Five on a Treasure Island

Reach for this book when your child is yearning for a taste of independence or struggling to find their footing in a new social group. It is the quintessential 'freedom' story, following four cousins and a dog as they explore an island, discover a shipwreck, and hunt for lost gold without constant adult supervision. Beyond the mystery, the book focuses on the budding friendship between the city-dwelling siblings and their fierce, tomboyish cousin George. It celebrates the power of teamwork and the bravery found in sticking together. While the setting is a nostalgic 1940s England, the core themes of agency and loyalty remain timeless for children aged 8 to 12. It serves as a wonderful bridge for readers moving toward more complex middle-grade mysteries.