Kathy Schultz - Author of Riley's Gift

What a wonderful book. Mr. Kirsch has written one of the best books that I have read in a long time. It is a must read for old and young alike. You will be hooked on this book by the second paragraph. Mr. Kirsch's way with words is unique and portrays an excellent adventure that takes place in the year 1954 of two young boys, Rich and Bill as they set off on their daily search for adventure, armed with their binoculars and baloney sandwiches.

One day, they come across a small stone, which looks like any stone, but has the power of transportation. It transports them to a place by the seashore where they see an old-time Schooner, the Christina Nilsson, downed in 1884. They meet two children on this ghost ship, who are dressed in old clothes and think that it is the year 1884. Hey, what is going on here, the boys wonder? Rich clasped the stone tightly, it glows warm in his hand and they are suddenly transported back to Pine Woods.

Back in Pine Woods, they vow to find the answer. Their journey takes them to the museum, library, as they try to find the solution to this mysterious event that has taken place in their lives. In time they discover things about the two children of 1884 and other members of the crew, and, oh yes, there is a villain and his name is Jake. How does a 1954 coin and a brooch enter the story line? I'm not telling, and I will not disclose the unique ending to this story because one must take the journey with these two little hero's to really enjoy this great novel, and how one right action in time can save others and have a great impact on the future. It was a pleasure to read something without goblins or monsters. I really enjoyed reading this clean, wholesome and lovable Sci-Fi and Fantasy story. Young people and parents can relate to this story because it is an adventure that we would all love to take.

I hope to someday see this as a picture on the big screen. I give this one 5 stars.