Details Condition: BRAND NEW Format: Paperback ISBN: 9781848128552 Publisher: Piccadilly Press Age Range: 10-14 Overview Thunderbolt is the thrilling second instalment in the Jack Courtney Adventures, a fast-paced series for young readers from worldwide bestselling author Wilbur Smith, co-written with Chris Wakling. Following on from Cloudburst, 14-year-old Jack Courtney returns for another daring escapade, this time in the sun-drenched but dangerous waters off Zanzibar. Combining high-octane action with real-world environmental themes, this paperback adventure is perfect for fans of Alex Rider and readers who love a gripping, conscience-driven thriller. About the Book Jack and his friends Amelia and Xander are enjoying a break in Zanzibar, diving for lost treasure to help fund Jack's mother's coral reef protection project. But when the trio venture further than usual on their final day of diving, disaster strikes: their boat is lured into a trap and seized by Somali pirates. Jack refuses to let his mother pay a ransom for their release, and instead of waiting to be rescued, he starts plotting an escape. Things take a darker turn when the friends are transferred to a militia training camp for boy soldiers, run by the ruthless General Sir. Their only glimmer of hope comes from Mo, a resourceful young Somali boy who risks everything to help them. Packed with tension, courage and a strong environmental conscience, Thunderbolt asks whether Jack and his friends can outwit General Sir's merciless troops and make it home safely. With short, punchy chapters and a plot that never lets up, this is an ideal adventure story for confident young readers who want a book they simply cannot put down, and it works brilliantly as a standalone story as well as a sequel to Cloudburst. Second thrilling instalment in the Jack Courtney Adventures series by Wilbur Smith Fast-paced, high-stakes plot combining pirates, escape and survival Woven-in environmental and conservation themes for thoughtful young readers Perfect for fans of Alex Rider and other action-adventure series Brand new paperback copy, ideal for gifting Great for encouraging reluctant readers aged 10 and up About the Author Wilbur Smith was born in Central Africa in 1933 and educated at Michaelhouse and Rhodes University. Following the success of his first novel, When the Lion Feeds, in 1964, he became a full-time writer and went on to write dozens of bestselling adventure novels, translated into more than two dozen languages worldwide. The Jack Courtney Adventures brings his trademark storytelling to a younger audience, co-written with acclaimed children's author Chris Wakling, blending thrilling action with themes of family, courage and environmental responsibility. Why You'll Love This Adventure Non-stop action, a resourceful young hero, and a genuine environmental message make Thunderbolt a standout adventure for young readers. It's the perfect gift for anyone who loves gripping stories with real heart and high stakes. Please Note: Cover shown is the UK edition; ISBN and edition may vary slightly from images used for illustrative purposes.