"Those who think of the Amazon as a Green Hell bring only their own fears and prejudices to this amazing land. For whether a place is a hell or a heaven rests in yourself, and those who go with courage and an open mind may find themselves in Paradise" ~ Journey To the River SeaThis is the kind of book that demands an ‘atmosphere’.....a stack of sandwiches, a tall cold glass of lemonade ;topped at regular intervals…a wooden Easy-Chair (the kind your grandpa sat on and smiled genially from) placed in a small, airy room that has a single antiquated table-fan whirring noisily…and a wide window from where you can hear the gentle crackle of crickets. Maia has lost her parents in a tragic accident and the only existing relatives appear to be the owners of a rubber plantation along the mighty Amazon. Quelling her initial fears of cannibalistic animal life and hostile Indians…Maia who is an optimistic young girl is soon ready to embark on the journey. She is accompanied by seemingly stern governess Miss.Minton and a fanciful imagination where her foster family will welcome her with open arms.Well after that build-up, it’s obvious that Maia is in for a rude shock. Mr. Carter, his insecticide loving wife and the terrible twins seem to be straight out of a nightmare. Maia is barred from venturing beyond the clinical grounds of the Carter house. Sullen Indians…..the constant smell of Lysol in the house…..bland food that quivers/ melts and the nastiness of the Carter family …all combine to crush Maia’s grand hopes.But then Maia meets Finn, a wild boy in a canoe…..a boy who’s wrapped in mystery and adventure and who will soon take Maia on an unforgettable trip into the fantastic and magical rainforest.A book that is almost lyrically beautiful….’Journey To The River Sea’ is choc-a-bloc with exotic plants and animals and ably supported by well-etched characters. Eva Ibbotson had apparently written this book in honour of her late husband who was a naturalist. And she makes a fitting tribute. It isn’t an exaggeration to say that you can effortlessly picture the rainforest in all it’s wild, damp greenery as it unfolds with each chapter. And a simple lesson at the end of the day…a place is what you make of it. Heaven or Hell…it’s all about shedding your prejudices and seizing the day.