Alice-Miranda at Sea

Alice-Miranda at Sea by Jacqueline Harvey (Random House)

PB RRP $15.95

ISBN 978-1-8647-1848-5

Reviewed by Oliver Phommavanh

Alice-Miranda goes abroad in her latest adventure for younger readers. This sweet girl who always looks on the bright side of life is on a luxury yacht with her family and friends. She’ll get to witness the wedding of her Aunt Charlotte and movie star Lawrence Ridley. It’s a star studded celebration attracts unwanted attention from many fronts. There’s plenty of mystery with a stowaway named Neville, a short-tempered cook who looks very familiar to Alice-Miranda and a possible thief on board.

Alice-Miranda tries to melt the staff’s hearts, which is a little tricky when they’re not used to kids. It’s another chance for Alice-Miranda to show what she’s made of and save her aunt’s wedding from being a disaster.

Harvey turns her attention to luxury cruises and comes up with luscious descriptions of the yacht. It almost reads like a brochure because it’s so enticing. I’m sure readers will continue to daydream about her glamorous life. Long-time fans of Alice-Miranda will be delighted to see some characters from previous novels returning. Jacinta finally gets to see her mother again but it’s not the reunion that she hopes for.

Alice-Miranda overcomes challenges in her positive and charming style. She’s a great role model for girls of all ages. Alice-Miranda’s friends also have their own moments, with plenty of gentle humour between them. Alice-Miranda At Sea is another exciting addition to the series and there’s more to come. Recommended for ages 8 and up.