Carter & Eli's Map Quest: Beyond the Icy Towers

By Kimberly Thornton

Travel, Mystery, and Adventure! This series has it all. Join Carter and Eli on their quest to discover the Hidden World.

 

While travelling the world with their parents, Carter and Eli Hayes learn of a Hidden World and together they must solve the clues to uncover the treasure.

 

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• Language: English
• Publisher: Kimberly Thornton
• Release date: Nov 21, 2022
• ISBN: 9781777447021

Book preview

Chapter 1

Getting Ready

Carter came bouncing into the room and jumped on Eli’s bed, knocking a pile of t-shirts on the floor.

Feeling annoyed, Eli made a face at his little brother. Carter, can you move? I’m trying to pack.

Ignoring him, Carter continued sitting on the edge of the bed. What do you think it will be like? he asked.

I’m not sure. Mom and Dad said it’s going to be a big adventure, Eli replied. I’m most excited to see tigers in India.

That will be awesome! Carter said, feeling excited. I want to see the pyramids in Egypt.

A few years ago, Carter and Eli Hayes and their parents, Hannah and Will, started to plan a family trip around the world. Travel and adventure were something that the whole family enjoyed, and Hannah and Will had always dreamt about travelling with their kids. After all the waiting, their trip was finally here. They were leaving the next day.

How’s the packing going, boys? their mom asked as she walked into their bedroom.

I have it all out on my bed except for the stuff that Carter knocked off, Eli grumbled.

Their mom stared at the pile of clothes that had fallen off the bed. Then, with a sigh, she turned to Carter and asked, How about you, honey? Do you need any help?

Carter shifted uncomfortably on the bed, keeping his eyes down, then mumbled, I h-h-haven’t really started yet, Mom.

At seven years old, Carter had always been high energy with a zest for life. He loved to make people laugh and made friends easily. Playing sports, especially soccer and baseball, was his favourite thing to do. But unfortunately, he often put off doing his chores.

Carter, you haven’t started packing at all? his mom asked with a surprised look on her face. We leave for Norway in the morning!

I know, Mom. I’m having a hard time. I can’t decide what to take and what to leave behind, Carter explained.

During their trip, the Hayes family planned to travel to many countries, so with only a suitcase and backpack each, they were not able to bring many things. Carter and Eli could choose only a few toys and books, along with their clothes and school supplies.

Hannah glanced over at Carter and noticed a small tear collecting in the corner of his eye. She scooped him up in a side hug and kissed the top of his sandy blond head. What’s the matter, love? she asked.

I’m excited to go on the world trip, but I’m going to miss Beckett and my soccer team, Carter whispered, tears falling freely down his freckled cheeks.

Carter and Beckett had been best friends since they were three years old when the Hayes’ moved in next door to Beckett’s family. Carter and Eli had grown up in a house with a large backyard on a quiet street. Their home was surrounded by evergreen trees, commonly found in the Western part of Canada where they lived.

I know it’s hard to leave your friends and the neighbourhood, his mom said, holding him close. This is a big change for all of us. And living in new places will take time to get used to.

I wish I could keep playing soccer with Beckett, Carter sniffled.

I know, his mom said, looking down at him, but soccer might be a great way to make new friends while we travel. Many people around the world play soccer. I’m sure you could find kids to play with you.

Carter wiped his eyes and then asked, You think so?

Yes, I do. Why don’t you start by packing your soccer ball, Hannah suggested.

Carter thought about what his mom had said. Playing soccer with other kids around the world did sound fun. Can I bring my baseball glove too?

Of course, his