'The Explorer' is a book that genuinely deserves all the accolades thrown at it. Katherine Rundell is just brilliant. Her writing is superb. And she genuinely believes in the possibility of adventure at every turn - which is what makes her books so gripping for children! "You should always dress as if you might be going to the jungle. You never know when you might meet an adventure" is one of the central messages of this excellent story - along with its strong themes of friendship, and exploration of the nature of courage. If the kids in your life haven't read this book, and it's within their capabilities, then put it in their hands as soon as possible! As well as widening their vocabulary and inspiring them with the beauty of well crafted sentences, and teaching empathy and bravery in large doses, it'll leave them a lot more ready to survive if they, too, at some point in their lives, find themselves standed and alone in the Amazon Rainforest!