“Do not believe your own eyes and heed the cries of seagulls.” In N. Degen's Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map, ten-year-old Ray Taylor’s passion for reading stories often distracts him in class or at home. When he goes to Mr. Fox, his neighbor, and picks up an old treasure map, he is suddenly sent back to the 17th century. Ray lands on the Celestine, Black Devil’s pirate ship. Black Devil is searching for Bloodthirsty Cook’s treasure. A seven-member crew, including Ray, must find seven magical coded stones in seven countries with clues from the Secret Book of Cook. Finding the clues won’t be easy, but the pirates are always up for a challenge, as Ray soon discovered. As the crew sails into unfamiliar territories searching for Bloodthirsty Cook’s treasure, they experience exciting but risky adventures and minor mishaps. The crew makes new friends while learning about the traditions and landmarks of foreign places.

“Never take anything that doesn’t belong to you.” Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is an action-adventure story that makes a delightful read. The book contains eighteen fascinating chapters with clever titles, making me more curious to read the tales. Each adventure and character development are very unalike and unique, highlighting the creative writing skills of N. Degen. The witty dialogue is natural for the setting. The Forewarning should not be overlooked. Despite his circumstances, Ray managed very well among the pirates. He still found time to sketch pictures of people and interesting places he visited. Children, as well as adults, will have a wonderful voyage with every page turned.

Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map by N. Degen is a captivating story that follows a young boy named Ray Taylor, who is often distracted at school because of his love for drawing. One day, Ray becomes engrossed in a mysterious book about a pirate searching for hidden treasure. To find this treasure, a party of seven is needed to retrieve seven magical stones that serve as the keys to the treasure. Captain Archie, the leader of the Celestine, doesn't question his luck when Ray mysteriously appears on his ship, becoming the seventh member of the crew. Throughout the journey, Ray proves invaluable to the team as he interacts with children on the various islands they visit and learns to be courageous. Meanwhile, Captain Archie faces numerous challenges as he navigates treacherous waters, dealing with a guide who seeks to discourage him at every turn.

Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is an entertaining story rich with themes of bravery, determination, personal growth, and self-acceptance. Each island the crew sails to presents its own set of challenges and unique lifestyles. From islands where people sleep during the day and awaken at night to one where children and adults swap roles, readers will be fascinated by the variety of imaginative places and characters that Ray encounters on his journey. The book is filled with humor, emotional depth, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged. N. Degen has woven in educational elements related to astronomy and mythology. He also explores the dark nature of humanity, addressing people's desire for power. Although Archie and Ray seem like opposites at first, their similarities emerge by the end of the story, highlighting themes of resilience and loyalty. The accompanying illustrations provide visual context for the characters, objects, and places mentioned. Overall, this is an enjoyable read, full of adventure and valuable lessons about teamwork, courage, and self-discovery.

Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map by N. Degen is a fantasy tale where an ordinary schoolboy’s life takes an extraordinary turn when he’s magically transported back to the age of pirates. Young Ray is struggling with bullies and missing his absent father when he suddenly stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map. This discovery sends him (and us) on a swashbuckling adventure across seven fantastical worlds where Ray's quest is to collect magical stones to unlock the treasure’s secrets. Along the way, Ray faces plenty of enemies, puzzling mysteries, and dangerous challenges that test his courage at every turn. This imaginative tale brims with wonder, danger, and the thrill of childhood adventure.

Author N. Degen has a real knack for world-building, and that talent is taken to the max in this novel, where seven distinct and imaginative realms come to life, each with its unique challenges and magic. This fits well with the combination of time travel, treasure hunting, and pirate lore, blending fantasy and adventure for a thrilling, fast-paced narrative packed with clever twists and plenty of mystery to keep readers of all ages intrigued. I also really enjoyed the character development and close narration, which let us in on Ray’s emotional struggles with self-worth and not knowing where he belongs. He's vulnerable and sympathetic, making him an inspiring hero for young readers. But there's plenty of levity too, as Degen’s playful and accessible writing style captures all the wonder of childhood imagination and makes you want to keep turning pages right to the end. Overall, Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is a highly recommended adventure, and I'd love to read more about this brave young man's adventures.

In Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map, N. Degen presents a vivid tale of adventure, self-discovery, and a quest for a lost treasure through a captivating lens. The narrative follows young Ray, a dreamer and budding artist, as he stumbles upon a mysterious book that allegedly holds the key to finding hidden treasure. Ray is bullied in school, living with a mother who neglects him, and missing his father. By fate's design, Ray is trapped in the house of an enigmatic elderly neighbor, only to discover he's among the notorious 17th-century pirates, serving as their long-lost seventh member. Aboard the schooner Celestine, he embarks on thrilling and perilous quests across seven different worlds, seeking seven dazzling magical stones. Along with a motley crew of characters—including pirates and friends—Ray embarks on an epic journey across dangerous landscapes, confronting mythical creatures and profound personal challenges, and discovering that true treasure lies in friendship, courage, and self-acceptance.

The characters in Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map are multifaceted. Each character is unique in their traits and backgrounds. The humor in their interactions is lively and well-crafted. Ray Taylor is at the forefront, characterized by his imaginative spirit and relatable struggle with self-esteem, particularly in the shadow of his late father. In contrast, his companions—feisty pirate Archie, the loyal and sometimes goofy crew, and the antagonistic figures—represent various aspects of courage and cowardice. The setting transports readers to exotic places, ranging from the eerie courtroom of Ray's trial to the enchanted turquoise lagoon. Each environment is meticulously crafted, bringing the story to life through details that evoke mystery and adventure. The world is rich in color and texture, evoking a sense of wonder that parallels the characters’ inner explorations. N. Degen is skilled in creating authentic and unforgettable characters. Readers will love the stellar storytelling and the exceptional characters. For me, it was the whimsical adventure and unexpected twists.

Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map by N. Degen, translated by A. Cigale, offers a journey that caters to the adventurous spirit within every reader. This tale, centered on the young and intrepid Ray Taylor, embarks on an exciting venture that weaves together a classic treasure hunt with the complexities of personal growth and bravery. Readers are introduced to a vibrant world through Degen’s lively descriptions and vivid scenes, which engage the imagination vividly. The story’s allure is magnified by a cast of inspiring characters, providing middle-grade audiences with a mirror to their own challenges and dreams.

The plot is tightly woven with suspense and unexpected twists that keep the pages turning. Each chapter builds upon the last, culminating in a satisfying resolution that ties up the story threads while leaving room for reflection. Black and white illustrations enhance the adventure and excitement of the story. N. Degen’s skill in storytelling is evident in the way the tension and pace are maintained throughout the book, ensuring readers are constantly engaged. The story includes themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of perseverance. Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is ideal for middle-grade readers. Its complex plot, rich setting, and personal growth themes align with middle schoolers’ cognitive and emotional development. The story challenges vocabulary and presents moral dilemmas, stimulating critical thinking and empathy. It teaches valuable life lessons and portrays a hero who is brave, kind-hearted, and persevering. It's recommended for those who love tales of adventure and discovery.