very believable, witty, action-packed world on the 'Island of Fog', where Hal and his friends have grown up without seeing sunlight and where they seem to be isolated from the outside world. When Hal and his friend Robbie find a hole in the forest the fog is apparently coming out of, the mystery starts. But not only do they have to deal with the idea of the fog and whether their parents have been lying to them all this time, they and their classmates also seem to be physically changing into different creatures...
The link between the changes, the fog and why the children and their parents are effectively marooned on the small island all becomes clear as the story hurtles on at breakneck pace. This is a superb book for children, with plenty of action, mystery and humour as well as great characterisation of Hal and his friends, and a very detailed plot that will keep any reader involved with the story. Hal is one of the most likeable characters I have met in children's fiction, and the reader will feel involved with him right to the end.
The best thing about Island of Fog is that it's only the first of a series. Hal and his friends solve the mystery in this book, but that only leads to more questions, and more action in the sequel Labyrinth of Fire. Both are truly excellent books for young people in the best tradition of children's fiction - I'll be buying anything else Keith Robinson writes.
The link between the changes, the fog and why the children and their parents are effectively marooned on the small island all becomes clear as the story hurtles on at breakneck pace. This is a superb book for children, with plenty of action, mystery and humour as well as great characterisation of Hal and his friends, and a very detailed plot that will keep any reader involved with the story. Hal is one of the most likeable characters I have met in children's fiction, and the reader will feel involved with him right to the end.
The best thing about Island of Fog is that it's only the first of a series. Hal and his friends solve the mystery in this book, but that only leads to more questions, and more action in the sequel Labyrinth of Fire. Both are truly excellent books for young people in the best tradition of children's fiction - I'll be buying anything else Keith Robinson writes.
September 30, 2009 - Brandy Wyatt, Rossville Public Library
This is part of an article printed in the Walker County Messenger following a visit to the Rossville Library. Written by Brandy Wyatt, Children's Specialist at the library.
Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with local young adult author, Keith Robinson, his lovely wife Vanessa and his adorable daughter Lily.
By day Keith is a self-employed website designer and by night he is a reader, writer, and collector of young adult and children’s books. He said he always wrote in his spare time but he didn’t start writing seriously until 2002. In 2003 he joined the Online Writers Workshop for Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror. A community of writers, new and published, who help each other enhance their writing. Keith said he learned a lot from the two years he spent as a member.
While he published a few short stories online, he didn’t hit the big time until April of this year when he published "Island of Fog," the first book in the "Children of the Fog" trilogy.
It’s a story about eight twelve year olds and their families. They live on a foggy island, cut off from the rest of the world. The kids go to school together where they not only learn the regular stuff like math, chemistry and english but also about how life used to be on the mainland, that unseen place Out There beyond the fog. A place they are not allowed to go.
The kids are no longer satisfied with the vague explanations about why they’re stuck on the island. They are tired of all of the secrets. Then they start to experience changes, like a green, itchy rash, or a (fang!) toothache.
"Island of Fog" is filled with fantasy, mystery and adventure. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I started reading Sunday night and by early Monday morning, around 1:30 a.m., I was done. Yes, I read it in one sitting, about 4½ to 5 hours. I could not put the book down, even though I had to go to work the next morning.
It’s a great book written for ages 9 and up. It’s not just for kids, adults will love it too.
You don't have to take my word for it. Best-selling sci-fi/fantasy author Piers Anthony said "I love it! Normally I don’t find children’s fiction all that interesting; this was an exception."
I can't wait to continue the story. The second book in the trilogy, "Labyrinth of Fire," should be released in November 2009.
Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with local young adult author, Keith Robinson, his lovely wife Vanessa and his adorable daughter Lily.
By day Keith is a self-employed website designer and by night he is a reader, writer, and collector of young adult and children’s books. He said he always wrote in his spare time but he didn’t start writing seriously until 2002. In 2003 he joined the Online Writers Workshop for Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror. A community of writers, new and published, who help each other enhance their writing. Keith said he learned a lot from the two years he spent as a member.
While he published a few short stories online, he didn’t hit the big time until April of this year when he published "Island of Fog," the first book in the "Children of the Fog" trilogy.
It’s a story about eight twelve year olds and their families. They live on a foggy island, cut off from the rest of the world. The kids go to school together where they not only learn the regular stuff like math, chemistry and english but also about how life used to be on the mainland, that unseen place Out There beyond the fog. A place they are not allowed to go.
The kids are no longer satisfied with the vague explanations about why they’re stuck on the island. They are tired of all of the secrets. Then they start to experience changes, like a green, itchy rash, or a (fang!) toothache.
"Island of Fog" is filled with fantasy, mystery and adventure. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I started reading Sunday night and by early Monday morning, around 1:30 a.m., I was done. Yes, I read it in one sitting, about 4½ to 5 hours. I could not put the book down, even though I had to go to work the next morning.
It’s a great book written for ages 9 and up. It’s not just for kids, adults will love it too.
You don't have to take my word for it. Best-selling sci-fi/fantasy author Piers Anthony said "I love it! Normally I don’t find children’s fiction all that interesting; this was an exception."
I can't wait to continue the story. The second book in the trilogy, "Labyrinth of Fire," should be released in November 2009.
September 27, 2009 - Julie@Owlsdene
The cover of this book looks mysterious and I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but I'm afraid I'm one of those people who do. So if I'd seen this book in a shop, I'd pick it up and read about its contents. In all honesty, I would then have put it back as it read as sort of surreal and not my usual reading matter. How glad I am that I bought this book and read it, all because I know the author.
Keith doesn't go into too much descriptive matter which I sometimes find unnecessary in some books, as the author then isn't leaving anything for the readers own imagination. The words flow freely from the pages and have that quality rarely seen in some authors where you want to keep reading, to see what will happen next.
The main characters are very likable and you warm to them almost immediately. Certain characters stand out as a favourite, the main character of Hal being one, and Abigail.
The whole story draws you into the pages and I thoroughly enjoyed this book immensely, and the journey it takes you on.
Keith doesn't go into too much descriptive matter which I sometimes find unnecessary in some books, as the author then isn't leaving anything for the readers own imagination. The words flow freely from the pages and have that quality rarely seen in some authors where you want to keep reading, to see what will happen next.
The main characters are very likable and you warm to them almost immediately. Certain characters stand out as a favourite, the main character of Hal being one, and Abigail.
The whole story draws you into the pages and I thoroughly enjoyed this book immensely, and the journey it takes you on.
August 5, 2009 - Michelle (Torch Under The Blankets)
(Originally posted on Michelle's blog on August 5th, 2009.)
I love young adult fiction and make no excuses for it. I eagerly awaited the arrival of my copy of Island of Fog but when it arrived I was suddenly nervous because I really wanted to like it. I tentatively stepped into the prologue, let out the breath I was holding and launched into the first chapter. Now my book has a distinct bend in the middle from being stuck under my arm while I tended to my life of the last 3 days. What a great adventure Keith Robinson took me on. In keeping with the tradition of young adult fiction, Island of Fog brings together a group of young people who have to solve a mystery in order to save themselves and those they love.
Twelve year old Hal and Robbie are best friends and live in a small community on a green lush island. The outside world is not known to them, their parents exiled themselves when the world was ravaged by a deadly virus. Despite being marooned, their island life, up till now, has been ideal but now in their teens they start to question their surroundings. They crave things they have only heard about, they crave adventure and something new, they crave the sun and the moon. The sun and moon are never seen on their island because the island is covered in a thick impenetrable fog. Hal, Robbie and the other teenagers on the island are getting restless. They are adolescents and like all adolescents are going through physical and mental changes. They are becoming adults, getting taller, stronger, and forming crushes. They are growing hair in strange places but is it normal to grow it on your fingers, is it normal to be itching all day, is it normal to have a green scaly rash or sharp fangs. Should they show their parents? Can they trust their parents, whose explanations don't seem convincing anymore? Can they trust the strange outsider who arrives, unaffected by the virus and conveniently, at the same time as their physical changes? They know they aren't being told the truth and set out to find it.
Island of Fog travels along at an enjoyable pace and the suspense has you hungry for each page turn. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and love that young adult fiction can take you off on a great adventure without you being muddied up by 'adult themes'. Island of Fog ends but the story is certainly not wrapped up and I searched the last few blank pages with hope of finding an excerpt of the next book. So, Keith Robinson, thank you for Island of Fog and as I can feel a series coming on, I sit, eagerly awaiting book two.
I love young adult fiction and make no excuses for it. I eagerly awaited the arrival of my copy of Island of Fog but when it arrived I was suddenly nervous because I really wanted to like it. I tentatively stepped into the prologue, let out the breath I was holding and launched into the first chapter. Now my book has a distinct bend in the middle from being stuck under my arm while I tended to my life of the last 3 days. What a great adventure Keith Robinson took me on. In keeping with the tradition of young adult fiction, Island of Fog brings together a group of young people who have to solve a mystery in order to save themselves and those they love.
Twelve year old Hal and Robbie are best friends and live in a small community on a green lush island. The outside world is not known to them, their parents exiled themselves when the world was ravaged by a deadly virus. Despite being marooned, their island life, up till now, has been ideal but now in their teens they start to question their surroundings. They crave things they have only heard about, they crave adventure and something new, they crave the sun and the moon. The sun and moon are never seen on their island because the island is covered in a thick impenetrable fog. Hal, Robbie and the other teenagers on the island are getting restless. They are adolescents and like all adolescents are going through physical and mental changes. They are becoming adults, getting taller, stronger, and forming crushes. They are growing hair in strange places but is it normal to grow it on your fingers, is it normal to be itching all day, is it normal to have a green scaly rash or sharp fangs. Should they show their parents? Can they trust their parents, whose explanations don't seem convincing anymore? Can they trust the strange outsider who arrives, unaffected by the virus and conveniently, at the same time as their physical changes? They know they aren't being told the truth and set out to find it.
Island of Fog travels along at an enjoyable pace and the suspense has you hungry for each page turn. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and love that young adult fiction can take you off on a great adventure without you being muddied up by 'adult themes'. Island of Fog ends but the story is certainly not wrapped up and I searched the last few blank pages with hope of finding an excerpt of the next book. So, Keith Robinson, thank you for Island of Fog and as I can feel a series coming on, I sit, eagerly awaiting book two.
July 3, 2009 - Piers Anthony, bestselling author of the XANTH series
On May 19, 2009, I asked Piers Anthony, best-selling author of the Magic of Xanth series and many others, if I could send him a copy of my book, ISLAND OF FOG. He replied:
...I don't promise to read the whole of it, but will read as far as I need to get its measure. If it is hopelessly amateur, I'll let you know.
I sent him a copy, and on June 2, 2009, he wrote:
Dear Keith Robinson,
This is to let you know that I received Island of Fog on May 30, 2009. I was jammed at the moment, clearing my decks for my long June Column and Survey update, so didn't start reading until yesterday.
Now I'm through the first 7 chapters, and have to say that this is an interesting, well-written story. I will surely finish it and review it in my next – July – column. I had not expected to find twelve year old children exciting, but these are. Thanks for showing me this, and more anon.
Piers Anthony
After a few more days I received a new email:
Now I have finished reading Island of Fog. I love it! The story is interesting throughout, and builds nicely to a reasonable explanation for all mysteries. Normally I don't find children's fiction all that interesting; this was an exception.
This is a clean copy, but I did spot a few typos.
[three typos listed]
Congratulations on a fine juvenile novel.
Piers Anthony
In Pier's Anthony's Jewel-Lye (July) newsletter on his website, the second paragraph reads:
I read Island of Fog, by Keith Robinson. This is a juvenile novel featuring twelve year old children who are confined with their parents on an island perpetually shrouded by fog. The story is of the mystery of the fog and their residence within it. They discover that it issues from a vent on the interior of the island, which seems to be guarded by a dangerous monster, and that a sea monster prevents them from trying to escape the island. Their parents are close-mouthed. Then it gets worse: the children start developing special transforming abilities, becoming monsters indeed, but able to revert at will to their human forms. What is going on? Slowly they find out. They keep it from the adults, especially a nosy outsider, not trusting her motives, and this seems justified. I loved this novel; it starts interesting, develops tension, and concludes with reasonable explanations that relate to the whole world. It is evidently the first of a series. It should be some series.
From a successful author who has had 21 New York Times Bestsellers, this is high praise indeed! Thanks, Piers!
...I don't promise to read the whole of it, but will read as far as I need to get its measure. If it is hopelessly amateur, I'll let you know.
I sent him a copy, and on June 2, 2009, he wrote:
Dear Keith Robinson,
This is to let you know that I received Island of Fog on May 30, 2009. I was jammed at the moment, clearing my decks for my long June Column and Survey update, so didn't start reading until yesterday.
Now I'm through the first 7 chapters, and have to say that this is an interesting, well-written story. I will surely finish it and review it in my next – July – column. I had not expected to find twelve year old children exciting, but these are. Thanks for showing me this, and more anon.
Piers Anthony
After a few more days I received a new email:
Now I have finished reading Island of Fog. I love it! The story is interesting throughout, and builds nicely to a reasonable explanation for all mysteries. Normally I don't find children's fiction all that interesting; this was an exception.
This is a clean copy, but I did spot a few typos.
[three typos listed]
Congratulations on a fine juvenile novel.
Piers Anthony
In Pier's Anthony's Jewel-Lye (July) newsletter on his website, the second paragraph reads:
I read Island of Fog, by Keith Robinson. This is a juvenile novel featuring twelve year old children who are confined with their parents on an island perpetually shrouded by fog. The story is of the mystery of the fog and their residence within it. They discover that it issues from a vent on the interior of the island, which seems to be guarded by a dangerous monster, and that a sea monster prevents them from trying to escape the island. Their parents are close-mouthed. Then it gets worse: the children start developing special transforming abilities, becoming monsters indeed, but able to revert at will to their human forms. What is going on? Slowly they find out. They keep it from the adults, especially a nosy outsider, not trusting her motives, and this seems justified. I loved this novel; it starts interesting, develops tension, and concludes with reasonable explanations that relate to the whole world. It is evidently the first of a series. It should be some series.
From a successful author who has had 21 New York Times Bestsellers, this is high praise indeed! Thanks, Piers!
June 18, 2009 - Nigel Rowe
A fantastic book from a new author is a treat worth savouring. This book had me turning pages as if there were to be no tomorrow! A great story, with a plot twisting controllably to a satisfactory finish. Let's see it in the bookshops, and here's looking forward to the sequel!
June 17, 2009 - Ming
So folks, grab a cup of hot, steaming coffee and a blanket and sit beside the window with only little shimmers of light here and there at dawn. Trust me, reading Island of Fog in "fog" is the best thing you can do, for you're up for a trip down the winding, foggy lane. :-)
And the story itself starts out with a gripping prologue. It's as good as a prologue by Dan Brown and far better in that it actually connects with the story. The first chapter is brilliant. We have here Hal and Robbie who've found the source of the ever-present feeling of gloom created by the fog, and plan to block it out, just to see the blue sky just once in their lives. Brings up a pang of sadness, does it not? And then we are left to wonder at the itch and sudden strength shown by the boys.
Abigail Porter is the best drawn character of the lot. Bossy, annoying, and an insufferable know-it-all and snoop. I just love it how she takes charge over everything despite the fact that someone else usually leads... now what was the name of that girl? I think this is one problem here - the rest of the children are not as finely drawn as Hal, Abigail, Dewey and Fenton, but perhaps that is to be expected when you have so many characters. The other children are not really very memorable.
I loved the manticore attack during the first half of the book, and that Thomas remembers some people but not others - it is very nostalgic. It just seems so sad that a child supposedly killed should turn up to be alive - and in the form of a monster - but it's a very well-balanced sentiment, leaving no room for unnecessary brooding. We are quickly bribed into taking an intellectual view of the 'person', enormously helped by Abigail's scientific outlook to life.
Miss Simone is made out to be a sinister character, and a crooked one at which leaves the reader wondering where exactly the story is going. The twist comes when she jumps off the cliff and I was quickly reminded of the prologue, and I was left thinking, "Now what are those parents really up to?"
The chapter about everyone's transformations is brilliant. Fenton in particular has a definite mystery about him, and somehow I felt it was not really dealt with as well as the rest of the story - more about this later.
All through the book we have little hints here and there about what might have been Out There. The lack of toothpaste, the incredible immune systems, etc.
Finally, the ending. It's wonderful how they end up in Miss Simone's Land, but here I was distinctly left with the feeling of something being amiss. Fenton's mystery still seems to be hanging. Thomas is just conveniently removed from the scene, whether Hal can fly or not is still being pondered. Perfect hints for a definite sequel immediately following Island of Fog.
Despite all that, I think it's a wonderful story, one that deserves to be published by a big house with hard covers and dustjackets and beautifully sketched line drawings in ink - I for one like illustrations, but its absence does not bother me, but in the case of Island of Fog, I think they're necessary - I had to look up on Google what exactly a manticore looked like!
And the story itself starts out with a gripping prologue. It's as good as a prologue by Dan Brown and far better in that it actually connects with the story. The first chapter is brilliant. We have here Hal and Robbie who've found the source of the ever-present feeling of gloom created by the fog, and plan to block it out, just to see the blue sky just once in their lives. Brings up a pang of sadness, does it not? And then we are left to wonder at the itch and sudden strength shown by the boys.
Abigail Porter is the best drawn character of the lot. Bossy, annoying, and an insufferable know-it-all and snoop. I just love it how she takes charge over everything despite the fact that someone else usually leads... now what was the name of that girl? I think this is one problem here - the rest of the children are not as finely drawn as Hal, Abigail, Dewey and Fenton, but perhaps that is to be expected when you have so many characters. The other children are not really very memorable.
I loved the manticore attack during the first half of the book, and that Thomas remembers some people but not others - it is very nostalgic. It just seems so sad that a child supposedly killed should turn up to be alive - and in the form of a monster - but it's a very well-balanced sentiment, leaving no room for unnecessary brooding. We are quickly bribed into taking an intellectual view of the 'person', enormously helped by Abigail's scientific outlook to life.
Miss Simone is made out to be a sinister character, and a crooked one at which leaves the reader wondering where exactly the story is going. The twist comes when she jumps off the cliff and I was quickly reminded of the prologue, and I was left thinking, "Now what are those parents really up to?"
The chapter about everyone's transformations is brilliant. Fenton in particular has a definite mystery about him, and somehow I felt it was not really dealt with as well as the rest of the story - more about this later.
All through the book we have little hints here and there about what might have been Out There. The lack of toothpaste, the incredible immune systems, etc.
Finally, the ending. It's wonderful how they end up in Miss Simone's Land, but here I was distinctly left with the feeling of something being amiss. Fenton's mystery still seems to be hanging. Thomas is just conveniently removed from the scene, whether Hal can fly or not is still being pondered. Perfect hints for a definite sequel immediately following Island of Fog.
Despite all that, I think it's a wonderful story, one that deserves to be published by a big house with hard covers and dustjackets and beautifully sketched line drawings in ink - I for one like illustrations, but its absence does not bother me, but in the case of Island of Fog, I think they're necessary - I had to look up on Google what exactly a manticore looked like!
June 15, 2009 - Philip Mannering
Deserves to be Published Traditionally – Excellent Beyond Belief
By Philip Mannering
At a time where fat and thick "traditionally" published books are dominating the bestseller lists, Keith Robinson has made a bold move. He has self-published his slim children's mystery-adventure/fantasy novel, Island of Fog. And it seems that it is almost too good for the self-published market. It deserves to be published traditionally, and thus, be better marketed.
Right from the very start, the author has made his mark. Just look at the opening paragraph of Chapter One: "Halfway into the silent woods, Hal Franklin paused before a clump of blackberry bushes and scratched at his left forearm. Why was it itching so much today? He unbuttoned his cuff and was about to roll up his sleeve when Robbie called from up ahead, his voice sharp and clear." If that doesn't have a hook, I don't know what does!
The author is very careful with his information – giving just enough to let the mind wonder about the solution. There are almost too many mysteries, but all are handled well. In a mystery and suspense novel, you have to know enough things so that everything doesn't become confused. And the author has done just that.
I agree with Ann Fisher (the Literary Editor) when she wrote in her review that there is a growing sense of jeopardy and, in my opinion, this helps in the mystery. The setting is great – and the characters are even better. Out of the eight children, I think I like Abigail, Hal and Dewey the best; their character development is the most. Best of all, the plot is just too exciting to put down. And this just decides it all.
When one goes into the bookstore there is a lot of quantity – some certainly great children's books have been published in the last decade. But the marketing is very poor, and the covers and the illustrations misleadingly say that either the book is too adult-like or it's just too childish. If there are any illustrations at all, the book falls into the latter category. So if a middle-grade/young-adult reader wants to read a good book for his age, he is easily confused. However, if and when Island of Fog is out in the bookshops the problem seems to be solved. The cover is superb – right for the target age. The style is perfect too. I look forward to seeing this book traditionally published.
The only gripe for me was that I was expecting a bit more at the ending. However, instead of adding one more chapter, there is a 'To be continued.....' written. To be honest, I have never seen this in any book. I wonder if publishers frown at this kind of thing. Yes, it does reassure the readers that this isn't a self-contained story, there will be more in the next book of the trilogy... but the reader is intelligent enough to know that! Several questions still remain unanswered – I'm looking eagerly forward to the time when the second book is published!
All in all, Island of Fog is, in my opinion, destined to be a success. And – dare I say? – a success of the highest category (maybe even a bestseller; who knows?).
By Philip Mannering
At a time where fat and thick "traditionally" published books are dominating the bestseller lists, Keith Robinson has made a bold move. He has self-published his slim children's mystery-adventure/fantasy novel, Island of Fog. And it seems that it is almost too good for the self-published market. It deserves to be published traditionally, and thus, be better marketed.
Right from the very start, the author has made his mark. Just look at the opening paragraph of Chapter One: "Halfway into the silent woods, Hal Franklin paused before a clump of blackberry bushes and scratched at his left forearm. Why was it itching so much today? He unbuttoned his cuff and was about to roll up his sleeve when Robbie called from up ahead, his voice sharp and clear." If that doesn't have a hook, I don't know what does!
The author is very careful with his information – giving just enough to let the mind wonder about the solution. There are almost too many mysteries, but all are handled well. In a mystery and suspense novel, you have to know enough things so that everything doesn't become confused. And the author has done just that.
I agree with Ann Fisher (the Literary Editor) when she wrote in her review that there is a growing sense of jeopardy and, in my opinion, this helps in the mystery. The setting is great – and the characters are even better. Out of the eight children, I think I like Abigail, Hal and Dewey the best; their character development is the most. Best of all, the plot is just too exciting to put down. And this just decides it all.
When one goes into the bookstore there is a lot of quantity – some certainly great children's books have been published in the last decade. But the marketing is very poor, and the covers and the illustrations misleadingly say that either the book is too adult-like or it's just too childish. If there are any illustrations at all, the book falls into the latter category. So if a middle-grade/young-adult reader wants to read a good book for his age, he is easily confused. However, if and when Island of Fog is out in the bookshops the problem seems to be solved. The cover is superb – right for the target age. The style is perfect too. I look forward to seeing this book traditionally published.
The only gripe for me was that I was expecting a bit more at the ending. However, instead of adding one more chapter, there is a 'To be continued.....' written. To be honest, I have never seen this in any book. I wonder if publishers frown at this kind of thing. Yes, it does reassure the readers that this isn't a self-contained story, there will be more in the next book of the trilogy... but the reader is intelligent enough to know that! Several questions still remain unanswered – I'm looking eagerly forward to the time when the second book is published!
All in all, Island of Fog is, in my opinion, destined to be a success. And – dare I say? – a success of the highest category (maybe even a bestseller; who knows?).
May 29, 2009 - Hannah Jacks
The Island of Fog was extraordinary I absolutely loved it. The Island of Fog is one of the best books I have read so far and I really enjoyed reading it.
November 18, 2008 - Ann Kempner Fisher
This was the letter received from Ann, a professional literary editor, back in November 2008 after I sent it to her for evaluation. There have only been a few minor edits since.
Many thanks for sending Island of Fog for a reading, evaluation and editing.
The good news is that I have no bad news, which is very untypical when it comes to evaluating a client's novel. In the case of Island, it is, first of all, in much better shape than you may have thought and, as we discussed on the phone, your "concerns" were minor. Very possibly because you are (as with most writers) too close to your book and not quite able to be objective enough, and even finding fault where there is none.
And so, let me tell you why I like this young-adult fantasy story so much. To begin with, the premise is intriguing, and the unfolding of the plot is extremely well executed. Best of all, the kids are all so engaging and so real that we can't help but get caught up in all that happens to them. They take us on their dramatic journey throughout the entire story.
The book gets off to a clever, mysterious and suspenseful start with a scary set-up for what's to come. There's a growing sense of jeopardy and sinister possibilities that build with escalating tension toward all sorts of startling revelations. And these revelations and events are all unpredictable, which is a huge plus. [Snipped to avoid spoilers!]
So, in terms of plot, your fertile imagination and your literary skills have served you well. In fact, the story held up right to the very end. It did not disappoint, or weaken, but remained suspenseful and piqued my curiosity even after I began to learn and understand what had brought the small group of parents and their kids to the island and why. And since the book is full of twists and turns and surprises, I never knew what was going to happen next. Which definitely makes for a page-turner.
The story's structure is solid and well-balanced. Chapters are succinct and each chapter ending "flips" us into the next. I like the chapter titles and the chapters themselves move seamlessly along, and transitions within chapters are smooth as well. The attack in Chapter 17 is beautifully choreographed with kids and creatures. And the excitement and jeopardy never let up.
And as we discussed, the story feels so original and unique in its concept – a powerful selling advantage to a publisher since they're always looking for what is new and different in any and every genre. And this story definitely lends itself to a sequel or trilogy. I like that there are subtle hints toward the end of the book that should arouse a reader's interest in the continuing evolvement of the children lives and their creature selves.
I never found any scenes that were too "talky" (one of your concerns) because I always feel that two lines of good dialogue can do more for a scene than a whole page of description. In my case, Island has a very good balance of both dialogue and narrative.
You've also created a powerful, visual authenticity of time and place. The atmosphere/environment of the island, the fairly primitive lifestyle and the endless gloom are all evocatively conveyed.
And the escalation of the children morphing into scary and not-so-scary beings is excellent... visual, graphic, and easy to picture. Would look terrific on film, even an animated one.
Another strong story aspect is the fact that whenever I came upon something that I questioned or wanted more clarification about, you did just that within a next page or two; thus, the story was never confusing and you certainly satisfied my "need to know." It's very important with any story that has mystery, suspense, fantasy, to not let the reader lose track of a piece of story or a character (especially when you have quite a few of them) or become confused by what is going on.
The all-important characters and dialogue: You've done excellent work here. The parents all feel like typical parent types who love their children, and certainly want to protect them.
[Snipped]
Above all, the children are all extremely likable, sympathetic characters whose adventures and misadventures are grounded in reality-typical kids, loving parents, the classroom setting, etc. Their dialogue is real and natural – you've brought all the children to life. Their fears, concerns, natural curiosity, as well as their thoughts, feelings, and interaction with each other-all are totally believable. Then, when they begin magically morphing into strange creatures and monsters, this serves to add an extra and fascinating dimension to them. No longer ordinary kids, but kids with extraordinary abilities. Their transformations are sometimes scary, sometimes delightful, funny, and always fascinating. Their reactions are thoroughly in character for each child and their sometimes momentary inability to turn into a creature or the limitations that some of the creatures have (Abigail can't fly very high, etc.) make the children that much more endearing. And visually, their changing into fantasy beings would look wonderful on film. Your vivid descriptions of these events are, again, easy to "see."
[Snipped]
Thanks to your fine writing, I only needed to do a light line edit – what a pleasure. This is a book that certainly deserves to be published. And so, Godspeed with making that happen.
Many thanks for sending Island of Fog for a reading, evaluation and editing.
The good news is that I have no bad news, which is very untypical when it comes to evaluating a client's novel. In the case of Island, it is, first of all, in much better shape than you may have thought and, as we discussed on the phone, your "concerns" were minor. Very possibly because you are (as with most writers) too close to your book and not quite able to be objective enough, and even finding fault where there is none.
And so, let me tell you why I like this young-adult fantasy story so much. To begin with, the premise is intriguing, and the unfolding of the plot is extremely well executed. Best of all, the kids are all so engaging and so real that we can't help but get caught up in all that happens to them. They take us on their dramatic journey throughout the entire story.
The book gets off to a clever, mysterious and suspenseful start with a scary set-up for what's to come. There's a growing sense of jeopardy and sinister possibilities that build with escalating tension toward all sorts of startling revelations. And these revelations and events are all unpredictable, which is a huge plus. [Snipped to avoid spoilers!]
So, in terms of plot, your fertile imagination and your literary skills have served you well. In fact, the story held up right to the very end. It did not disappoint, or weaken, but remained suspenseful and piqued my curiosity even after I began to learn and understand what had brought the small group of parents and their kids to the island and why. And since the book is full of twists and turns and surprises, I never knew what was going to happen next. Which definitely makes for a page-turner.
The story's structure is solid and well-balanced. Chapters are succinct and each chapter ending "flips" us into the next. I like the chapter titles and the chapters themselves move seamlessly along, and transitions within chapters are smooth as well. The attack in Chapter 17 is beautifully choreographed with kids and creatures. And the excitement and jeopardy never let up.
And as we discussed, the story feels so original and unique in its concept – a powerful selling advantage to a publisher since they're always looking for what is new and different in any and every genre. And this story definitely lends itself to a sequel or trilogy. I like that there are subtle hints toward the end of the book that should arouse a reader's interest in the continuing evolvement of the children lives and their creature selves.
I never found any scenes that were too "talky" (one of your concerns) because I always feel that two lines of good dialogue can do more for a scene than a whole page of description. In my case, Island has a very good balance of both dialogue and narrative.
You've also created a powerful, visual authenticity of time and place. The atmosphere/environment of the island, the fairly primitive lifestyle and the endless gloom are all evocatively conveyed.
And the escalation of the children morphing into scary and not-so-scary beings is excellent... visual, graphic, and easy to picture. Would look terrific on film, even an animated one.
Another strong story aspect is the fact that whenever I came upon something that I questioned or wanted more clarification about, you did just that within a next page or two; thus, the story was never confusing and you certainly satisfied my "need to know." It's very important with any story that has mystery, suspense, fantasy, to not let the reader lose track of a piece of story or a character (especially when you have quite a few of them) or become confused by what is going on.
The all-important characters and dialogue: You've done excellent work here. The parents all feel like typical parent types who love their children, and certainly want to protect them.
[Snipped]
Above all, the children are all extremely likable, sympathetic characters whose adventures and misadventures are grounded in reality-typical kids, loving parents, the classroom setting, etc. Their dialogue is real and natural – you've brought all the children to life. Their fears, concerns, natural curiosity, as well as their thoughts, feelings, and interaction with each other-all are totally believable. Then, when they begin magically morphing into strange creatures and monsters, this serves to add an extra and fascinating dimension to them. No longer ordinary kids, but kids with extraordinary abilities. Their transformations are sometimes scary, sometimes delightful, funny, and always fascinating. Their reactions are thoroughly in character for each child and their sometimes momentary inability to turn into a creature or the limitations that some of the creatures have (Abigail can't fly very high, etc.) make the children that much more endearing. And visually, their changing into fantasy beings would look wonderful on film. Your vivid descriptions of these events are, again, easy to "see."
[Snipped]
Thanks to your fine writing, I only needed to do a light line edit – what a pleasure. This is a book that certainly deserves to be published. And so, Godspeed with making that happen.
