Bobby Ether finds himself thrust into the mysterious world of monks, meditation and mind power after he’s orphaned, kidnapped and taken to the mountains of Tibet. There, Bobby fumbles at learning how to control his anima, a power the Jade Academy helps its students understand and control. Despite being told he’s special, Bobby can’t unblock his powers until a serene monk helps him find his way.
With twists and turns to keep the reader flipping page after page in excitement, BOBBY ETHER AND THE JADE ACADEMY conjures up a fantastic story for readers of all ages. With satisfying plots and clear, crisp writing, author R. Scott Boyer unfurls a wonderful coming-of-age story full of magical adventure. Bobby and his friends are outcasts from the “in-crowd” at Jade. Boyer gives readers a realistic group of young people–each striving to both fit in and be an individual. Even the minor characters are deliciously portrayed. As Bobby uncovers secrets in the bowels of the Academy, he learns to trust himself and his judgment of others.
Bobby learns to meditate. Boyer introduces this simple practice to help Bobby both understand and unleash the power each person possesses inside. For young readers, this will remind each to trust the inner voice, not the cacophony of the crowd. Like many books that give young characters magic-like qualities, there’s a quest involved that helps a young person find her way in the world. But, unlike most such books, there’s not a reliance on the fantastical to keep young readers engaged. BOBBY ETHER AND THE JADE ACADEMY uses engaging, identifiable characters to build a believable story within an unbelievable world.
Boyer merges science fiction with fantasy to fuel this wonderful story. There’s doubt and belief. There’s redemption and reward. But mostly there’s a thrilling ride: BOBBY ETHER AND THE JADE ACADEMY engages the mind while weaving a suspenseful, terrific story that delivers.
~Greg Rideout for IndieReader