Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet by Donn Swaby
I'm going to sound like an old grandma now but Corey is such a lovely boy! He's so sweet and self-deprecating, I love how much he cares about his mum and his best friend. I also love the family dynamics at the start of the book, it reminded me a bit of visiting family abroad when I was little.
I found it really interesting to read about the Taino culture, which I knew nothing about before reading this book. Following Corey as he discovered things was a good way to learn more.
This is quite a fast paced book and I found myself racing through it, eager to find out what would happen at every stage. It really was an Indiana Jones style adventure, complete with hidden underground caves and supernatural elements.
Book Summary
All Corey Crumbly wants is to win the annual Classic Arcade Game Tournament in memory of his dad. However, during a family reunion on the island of Jamaica, he discovers a mysterious amulet off the coast’s coral reef and his mostly uneventful life is turned upside down.
Returning home to Queens, New York, Corey soon learns that his ancient artefact shields him from all physical harm – a power that comes in handy when dealing with school bullies. But there’s a flip side: the amulet is haunted… and in more ways than one.
Corey must not only outsmart a criminal mastermind bent on using the amulet’s power for his own selfish ends, but also battle an ancient supernatural force aided by the resurgence of a sinister cult… all while confronting unresolved guilt surrounding his father’s untimely death.
Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet is a gripping adventure tale about heritage, courage and the healing power of letting go.
I have created the Apple Crumbly cocktail, especially for this book. In a tall glass pour 40ml gold or dark rum and add 10ml gingerbread syrup. Give it a little stir to combine, then fill the glass with ice and top up with apple juice. Dessert in a glass!
