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As kids, both Gary and I loved magic tricks, movies, creatures, etc. Anything to do with magic, really! The idea for this series has been hanging around for many years, too. And because we have loved fantasy, dragons, and magic for so long, it was our family and friends that encouraged us to finally write our own books.
We love to read while on vacation and want our kids and our grandkids to enjoy it, too. Schools are now making it homework for kids to read about 15 to 20 minutes a day. Why not make it fun! But, of course, all kids can use the little life lessons we added into it.
Gary and I also love to read on vacations, while traveling, and listening to music. Our home base is in San Bernardino, California.
May the magic rise in YOU! May crystals give you power!
Isabel Walbourne (and Gary Walbourne)
Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite
In "A Mage Is Born," we meet Garig the lead character. Garig was orphaned when he was a mere two weeks old. His mother handed him to her sister in order to protect him from the evil Mage that attacked the castle. His Uncle Charles and Aunt Madge became his parents. If Garig were to ever fight the evil that destroyed his parents he would need much preparation. Madge slowly taught him how to control his power while Garig taught him some more practical aspects of life like how to farm and how to defend himself against the school bully. A dragon watched out of sight and protected Garig from harm but allowed him to learn certain lessons the hard way.
"A Mage Is Born" by Gary and Isabel Walbourne is a tale fraught with magic, action and danger but yet it is easy to read. The Walbournes have created characters sure to please children and even adults. The text is written in a simple and easy to understand manner. The characters are interesting and easy to relate to too. I enjoyed the inner action of Garig and his adoptive family. This story also teaches many lessons such as the need to control anger, how to deal with a bully, and how important it is to prepare for the future. It also teaches that the easy way out is not always the best way out.
The action starts at the beginning of the book and continues to the end. The development of the plot is fast which will keep youngsters interested. This is the first book in the 'Guardian of the Dragons' series. I for one will be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
