A Journey With Malmo to the Ends of the Earth by Elena Horas San Martin takes the reader to the remote and mystical country of Merryland. Here, the land is fruitful and bright and the inhabitants are joyful. The country is hidden away from any outsiders and can’t be placed on a map to keep it sheltered from the outside world. The only dark aspect of this beautiful country is the threatening rule that all residents know—anyone who leaves Merryland and ventures into The Exterior or Outside world will receive a deadly punishment.

A Journey With Malmo to the Ends of the Earth begins with the birth of Malmo, a natural resident of Merryland. His strange birth leads to people proclaiming that he will be a visionary. A threat comes to the island, warned by a prophet, and the people of Merryland are divided into those who fear the threat and those who want to fight it off. As many people begin to disappear, a new message is left for those remaining on Merryland, telling them that the answers to their questions lie beyond the borders.

This enchanting fantasy novel is full of mystery, and I loved reading about Malmo’s journey as he ventures past the border of Merryland. The creatures he meets make the story whimsical and intriguing, and I loved getting the opportunity to see the landscape that he crossed because it all seemed so imaginative. As he goes on to fight the evil that is plaguing his homeland, I found the air of fantasy and adventure to be truly immersive and so fun to read.

I would have liked to see more of Malmo’s childhood before leaving, so that we could see how he lives in Merryland and what makes is so beautiful. It’s clear that the island is very special, but I think the book could have benefitted with more description of the country.

A Journey With Malmo to the Ends of the Earth by Elena Horas San Martin is a whimsical story with fun elements of fantasy and adventure, and it would make the perfect tale to read to a young reader just starting to delve into the world of myth and fairytale. I recommend it to anyone who wants to read a story that inspires the imagination and whisks them away on a spirited adventure.

Pages: 130 | ASIN: B099SBTFY1