Review of Lore Isle, by Jiin Kim

Peter, the 13-year-old protagonist of Jiin Kim’s Lore Isle, usually spends most of his free time at home. He’s either helping his mom cope with her agoraphobia or hanging out with his grandfather, whom he’s close to, but very different from. Peter is content to read books about mythological creatures or go on fishing trips, while Grandpa loves to hunt big game. He even brags about their ancestor, a legendary bounty hunter known for killing Newfoundland wolves, a species that is now extinct.

When his grandfather dies unexpectedly, Peter learns they may also lose their house and feels a new weight of responsibility. Soon a mysterious stranger, claiming to be an old friend of his grandfather’s, shows up on their doorstep. Mr. Doyle promises that he can get Peter enough riches to save their home. In exchange, he must help him with a quest to bring the wolves back to Newfoundland.

Peter agrees, and this kicks off an adventure that takes him to an alternate world called Lore Isle. Here the extinct Newfoundland wolves still roam free, mingling with magical creatures such as mummers, leprechauns, and sprites, none of whom quite fit the descriptions in his treasured books at home.

“The so-called leprechauns were not wearing green and they were not cute. As tall as grown men and about twice as wide, they had huge, hairless heads; flat foreheads; and wide, twisted mouths … Puddicombe’s Mythical and Fantastic Creatures Reference needed serious updating.”

As he gets further into the quest, the stakes get higher. Peter must dig deep for courage and conviction in this thoughtfully told coming-of-age story. The debut author, Jiin Kim, draws subtle, yet effective, metaphorical parallels between Peter’s home struggles and his Lore Isle expedition. This subconsciously adds to the challenges Peter must face when choosing whom he will trust.

I enjoyed the author’s choice to include a darker version of mummers in this tale. Although mummers aren’t usually found in the lands of fairies and witches, they fit perfectly in this modern-day legend, bringing a unique touch of Newfoundland tradition to Lore Isle, and Kim’s descriptions of them were grotesquely delightful.

“Tree Bark had a mask made with bark that wound all the way around his head, cylindrical like a tree trunk. Bright eyes peered out from the tree knots. Chicken legs with claws dangled from where his ears should be. His purple shirt stretched taut over his stuffed chest and stomach. He had impossibly thin legs and mismatched boots.”

Scattered throughout the pages are fantastic, detailed illustrations by Kim. The author also paints a vivid picture with words. The text pulls the reader into the incredible places and creatures Peter encounters, while keeping the pace quick and the pages turning.

Lore Isle has a relatable protagonist you can’t help but root for, along with a memorable cast of supporting characters. Readers who enjoy a fast-paced middle-grade adventure with a touch of dark fantasy will delight in this story.

Lore Isle is a Nimbus Publishing book. It will be released June 27, 2023.

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