Publisher's Synopsis
During school holidays, the Cook family led by Kim their fearless Jack Russell terrier, takes a European trip, initially visiting Paris and Lake Annecy and then on to Venice. There, they board a cruise ship and sail down the Croatian and Greek coasts, stopping off at several ports and islands on the way.
Places explored in Croatia, include: Zadar, Split, Korcula and Dubrovnik. Places explored in Greece, include: Corfu, Arta, Olympia, Nafplio, Athens and the Acropolis, Heraklion (in Crete) and the magical island of Santorini.
On the cruise, daughter Sam and Kim are forced by Mr Big to steal artworks at the various museums and historical sites they visit. He threatens he will harm her brother Charlie if they don't: "The ocean is wide and deep!"
The pair takes on a variety of different art-heists, most of them successfully, but with the inevitable hiccups. The rest of the family is oblivious to what's going on, until the very end.
The final showdown occurs off the island of Santorini, Greece. Can Kim save the day?
In this adventure Sam learns to deal with dishonesty and danger, declaring "the truth eventually prevails." But getting to the truth creates a moral tug-of-war in Sam's young mind: shouldn't she tell her parents what's going on? Or shouldn't she simply refuse to cooperate with Mr Big? But in each case, wouldn't this put Charlie at risk?
So while this book is high adventure, it also has solid moral underpinnings; is an authentic travelogue (the places explored can be looked up on the web), and it offers genuine insights into the local customs, food and cultures.
Designed for 8 to 12 year olds, this book is not only a great read for youngsters, but also for their parents, grandparents and schoolteachers!
This is Book 3 in the Kim's Adventure Travels' series. It follows the highly popular Book 1, Punch-Up in the Punjab! ... and Book 2, Rumble in Rajasthan! More adventures will follow!
