chapter 8 journey to the river sea

"Journey to the River Sea" Summary

By Eva Ibbotson

historical fiction | 304 pages | Published in NaN

Estimated read time: 5 min read

One Sentence Summary

An orphaned girl travels to the Amazon rainforest and discovers the wonders of the natural world.

Table of Contents

Introduction, brief synopsis, main characters, summary of story points over chapters, main events, themes and insights, reader's takeaway.

"Journey to the River Sea" by Eva Ibbotson is a captivating and heartwarming tale set in the early 20th century. This enchanting story follows the adventurous journey of a young orphan, Maia, as she embarks on a life-changing expedition to the Amazon rainforest.

Plot Overview

The story begins in London, where Maia, an orphan, is living with her unkind relatives, the Carters. When she receives news that she is to live with distant relatives, the mysterious Mr. and Mrs. Murray, in the Amazon rainforest, she is both nervous and excited. Maia's journey to Brazil is filled with anticipation as she imagines the exotic and unknown land that awaits her.

The majority of the story takes place in and around Manaus, a city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. The lush and vibrant landscape, teeming with wildlife and rich with indigenous culture, serves as a breathtaking backdrop for the unfolding adventure.

The following table introduces the main characters in "Journey to the River Sea":

Chapters 1-5

Maia is living with the unkind Carters in London. She receives the news of her journey to the Amazon and her excitement and apprehension grow. She meets Miss Minton, her governess, and they set sail to Brazil.

Chapters 6-10

Maia and Miss Minton arrive in Manaus and are greeted by Mr. and Mrs. Murray. Maia begins to explore the wonders of the Amazon, befriending Clovis and Finn, who introduce her to the beauty of the rainforest.

Chapters 11-15

Maia and her friends embark on various adventures, discovering the local culture and experiencing the breathtaking landscapes of the Amazon. Meanwhile, Miss Minton is determined to uncover the truth about Maia's relatives.

Chapters 16-20

Unexpected events and challenges arise as Maia and her friends find themselves entangled in a web of mysteries and secrets. Miss Minton's investigation leads to shocking revelations, and Maia's world is forever changed.

Chapters 21-25

As the story unfolds, Maia and her friends face danger and uncertainty, but they also discover the true meaning of friendship, courage, and resilience. The final chapters reveal the resolution of the mysteries and the characters' fates.

The following table outlines the main events in "Journey to the River Sea":

• Adventure and Exploration : The novel explores the theme of adventure as Maia discovers the wonders of the Amazon rainforest and the rich culture of its inhabitants.
• Friendship and Belonging : Maia forms deep and lasting friendships with Clovis and Finn, finding a sense of belonging in the vibrant community of the rainforest.
• Courage and Resilience : The characters demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of challenges, inspiring readers to overcome adversity.

The story provides insights into the beauty of nature, the importance of empathy and understanding, and the resilience of the human spirit. It also offers a glimpse into the cultural diversity and richness of the Amazon region.

"Journey to the River Sea" is a captivating and heartwarming story that transports readers to the enchanting world of the Amazon rainforest. Through the eyes of the adventurous Maia, readers experience the beauty of nature, the power of friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. This tale of discovery, courage, and belonging is sure to inspire and uplift readers of all ages.

In conclusion, "Journey to the River Sea" is a compelling and beautifully crafted novel that immerses readers in a rich and vibrant world. With its endearing characters, captivating setting, and themes of adventure, friendship, and resilience, this timeless tale continues to enchant and inspire readers around the world. Eva Ibbotson's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions make "Journey to the River Sea" a must-read for anyone seeking an unforgettable literary journey.

Journey to the River Sea FAQ

What is 'journey to the river sea' about.

'Journey to the River Sea' is a children's novel about an orphan girl named Maia who is sent to live with distant relatives in the Amazon rainforest. The story follows her adventures as she explores the Amazon and discovers new friends and secrets.

Who is the author of 'Journey to the River Sea'?

The author of 'Journey to the River Sea' is Eva Ibbotson, a renowned children's author known for her captivating and imaginative storytelling.

What age group is 'Journey to the River Sea' suitable for?

'Journey to the River Sea' is suitable for readers aged 9-12, but it can also be enjoyed by older readers who appreciate a well-crafted story set in a unique and vibrant setting.

Is 'Journey to the River Sea' based on a true story?

No, 'Journey to the River Sea' is a work of fiction. While it is set in the Amazon rainforest, the characters and events are purely fictional.

What themes are explored in 'Journey to the River Sea'?

Themes of adventure, friendship, courage, and the beauty of the natural world are prominent in 'Journey to the River Sea'. The book also touches on issues of social justice and environmental conservation.

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TEACHING RESOURCES

Journey to the river sea by eva ibbotson 9-11.

Journey to the River Sea is about orphaned London schoolgirl, Maia, who, accompanied by her strict but kind governess, is sent to live with her ghastly relatives in South America. Unlike her nature-phobic relatives, Maia loves her exotic, colourful new world.

VIPERS Discussion Guide

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Can you provide a summary of chapter 8 in Journey to the River Sea?

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June 23, 2023

By Meagan Drillinger

Journey to the River Sea is a novel written by Eva Ibbotson. The book is set in the early 20th century and follows the story of a young girl named Maia, who is sent to live with her distant relatives in the Amazon rainforest. As she navigates her new surroundings, Maia discovers secrets about her family’s past and embarks on an exciting adventure.

Overview of Journey to the River Sea

Journey to the River Sea is a captivating novel that explores themes of identity, family, and adventure. The book is set in the Amazon rainforest and follows the story of Maia, a young girl who is sent to live with her distant relatives in Brazil. Throughout the novel, Maia discovers secrets about her family’s past and embarks on a thrilling adventure as she navigates her new surroundings.

Chapter 8: The House on the Island

Chapter 8 of Journey to the River Sea is titled "The House on the Island." In this chapter, Maia and her governess, Miss Minton, take a boat trip to the House on the Island. The House on the Island is owned by Mr. Carter, a wealthy businessman who has made his fortune in the rubber trade. Maia is excited to visit the island, as she has heard rumors of a ghost that haunts the house.

Setting of the Chapter

The setting of Chapter 8 is the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. Specifically, the chapter takes place on the House on the Island, which is located on a small island in the middle of the river. The house is surrounded by lush vegetation and is said to be haunted by a ghost.

Characters in Chapter 8

The main characters in Chapter 8 are Maia and Miss Minton. Mr. Carter, the owner of the House on the Island, is also introduced in this chapter.

Plot Summary of Chapter 8

In Chapter 8, Maia and Miss Minton take a boat trip to the House on the Island. Maia is excited to visit the house, as she has heard rumors of a ghost that haunts the property. When they arrive, they are greeted by Mr. Carter, the owner of the house. He gives them a tour of the property and shows them the various rooms and artifacts in the house. Maia is fascinated by the house and the stories behind it. However, as they explore the property, they hear strange noises and Maia begins to suspect that there may be a ghost after all.

Themes in Chapter 8

The themes explored in Chapter 8 include curiosity, fear, and the unknown. Maia is curious about the House on the Island and is eager to explore it, despite the rumors of a ghost. However, as she begins to hear strange noises, she becomes afraid and begins to question what she thought she knew about the house.

Literary Devices Used

The author uses foreshadowing in Chapter 8 to build suspense and anticipation. The mention of the ghost early on in the chapter suggests that something spooky is about to happen, which keeps the reader engaged. The author also uses vivid descriptions of the House on the Island to create an eerie atmosphere.

Analysis of the Chapter

Chapter 8 is a pivotal chapter in the novel, as it marks the beginning of Maia’s fascination with the Amazon rainforest and its secrets. It also introduces the idea of the unknown and the supernatural, which will become important later in the book. The chapter builds suspense and leaves the reader wanting to know more about the ghost and the secrets of the House on the Island.

Significance of Chapter 8 to the Novel

Chapter 8 sets the stage for the rest of the novel by introducing important themes and ideas that will be explored in later chapters. Maia’s visit to the House on the Island sparks her curiosity and sets her on a path of discovery. The chapter also introduces the idea of the unknown and the supernatural, which will become a recurring theme throughout the book.

Chapter 8 of Journey to the River Sea is an important chapter in the novel that introduces key themes and ideas that will be explored in later chapters. The chapter is suspenseful and keeps the reader engaged, leaving them wanting to know more about the secrets of the House on the Island.

Ibbotson, Eva. (2001). Journey to the River Sea. Macmillan Children’s Books.

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Journey to the River Sea Summary and Analysis

FreeBookNotes found 9 sites with book summaries or analysis of Journey to the River Sea . If there is a Journey to the River Sea SparkNotes, Shmoop guide, or Cliff Notes, you can find a link to each study guide below.

Among the summaries and analysis available for Journey to the River Sea , there are 2 Short Summaries and 7 Book Reviews.

Depending on the study guide provider (SparkNotes, Shmoop, etc.), the resources below will generally offer Journey to the River Sea chapter summaries, quotes, and analysis of themes, characters, and symbols.

Journey to the River Sea

By eva ibbotson, full book notes and study guides.

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TheGuardian - Journey to the River Sea

Estimated Read Time : 1 minute

Word Count: 361

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Word Count: 135

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More Books by Eva Ibbotson

FreeBookNotes has 14 more books by Eva Ibbotson, with a total of 63 study guides.

Teaching From Text

• teachingfromtext
• Jul 22, 2021

Fully resourced 'Journey to the River Sea' English Planning.

Updated: Jun 14

Welcome to our fully resourced 'Journey to the River Sea' English planning. This is week 1 of a twelve-week scheme of work with 60 x 1 hour lesson plans and all the resources you will need for each and every lesson! It has been written for Years 5 and 6 (age 9-11).

The entire Scheme of Work is centred around ‘Journey to the River Sea’ by Eva Ibbotson. This is a fantastic book which follows a young orphan girl’s adventure as she is relocated to live with her challenging cousins, aunt and uncle in the Amazon Rainforest. The story shares the beauty of the Amazon juxtaposed with the prejudice and discriminatory views of the Carter family. During this unit of work, the children will have four extended writing opportunities:

Non-chronological reports

Biography writing

Persuasive Writing.

In addition, during the unit, your class will gain a great understanding of many grammar elements which are explicitly taught: word classes, relative clauses, irregular verbs, perfect form of verbs, coordinating and subordinating conjunctions, determiners and subject and verb agreement. The fully resourced 'Journey to the River Sea' English planning has been written with teachers’ time in mind! Included in the scheme of work are all the lesson plans, differentiated exciting activities, bespoke teaching videos, hand-drawn images, teaching slides and posters for your Working Wall. All resources are in editable format enabling you to tweak, if needed, for your class. This unit of work is closely linked with PSHCE . It explores discrimination and prejudice in detail; the final piece of writing in the unit explores the Carter’s prejudice, stereotypical and discriminatory behaviour. This twelve week English unit for Upper Key Stage 2 links perfectly to many topics:

Black and minority ethnic characters

Rain forests

So you can try before you buy, click on the link to download week 1 for free.

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Journey to the River Sea

52 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Chapters 6-10

Chapters 11-15

Chapters 16-19

Chapters 20-24

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

The loss of parents leads many of the characters to seek new relationships with each other for healing and self-actualization, revealing The Value of Friendship and chosen family. Maia remembers seeing Greece with her parents and wishes wistfully for “the happiness of being warm even at night and the freedom of the camp” (20). She therefore seeks new friendships with people like Finn and Miss Minton , who are adventurous like her parents used to be. Similarly, Clovis is motivated to reunite with his foster mother, whom he cherishes in his memory as an especially good cook. When he is given the chance to live at Westwood, one of his reasons for staying is to “bring my foster mother here to cook – she’s always wanted to work in a house like this” (189).

Finn’s relationship with Maia and their shared delight in animals and plants reminds him of his father’s delight in sharing in exploring the natural world. The death of Finn’s mother, which was caused by the racist policies of European doctors who refused to visit to treat her because she was Xanti, haunts him and motivates him to travel up the Amazon to reunite with her tribe. When he takes Maia with him to the Xanti, he is reaching for a familial bond with both his father through Maia, and his mother through the Xanti; ultimately, he seeks to heal from his loss. The novel uses the orphan trope to help spur its characters on to new adventures, during which they investigate the value of friendship in promoting healing and self-discovery.

Books and Learning

Knowledge and education are a recurring motif throughout the novel, reinforcing perspectives on exploration and emphasizing the protagonists’ willingness to learn new things and embrace revolutionary ideas. Maia’s love of reading is an early indicator of her open-mindedness. When she learns of her impending voyage to the Amazon, she reads widely on the subject with an attitude of curiosity and discovers beautiful aspects of the place and culture rather than adopting the simplistic and negative viewpoints offered by her classmates. Her like-mindedness with Miss Minton , an advocate of adventure and discovery, is conveyed through their shared love of books. Maia views Miss Minton’s collection of “travel books and fairy tales” as an “Aladdin’s cave” (37), and thus, the author evokes a literary allusion to convey Maia’s deep admiration and desire to read.

By contrast, the Carter twins hate poetry and prefer rote learning and bookwork. The novel satirizes their close-minded approach by poking fun at the strict and repetitive British curriculum. Mrs. Carter, a woman who has little interest in creative pursuits or imagination, limits her daughters’ education to Dr Bullman’s books, the titles of which use repetition for comedic effect. As the narrative states:

Dr Bullman’s English Grammar, Dr Bullman’s English Composition […] All the books had the same brown covers and on each one was a picture of Dr Bullman himself. He had a pointed beard, staring eyes and a bulging forehead, and as Maia looked at him she felt a slight lurching of the stomach. (33)

Maia’s visceral reaction to the Carters’ educational books highlights her vastly different approach and interactions with the world. Maia pursues growth and expansion through nature, while the Carters choose isolation from foreign influences.

The creatures of the Amazon are featured in detail throughout the novel, and the nature of the characters’ interactions with them reveal their own internal qualities. For example, Mrs. Carter’s Fear of the Unknown is represented through her murder of insects. She is insatiable in her quest to be rid of them, a compulsion shown through the listing of her growing stash of pesticides, which included “flasks labelled POISON, and masks for protecting the face, and rubber gloves. There were glass jars of chloral hydrate, and spray cans with nozzles, and a new very large bottle labelled COCKROACH KILLER—KEEP AWAY FROM FIRE” (139). In contrast to Mrs. Carter’s hostility to her environment, Maia is enamored with the idea of living near animals. She often encounters creatures from the moment she arrives in the Amazon and beholds them with delight, whether it is a group of capybaras or her first sighting of an alligator. The novel therefore emphasizes that a person’s perspective influences their experience of the Amazon as either a dangerous or beautiful place.

Animals are also portrayed as helpers and friends in the novel. For example, Finn’s dog is depicted as being wonderfully intuitive and intelligent, and he even aids Maia and Finn on their journey. He is described as having the ability to “hunt his own food and steady the canoe by putting his weight in the right place” (107) and he also takes his responsibility to comfort his fellow humans very seriously. As the narrative states, “A dog who will allow himself to be cried over is worth his weight in gold” (107). Finn and Maia’s relationship with animals is one way they connect and are healed by their relationship with nature.

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Journey to the River Sea

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9.1. Find these words in Chapter 13 and guess the meaning of these words.

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Journey to the River Sea Guided Reading questions and Vocab List

Subject: English

Age range: 7-11

Resource type: Unit of work

Last updated

15 February 2020

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This contains 2-4 questions per chapter for guided reading activity (questions have been linked to blooms taxonomy style questioning). There is also a vocabulary list with page numbers to assistant vocabulary learning.

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