The Lighthouse Land

The Lighthouse Trilogy, Book 1

By: Adrian McKinty

Narrated by: Gerard Doyle

Introducing the first young-adult novel from crime fiction writer Adrian McKinty—whose adult books have been called “unputdownable” (Washington Post), “exceptional” (San Francisco Chronicle), and “profoundly satisfying” (Booklist)—this is the start of an epic sci-fi trilogy with an unforgettable hero.

When Jamie’s mother inherits a small island and moves her little family from Harlem to Ireland, her troubled son sees a chance to start over, far away from the bullies and the pitying stares. Cancer has left Jamie without an arm or the will to speak. But Muck Island is no sanctuary, and it offers more than solitude and sea views. Jamie learns that he is heir to an ancient title—Laird of Muck, Guardian of the Passage—and certain otherworldly responsibilities. With the help of a mysterious object he discovers in the island’s old lighthouse, Jamie sets out on a dangerous interstellar mission that could change the course of his life—and the universe—forever.

Tautly paced and brilliantly imagined, this novel will thrill sci-fi fans eager for new heroes and new worlds to explore.

©2006 Adrian McKinty (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“McKinty, previously known for adult crime novels, brings an attuned ear for dialogue and a taut pacing to his first YA outing, the launch title in the Lighthouse Trilogy.” ( Publishers Weekly)

“This thought-provoking sci-fi adventure offers universal appeal, excitement, and a one-of-a-kind hero whose courage and compassion will inspire any reader.” ( Children’s Literature)

“Few readers will be able to resist…Teens will enjoy this first book in a planned trilogy.” ( VOYA)

Excellent for young adults

Excellent for young adults or pre-teens / teens. A bit too juvenile for adults, but a good listen which captured my attention and kept me interested. Similar to Narnia.

A Tour into Sci-fi

I enjoyed this fanciful story of two boys, one from NYC and one from a small village in Ireland who find a wormhole and travel to a distant Universe. James O'Neil is a cancer survivor, lacking both his left arm and power of speech and newly discovered Laird of Muck (maybe a little too tongue in cheek). Ramsey, local Irish lad, highly intelligent and Jamie's best and first friend befriend the locals in this faraway place. Together they help the first beings they meet defeat the powerful ice boat foes, find a cure for the devastating chicken pox and Jamie falls in love.

I can't praise enough the narrator, Gerald Doyle who does a great job with all of the accents and most important for me, I can understand every word. He is capable of expressing every feeling and nuance perfectly and yet his speech is wonderfully legible. Hearable?

Believable Characters

What about Gerard Doyle’s performance did you like?

Having read the books first, I had a their voices in my mind. Gerard Doyle brought the characters to life by making them sound like their nationality.

Any additional comments?

McKinty has a way of making his characters real. Whether the character is a child recuperating from cancer and surgery, an Asperger-esque/math and science genius, a cool mom, or an extraterrestrial, they are all believable, interesting and maybe just a Wishaway.
On top of that, Gerard Doyle breathed life into them. He is the perfect choice for the Lighthouse Trilogy.
This book is a teen book. I, however, am a mom, and I loved it as much as my son. I am really glad you have this trilogy. It rates right up there with Brandon Mull's Fablehaven and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson.

Lighthouse series

loved it and the narrator , keep learning about Irish history and their language which at times has been hard to follow , this is my 6th McKinty book. hope there are more! !

Wonderful Adventure

This was a great story and well narrated. I'm starting the next book in the series immediately.