Boy X by Dan Smith

Fast paced adventure story.

Ash has been kidnapped and drugged. He wakes up on a remote tropical island, imprisoned in a strange medical facility.  

Why is he there? Why has his mum - a genetic scientist - been infected with a deadly virus?  

Ash needs answers and he has twenty-four hours to get them.
To escape, Ash must risk his life. But what's more dangerous: the jungle, his captors, or the mysterious chemical injected into his veins?

To post your review and comments about this book, simply click on 'post a comment' below. When posting select 'Anonymous' but please do not forget to include your first name, school and a book rating out of ten in the post.

195 comments:

  1. I am Anna from Boswells and I completely fell in love with this wonderful book. The plot left me guessing each chapter so I could never put it down. My favorite character was Thorn because he gained people's confidence and used it to do terrible things against them. The story line kept me on my toes, so Dan Smith, very well done because I love your book! I rate this 10 out of 10 for it's wonderful use of tension. For anyone that hasn't read this book yet, I suggest you do!

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    1. Wow, Anna, what a fantastic review! I'm so glad you enjoyed reading Boy X as much as I enjoyed writing it. When I was growing up, I was lucky enough to spend time exploring in the jungle in Indonesia and in Brazil, so it was lots of fun to write a story set in the jungle . . . well, a jungle with a difference! Keep reading!

      Dan

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    2. Thank you so much for your reply! I'm so glad you got the experience that you did! I would so love if you could make a sequel (and I believe you could with your talent) because I recon everyone that reads it will think that it would be outstanding and superb, as do I!

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    3. You're welcome! And you never know, maybe we'll see some of the characters again . . .

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    4. This book was fantastic! Its action packed full of exciting adventures. While reading this book, I felt like I really was Ash. I can't wait for Ash's next adventure.

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    5. Hi Joel! I'm glad you enjoyed the book so much!

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    6. Hi I haven't read the book but I think it is a good book by the review that Anna gave.
      Shujivan (KEGS)

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    7. Hi Shujivan I really hope you enjoy this book because I certainly did. Thank you to everyone who replied to me; it was really nice to see people appreciate what I had done! Thanks! I can't wait to see who might be in another story of yours Dan!
      Anna White
      Boswells

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    8. Hi Anna! Well, you might see one or two characters make an appearance in my next book . . .

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    9. this was a fantastic book and I could see the relationship growing between ash and Isobel every time I turned the page

      also was it just me or when Dan mentioned Kronos I thought it was going to be like a Percy Jackson book. also I loved the little voice in ashs head and I think we all have a little ash in us somewhere
      9.5/10 from reece @ttc

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    10. I'm glad that all of you guys loved this book because for me it has been the best of all so far.
      All throughout the book as it describes the setting, the atmosphere and the character's emotions in vivid description, you are really pulled into the plot of the story and feel as if you are right by Ash as he goes through all his experiences. It is a book which forces you to read on and ask many questions which later get answered in the story. I like how in the book there are subtle details which are thrown into the story but they add that something extra into the plot of this story. All these things that Dan Smith has taken into account while writing this story has really struck me and has really set my mind into reading this book and at the end it says how Ash will be working as a spy. I hope this promise is fulfilled, and he will be seen in many other of Dan Smith's stories.
      After all this I will give this fantastic book a well deserved 10/10.
      Andrew (KEGS).

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    11. Dear Dan Smith
      Hi my name is Esther Babz. I am American and I also go to Moulsham High School. Me and my friend Sophia and Aliyah in the EBA club were wondering why your book is called BOY X. Pls reply as I love your mystery type books including BOY X its my favourite book and I hope it wins.

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  2. Boy X by Dan Smith is a remarkable book that has the common theme of mystery throughout the novel. Smith misleads the reader into believing in the supposed antagonist and then, at the last minute, has that faith severed. It has a strong opening, partly because the reader is as clueless as Ash about what is going on – at first they think that the boy is perhaps in a hospital, explaining the whiteness and the needle in his hand. However, after Ash has called out for his mother several times – and it is apparent that no one is coming – the reader begins to wonder if he is in some sort of scientific experiment chamber and his mum has been taken captive. This, of course, is true to a certain extent.
    I like the mythology side that has been placed into the text with the deadly virus as Kronos and the cure as Zeus. In Greek mythology, Kronos is the head Titan and is the father of the main gods and goddesses, such as Zeus, Poseidon and Hades. Basically, Kronos is a rather dangerous and antagonistic figure who eats all his children except Zeus because he was tricked into consuming a stone instead. In the end, Zeus overthrows his evil father and the gods come to the throne. This is used in Boy X as the evil disease that can kill millions can be cured (or overthrown) by Zeus.
    The ending is very much a cliff-hanger when Thorn is rescued and they begin the hunt for Ash and his mum. The reader is unsure whether they will get caught or have to live the rest of their lives in a dark shadow of terror, fleeing from place to place to save not just themselves but also the rest of the world. I don’t think that Boy X will have a sequel, but it has good potential for one.
    Overall, Boy X is an outstanding novel by Dan Smith and I would rate it 8/10.

    KT, HACH

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    1. Wow! Thank you so much for such a fantastic review. I'm glad you like the hint of mythology I put into the story. I love reading myths and legends, and when I was younger, one of my favourite books was about the 12 labours of Hercules. I'm also a big fan of adventure and mystery stories so it's great to hear that you enjoyed the twists and turns of Boy X! Keep on reading - it makes you smart!

      Best Wishes

      Dan

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    2. Wow! Thank you so much for such a fantastic review. I'm glad you like the hint of mythology I put into the story. I love reading myths and legends, and when I was younger, one of my favourite books was about the 12 labours of Hercules. I'm also a big fan of adventure and mystery stories so it's great to hear that you enjoyed the twists and turns of Boy X! Keep on reading - it makes you smart!

      Best Wishes

      Dan

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    3. This book was so good that it didn't just make you want to read more, it made you need to read more. I could see, hear and smell all of my surroundings. I also felt all of the feelings and it was like an emotional whirlwind. At the start, it was such an intriguing first chapter and the middle was very adventurous and the end was very surprising. All in all, I would rate this 9/10.
      Isabel Curle. TTC Thorpe campus

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    4. Hi Isabel! Great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X - and your name is the same as one of the main characters! I wonder . . . are you as brave and tough as Isabel? Could you imagine yourself having an adventure like the one in Boy X? Thanks so much for writing a review!

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  3. Boy X is possibly the most thrilling and exciting book I have ever read because the constant tension and suspense even from the very opening line had me with the character feeling his frightening confusion and glowing determination for his one and only goal - find his mom and find answers...

    I really loved the book 'Car Jacked' which won the Essex book awards 2016 last year; however Boy X has blown Car jacked out of the Water.

    Sam Love The Sweyne Park School

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    1. Hi Sam! I'm very excited to hear that you enjoyed Boy X so much! I tried to make it tense and exciting, full of suspense (and with a couple of big explosions!) and it seems to have worked. Hooray! Also, I'd like to thank you for taking the time to write a review. Keep on reading!

      Dan

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  4. I have only read the first few chapters of this book, yet I have already been drawn into Ash's world with its mystery and suspense. Looking forward to the rest of the book. Great writing!

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    1. Hi Leah! I'm glad you're enjoying Boy X! I had a lot of fun writing it, remembering my own jungle adventures when I was growing up, so it's great to hear that you've been drawn into Ash's world. Watch out for those creepy-crawlies though!

      Dan

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    2. I am Maddie from GBHS and I completely fell in love with this wonderful book. The plot left me guessing each chapter so I could never put it down. My favorite character was Thorn because he gained people's confidence and used it to do terrible things against them. The story line kept me on my toes, so Dan Smith, very well done because I love your book! I rate this 10 out of 10 for it's wonderful use of tension. For anyone that hasn't read this book yet, I suggest you do!

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    3. Hi Maddie. Thanks for such an amazing review! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X so much - and I'm glad it kept you on your toes. I wanted the story to be a race against time, and I wanted to make sure that the reader is never quite sure whether or not to trust Thorn . . .!

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    4. Thank you so much for replying I hope to read any future books of yours I think you are one of a few very creative authors.

      Maddie

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  5. Boy X is an amazing book I absolutely love it! I was glued to this book I simply couldn't put it down. it is exciting and non-stop action

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    1. Hi! Thanks for leaving a review - and I'm so excited to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. I love adventure stories full of action, so it's great to know that there other people out there who love them too! Keep on reading!

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  6. I really got drawn into the story, I couldn't put it down, and I loved the fact that Ash had a supernatural ability! It really added to the overall thrill of the book,Boy X. Boy X is definitely up there as one of my favourite books I have read!! It is so amazing that so much can happen just over the course of two days!! I look forward to reading more of Dan Smith's books!! Jessica GBHS

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    1. Hi Jessica. Fab review! Thank you so much for taking the time to post your comments. Sometimes, being an author can be a bit strange - writing stories, sending them out into the world and hoping that people will like them - so it's always amazing for me to hear from readers who have enjoyed my books. I'm so pleased you enjoyed Boy X so much and if you decide to read more of my books, I hope you enjoy them just as much . . . or maybe even more!!

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    2. I really hope you get to make more books Dan!
      Anna

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  7. Boy X is an amazing Sci-Fi thriller set on a rainforest island. In a totally new environment Ash seems to thrive. Finding his Mum locked away with a deadly disease he has to get across the island to find the cure, and call for help.
    The immediate sense of uneasiness starts immediately, the terror of Cain and Pierce immediately shapes Thorn and his mystery and Ash’s little thoughts are all we know of him. The more we find out through the story the more amazing this book seems to be, the complex story line makes no sense until we get to the very end.
    The small snippets of returning memories bring the book to a whole new level. We find out more about Ash’s superhuman strengths and we then realise the whole reason Ash is here and his relationships with the other characters come as an immediate surprise and shake the whole book.
    The double crosses and secrecy behind each character makes us wonder whether Ash can make it to the end of the book and who will live. The countdown make the whole story tenser and the short time scales keeps the story fast paced with the help of amazing action scenes which put Dan Smith on par with the likes of Anthony Horowitz.
    The mystery of the island is never found out and this makes the Jungle unpredictable while the last few chapters are exhilarating. The amazing use of words in this book brings all of the characters to life and creates amazing suspense, the last chapters bring everything into perspective and the cliff-hanger is amazing.
    I look forward to reading more f Dan Smith’s work and will certainly be looking out for the sequel as I am eager to read more about Ash and his adventures.
    Matthew W. KEGS
    10/10

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    1. Hi Matthew! And . . . wow! 'on par with Anthony Horowitz'?! I'll take that! Thank you so much for such a fantastic review, and I'm glad Boy X gave you so much pleasure. It was a lot of fun making Ash's journey across the island as difficult as possible - packed with action and danger - so it's great to know that you enjoyed it. Mind you, it was very tricky getting the countdown right; I had to think very carefully about the timings for everything!

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  8. I personally think that Boy X is a amazing novel which contains suspense, major action and a dynamic ending. All of the characters are completely unique and interesting in their own special way, I love the way it hooks the reader in right from the very beginning with an air of mystery surrounding Ash. I would say that it is a must read edge-of-seat thriller and I really hope that there is a sequel because I would like to see Ash and Isabel in another adventure. Thank you for introducing me to a whole new reality.
    Eashwar B King Edwards Grammar School

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    1. Hi Eashwar, thanks for taking the time to write a review! I love coming to the blog to see who has read my book, and it's always so exciting to find a new review from someone who has enjoyed Boy X. Hooray! Ash and Isabel have such an amazing adventure on Isla Negra and I agree with you - it would be great to join them on another adventure. You never know, maybe one day . . .

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  9. This thrilling book was the first book I read and I though it may be one of the best books that I have ever read (and I have read a lot of books). I liked the mixture of science and nature and rate it 9/10. I would definitely recommend it to everyone. I hope that there is a sequel very m uch.
    Lewis, Sweyne Park School

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    1. Hi Lewis! One of the best books you've ever read? Wow! You've just made my day. If only you could have seen me when I read that. Head back, hands punching the air! Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review - I really do appreciate you all spending a few precious moments to write such wonderful things about how much you enjoyed Ash and Isabel's adventure. When I was growing up I was l lucky enough to spend a lot of time in the jungle, so it was great fun to write the book and share some of those adventures with you all - although . . . the jungle adventures I had didn't involve any of the strange animals that Ash and Isabel have to face! I'm glad you liked the mixture of science and nature, too, because nature is so amazing and there are so many wonderful places in the world. I'd love to visit them all and write about them!

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  10. I am Aston from Moulsham High
    I would happily rate this book 5/5 I struggled to put this book down and finished it in a matter of days! The characters were great (I think Isabel was my favourite because even without powers she kept up with Ash and she had a lot of helpful knowledge)and the levels of description were amazing!
    I found this book extremely exciting throughout the plot. It was interesting to see how Ash's skills developed. Throughout the book their were many plot twists which changed the way that Ash thought. It was mysterious yet gave us enough of the plot to keep us interested. I found it confusing but fun trying to figure out what was happening and how it played along with the emotions of Ash. All along Ash was just trying to keep his Mum alive no matter the obstacles. I am a massive fan of the science side to it which I found interesting and quite a unique way of thinking. I loved this book and it has been the best book I have read in a very long time, I would recommend this to readers who enjoy sci-fi/action books.

    P.S: I would love for there to be a sequel and judging by other comments other would too! Please use some of the main characters again, maybe even a series (maybe his powers could develop further or he becomes an agent) I hope to see you at the EBA awards.

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    1. Hi Aston! What a fantastic review - thank you so much! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and I'm especially pleased that you like Isabel because I agree with you! She's smart and tough, and Ash would have been in a LOT more trouble without her. She has a lot of good ideas that get them out of some very sticky situations. Yes, it would be great to see Ash and Isabel again someday . . . let's keep our fingers crossed, shall we?

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    2. I am really looking forward to reading this book
      bryher ttc yr 7

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  11. Boy X is a very dramatic book. I like dramatic books and it is also an adventure book too. Lots of missions to be done. 8/10
    Alfie Year 7 Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Alfie - I'm glad you enjoyed Boy X! Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and write a review.

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  12. Boy X is a very exciting, action-packed book, that once I had had started reading I couldn't put down. It kept me on my toes the whole time, wondering what was going to happen next. If there was a sequel, I would definitely read it! My favourite character was Isabel (though I also like Ash) because I admire her bravery and how she stuck by Ash the whole way through without complaining, although for most of it she had Kronos inside her. I would rate this book 9/10 and recommend it to everyone.
    Sofia Barker CCHS

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    1. Hi Sofia! 9/10? Well, thank you very much! I agree with you about Isabel - she's so brave and she never complains, even when she's not feeling well. We all get a bit grumpy when we get so much as a sniffle, but Isabel just gets on with it, doesn't she? I would have loved to have a friend like Isabel when I was younger. Thank you so much for taking the time to come here and write a review, and I hope that you enjoy the other books as much as you enjoyed Boy X. Well . . . almost as much! 😉

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  13. Boy X is a book that, for one week, I could not put down. Not only was it exhilarating, but also it was fast-paced and the plot was lined up in a way that made me think that Black Island actually exists!
    Furthermore, the characters were very detailed, and there were still shadows on every corner to keep the reader guessing, like for example how Ash's mum created Kronos. My favourite book category is thriller/science fiction and so when I read the blurb of this book I was jumping up and down to read it.
    I also liked the idea of not using chapters or parts, but using the time left until Shut-Down.
    I would give this book 8/10. It was thrilling and shadowy, but my only concerns were that the story ended on a cliffhanger!
    Apurva T, KEGS

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    1. Hi Apurva! I thought I'd replied to your review a few days ago, but I can't see it here, so I'll reply again! I'm glad that you enjoyed Boy X, and I'm very happy that you couldn't put it down. There isn't much that makes an author happier than to hear that someone couldn't put their book down! Keep on reading . . .

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  14. Boy X is a thrilling adventure story about a young boy who, with the help of a new found friend have to save the world in 24hrs.When he first wakes up with chemicals being injected into his veins he is on a mission to save the world and his family. What I loved about the book was the description and the feeling it gives you,as though you are watching it unveil itself in front of you eyes. Great read recommend it to dedicated readers.9/10

    Francesca TTC

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    1. Hi Francesca! Thank you so much for the review, and I'm so excited to hear that you enjoyed Boy X! When I'm writing, I like everything to be calm and quiet around me - my children say I live in 'Danworld' - so it's amazing to emerge from my thoughts and come here to look at this blog and see that readers are enjoying my book! Hooray! And I really do appreciate you taking the time to write a review! You are all amazing!

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  15. Though it is confusing at times, this book is fast paced and full of adventure. There are so many twists in the plot it is constantly filled with drama and mystery. It is impossible to put down. 9/10
    Emma Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Emma! Ah yes, the confusion! Well, I thought it was important to confuse the reader a little bit because I wanted you all to feel how Ash must feel when he doesn't know who to trust. Who is lying and who is telling the truth?! But Ash is smart isn't he? And, more importantly, he has an awesome friend by his side to help him through his adventure. Thank you for leaving a review and I'm SO glad you enjoyed Boy X!

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  16. Boy X was incredible - I enjoyed how Dan Smith set the book's events like a race against time - I was amazed at how nearly 8 hours was used quickly. I was incredulous about how an anatagonist could ally itself with the protagonists. There was also a lot of description of the characters and things that were questionable. I recommend this book to everyone give a sequel to it and feature it for a future EBA shortlist. I rate this 10/10!
    Faraz Gul KEGS

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    1. Hi Faraz! 'Incredible'? Oh, yes, I like that! Thank you very much! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and you're right about an antagonist allying himself with the protagonists - that's a sneaky move from a very sneak character, isn't it? When I wrote Boy X, I hadn't planned for that character to be quite so sneaky, but he took on a life of his own and, before I knew what was happening, he was telling all kinds of lies! I wonder if he might pop up again in another story one day . . .? Thanks for the review!

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  17. I have been reading this book for 1 week now and have loved every moment of it. I especially like the use of tension used to show how petrifying it really was. So at the moment I would give it a 7/10. This is because at the start it started boring and nothing was happening then the entire plot changes. Abigail Miller King Harold Academy.

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    1. Hi Abigail! Oooh . . . an early review before the story is over?! I like your style! Thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog and tell us what you think, and I'm very excited to hear that you're enjoying Ash's adventure. It's good that you say I show how 'petrifying' it is for Ash and Isabel because when I first wrote it, Ash's journey through the darkness of the BioSphere was so scary that it gave my son nightmares, and I had to tone it down! It's important that we see how scared Ash is, though, because . . . well, it really would be scary, wouldn't it?! I hope you enjoy the rest of the story!

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    2. Boy-x is an amazing book which starts on a tropical island and in a room which is unknown to Ash. Unlike some books you read, it is not hard to get into to and grabs your attention from the first word. When reading this book you will go to stop and put the book down then read a little more- by the end of it you have read another 4 chapters! It is filled with adrenalin and is fast-paced. This is now one of my favourite books and I am so glad I read this! I would rate this 9/10 and recommend this book!
      Florrie.SPS

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    3. Hi Florrie! One of your favourite books? Hooray! I'm pleased that it grabbed you from the beginning, because when I was writing it, I wanted to draw the reader in as quickly as possible and make them ask the same questions that Ash asks when he's wondering where on earth he is. And I'm glad you enjoyed the fast pace - I'm a big fan of action-packed adventures, so that's what I wanted to Boy X to be. Thank you so much for stopping by to write a review!

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    4. This is definitely one of my favorite books too!
      Anna White
      Boswells

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  18. A fast-paced, action-packed book screaming for a sequel. I couldn't put it down. 10/10

    Nick Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Nick! 'Screaming for a sequel'? I like your style! An awesome review in two quick sentences and just thirteen words. Short and to the point! Thank you so much, and I'm so pleased you enjoyed Boy X!!

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  19. I like this book a lot. It reminds me of a book I've read called 'Carjacked' which is very similar to this book. It is thrilling and overall a great book. I would rate this for boys and girls 8+. 9/10

    Matthew Year 8 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Matthew! Thanks for the review, and I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. I haven't read Car-Jacked, but I've just looked it up, so now I know it's a book I'll have to read! Thanks for the recommendation. Keep on reading . . .

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  20. Hi Nick! 'Screaming for a sequel'? I like your style! An awesome review in two quick sentences and just thirteen words. Short and to the point! Thank you so much, and I'm so pleased you enjoyed Boy X!!

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  21. This book is absolutely amazing. Fast-paced action meant that my hands and eyes were cemented to the book until the very last page. I like the way that you have used Thorn - he makes the reader feel uncertain and, I gotta say, scared about what might happen next! This comes to life and has left a lasting impression on everyone who reads it. Dan Smith, you have engineered a masterpiece using only a pen.
    Nandu; King Edward VI Grammar School

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    1. Hi Nandu! 'a masterpiece'?! Wow! What a fantastic compliment. Thank you so much - you've just made my Monday morning feel less grey and cold. It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X so much, and I'm glad you like the way Thorn develops during the story - I wanted to keep the reader on their toes, just like Ash has to always be on his toes when it comes to Thorn, because you're never quite sure who he is or what he wants. I had lots of fun writing him into the story and . . . well, maybe we'll see him again one day. Keep reading!

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  22. This book is an intense thriller from page 1 to the very end, it follows two different characters with completely different backstories. I felt I was with Ash, every step of the way, experiencing every sight, sound and suspenseful twist. An absolute page turner and while I was reading at home I was consistently reminded I had school tomorrow. I was also a huge fan of Dan Smith's other novel My Friend, The Enemy which is an absolute MUST-READ for everyone! I am really hopeful that there will be a sequel. Fingers crossed! Another great book by Dan Smith
    Sam B King Edward VI Grammar School

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    1. Hi Sam! 'Intense thriller' and 'absolute page turner'? I like that a LOT! Thank you very much for taking the time to write a review, and I'm pleased you enjoyed Boy X. I wanted to try to hook the reader right from the beginning, and it seems to have worked for you, so I feel happy about that. It's also very exciting to hear that it's not the first one of my books that you've read - you've read and enjoyed My Friend The Enemy too! That was the first book I wrote for younger readers, and it still means a lot to me, so it's fantastic to hear you mention it. Keep on reading . . .

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  23. I am Morgan from GBHS and I absolutely love this book. The use of tension is remarkable and the characters are on point. I simply cant put it down. I want to read it again and again. Thank you Dan Smith for such an amazing thriller novel.
    Morgan Great Baddow High School

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  24. Hi Morgan! What an awesome review to brighten up this gloomy Wednesday morning! I'm so glad that you enjoyed Ash and Isabel's dangerous adventure across Isla Negra (where the mornings are always bright and warm). Thank you very much for taking the time to stop by and write a few words about Boy X. Have a fantastic day and keep on reading!

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  25. I found this book very exiting and mysterious; I found it very hard to keep my eyes off the book . I would highly recommend this , I would love there to be a next book ! I would say that so far this is one of the best books I have read!!!!!!
    Kate y8 DFS

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    1. Hi Kate! I'm glad you liked Boy X, but I'm sorry if I made it hard for you to put it down . . . well, maybe not THAT sorry! Well . . . maybe not sorry at all! I feel so proud that you think it's one of the best books you've ever read, and I'm honoured to be a part of the Essex Book Awards 2017 with all those other fantastic books. Thanks you so much for leaving a review!

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  26. This book was a very moving take of tension, fear and mystery, with a moral that is: you don't know who you can trust. I loved how slowly the plot going on behind the scenes was revealed and it was so satisfying when I found out who is really trying to help and that it is the opposite of who you were certain it would be. I really liked the ending and how I could make up what happens next but it was really frustrating how you don't know what happened to Isabel at the end. I loved the mystery in Cain, Peirce, and Thorne's characters and how you discovered the ins and outs of them. Overall, I would rate this book an 11/10!
    Olivia, DFS, Year 8

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    1. Hi Olivia! Ah yes . . . who can you trust? Nobody is quite who they seem. I'm glad you enjoyed all the twists and turns when I revealed details about the backstory and the different characters. You'd like to know more about Isabel, though? Hmm. I wonder. What do you think happens to her? And . . . 11/10? Wow! That's a fantastic mark! Thank you so much for reading my book and leaving a review!

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  27. I think Boy X was really good and full of plot twists and action. I enjoyed reading it and I would give it 8/10 (but I did prefer Hell and High Water.)
    Eve W, Sweyne Park

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    1. Hi Eve! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and thank you for giving it such a high mark out of ten! Keep on reading!

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  28. Boy X is a very good piece of work Dan Smith has done well! Boy X is very mysterious and action packed. Ash is on a journey to save his mum and he only has 24 hours to do it! I would rate it 9 out of 10 and I would recommend it for ages 11 and up
    Erosan TTC

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    1. Hi Erosan! 'Mysterious and action packed'? I'm glad you think so! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and thank you very much for taking the time to write a review.

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  29. Boy X is a mysterious story full of twists. You didn't know who to trust and many secrets were revealed throughout the book. I would give it 8/10 Anais Abrahams Boswells school

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    1. Hi Anais! Thanks for leaving a review, and I'm very pleased that you enjoyed Boy X! Keep on reading!

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  30. Action packed and fast, Boy X is a truly amazing book. I will definitely recommend it. 9/10

    Olivia Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Olivia! 'truly amazing'? Wow! Thank you very much. I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. I wanted it to be action packed and fast paced, and it looks as if I did my job as far as you are concerned! Enjoy the rest of term and have an awesome Christmas!

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  31. This book is a mysterious and exciting adventure. It is sure to get your heart racing. 10/10

    Alistair Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Alistair! It's great to hear that you found Boy X to be 'mysterious and exciting'! What more could I ask for than 10/10?! Thank you so much for such an amazing review. I hope you have a fantastic Christmas!

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  32. I rate this book 10/10, I love the plot I think it is very unique. I really hope there is a sequel to this book. My favourite character is Ash because he is brave and determined and he is now not afraid of anything. When I read some of the book I didn't want to put it down! My favourite part of the story is where they cross the river and Thorn is watching them. . I would definitely recommend this book!
    Jodie.A The Boswells School

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    1. Hi Jodie! Thanks for stopping by to leave a review - and what a fantastic review it is! 10/10? That's a great thing for me to read on a grey Friday morning! I'm glad you like the bit by the river. When I was growing up, I lived in Indonesia, and I had the chance to ride down the rapids of a white-water river in the jungle. That's where I got the idea from, so it was a lot of fun to imagine what it would be like to end up being washed away by the rapids. Mind you, when I was on the river, I wasn't being watched by Thorn . . .

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    2. Well done Jodie, great review!:D It has inspired me.
      Anna White
      Boswells

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  33. Boy X was a next level thriller. full of twists and turns throughout all of the book that always kept me wondering what was just was going to happen time and time again. In addition, the author (Dan Smith) cleverly used tension give the book an amazing edge to every page littering each page with new and interesting thoughts! From page one to the end I felt like I had dived into the book and become one of the characters because of the high levels of description that completely had me completely engaged on the book! I loved the different characters in this book and it felt like I had really connected with them in every stage of this amazing book! I felt like the overall moral of this whole book is that you don’t know who to trust! I have Read multiple books by Dan Smith and I think this is the best book so far because of the depth that a lot of the chapters. Please keep up the amazing work!
    A 9/10 book thank you for the amazing read.
    George
    DFS
    YEAR 8

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    1. Hi George! 'a next level thriller'? What a compliment! Thank you very much - and thank you for taking the time to write a review. I'm so glad you enjoyed Boy X and that you felt like you had dived right into the story. You're right, the story is about being careful who to trust, but it's also about trying to keep positive and stay strong even when things look bad. I'm also very excited to hear that you've read some of my other books, so I hope you enjoyed them too. There will definitely be more Dan Smith books in the future! Have a fantastic Christmas!

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  34. Boy X was an amazing which hooked like from the first page! Great read and can't wait for the sequel :)

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    1. Hi! Thanks for leaving a review and I'm very pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. If it hooked you from the first page, then I know I've done my job properly in telling Ash's story the right way! Keep on reading and have a fantastic Christmas!

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  35. i thought that boy x was a thrilling novel at the beginning but i found that the ending was rushed. overall, i would rate this book 5/10 as it lacked realism.
    thank you

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    1. Hi! It's a shame you didn't enjoy Boy X so much, but wouldn't life be boring if we all just liked the same things? I hope one of the other books suits you better. Keep on reading and have a great Christmas!

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  36. I am only 40 pages through but i am really enjoying the book. Very well done Dan Smith
    Cam-KEGS

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    1. Hi Cam! Its great to hear you're enjoying Boy X, so I hope you like the rest of it, too - you're in for a great adventure! Have a super-fantastic Christmas!

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  37. Boy x is very fast paced and full of drama. It is a book you don't want to put down. It is a 9/10.

    Rosie TTC

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    1. Hi Rosie! I'm glad to hear that you liked Boy X. Thank you so much for leaving a review. I hope that the last few days of term go well, and that you have an awesome Christmas!

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    2. Thanks it is my 2nd favourite

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  38. I really loved this book it was so intriguing and exciting! I think that I changed my view from a scary mystery book to an adventure and exciting book when they escaped the biosphere.

    I didn't just enjoy the book, I loved it! It was extremely well written thanks to Dan Smith because he really is the best writer so far! The genre was very adventurous and dramatic with a slight twist of humour in there as well. The characters that play important roles that relate to the scenes are Isabel [ that is also my name and I love it! ] and Ash McCarthy! I don't think that it had any reoccurring symbols in except for the monkeys always protecting Ash! Unfortunately, this book is not part of a series and I definitely would like to see it become one but I also think that Dan Smith has left it on a perfect end. I think that the writers thesis or theory is that Ash is lost and needs to get back home. The writing style was exceptionally great and also was the tone and especially when they saw Cain and the others in camp and took the satchel! There was obviously an evidence of bias against Cain and Thorn and all the other bad people.

    The ending was amazing and I personally could not think of a better ending myself! The thesis was also definitely supported by strong evidence as well. From this book, you can tell that Dan Smith is a very serious but happy and has a lot of spirit person! This book is the best book that I have ever read so I would recommend this book to everyone and I already have recommended it to a lot of people!

    I give this book a 10/10
    Isabel Curle. TTC Thorpe Campus.

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    1. Hi Isabel! Thanks so much for leaving a review, and I'm very excited to hear how much you enjoyed Boy X - it's like getting an early Christmas present! It's also great that you have the same name as one of the main characters. I had lots of fun writing Isabel, making her a tough friend for Ash. I don't think he would have ever made it out of the jungle if he hadn't had Isabel by his side! And you even say 'This is the best book I have ever read'. Wow! What a wonderful thing to hear on a gloomy Tuesday morning! Have a fantastic Christmas, Isabel, I hope you have a brilliant holiday!

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    2. Thank you for replying to me. I feel so happy and unique! I can tell how much you have put into this book and it is quite a lot! I hope to be an author when I'm older and of course it helps being in all the top sets at school! I also love climbing and running and all other athletics and adventuring and I also look a lot like Isabel's description. I know that I'm only 12 years old but I would love to congratulate you on this amazing book. Thank you for this cracking book!

      Isabel curle. TTC Thorpe Campus. Year 7.
      P.S Have an amazing holiday as well!

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  39. Boy X is a brilliant book! The plot kept you guessing and grew more interesting and exciting with the turn of each page. I couldn’t stop reading this book as it was gripping, adventurous and thrilling. I would suggest this book to anyone who’s into crime, action and mystery. My favourite character was Ash and Thorn. Ash was skilful with his acute hearing, strength and speed. Whereas Thorn was convincing, sly and deadly. The ending was really well thought out I wouldn’t have been able to find a solution to the problem Ash finds himself in! This is an awesome novel full of tension, mystery and crime, amazing book really recommend it!
    I would rate this 10/10

    Aidan_Boswells

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    1. Hi Aidan! I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and that the plot kept you guessing. 'gripping, adventurous and thrilling'? I'll take that, thank you very much! And you're right about Thorn - he's a sly one isn't he? Even I wasn't always sure when he was telling the truth . . . it's a good job Ash and Isabel were smart enough to find a way to deal with him! Have a fantastic Christmas, and keep reading!

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  40. Rhiannon Moulsham High school19 December 2016 at 07:47

    I have now finished this book and I enjoyed it. However it did take a long time to understand this book. Though once you understood the plot and the characters the book started to make sense. It was interesting how the children were looking after and saving the adults rather than the other way round which is how it normally is. Also I liked the way the book was set out. I liked it how it had a time until it was shutting down. This builded up tension and wanted me to find out what happened next. This was a great book, i would give Boy X 9/10

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    1. Hi Rhiannon! Thanks for stopping by to leave a review, and I'm very pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. I can see why it might take a while to get a good understanding of the plot and characters - some of them are not quite who they seem to be, are they? Some of those characters tell some pretty big lies! I'm glad you liked the countdown to shut-down - I thought it would be a great way of adding tension to the story - and I can let you in on a little secret . . . when I was writing the book, I thought it would eventually be called 'Shut-Down'! Have a super fantastic Christmas; I hope you and your family have a wonderful time!

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  41. BOY X
    Boy X was a very interesting book. It had all the information you thought you would need and it certainly kept you on your toes. It’s lack of pointing out the obvious was a great and it made me want to read on more. The book was my first, so I got off to a pretty good start!
    My favourite character was Thorn because he was very in the fact that he tricked people into thinking he was good when he was bad. He first started to track down the two children by following them mysteriously and when they escaped, he carried on following. Then, he ended up in this shack and told the two children that he was good and was following them because he wanted to tell them something. He gave them some important pieces of evidence and information along with some tools. The right at the last point when the children were going to win the battle, Thorn brought out his helicopter and took the main piece of evidence and flew away!
    My favourite scene was when the bomb Ash (one of the children) set off and Thorn was acting like he was trying to get him. The bomb was described in amazing detail, along with the reaction that came with it when the bomb exploded. The ear-splitting noise described was so imaginable I thought I heard it in real life. This scene shows just how clever Dan Smith is at writing fantastic stories!
    One part I’d like to change is when Thor flies off in his helicopter. People make a few attempts, but it seems to be that no one really cares and it doesn’t really end in a way I hoped it would. They all just go back to normal, going home or staying for more research, but everything seems to be ok. Personally, I prefer a story which leaves you on a cliff hanger, which then wants you to either read the next book or read one of the other books by the same author.
    Anna White
    Boswells

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    1. Hi Anna! What a great review - thank you very much! And it's SO detailed; it must have taken you a while to write down all your thoughts. I'm very pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and I'm glad you liked Thorn. I think those kinds of characters are often the most interesting - when you can't quite decide if they're telling the truth or not. Oh, and I'm glad you liked the explosion. There's nothing quite like a good explosion, and I had lots of fun writing that part! Have a great Christmas, Anna!

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  42. Olivia Houghton
    Moulsham High School
    Rating 9/10

    Reading Boy X gave me the chance to enjoy a type of book I might not have otherwise read. I found this book’s plot both thrilling and intriguing. I also enjoyed the fantastic imagery that the descriptions created in my head. However, most of all, I loved to leap into the story and experience not only what the characters experienced but also their flaws and accomplishments.

    Ash
    Throughout the novel it is clear that – not only does his physical strength grow – Ash’s mental strength and confidence also increases as this exhilarating and completely terrifying journey progresses until he comes face to face with his own death. As an example of his increase in self-reliance and bravery I would like to suggest that perhaps at the start of the book, Ash would not have been prepared or maybe as willing to give his life for his mother’s. He possibly might have done but I can be certain that the journey’s events had such a great effect on Ash that they changed him forever.

    Isabel
    As the story develops it becomes increasingly obvious that, without Isabel the story would have had an entirely different ending. One thing that is also certain about Ash and Isabel is that together they can achieve things that most people will probably never do in a lifetime; certainly not at their young age. With determination and a huge amount of courage Ash and Isabel saved the world from a deadly virus that may have killed almost everyone if placed in the wrong hands.

    Ash’s mum
    Maybe she sees the best in people because she didn’t seem to expect that Pierce would actually follow through with his threat to kill her husband. This shows that even though Pierce was a pretty bad and self-centred character, she still didn’t think that he would really kill Ash’s father.

    Isabel’s father and the two scientists
    Just like Ash loves his mother enough to sacrifice his life, I think Isabel would too, otherwise she wouldn’t have endured the perilous journey that she did. This shows she admired her father so his character must have been worthy; maybe he was kind hearted or maybe generous. He must certainly be smart if he was working at the BioMesa with a lot of other scientists. I can only assume that the other two scientists were like Isabel’s father. They must have also been smart.

    Thorn
    My opinions were changed considerably of this character throughout the book because his intentions appeared to change frequently. If I had been Ash I expect that I probably wouldn’t have suspected Thorn of anything bad in those last few chapters. Perhaps I would have realised that Thorn wasn’t actually trying to help if I had thought about how something didn’t quite fit. Thorn’s character wasn’t completely flawed just as nobody’s character in the book was completely faultless. At least he may have let Ash and Isabel go if he got what he wanted. But maybe he wouldn’t have done and perhaps his character has actually nothing to admire or respect.

    Pierce
    As far as I’m concerned, Pierce’s character was completely flawed and self-centred. He wanted to kill the majority of the population of the world or at least help to. He experimented on his nephew and killed his brother-in-law. To me this made him a completely evil and manipulative character.

    Cain and her men
    Until the end, I always thought Cain and her men were working against Ash because I think I associated Pierce’s character with them. Cain’s character was flawed but not entirely like Pierce’s. After all, she saved Ash and was trying to help.

    This was a fabulous book to read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend Boy X to anyone who wishes to read a fast-paced and altogether fantastic book.

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    1. Hi Olivia! Thank you so much for your very detailed review! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and you certainly seem to have got a good sense of each of the characters. You're right about Isabel - Ash definitely needed her with him otherwise I think he might even have given up. And Pierce is a nasty piece of work, through and through. As for Thorn, well, he's a tricky one isn't he? I always think characters are more interesting if they have a mix of good and bad in them. After all, no one's perfect! I'm also very happy to hear that you enjoyed Boy X even though it's the kind of book you might not otherwise have read. Maybe you might be encouraged to read more adventure stories? I hope you had a fantastic Christmas and that you have a great New Year!

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    2. An amazing, AWARD WINNING review! Well done Olivia!

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  43. BoyX is an amazing book! It's unpredictable and keeps you guessing what's going to happen next. The description is brilliant and it almost makes you feel like your actually there with Ash and Isabel. This book has inspired me to write and I want to be an author when I grow up. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone! My favourite character is Isabel because she is strong and brave despite not having "powers" like Ash. Thorn is creepy, however he eventually gets Isabel and Ash to trust them only to betray them! 10/10
    Frances.H Boswells

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    1. Hi Frances! It's good of you to stop by and leave a review of Boy X - but I'm so glad you did because it's the best Christmas present EVER to hear that someone has enjoyed one of my books. And it has inspired you to write? Wow! That's even better. I hope your writing goes well. I wonder what kind of stories you'll write? Oh, and I know what you mean about Isabel - when I started writing her, I didn't expect her to be quite as cool, but she just took over and started being brave and strong. She's definitely one of my favourites too. Enjoy the rest of your holiday and good luck with your writing!

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    2. Thank you for your reply! Recently I entered a writing competition and my entry was chosen amongst others to be published in a book! I'm really excited and inspired to write more. Your book was really encouraging and I hope there's a sequel.
      Frances.H Boswells

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  44. This book is really fun to read and I hope everyone else enjoyed it as much as I did. I have come to an end of this challenge, having read all six books and done everything that goes with it. Looking back, this has been a great opportunity for me and I hope everyone else enjoys EBA as much as I have. Happy Reading everybody, and I hope to see you in March.
    Anna White
    Boswells

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    1. Hi Anna! I hope you had a great Christmas. I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed Boy X and that you had so much fun reading all six books. You're obviously a keen reader, so that means you must be very, very smart!

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  45. Boy X is a fantastic book full of suspense, action and adventure. I liked the fact that the story was shrouded in mystery until the end of the novel and that there were lots of cliffhangers to keep us on the edge of our seat. The book is very realistic as the things that Ash and Isabel do take up the appropriate amount of time on the countdown. How the characters linked together was very clever as Pierce and Ash are related and how we knew very little about the characters was hard to decide if they were good or bad. Fast paced and action packed Boy X is a great read and I would strongly recommend it. I would rate it 9.5/10
    Robert-KEGS

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    1. Hi Robert! 9.5/10? What a great score, thank you very much. I'm so pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X and that you liked the mystery that runs through the story. When I started writing Boy X, my idea was to write a cool adventure/survival story, but then I began to think it would be great to have a mystery running through it too - and it seems to have worked! I also wanted to keep readers on their toes so they're never quite sure who's good and who's bad . . .

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  46. This book was brilliant, very easy to understand, great plot line and a brilliant journey which you can't stop reading. 9/10
    Austin Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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  47. Hi Austin! Thanks for the review - I'm glad you enjoyed Boy X! Keep on reading . . . 😀

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  48. This book was brilliant! It was a great adventure story with an underlying sense of mystery too. The characters were brilliant too. 9/10

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    1. Hi! I'm so pleased you enjoyed Boy X! Thanks for stopping by to leave a review.

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  49. I have just finished the book as I could not put it down over the holidays. It was brilliant as soon as one thing ended another thing started and it never got boring. Yet one thing that I did not like was that the first chapter/the introduction was very dull and bland. I am sorry if you got offended by that constructive criticism but I felt the first chapter could have had some more action. Other than that I thought it was great especially when he progressively realises his super senses from the chemical. I would recommend this book to both genders of all ages. I encourage you to write more books like this but as you ended it on a cliff hanger I'm guessing you will make a second book. Me and my friend can not wait to see you at the Essex Book Awards if you are attending. Abigail Miller. King Harold Academy.

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    1. Hi Abigail! Thanks very much for taking the time to stop by and leave such a great review. I'm glad that you found Boy X fast-paced (except for the first chapter) and that you enjoyed the way the story developed. I am planning to be at the Essex Book Awards, so I'll see you there! Can't wait!

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  50. I loved this book, I could not stop reading this book. Every chapter kept me intrigued. the bad thing about this book is that it was not very long.
    Lotti TTC.

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    1. Hi Lotti! Thanks for the review, and I'm very pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. Keep on reading!

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  51. I found it quite good because it kind of kept you on your toes, even if the beginning was boring. 7/10

    Eniola Year 7 Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Eniola! Thanks for leaving a review, and I'm glad you enjoyed Boy X!

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  52. The book starts off with a good start - a page turner - and throughout the whole book you want to read on. A boy called Ash gets taken to an island and has to make things right. This book by Dan Smith is highly recommended. 9/10

    Florence Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Florence! You've just made my morning brighter. Thank you so much for dropping by to leave a review, and it's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. Have a fantastic weekend!

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  53. This book was absolutely incredible. I read it all in one sitting and didn't move for anything. The genre being adventure, it is definitely something that I enjoyed reading. The odd, mystical settings were brilliant and the impeccable description was something that I can't read a book without. I loved this book and the story was perfect.
    The characters were obviously troubled and hadn't been faced with something like this before. Ash and Isabel are definitely children who have been forced to grow up rapidly to help their Isabel's father and Ash's mother escape from an imposing death. Throughout the story, I found Ash portrayed the definite hero of the story - helping his family and friends along the way; whereas Isabel portrayed the intelligence of the pair: telling Ash the right way to go and which animals not to touch etc.
    Dan Smith is an amazing author - I couldn't put down this book and found the ending especially relieving in a way as the tension built up through the actual story. I absolutely loved this book and found it unputdownable. I would rate it a 9/10 as I didn't want it to end.
    Molly M, Sweyne Park School

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    1. Hi Molly! Wow! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a fantastic review. I'm glad you enjoyed Boy X as much as you did, and that you liked the setting and the description. You're absolutely right about Isabel - she's definitely the brains. Of course, Ash has a few good ideas too, but he would never have made it across the island without Isabel by his side. They make a great team, don't they? And I LOVE it when a reader tells me they 'couldn't put this book down'. Hooray! Thank you for the great review.

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  54. I am Jordon from Brentwood and this book is a one of a kind I would recommend this to all I could. I loveg thorns comeback at the end as it opened an opportunity to write a sequel!!! I hope you see this and write a new book!!! 😄😄😄😄 it was amazing

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    1. Hi Jordon! I most definitely have seen your review, and I'm very pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. 😄 And you liked the sneaky little comeback at the end, eh? Hmm, well, I have a feeling this might not be the last time we'll see of these characters . . . . Thank you for the fantastic review!

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  55. An excellent read. The story sets off at quite a pace so it does not take long to get the reader hooked. I loved the colourful characters and the even more colourful setting. The author teases the reader with lots of little well placed hints of how various characters and creatures might develop in future books and I have lots of theories as to future plot lines. It is definitely a book to fire your imagination and one that that I would definitely recommend to year 7 and 8 students in search of adventure.
    Mrs Smy
    Librarian BCHS

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  56. Hi Mrs Smy! Thanks for the review - it's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. And, of course, I'm very happy that you would recommend it to students in search of adventure!

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  57. Truly spectacular , I love this book so much! It is my favourite book in the world. I love how it keeps a secret all the through until the end, it really kept me reading. I couldn't put it down, every character was created to perfection. It was invigorating and thrilling, there was so many plot twists and unexpected happenings.
    I love this book.
    Sophie TTC

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    1. Hi Sophie! What a fantastic review! Thank you for writing such amazing things about Boy X. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the adventure and that you enjoyed all the plot twists and not quite knowing everything until the very last page! I love that you loved it so much! I promise to try to make my next book just as exciting and mysterious . . .

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  58. Boy X is one of my favourite books of all time it was a thrilling fast-paced adventure which I really enjoyed. it made me guess and think and it enraptured me.
    The characters are awesome.
    irate it 9/10.
    Willow

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    1. Hi Willow! What a fantastic review. I can honestly say no one has ever told me they've been 'enraptured' by one of my books before. That . . . is . . . awesome! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such an amazing review, and I'm glad you liked the characters so much. I wonder if you had a favourite?

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  59. This book is AMAZING. Through the book the characters feel so real, and that massively helps as its a fiction book. I wish it wasn't! I also liked the bit were Thorn betrays them, because that is a real page turner bit and a GASP moment! I also loved how when his senses are increased, everything goes in slow motion. That gave me time to really know how he was feeling and think about the area around him in major detail. I would rate this book 9.89/10.... that missing 0.11 because I REALLY WANT A SEQUEL!
    Daisy GBHS

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    1. Ah, Daisy, you have just made my day! What a fantastic review. Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and write such great things about Boy X - I am so pleased you enjoyed reading it. I'm really glad you like the slow motion idea, because it took me a long time to decide on the best way to make it feel as if Ash's reactions are so much quicker. Also, how wonderful that the characters felt so real to you - what more could I ask for? And 0.11 of a mark missing because you want a sequel? Well, I hope we'll see these characters again one day. You never know . . . .

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  60. Contains spoilers...

    Boy X is a brilliant page turner. I found it good and interesting all the way through. It's about a boy who discovers amazing things and has to save the world from a deadly virus. It seems like it ended well but what will happen in the future? 9/10

    Sofia Martinelli Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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  61. Hi Sofia! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X so much. Thank you for taking the time to stop by and leave a review. It's always exciting for me to hear a reader say they thought the book was a 'page turner'. Have a great weekend and keep reading . . . it makes you smart!

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  62. Boy X is a book which is incredibly out of my comfort zone, but little did I know it would leave me hanging on the edge of my seat and wanting a sequel! I have never read a book this original and with so many twists and turns. I absolutely fell in love with Isabel's character... and without giving any spoilers, I did not see the plot twist coming at all!!! I still can't get over the fact that Ash is the same age as me and he faced a deathly disease and several other challenging obstacles... In a strange way, I wish I could've been a character in this book! Other than being a little bit confusing at the beginning I loved this book and would give it an 8/10! Will there be a sequel??? I hope so!!
    Maisie B (who still wants a sequel!), Sweyne Park School

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    1. Hi Maisie! Well, I'm very pleased to have taken you out of your comfort zone and left you hanging! Thank you so much for choosing to read something a little different from your usual choice. Life would be incredibly boring if we stuck to the same thing all the time wouldn't it? And think of all the wonderful things we'd miss out on! I'm SO pleased you decided to try Boy X, and even more pleased that you enjoyed it so much. So, you think you might like to be a character in this book? I'm guessing you'd choose Isabel, and what a great choice! Isabel is strong, cool, decisive, loyal, and would be great friend to have when things get tough. I'm glad you liked the book, Maisie, thanks for reading!

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  63. Review contains spoilers

    I liked this book because it is exciting and full of suspense. The book also leaves a cliff-hanger at the end which makes it all the more exciting. I also enjoyed it because it was adventurous. Overall Boy X is a very god page turner and I enjoyed it a lot. 9/10

    Cecilia Year 7 - Hockerill Anglo-European College

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    1. Hi Cecilia! I'm so pleased you enjoyed Boy X - thank you very much for stopping by to leave your review. Every author who writes adventure stories LOVES it when a reader describes their book as a 'page turner', so you have just made me very happy! Hooray! Have a great weekend.

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  64. Boy X is a mysterious book full of twists with an exciting opening that keeps you reading. At first you think Ash is in a hospital but then it becomes apparent when nobody comes to help him. The book develops with an explosive rollercoaster of a storyline which develops the character throughout the book. It climaxes at its finishing peak leaving you wondering whether there will be a sequel. It’s a must-read for adventure fans that kept me wondering till the end. 10/10
    Connor Reilly, Sweyne Park School

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    1. Hi Connor! Thank you very much for your super-fantastic review. 'full of twists', 'explosive'. 'must-read' Wow! I'm so pleased to hear that you enjoyed Boy X so much. have a great weekend and keep reading . . . it makes you smart!

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  65. I really enjoyed boy x because it is full of mystery and plot twits. It is really exciting and I was barely able to put it down. I gave it a 10 out of 10. Even though I wouldn't normally read this type of book i enjoyed it and that surprised me a lot.

    Karin Ellwood boswells academy trust

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    1. Hi Karin! I always love it when someone says they've enjoyed one of my books - but I especially love it if it's the kind of book they don't normally read. Thank you for your fantastic review - I'm glad Boy X was a good surprise for you, and maybe it'll encourage you to read some other action-adventure stories!

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  66. Boy X is definitely my favourite book of the shortlist. It is so full of suspense and twists. It was so unpredictable and it had well created characters and they each had some form of storyline behind them. I also liked that it ended on a cliffhanger. overall i really enjoyed it and it was a great page turner. I hope one day there will be a sequel... 10/10
    Jessica Baker, The Boswells school

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    1. Hi Jessica! Your favourite book from the shortlist? Oh, I like YOU! I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and thank you very much for stopping by to tell us all. Have a fantastic weekend and . . . keep reading!

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  67. Boy X is a very good story. I liked the fact that it had lots of twists and turns to make you keep guessing and reading it. All the characters have lots of little secrets about them, I found this interesting thing to do. I also liked the fact that it made you think that there may be a sequel. The fact that Thorn was constantly tricking the children made him seem unpredictable. At the end, after the helicopter crash, Thorn is still alive and it makes you wonder whether he contained and withheld the fact of him possibly taking a part of Kronos. If I could give this book 100/10, I would. 10/10.
    Joshua Clark, Boswells School

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    1. Hi Joshua! You'd give Boy X 100/10 if you could? Wow; praise indeed! It's great to hear that you enjoyed the book so much, and that you liked all the cheeky little twists and turns. I sometimes even wondered myself who was telling the truth! I love it when a story is full of action but keeps you guessing right to the end, so that's what I tried to do with Boy X - it seems to have worked, so . . . Hooray! Have a great weekend.

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  68. This contains spoilers!!!
    I really enjoyed reading this novel and I couldn't put it down! It was interesting how the writer kept making you have different opinions about Cain and Thorn, and how you were being lured into trusting Thorn when he was lying all along. It was also quite a shock when it was revealed that Ash's mum was the creator of Kronos, and when we thought Ash would die but he didn't because his body took seconds to heal. I like how the ending hints at a sequel. It makes everything seem perfect: Ash has saved the world and his and Isabel's parents, Kronos has been destroyed, Pierce is dead and Thorn is also considered dead too. However, it turns out that Thorn is still alive, making it apparent that Ash and Isabel are still in danger. Its also interesting how the injection Ash had been given all his life was only a success when he woke up on the island. Overall this book makes you want to think about who to trust and keeps up the tension throughout the novel. I would rate this book a 9.5/10.I wouldn't rate it 10/10 because I wanted to know more backstory on the characters, and the ending was left on such a huge cliffhanger that I really wanted to read about it more.
    Aura(Year 9),The Boswells School.

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    1. Hi Aura! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X, and that you liked how the story kept you guessing, and wondering who to trust. And yes, you're right about the hints for a sequel, so maybe we'll see Ash and Isabel again one day. Hmm, I wonder if they're still in danger . . . and what might they have to do to be safe? Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and write such a well thought out review. Have a great weekend!

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  69. It was really good and I liked the ending because I like twists and I like adventure.
    The best book in the book was the start because it was unexpected. Harvey gbhs

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    1. Hi Harvey! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X! Thanks so much for leaving a review!

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  70. My favourite book is BoyX. I really like the different characters and their personalities. My favourite character is Thorn because he keeps you guessing the whole way through the book if he's good or bad. I love how the book gets straight into the action and how there is action throughout the rest of the book as well. The way the book ends (on a cliffhanger) suggest that there will be a sequel. I really want there to be a sequel because the book ended on a really tense moment. That brings me on to the only negative about the book THAT IT ENDS!!!!!. Please make a sequel. I rate it 10/10! Josh GBHS.

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    1. Hi Josh! Thank you for your awesome review! I'm so glad you enjoyed Boy X - especially when you say its your 'favourite book'!! You've put a great big smile on my face, because it always makes me happy to hear from a contented reader. I'm also glad to hear that you like all the action, because I LOVE a story that's full of action! Thanks for the review, and keep on reading . . .

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  71. I loved Boy X. This was the last book of the EBA books that i have read and boy it should have been the first. The book was so popular I could only get my hands on it now. There was everything, from history, to sci-fi, to action and drama. I loved how there is not one set of villains but two, and that everything links up at the last minute. Unfortunately, there is a few questions that have yet to be answered. What was the eagle on the wall of the secret hideout (I think it is the American eagle), why do the animals seem to be one with ash, and who is thorn really working for (if he is lying) and what do they want to do with Kronos.My favourite character was Isabel as she stayed strong, even with kronos inside her blood. Boy x was an amazing book and there absolutely has to be a sequel as there are a lot of unanswered questions. I would rate this a 11/10. Akshay A KEGS

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    1. Hi Akshay! I've just read your review and what a great way to start a grey Tuesday morning. It's so great to hear that you enjoyed BOY X - 11/10 is a fantastic score! It's also very exciting to know that you think a sequel would be a good idea because, well, you never know . . . we might see Ash and Isabel again some day. Oh, and I'm glad you like Isabel; she's cool, isn't she? I wanted to make sure she was tough, clever, and loyal. I reckon she'd be a great friend to have if you were in trouble. Keep on reading . . .

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  72. I quite liked boy X.The discription was increadable the thing that put me off was quite frequent mention of blood and needles i would give this book 5/10.
    Eloise Sweyene Park

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    1. Hi Eloise! Thanks for taking time to write a review . . . sorry about the needles!

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  73. Boy X is a good book that has a lot of plot-twists and in my opinion Thor is my favourite character because you don't know if he is a good or bad character throughout the book.

    Alex White GBHS

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    1. Hi Alex! I'm glad you enjoyed Boy X - thanks for leaving a review. And I agree about Thorn - he's a slippery character isn't he?

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  74. boy x is very confusing but I like it.
    Freddie gbhs

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    1. Hi Freddie! Thanks for the review. I'm glad you enjoyed BOY X, even if you found it a little confusing. Anyway, life's more fun if it's a bit confusing from time to time!

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  75. I thought this book was very good and had lots of plot twists and interesting characters
    Ben GBHS

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    1. Hi Ben! It's great to hear that you enjoyed Boy X. You're right about the plot twists - there are plenty to make sure you keep your wits about you. Have a great half-term!

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  76. Boy X gripped me from the very first page. The whole way through I felt as if I was in the characters'shoes, especially when Isabel and Ash were in the jungle, where I felt as if I was running from Thorn with them. Although it is quite similar to other books I have read, Boy X was still brilliant and packed with surprises.

    Rating: 10/10
    Oliver C, KEGS

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    1. Hi Oliver! Thanks for the review and for the fantastic score. 10/10? Wow! I'm so pleased to hear that you liked BOY X, especially when you said that you felt as if you were in the character's shoes. I love it when a story drags me right into it, so I'm very pleased BOY X did that for you!

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  77. Boy X is an amazing adventure story full of surprises that make you want to read more. Suspense, terror, surprise. I definitely recommend Boy X to anyone who enjoys adventures and thrillers.
    Annalise
    Brentwood Ursuline

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    1. Hi Annalise! Thanks for the review. 'Suspense, terror, surprise'?! I LOVE it! It's such a pleasure to hear from happy readers, so I'm very glad you enjoyed BOY X as much as you did! Keep reading . . . it makes you smart!

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  78. Dan Smith has created an amazing book, full of adventure. When you read it, you can't stop. Ash is kidnapped by a man called Cain who puts a dangerous chemical inside Ash's blood. Ash, then meets a girl on a remote island in Spain, where the girl lives in the woods. Ash sets out to do everything he can to find his mum and to find a way back home. Just as they are about to get going, he gets locked down. What will Ash McCarthy do to survive?
    Sarah
    Brentwood Ursuline

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    1. Hi Sarah! Thanks for the review, and I'm so pleased to hear that you enjoyed BOY X - especially when you say 'When you read it, you can't stop.' I tried to write something fast-paced that would leave you wondering what was going to happen next, and it seems to have worked for you. Hooray!

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  79. I would recommend this book to everyone. It is a wonderful book. I really hope that other people enjoy this book.
    I rate this book 10/10.
    Tionne
    Brentwood Ursuline

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    1. Hi Tionne! Thanks for the fantastic review! It's great to hear that you'd recommend it to everyone, because I would LOVE it if everyone read my book! I also hope other people enjoy it as much as you did. Thanks for stopping by to leave the review and don't forget to keep reading more and more . . . it makes you smart!

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  80. A very intriguing and enticing book that hooks the reader wherever you start reading. It is about a boy called Ash M who goes through a tough adventure.

    What must Ash McCarthy do to survive? In this book Ash must survive on a weird but wonderful island but it is much harder than you think. With a wild and highly-contagious lethal virus on the loose, he has to stop a madman from destroying the world. Will he survive? Read to find out.
    This book would be recommended to anyone who loves an intense and adventurous story. A must-read 5 star book, just for you.
    This boom was so intoxicating that I couldn't stop reading. A big thumbs up to Dan Smith. As the book says "You are stronger than you think you are."

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    1. Hi! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review! It's very exciting to hear that you enjoyed BOY X, and I'm very pleased that you 'couldn't stop reading'. You are definitely stronger than you think you are!

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  81. A very intriguing and enticing book that hooks the reader wherever you start reading. It is about a boy called Ash M who goes through a tough adventure.

    What must Ash McCarthy do to survive? In this book Ash must survive on a weird but wonderful island but it is much harder than you think. With a wild and highly-contagious lethal virus on the loose, he has to stop a madman from destroying the world. Will he survive? Read to find out.
    This book would be recommended to anyone who loves an intense and adventurous story. A must-read 5 star book, just for you.
    This boom was so intoxicating that I couldn't stop reading. A big thumbs up to Dan Smith. As the book says "You are stronger than you think you are."

    Aadeeb Khan Year 7 KEGS

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    1. Hi Aadeeb! I'm so pleased to hear that you enjoyed reading BOY X. Thank you so much for taking time to write a review. Also, I'm glad that you thought the island was 'weird but wonderful' because although it's a strange island, and although it's dangerous, it is also amazing and wonderful! I hope you had a great World Book Day and . . . keep reading!

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  82. Dear Mr Dan Smith,
    Hi! I am Aliyah and I am from Moulsham High school. Me and the others in EBA Book Club are wondering why you called your book "boy x"
    I loved your book and is my favourite out of all of them. I never knew adventure books could be so INTERESTING. I hope your reply
    Yours Sincerely
    Aliyah Khalil MHS ( Moulsham High School)

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    1. Hi Aliyah! Thank you so much for stopping by to write a review - I'm so excited to hear that you loved BOY X. I had so much fun writing it, it's always lovely to hear that people have enjoyed reading it. And you never knew that adventure books could be so interesting? Well, I'm glad to have been able to show you that they are! Adventure books rock! So you're wondering why it's called Boy X? Well, because Ash McCarthy is a rather unusual boy, wouldn't you say . . ? Maybe some kind of experiment . . ?

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  83. Boy X

    This book was a great action packed adventure and I liked how it was written as a countdown because then it showed you how much you had left of the book to read rather that how far you were through it. This made it a whole lot more interesting.

    I liked the characters because they were not 'SUPER HEROS' so you could engage with them and not feel like you were in a completely different world. I also loved how the creatures were all bigger, scarier and more powerful than normal animals because this could happen one day. And also the story would not have been as interesting if there route to the boat had been safe.

    QUESTION: The only thing I don't get is why the book is called Boy X?

    Rate: 8/10 Stars!

    Abi Quaye, Year 8
    Moulsham High School

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    1. Hi Abi! Thank you so much for the fantastic review. I'm pleased you enjoyed the countdown in the book - though, I have to tell you it caused me a lot of trouble! I had to work it all out very carefully to make sure all the right things happened at the right time. Phew! I'm also pleased to hear that you liked the characters - I wonder if you had a favourite? Oh, and all those big, scary animals . . . some of them were pretty creepy, eh? When I was growing up, I spent a lot of time in the jungle and I found out it could be a very scary place, but on Isla Negra, it's even more scary! I hope you had a fun World Book Day last week.

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  84. I really liked boy X as it always had me gripped and the suspense was incredible. I loved how all of the emotions felt by Ash were all ones that normal people would have felt in that situation and not automatically feeling safe and reassured. I loved the times on each of the chapters as it kept you informed of how long they had left and was something I had never seen before. I finished this book really quickly because I didn't want to put it down as there was always something that was about to happen. although this book was great I feel like in some places it moved too slow like in the forest at one point as it wasn't gripping enough and sometimes I wanted more description as it was such a good part of the plot yet it wasn't there. overall I give this book an 8/10.
    Lucy, Moulsham high school

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    1. Hi Lucy! Thank you so much for your review, it's great to hear that you enjoyed BOY X, and that it had you gripped. I'm also pleased that you thought Ash's emotions were as you'd expect them to be for someone who found themselves in this strange situation - I think he was lucky to have Isabel close by to help him! Thanks again for the review and keep reading . . . it makes you smart!

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  85. Boy X is (in my opinion) the best book in this year’s EBA competition. The Author, Dan Smith, has created a masterpiece by using an entertaining plot with many twists and turns. My favourite character is Ash McCarthy as he is cunning and always seems to have a plan or at least where to find one or get help. He also, midway through the story, gains the power of having intensified hearing, vision and smell.
    The plot is ingenious but easy to understand; a young boy, Ash, who has woken up in a strange hospital on a mysterious island, not knowing where his family and friends are. Ash soon discovered that a deadly disease as broken out and it is up to him to save the world.








    By Ben Dockerill GBHS

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    1. Hi Ben! Thank you for writing a review, and it's so great to hear that you enjoyed BOY X. It's such a pleasure for me to come and look at this website and find all these amazing reviews. You are all doing such a good job reading and reviewing the books - and I'm very excited that BOY X is your favourite! Hooray!

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  86. Boy X is a book like no other because of the way the characters had a suspicious feel about them. This book was written by Dan Smith and has been chosen to be in the Essex Book Awards. It is a story about a boy called Ash McCarthy that gets a chemical injected into his veins. In my opinion Thor is my favourite character due to the fact that throughout the book you do not know wherever he is a good or bad character.
    By Alex White, GBHS

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    1. Hi Alex! Great review - thank you so much for taking the time to write something about BOY X. It's good to know that you thought some of the characters had a suspicious side to them - who can we trust? - and that you liked Thorn. He's a sneaky one isn't he?!

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  87. I think Boy X is an incredible book. In my opinion it is the best book of all six. Throughout the book, the plot keeps on changing and tricking you into believing someone is good when they are bad. The book gets straight into the action, which hooks the reader into the book almost immediately and makes you want to read on and find out what happens next.

    There are lots of different characters in Boy X and they all have different personalities. For example, the main character Ash is a brave and curious boy and his friend Isabel is a clever and strong girl. But my favourite character is Thorn. He starts off as a savage murderer that wants to kill Ash and Isabel but then he tricks them into thinking he’s good but it’s a trick all along.

    The book ends on a cliff-hanger. It is a tense moment and there are somethings that haven’t been explained so that suggests that there could be a sequel.

    By Josh Lewin GBHS








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    1. Hi Josh! Wow, what a great review! It's so good to hear that you enjoyed BOY X so much. I'm glad you liked the twists and turns in the plot, and that the story hooked you in from the start. I like fast-paced action adventure stories (with a few scares along the way) so I tried to keep the plot moving along quickly and sweep the reader up into the action. Thank you so much for stopping by to leave a review.

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  88. Boy X had an amazing story line. It made me think what
    was out in the world. Did anyone know of the amazing
    creatures? Do they live in deep or ocean or thick jungle…
    or do they live right under our noses?
    My favourite part of the book is where they go in to the
    army bunker and get attacked by a spider. This is the best
    bit because spiders are one of the most feared creatures
    on the world so it gets people on the edge of their seats
    wanting to know wether it attacks.
    Characters:
    Ash McCarthy: He was the main character in the book. He
    was drugged and taken to a mystical island. His dad had
    By Freddie Tulit Great Baddow High School
    died and when he was down his dad’s dog tag gave him
    motivation to carry on and save his mum.
    Isabel Vasquez: She is an inhabitant of the island as her
    dad works on the island, she helps Ash on his adventures.
    Mum: Ash McCarthy’s mum works on the island. One-day
    bad people came and locked her in a room with a deadly
    virus.
    Thorn: Thorn was a very evil person but he works with ash
    to get the virus for his company and he tricks ash as he
    said he would cure his mother but he didn’t.
    I found the setting interesting as it was not like my life in
    England. There is lots of mystery and danger. It is think
    jungle and hot weather. There are lots of special creatures
    and plants.
    Freddie Tulit Great Baddow High School

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    1. Hi Freddie! Thank you for stopping by to leave a review. I get so much enjoyment out of coming here every day to see if anyone else has read my book, and it's even better when I see a review like yours! I'm glad you liked the part with the spider - when I was growing up I lived in the jungle and we used to get all kinds of creepy spiders, so I just HAD to have one in my book. I'm also glad that you mentioned the dog tag that Ash has with him at all times. It's a very important part of the story - it's the one thing that helps Ash to feel strong. I'm pleased that you enjoyed BOY X - the mystery, the danger, the setting, and the characters - and thank you so much for your brilliant review!

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  89. Hell and high water is a thrilling novel by Tanya Landman and is one of the best books in this year’s EBA. The story is an excellent book full of pages that you just won’t want to stop turning. I would recommend hell and high water for children about 11 upwards and I for sure would read the book again.

    The plot of the story is very simple; a boy called Caleb lives with his dad in a typical seaside town. Every morning it smells of fish and all the other food the market has to offer for the day. Caleb’s dad is a puppeteer and does Punch and Judy shows for everyone who lives there. Then one day Caleb’s father is wrongly accused of stealing money and the punishment is death. And that’s where Caleb’s journey begins. To get his father justice.

    By Tom Wilkinson, GBHS

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  90. Thank you everybody for all your amazing reviews, and thank you for voting for Boy X! I had a great day at the Essex Book Awards, and it was fantastic to meet so many of you. Keep having adventures, and keep on reading . . . it makes you smart!

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