Transformed
By Debbie Kump
ISBN# 9781937593735
Author’s Website: https://sites.google.com/site/debbiekumpbooks/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Dawn
*Beware of possible Spoilers*
Summary:
MIDDLE-GRADE ADVENTURE ENTERS THE PARANORMAL WORLD
Author Debbie Kump weaves an exciting tale of suspense and adventure in a world of unusual shape-shifters in her middle-grade paranormal adventure, Transformed. This novel includes a host of unique characters that fight together to protect the planet while contending with conflicts and teenage angst. Kump drew from her experiences of teaching biology and living on a tropical island to create an engaging plot that keeps readers perched on the edge of their seats.
In Transformed, thirteen-year-old Jessica Davis’ dull and average life ends abruptly when a vivid dream turns shockingly real and exposes dangerous family secrets. Flung into a world of shape-shifters, Jessica must begin training on a remote South Pacific Island. At first, homesickness seems her primary concern as she forges new friendships in this lush, tropical paradise. Yet her situation quickly deteriorates when she finds herself despised by a vengeful classmate and haunted with frightening visions of the guy she loves. While confronting these challenges, Jessica grows to realize her true potential, eventually discovering that not only has her physical appearance transformed…but also her soul.
Review:
Jess hasn’t had it easy thus far. Her father has died; she has known grief and difficulty. She dreams she is an eagle, free to fly. At first I thought her dreams were an escape from reality, but they’re much more. After waking up she notices some physical changes. First, she doesn’t need glasses any longer (as someone who has worn glasses since 7th grade, I would LOVE IT! if that happened to me.) I loved how Jess’ ability to shape-shift was revealed. It is an inherited genetic condition.
Once Jess shape-shifts, not of her free-will, the story picks up pace. She ends up escorted to Pokapu Island for training. There she meets others like her including Shredder. Jess is different than the others, more if you will, but no one realizes the extent.
Jess’ journey to Pokapu Island is beautifully descriptive. I felt as if I were flying over those area as well. She also has her first experience with eating, as an eagle, and it’s pretty darn funny.
I had difficulty connecting with Jess initially. She seemed incredulous about everything. Her inner dialogue went something like this:
“This can’t be happening, can it?” And then it did happen. It got a bit old, her denial or the new reality. Just when I thought all was lost, she shows some spunk. Her inner smart-ass jumped out and she wouldn’t take crap from anyone. Jess matured! It was great. Krump did well with character development.
There are a lot of layers to the story. Jess deals with difficult lessons. She has to struggle to develop control. It’s not an easy road and it’s made more difficult by certain people on the Island. Jess handles herself pretty well considering. I think Sanford’s faith in Jess is a bit misplaced at this point. I think she needs to grow up a lot more to be able to handle future challenges.
I loved the save the planet theme. It’s refreshing for a group of young adults to care about their impact on the world. They devote their lives to helping others.
Transformed is great for young adults. Krump addresses bullying, being different, loss and much more throughout the story. I think Transformed would be a great book club book. There’s so much to discuss.
