Count Down to Danger: Bullet Train Disaster

Count Down to Danger: Bullet Train Disaster by Jack Heath (Scholastic Australia)

PB RRP $12.99

ISBN 978-1-76015-962-7

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

On the platform ahead of you is a shining new bullet train. It is about to take its first journey carrying passengers up the side of Mt Grave, the second tallest mountain peak in the world. The rails lead straight up, the train will be climbing almost vertically, and you will be aboard. When disaster hits, you have 30 minutes to escape. Hang on for the adventure of a lifetime ...if you survive!

This is a heart-pumping thrill ride which leaves no time for breath. Be prepared to meet bears, bandits and royalty. You never know where your journey is taking you.

Choose-Your-Own adventure books put the reader in control of the main characters’ decisions. As there are many different paths that may be taken, these books can be read over and over again, while still retaining a sense of anticipation. Of the 30 paths, only some lead to survival and only a handful to glory.

This is a must for arm-chair adrenaline junkies and will entertain middle school and early teen aged audiences alike. Look out for the next in the series Shock Wave.

Jack Heath is an Australian author who writes popular action-packed stories for young teens including the recent Scream series.