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WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Setting Description Entry: Desert

August 30, 2008 by BECCA PUGLISI

description of desert island creative writing

A landscape of sand, flat, harsh sunlight, cacti, tumbleweeds, dust devils, cracked land, crumbing rock, sandstone, canyons, wind-worn rock formations, tracks, dead grasses, vibrant desert blooms (after rainfall), flash flooding, dry creek…

Wind (whistling, howling, piping, tearing, weaving, winding, gusting), birds cawing, flapping, squawking, the fluttering shift of feasting birds, screeching eagles, the sound of one’s own steps, heavy silence, baying wild dogs…

Arid air, dust, one’s own sweat and body odor, dry baked earth, carrion

Grit, dust, dry mouth & tongue, warm flat canteen water, copper taste in mouth, bitter taste of insects for eating, stringy wild game (hares, rats) the tough saltiness of hardtack, biscuits or jerky, an insatible thirst or hunger

Torrid heat, sweat, cutting wind, cracked lips, freezing cold (night) hard packed ground, rocks, gritty sand, shivering, swiping away dirt and sweat, pain from split lips and dehydration, numbness in legs, heat/pain from sun stroke, clothes…

Helpful hints: –The words you choose can convey atmosphere and mood.

Example 1: When I started my journey across the winding dunes of sand, the sky was clear blue glass. Now, as I stagger toward mountains growing no bigger despite three days of walking, that blue glass is marred by flecks of swirling ash…vultures waiting for their next meal…

–Similes and metaphors create strong imagery when used sparingly.

Example 1: The dust devil swirled across the canyon like a rattlesnake on the hunt. (Simile)…

Think beyond what a character sees, and provide a sensory feast for readers

Setting is much more than just a backdrop, which is why choosing the right one and describing it well is so important. To help with this, we have expanded and integrated this thesaurus into our online library at One Stop For Writers . Each entry has been enhanced to include possible sources of conflict , people commonly found in these locales , and setting-specific notes and tips , and the collection itself has been augmented to include a whopping 230 entries—all of which have been cross-referenced with our other thesauruses for easy searchability. So if you’re interested in seeing a free sample of this powerful Setting Thesaurus, head on over and register at One Stop.

On the other hand, if you prefer your references in book form, we’ve got you covered, too, because both books are now available for purchase in digital and print copies . In addition to the entries, each book contains instructional front matter to help you maximize your settings. With advice on topics like making your setting do double duty and using figurative language to bring them to life, these books offer ample information to help you maximize your settings and write them effectively.

Becca Puglisi is an international speaker, writing coach, and bestselling author of The Emotion Thesaurus and its sequels. Her books are available in five languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. She is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with others through her Writers Helping Writers blog and via One Stop For Writers —a powerhouse online library created to help writers elevate their storytelling.

Reader Interactions

March 10, 2020 at 4:15 am

Wow this helped me so much on my essay thanks I have altleast 20 things down for it from this website 😊❤️✨

October 7, 2019 at 5:11 pm

this is a very helpful extract where I could pick out some descriptions of the desert and how the climate is Thank you very much for doing this because it gives me the feel and the imagination that I am there now in the desert

February 23, 2019 at 9:35 am

helpful school work !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

October 7, 2018 at 1:43 pm

this has helped me so much for my gcse exams.that i am glad that somebody helped me

September 7, 2017 at 1:56 am

Such vivid descriptions creates a desert picture in my mind. Feel like am already there. Was doing last chapters of my novel wanted to write something about cold deserts. I come from the tropics and have no idea about cold deserts, any information will see me through.

May 6, 2017 at 3:13 pm

This was very helpul for my essay, love it.

May 7, 2017 at 3:41 pm

I’m so glad it was timely!

September 4, 2008 at 8:08 am

I do have one story that’s set in a desert land. But the greatest influence on me – in terms of living in so many different places – is that I always have people of different cultures and species having to live together, cooperate or deal with the various tensions that arise from their varying natures and customs. It’s a lot of fun. And because these stories are fantasies, they can be bizarre while still being realistic.

September 1, 2008 at 6:20 pm

Wow Marian–what a great culture to draw on. Does your work ever reflect where you lived?

And yes please–if you have descriptiors to add, go for it. Often I think of stuff after the fact, and each setting is so vast, there are infinite ways to describe!

Thanks everyone as always for visiting and commenting!

September 1, 2008 at 1:26 pm

I liked the low crime rate (because of the draconian penalties). It was so low that once, when my mom arrived at work to find the office open and burgled, 21 police officers showed up in response to her call (probably the most excitement they had had all week). The forensics people had to shove their way through the crowd.

There’s also the lack of taxes. So provided you’re an indoor person, which I am, you might find it tolerable. Oh, and women always got to go to the front of any line (e.g. at the post office), and had the front seats of buses reserved for them.

One thing I didn’t like was the censorship, which at times bordered on the ridiculous. For instance, the single government-owned ISP wouldn’t let you access the site http://www.ralan.com , which contains lots of useful information about markets in publishing. Why? Because there’s some prominent Israeli whose last name is Ralan. It’s not the same person, but no one bothered to check before blocking the site.

Television programs censor kisses or references to making love, and when I bought a scientific book on human anatomy, the naughty bits were blacked out with a Magic Marker. I once smuggled a Boris Vallejo book into the country and felt very daring. 🙂

So it wasn’t a completely unpleasant experience, but I escaped to Canada as quickly as I could, and I prefer it here.

September 1, 2008 at 6:17 am

Am starting to catch up on these wonderful posts! Is it OK to mention things I would include in your list of sights? Reptiles: snakes, lizards etc. Insects: spiders, biting ants, beetles etc. And sounds? The slither of sand sliding under the belly of a snake or lizard.

Great stuff. Bish

August 31, 2008 at 8:52 pm

Gosh, Marian, that sounds intense. Did you like it there?

August 31, 2008 at 4:56 pm

I actually lived in a desert (well, in the Middle East) for twelve years. Unbearable heat during the summer, up to 45 degrees Celsius, and equally unbearable humidity, since we were on the Gulf Coast.

Since I didn’t have a car, I used to go grocery shopping after sunset, thinking it would be cooler. But the pavement had been baked in the sunlight, so the heat rose off it like a solid wave. And during the day, objects in the distance shimmered, it was so hot. Sometimes I would walk past stores just so their automatic doors would open and I’d feel cool air for a moment.

The least little wind would raise puffs of dust, and a full-out sandstorm was a nightmare. Of course, one good thing about the heat and dryness was that the place was remarkably sterile. You don’t get too much insect or rodent life in an oven. The few plants that grew wild tended to be small, shrubby and tenacious.

Now, of course, I am living in a country that is the exact opposite and I shiver my way through the endless winter months. 🙂

August 31, 2008 at 10:05 am

Thanks for all of your detailed posts!

August 31, 2008 at 12:04 am

I love how I feel like I’m getting mini lessons here! Do ya’ll give out diploma’s? ;0)

thanks for all your work!

August 30, 2008 at 8:42 pm

Angela thanks you, Pema! Or, I’m sure she will when she gets back ;).

And PJ, thanks for the reminder. When Angela’s gone, this place just goes to pot…

August 30, 2008 at 10:18 am

Perfect! I have deserts, too! And how I remember to spell it right – with dessert you always want more, so there are two s letters. With desert, you want less, so there is only one. Hey – Please add this to your sidebar! I know you will, but I use your blog like every day and never want to forget something. It ROCKS!

August 30, 2008 at 8:33 am

Your words are so descriptive, it almost sounds like you’re posting this entry from the Arabian desert! 😉

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Descriptive Writing Prompt: Deserted Island

Posted on: 11-14-2011 by: Brian Wasko

Being washed ashore on a strange or deserted island is one of the most popular ideas in literature and pop culture. Think about how many well-known stories involve this idea: Robinson Crusoe , Gulliver’s Travels , The Tempest , Lord of the Flies , Swiss Family Robinson , and The Cay , not to mention TV and film versions like Lost, Gilligan’s Island and Castaway .

Obviously, the idea itself isn’t very original, but what is interesting is the different approaches each of these stories takes. This assignment is to write a brief description of a mysterious island from your own unique perspective.

A deserted island might be an amazing, beautiful place that you might not want to leave. On the other hand, it could be a dark, dangerous, or lonely place that has you yearning for home. In this assignment, we want you think consider both options: an island as a dream come true and an island as a nightmare.

First, we’ll start with a prewriting exercise:

1 Imagine being stranded on a deserted island paradise. What you discover is a dream come true . Think about what that place would look like, sound like, smell, and feel like. Use the chart below to brainstorm descriptive words and images that appeal to the five senses:


Sight
Sound
Smell
Touch
Taste

2 Now imagine the same experience as a complete nightmare . What might a horrible, terrifying island be like? Use the chart below to brainstorm words and phrases that describe this very different image:

3 Now look through your two lists and circle the words and phrases that you think are the most interesting, original and vivid — the ones you are most likely to use in your description. Don’t worry about how many you circle or how many you leave out. It’s up to you.

4 Using these words and images, write a description of one of these islands — you decide which one. Remember, this is description, not narration. You are not telling a story, you are painting a word-picture. Still, it is okay to include action . Things can move, including your narrator. Just be sure that your main purpose is to communicate the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the island. Try to be original and include specific details that will make the island come alive for your reader.

Like this article? Please consider sharing it or subscribing to our weekly email update! Post any comments and questions below. Bloggers love comments.

Categories: Writing Assignments/Prompts Tags: assignment , descriptive , dream come true , islands , nightmare , writing

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Brian Wasko Brian is the founder and president of WriteAtHome.com. One of his passions is to teach young people how to write better. View all posts by Brian Wasko

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Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative Writing

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative Writing

Unleashing Your Imagination: The Intriguing World of Describing Sand

Capturing the essence: exploring the texture and color of different sands, painting a picture with words: crafting vivid descriptions of sand, playing with metaphors: infusing emotion and depth into sand descriptions, mastering the art of sensory detail: evoking sights, sounds, and feelings of sand, choosing the right words: enhancing descriptions through precise vocabulary, going beyond the obvious: uncovering the unique qualities of various sands, inspiring your readers: techniques to bring sand descriptions to life, frequently asked questions, concluding remarks.

Have you ever stopped to truly observe the mesmerizing qualities of sand? This omnipresent substance that effortlessly slips through our fingers is more fascinating than meets the eye. Its texture alone can transport us to a multitude of landscapes, from silky smooth shores to rough and grainy dunes. But describing sand goes far beyond its mere sensation. Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the intriguing world of sand and let your imagination run wild .

Sand, with its infinite variety, holds a treasure trove of colors. From dazzling white beaches to golden desert expanses, it embraces shades that beckon the wanderlust within us. Each grain tells a unique story, composed of minerals, rocks, and even seashells. Imagine the soft, powder-like feel of finely ground quartz sliding through your fingers, or the coarser, uneven grit of volcanic ash-shaped particles. The diversity of sand is as astounding as the landscapes they form. Palettes of ochre, beige, caramel, or ebony awaken our senses and paint vivid pictures in our minds.

Capturing the Essence: Exploring the Texture and Color of Different Sands

Welcome to a captivating journey where we delve into the mesmerizing world of sands! Join us as we uncover the diverse range of textures and colors found in sands across the globe. From sun-kissed beaches to arid deserts, each grain has its own story to tell.

The texture of sands can vary significantly, providing a truly unique tactile experience. Fine sands, with their powdery consistency, effortlessly slip through your fingers, creating a velvety sensation. In contrast, coarse sands offer a grainier touch that exudes a sense of rawness and ruggedness. Embark on an adventure of touch, allowing your fingertips to explore the vast differences that sands have to offer.

Jagged Sands: Some sands display jagged edges, formed from elements like crushed shells or volcanic rocks. These rough textures not only add intrigue but also depict the turbulent history of their origin.
Silky Sands: As smooth as silk, these ultra-fine grains are like caressing a cloud. Often found on serene beaches, their velvety texture feels luxurious beneath your toes.
Glistening Sands: Certain sands shimmer like precious gems under the sunlight. Infused with tiny crystal fragments, they create a mesmerizing spectacle that sparkles and captivates all who behold their beauty.

Colors also play a significant role in the allure of sands. Some beaches boast pristine white sands, where the pureness reflects the surrounding sunlight, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Other shores embrace warm golden tones, reminiscent of endless summer days. Certain volcanic regions unveil striking black sands, drenched in mystery and history. The kaleidoscope of colors found in sands truly invites us to observe the fascinating tapestry of our planet.

Painting a Picture with Words: Crafting Vivid Descriptions of Sand

Color: The sand sparkled like golden silk under the bright rays of the sun, spreading hues of warmth and radiance. As the coastline stretched far into the distance, the sand gradually lightened to a delicate shade of beige, reminiscent of a creamy cappuccino. In some areas, where the sea gently lapped against the shore, the sand appeared damp and darker, contrasting beautifully with the dry, powdery texture surrounding it.

Texture: Running your fingers through the sand felt like sifting through thousands of tiny, velvety granules. It was as if nature had taken the softest down feathers and transformed them into a flooring of delicate particles. The sand was cool to the touch, offering a refreshing respite from the heat of the sun. With each step, the sand gently yielded beneath your weight, leaving behind little footprints and revealing its resilient nature.

Playing with Metaphors: Infusing Emotion and Depth into Sand Descriptions

When it comes to describing sand, the use of metaphors can add a whole new dimension of emotion and depth to your writing. Metaphors allow you to create vivid imagery and engage the reader’s senses, making your descriptions more captivating and memorable.

One way to infuse emotion into sand descriptions is by comparing the texture of the sand to something familiar yet evocative. For example, you could liken the softness of the sand to a baby’s skin, instantly conjuring feelings of tenderness and delicacy. Alternatively, you might compare the roughness of the sand to a warrior’s calloused hands, evoking a sense of strength and resilience. By using metaphors, you can transform a mundane description into a powerful visual experience that resonates with your readers.

Compare the warmth of the sand to a cozy fireplace on a winter’s night.
Describe the color of the sand as golden, like an ethereal sunbeam at sunset.
Portray the sound of the sand as a gentle whisper, reminiscent of secrets shared between loved ones.

Ultimately, the key to infusing emotion and depth into sand descriptions lies in the artful use of metaphors. By carefully selecting metaphors that resonate with your intended emotions and creating a sensory experience, you can transport your readers to the sandy shores and make your descriptions come alive.

Evoke the beauty and essence of a sandy landscape by mastering the art of sensory detail. By incorporating vivid sights, sounds, and feelings, you can transport your readers to a world of sun-kissed shores and shifting dunes.

When describing the sight of sand, imagine the golden grains glistening in the sunlight like a million tiny stars. The fine texture and undulating patterns create a mesmerizing sight, painting a picture of tranquility and endless possibility. Picture the way the sand stretches out before you, seemingly infinite, inviting you to explore and lose yourself in its soft embrace. To amplify this visual imagery, consider using descriptive adjectives like “powdery,” “radiant,” or “undulating.”

Sound: Close your eyes and listen closely to the soundscape of sand. As you walk, the grains gently shift under your feet, creating a soothing, rhythmic sound – a gentle dance of nature. The sound of sand blowing in the wind is a whispered melody, harmonizing with the symphony of crashing waves in the background. To convey these auditory sensations, incorporate words like “whisper,” “rustle,” or “murmur.”
Feelings: The sensation of sand beneath your toes is an unparalleled experience. As you sink your feet into its warmth, you can almost feel its soft caress against your skin. The playful texture lends itself to building sandcastles or creating intricate patterns with your fingertips. Let your readers feel the sensation of sand slipping through their fingers, the gentle exfoliation as it meets their skin. Use words like “gritty,” “grainy,” or “velvety” to transport your audience to the tactile wonderland of sand.

Incorporating sensory detail in your writing enables you to paint a vivid and immersive picture of the sandy landscape. By harnessing the sights, sounds, and feelings of sand, you can evoke a sensory experience that resonates with your readers, enticing them to embark on their own journeys through the mesmerizing world of sand.

The art of effective communication lies not only in the ideas we express but also in the words we choose to convey those ideas. When it comes to descriptions, the use of precise vocabulary can elevate the impact and clarity of our message. By carefully selecting the right words, we can paint a vivid picture in the minds of our readers, capturing their attention and evoking specific emotions.

First and foremost, precision in vocabulary allows us to be more specific with our descriptions. By utilizing words that are exact and concrete, we provide the reader with a clear image of what we are describing. Rather than simply stating that something is “big,” we can use words like “monstrous” or “towering,” providing a much more evocative and memorable depiction. Additionally, precise vocabulary helps us to express nuanced differences. For example, instead of describing an object as “old,” we can choose words like “antique” or “vintage” to convey a sense of history and value. These subtle word choices add depth and richness to our descriptions, making them more engaging and captivating.

Precision in vocabulary provides clarity and specificity in descriptions.
Exact and concrete words create clear mental images.
Evocative vocabulary helps capture the reader’s attention.
Subtle differences can be expressed through nuanced word choices.
Precise vocabulary adds depth and engages the reader.

In conclusion, choosing the right words is key to enhancing descriptions. By incorporating a precise vocabulary, we can ensure clarity, evoke emotions, and captivate our readers. So, let us dive into the vast sea of words and select those that best convey our intended meaning, creating descriptions that truly come alive in the minds of those who read them.

Going Beyond the Obvious: Uncovering the Unique Qualities of Various Sands

When it comes to sand, we often take it for granted as simply a gritty substance beneath our feet. However, delve deeper into the world of sands, and you’ll be amazed by their diverse characteristics and rich histories. From the serene beaches of the Caribbean to the mystical deserts of Africa, sands hold unique qualities that set them apart. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the hidden wonders of these fascinating granules!

1. The Singing Sands of Lovers Beach, Mexico: Have you ever heard sand sing? Well, you can experience this enchanting phenomenon at the pristine Lovers Beach in Cabo San Lucas. As you step on the sand, the friction between the tiny grains produces a gentle melody resembling the sound of a distant flute. This extraordinary occurrence is due to the silica-rich content of the sand particles. It’s truly a magical experience cherished by locals and visitors alike.

2. The Magnetic Sands of Tenerife, Spain: Prepare to be amazed by the magnetic sands of Tenerife’s Playa de las Teresitas. Unlike ordinary sand, these unique black grains are formed from volcanic materials, giving them their magnetic properties. Locals believe that the sand possesses healing powers, and visitors flock to this stunning beach to relax and indulge in its alleged therapeutic benefits. So, next time you’re in Tenerife, don’t miss the opportunity to lounge on these captivatingly magnetic sands!

When describing sandy landscapes, it is crucial to paint a vivid picture in your reader’s mind. By incorporating sensory details and using descriptive language, you can transport your audience to the breathtaking beauty of sandy shores. Here are some techniques to infuse life into your sand descriptions:

1. Appeal to the senses: Engage your reader’s senses by describing the texture of the sand – is it powdery, fine, or gritty? Highlight the scent of the ocean breeze as it mingles with the salty sea air. Captivating your reader’s senses creates a more immersive experience.
2. Evoke emotions: Describing the sand in a way that elicits emotions can create a deeper connection with your readers. A phrase like “the golden sand shimmered under the sun, inviting you to feel its warmth beneath your toes” sparks feelings of comfort and tranquility.
3. Use vibrant comparisons: Enhance your descriptions by drawing comparisons to relatable objects. For instance, you could compare the color of the sand to “pale vanilla” or liken its texture to “sifting through a thousand crushed pearls.”

By employing these techniques, you can revitalize your descriptions of sandy landscapes and transport your readers to coastal paradises. Remember to be creative and let the sand come alive in their minds, enabling them to feel the warmth, smell the sea, and hear the gentle whisper of the waves in the distance.

Q: What is the importance of describing sand in creative writing? A: Describing sand in creative writing can add depth and realism to your storytelling. It helps create vivid imagery and transports readers to different settings, whether it’s a tropical beach or a desert landscape.

Q: How can I effectively describe sand in my writing? A: To describe sand effectively, use sensory language to engage readers’ senses. Focus on the texture, color, temperature, and even the sound of sand to make your description come alive on the page. Be specific and pay attention to small details that can enhance the overall atmosphere of your writing.

Q: What are some ways to capture the texture of sand in descriptive writing? A: To capture the texture of sand, consider its graininess, roughness, or smoothness. You can compare it to other familiar textures, such as silk, granulated sugar, or even the rough skin of a lizard. By using descriptive adjectives and similes, you can effectively convey the unique properties of sand.

Q: How does the color of sand impact descriptive writing? A: The color of sand plays a significant role in setting the scene in creative writing. Whether it is white, golden, or even black, the color of sand can evoke different emotions and moods. For example, white sand may convey a sense of purity or tranquility, while golden sand can symbolize warmth and paradise.

Q: How can I describe the temperature of sand in my writing? A: Describing the temperature of sand can help readers experience the scene more fully. You can convey warmth by mentioning the hot sand beneath one’s feet, or alternatively, describe the coolness of sand in the shade. By incorporating the temperature element, you can accentuate the overall atmosphere of your writing.

Q: Is it important to describe the sound of sand as well? A: Absolutely! Incorporating the sound of sand can make your writing even more immersive. Describe the crunching sound underfoot as someone walks on dry sand, or the gentle swishing sound of sand slipping through fingers. By including auditory details, you engage another sense and make the scene feel more realistic.

Q: How can I avoid generic descriptions when writing about sand? A: To avoid generic descriptions, focus on using unique and specific details. Instead of simply stating “the sand was white,” you could describe it as “powdery white sand, so fine that it slipped right through my fingers.” By using more descriptive language, you make the description more engaging and memorable.

Q: Are there any pitfalls to avoid when describing sand in creative writing? A: One common pitfall to avoid is overusing cliches or generic phrases. Aim to create original descriptions that paint a vivid picture in readers’ minds. Additionally, be cautious of excessive description that might slow down the pace of your writing. Strike a balance between providing enough detail to engage the reader, while keeping the story flowing smoothly.

Q: Can you provide some examples of effective descriptions of sand in creative writing? A: Certainly! Here are a few examples: 1. “The sand, warm as freshly baked bread, cushioned my every step as I strolled along the beach.” 2. “Golden grains of sand shimmered under the scorching sun, creating a radiant tapestry as far as the eye could see.” 3. “As the wind whispered through the dunes, the fine sand rose and fell like dancing tiny diamonds in a desert waltz.”

Q: Any final tips for mastering the art of describing sand in creative writing? A: Practice observing sand in real-life situations , paying attention to its various characteristics and how it interacts with the environment. This practice will help you develop a keen eye for detail, enabling you to describe sand more authentically in your writing. Remember to engage the reader’s senses and use language that is unique, specific, and evocative.

In conclusion, mastering the skill of describing sand in creative writing is a powerful tool that can take your prose to new heights.

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Year 7 Creative Writing: Desert Island

Description: year 7 short story creative writing project, read the text version.

No Text Content!

Year Seven Creative Writing: Desert Island Your character has just washed up on an island out at sea. Anything can happen in your story, but it needs to end with them being rescued or rescuing themselves. Year Seven were given this as their first prompt for short story creative writing. It’s a short prompt with little detail - and I am absolutely blown away by year seven’s incredible quality and variety of responses. So many students took this idea and ran with it, creating dozens of stories all about completely different characters, islands and worlds. I am so grateful to everyone who submitted a story for this compilation, and I hope they are all proud with the results! All of the submissions were incredibly fun to read and really had me hooked: from islands that turn witches into cats, to Sleeping Beauty in a treehouse, to a transportational game of Fifa, and everything in between. Everyone who submitted a story put in so much work and put their imaginations to good use, which can be seen in the level of detail and care in each piece of creative writing. This project was started because I love creative writing and wanted to share that passion, and it’s clear that lots of year seven students love creative writing too. I hope you enjoy reading this compilation and that all the submitters enjoyed writing them! - Helen Ross, Year 12, English Captain Contents 1 Cover art by Zoe Ross 18 Emilia Thomas 3 Siya Popat: Washed Up 20 Hayden Mistry: The boys who got 5 Ellen Holmer: The Tale of Yami marooned and Hikari 21 Ieuan Chakma-Smith 7 Eve Scott and Lexie Morrison 23 Imogen Rennie: A day on an island 10 Ewan Eason: The Lost Boys 25 Euan Sakuma-Carruthers 11 Olivia Doyle: Lost at Sea 25 Isabella White 12 Hannah Larkins: How We Survived 28 Leola Hammond 28 Patrycja Elsner on a Desert Island 29 Neyla Adali 14 Olivia Wright 30 Noah Coyne: Deserted Island 14 Pippa Sandford-Smith: Fairytale 32 Maia Law 33 Lucy Conlon: Overboard Fiasco 35 Melina Panagioti 15 Adam Abdaless: The Desert 36 Molly Blake: Stranded 16 Lorelle Asiedu and Adriel Lackhee 37 Isla Rathbone: The Island 17 Archie Dorsett: The how to survive on a desert island guide 2 Siya Popat: Washed Up Siya’s story is set in Casek Tu, near the border of Italy.The way that she describes the island is wonderful, as is the way she uses flashbacks to Philip’s parents to help tell the story. Philip was a boy living in the small village of Casek Tu on an island. The village was so small, you would never find it on a map. This village was based on the border of Italy, where many islands were there, undiscovered. The people of Casek Tu were poor, but had content lives. They minded their own business, and everyone knew everyone, and so there was no such thing as robbery on this island, or murder. The only connections to the outside world it had was a secret cargo boat that the kind president lent them. No one else knew about this island, and many were still undiscovered. They preferred this, as they had nothing to do with the outside world. It was a happy island. That was, until the ship came. A huge cruise ship docked the shore of Casek Tu. Something had happened in the engine and they had to dock. They had spotted a tiny island and docked there. The children saw the huge boat and screamed and ran away. It wasn’t the usual cargo vessel. This was another stranger one. Most people had never seen an airplane, or another boat apart from the cargo vessel. Everyone hurried indoors until the island looked completely deserted. Apart from Philip. Philip’s parents had been explorers. They had discovered this island and kept it secret. They left Philip, age 1, on this island when they went exploring again, but never came back. 3 years later, their bodies were found in the sea. Their ship had got shipwrecked and everyone on board had drowned. Philip now lived on the island and Ma Parise had taken him under her wing, so she was now his ‘mum’. He heard old Ma Parise calling for him, but he ignored her. He was bored of seeing the same place over and over again. He wanted something new. He whistled for his stray cat, Traseke, and together they had a look around at the ship. Traseke had been with Philip for as long as he could remember, and without her, he felt scared; she was his best friend. Philip spotted a hidden doorway and clambered in. They were just going for a little look around, so that’s OK, right? They ran down the corridor excitedly, and opened the door to an immense room. THen the sound of footsteps. They hid under a table, the tablecloth covering them completely. The ship tooted it’s loud horn and Traseke jumped in fright, her eyes filled with terror. The ship was getting ready to leave. The ship lurched sideways and Philip grabbed onto the table-leg. The ship had left the dock and had resumed its journey. With Philip on board. Someone came into the room and soon a whole crowd of people flooded in. Philip was as silent as a mouse. The people were there for ages. The next thing he knew he was dozing off to the rocking of the ship. 6 hours later Philip awoke groggily, finding himself still under the table with Traseke purring on his neck. He sat up instantly. Why was he sleeping under a table? Ma parise never allowed that. Then he sat up with a jolt, his heart sinking as he’d realised he’d fallen asleep under the table. Everyone was gone and he checked his watch: 5:30am. He yawned and crept out from under the table, Traseke falling off his lap with a yelp. Philip ran and peered out of the window. All he knew was that he was on a ship. Far away from land by the looks of it. Great. How was he supposed to get back to his island? From the ship came a booming voice. “Everyone strap up. The cruise engine is faulty and we will be docking as soon as possible.” “Oh no!” thought Philip panicking,”What will I do?” He grabbed onto the side of the boat as it 3 lurched sickeningly forward and backwards. Philip was sure it wasn’t meant to do this. The voice came again,“We have hit some sort of rock. Everyone get out the floats and have your safety supplies ready. Staff will be coming round to help you.” The ship’s windows shattered and Philip gasped, terrified, Traseke’s claws digging into his shoulder from where she was perched. The ship toppled sideways again, even more than before, and then it happened. The ship went all the way round and sank, people screaming everywhere for help. Philip rose to the surface spluttering, Traseke hanging on for dear life. Philip swam. He didn’t know where he was going, all he knew was that he was getting away as fast as possible. The next day he awoke coughing, baking hot sun shining down on his wet, cold body. He had been washed up on a shore of an island. The island looked completely deserted. Philip got up wearily and called urgently,”Traseke, where are you?” A strangled meow came from under sand and Philip tugged her out and hugged her protectively. Where were they? The island had beautiful towering palm trees with gorgeous coconuts on. There was a small hill in the center of the island and mini caves, carved out of rock. The glistening, calm sea stretched out for miles, no other land seen. Philip gazed hungrily at the coconuts. When was the last time he had eaten a nything? After Philip had cracked a fallen coconut, the way Ma parise had taught him, he and Traseke started to explore the island. They found a dry, sandy cave to stay and keep out of the sweltering sun, and a rock pool that had clean water filtered through rocks that made a mini trickling waterfall. They went around the whole island in less than an hour, it was t iny. Philip didn’t look in a ll the caves, he was too scared, after all he was only 10. Later that day in the evening, Philip made a roaring fire that climbed as high as the trees. He has also traced the words ‘HELP’ with logs, hoping someone would find him. Philip knew him and his cat would survive through fishing, but there might still be dangers. 5 days later Still, no one found Philip, so he stayed on the island, getting used to it’s hidden wonders and dangers. Just the other day, he had cut his leg on coral when trying to fish, but he had only caught 2 after a full day's work, whereas Traseke caught many, and generously shared hers. She was the only company Philip had, until t hat day. 1 week later, Philip was fishing in the sea, and left Traseke exploring by herself. Philip will never forget that day, and blamed himself entirely. From a nearby cave, came a roar, so loud the whole island would hear it. Philip jumped in panic, and the only thing that was on his mind was… ... Traseke. He ran to the roar, the sound ringing in his ears. He grabbed a big stick and advanced cautiously, holding the stick up like a weapon. A ferocious bear had a limp, dead Traseke in its jaws, saliva dripping from its mouth. It dashed away as the sight of Philip into a huge cave carrying Traseke with him. Philip fled from the cave entrance, running until he was on the other side of the island. He sobbed in his hands, consumed by grief, for his only friend was gone. The next day, Philip yelled his throat hoarse, daring to hope that someone, a nyone, m ight hear him. And then he saw it. A light shining brightly, visible, even in the bright sunshine. Philip gasped thankfully, and built his fire even bigger than before, yelling desperately. And there it was, a huge ship came into view with none other than, M a Parise! He had never felt more glad to see her. Almost the whole island on Casek Tu was there, waving frantically. Actually, there may have been the whole of the island, except maybe the really old folk and 4 new-born babies and mothers. The ship docked, and Philip greeted them happily, Ma Parise squeezing him too tight, but for once he didn’t resist. Philip felt a pang of sadness about Traseke. It just didn’t seem fair that he was allowed to be happy when she had just, well… The ship docked the island of Casek Tu, and however pleased Philip was to be home, he missed the island. He’d had a taste of freedom, exploring like his parents had done. And he wanted more. Not yet,but soon, when he was older, he would become an explorer like they did and carry their legacy, and maybe one day, he would be as famous and as great as them. But for now, he was staying right where he was on his island, and not going anywhere for a long time. And with that, Philip stepped out onto the sandy soil of his home island. He was Home. Ellen Holmer: The tale of Yami and Hikari Ellen’s characters have a lot of challenges to face in getting home! She clearly put a lot of thought into the enemies they meet, and has created a completely dream-like island. Hikari rubbed her eyes, slowly adjusting to her surroundings as she awoke. Her shiny white hair was falling into her face, so she tied it back into the space buns she always wore and stroked her fringe back into shape. Sitting up, Hikari realised she was on a mystical island in the middle of the ocean. Surrounding her were cherry blossom trees as far as the eye could see, and she lay on a carpet of fallen cherry blossom petals. In the distance she could make out a tall spire of rock with waterfalls streaming down it, in what must be the centre of the island. She couldn’t see any evidence of humans and the landscape was entirely natural. A thin coat of mist appeared to be surrounding the island, and she could hear waves crashing to the shore nearby. Just then, she felt someone prodding her back. “Finally awake, Hikari?” Hikari frowned. She knew that voice only too well. It was the voice of her archenemy, Yami. Hikari turned around to look at Yami, who was still prodding her with a stick. Yami had long midnight-black hair with v-shaped bangs. Her skin was paler than Hikari’s, and she was slightly taller, too. Yami prodded Hikari once more, before tossing the stick behind her. “When we were battling, we kept creating portals and travelling through them. One of them must have taken us here, where we fell in the sea and were washed up onto this island.” Yami explained annoyedly. “Now, my dear enemy, I have to finish the food I was cooking on a fire.” She turned to walk away, but Hikari called out to her. “Yami, You made a fire? And food?” Yami nodded. Hikari began to beg, “Yami, please let me share the heat of your fire!” Yami stared at Hikari, on the floor, pleading for her help. “Come on then, Hikari.” laughed Yami. “The dinner won’t cook itself.” Yami picked some charred fungi and scraps of meat out of the fire. She put half on a leaf for herself, and half for Hikari. Hikari ate hers quickly, and Yami, who was more cautious, took a little more time. She wanted to make sure that the food wasn’t deadly, so she would have to observe every morsel before she ate it. Hikari fell asleep shortly after she had finished her dinner, but Yami could not sleep. There might be predators, lurking in the darkness behind them, waiting for the right moment to snatch up their dinner - Yami and Hikari. At least if they had eaten poisonous fungi, then the creatures would die too. Even with all of her dark thoughts, Yami still managed to drift off. 5 When Hikari awoke, the first thing she saw was her hands. Except, they weren't hands anymore. They were paws, cat paws. She looked over at Yami, but saw only a distressed midnight black cat. The cat was looking at her paws in bewilderment, before looking over at Hikari. The black cat ran towards her, and said in Yami’s voice, “We’re cats. Hikari, what happened?” Hikari blinked, realising that the midnight-coloured cat was Yami herself. “I don't know, Yami. A cursed island, maybe.” Hikari gasped, before a meow made them turn around. A female humanoid calico coloured cat was sitting on a rock, wearing a red and gold kimono. “What do you want?” asked Yami. The calico cat laughed, and instead of replying, introduced herself. “I am Nekomata. This is the isle of Curses, so it makes sense you became cats. Count yourself lucky, as some people become spiders, or mushrooms. In fact, I think that the mushrooms you ate were people once.” Hikari exchanged a horrified glance with Yami - was Nekomata really telling the truth? Nekomata saw the look on their faces and laughed. “Maybe the last thing I said was not quite true. But until you get off this island, you will remain cats. I must get going now. Sayonara!” With the last word she said, Nekomata danced away into the trees. Yami clucked her tongue. “How will we get off this island? I don't want to be a cat forever.” complained Hikari. Yami shot her an annoyed glance. “We could build a boat?” Yami suggested. Hikari raised her paws and wiggled her toes. “No opposable thumbs.” She countered. Yami obviously refused to have her idea doused so quickly. “We’ll find someone who does have opposable thumbs, like Nekomata! Then we’ll convince them to help us!” She gave Hikari a triumphant and smug grin, before walking deep into the forest to the heart of the island. Yami knew her idea was terrible. Still, it was the only idea she had, and she hadn't wanted to let Hikari win. She was too stubborn to accept that her idea was terrible and ask Hikari to help her. Still, Hikari would probably want to help her anyway. That was fine, as long as Yami didn’t have to grovel at Hikari’s feet. Her train of thoughts was suddenly interrupted by a creature jumping past. A creature with opposable thumbs. She needed to catch the creature, and make it help her. Yami darted after the creature, much faster than she would ever be able to as a human, and in no time, caught up to it. She leapt at it and began to fight with it. Now she was up close to it, she could see it was a Kappa, a Japanese mythical turtle-like creature with a pool of water on the top of its head. Luckily, Yami knew the only way to defeat a Kappa. She stayed still, and the Kappa, realising that they were no longer fighting, stopped too. Yami raised herself onto her hind legs, and, with all the balance she could, bowed. The kappa, being a very polite creature, bowed in return, and all the water on its head spilled onto the floor. The kappa grew weary and collapsed to the floor. It had lost its power, and was weak, so it was more likely to submit. Yami looked at the kappa. “Build me a boat.” She demanded. The kappa frowned. “Fill my head with water first.” It said. She agreed, and brought the kappa some water from a nearby puddle, delicately pouring it into the pool on its head. Its eyes widened, and it jumped up, full of energy. It ran off, hooting, “Never trust a Kappa!”. Yami snarled, before realising that the Kappa was long gone. She went back to the place where she and Hikari had made camp. Hikari knew Yami would fail, but she still let her go and try to find someone. Hikari had found some fungi, thinking back to Nekomata’s joke, she really hoped weren't people and cooked them over a fire. She saw Yami in the trees, looking defeated. Hikari wanted to tease Yami, but instead she smiled. “I cooked dinner. More mushrooms.” As Yami glumly sat down to eat, they heard a noise. It was footsteps, someone coming closer and closer to them. The 6 two cats braced themselves to fight. A second later, three humanoid gecko samurai leapt out of the trees. “They’re imori!” yowled Yami. Hikari had heard of these in Japanese folklore. “Can we convince them to help us?” asked Hikari. Yami snorted, so Hikari took it as a no. They kept fighting, until the warrior geckos were forced to retreat. Exhausted after this strange encounter, Hikari decided to go to sleep, but Yami wanted to keep watch. “Your loss.” Mumbled Hikari before falling asleep promptly. Yami must have fallen asleep, as she awoke to a white cat. It took her a couple of minutes to realise that the cat was Hikari. Yami scrambled back, yowling and gasping, before speaking. “Hikari, what the- Wha- Hu- Whe-When did I fall asleep?” Hikari laughed. “Calm down. I think you only dozed off around...4 am? I think it’s around 11 am now though.” Yami leapt to her feet, the fur on her back bristling. “Eleven - what!? No way! I’m not that lazy - it must be because I‘m a cat now!” She wailed. Hikari laughed again. “Yami, it’s time to eat breakfast!” Hikari handed Yami a mushroom, which she ate quickly. Yami would never admit it, but… she was starting to enjoy the company of Hikari. Maybe she wasn't as bad as Yami had always thought. “Look!” exclaimed Hikari, “A kitsune!” A majestic white nine-tailed fox was standing a few metres away. The girls stared at it for a moment, before it bounded away. “Wait!” Cried Yami, and they both began to chase it. It ran around bends and leapt over waterfalls, but Yami and Hikari kept following it. Even when it started the steep climb up the spire shaped rock in the centre of the island, Suddenly, it stopped at the top of the mountain. The view was incredible, and Yami even felt herself growing taller. She looked at Hikari excitedly, who had morphed back into a human. “We’re not cats anymore!” exclaimed Hikari. The kitsune’s fur ruffled in the wind, and it looked at them as if to say, “You’re welcome.” Slowly, the floor beneath them began to glow, as it swirled into a purple portal. Gravity disappeared for a moment, as the girls floated above the portal, delighted to have a way out, and the kitsune leapt into the sky. Then, gravity returned, and the girls were pulled into the portal, gripping each other's hands as they watched the kitsune dance away on the air, before the portal threw them back home. No-one ever knew why the two great witches Yami and Hikari suddenly became best friends after years of hating each other, or why they had disappeared for two nights and then returned. But if you ask them, they’ll say that they were teleported to a magical island with mythical beasts and were turned into cats by the island’s curse, then led home again by a kitsune. But this can’t really be true...can it? Eve Scott (story) and Lexie Morrison (illustrations) Eve and Lexie are clearly animal lovers because the dogs in their story are very central characters! There are lots of twists and turns in this story, keeping it exciting the whole way through, and it’s brought to life by the drawings. I am laying in my warm cosy bed on the top floor of my house listening to the robin that signals the sign of winter approaching. But something is different. I cannot hear a robin and its comforting chirps, but a loud disturbing screeching sound. ’mum’ I croak but it is barely more than a whisper. Something like dread starts to sink in but I cannot place it. My mind then swivels to the gritty sand that I have no clue about. Then very slowly and carefully like I am scared about what I might see, I open my eyes. I expect to see the deep tranquil yellow that floods my room. But instead, I see a blinding white light. But wait, there is a silhouette of 7 a face. No, it is not a human face it is an animal face. As I squint up at it, I realize. It’s a dog!!! ‘Hi’ I say more clearly now. As I reach up to stroke it soft kind, concerned face it like I have been punched in the stomach. Then I remember… on a ship to Australia, the huge wave towering over use and coming down s-l-o-w-l-y. me holding the hand of my 6 year old brother Josh and holding the lead of Barny. It came thundering down on us. Me knowing that mum and dad were gone. Another monster wave pushed us under. I had let them both go. Josh, only 6 and Barny my loyal companion. I had lost my soul. I started to cry now because I had lost everything. Everything I loved and cared for. All I needed to do was give up. So, I did. Or at least I thought I did. Then, while I am lost in my own thoughts, I hear a soft pad of paws on the ground getting further away. ’what!’ I called urgently. Even though my legs felt as if they had not walked in years, I managed to stumble up to the dog. the dog came to a sudden halt. in the distance I could see a figure. There was also a medium sized dog with long matted hair. I could not wait for my mind to react, so my body did first. As I sprinted at them nothing else mattered. I dived at Josh. As I rested my head on his damp hair, I knew we had to get home. He told me how he had resurfaced, and he could not see me. Then he had seen Barny and he had climbed on his back. All I could manage to get out was a feeble ’wow’. I asked Josh what had been playing on my mind. ‘You know how you think this dog got here?’ Josh was quiet for a minute then said, ‘I don’t know’ we sat in silence for a while then I said, ‘I think we should name it’ Josh said yes. ‘You know what I think it should be called Clover, like a lucky 4-leaved Clover.’ As Josh was about to give his answer, Clover and Barny took off again. I found myself running without a second thought. After 15 minutes of jogging sweat was drenching my t- shirt and dripping into my mouth. I suddenly saw edible looking pinkish fruit. I stopped for a few seconds and picked the fruit up. It was heavy but as I broke it open, Clover suddenly looked around, sniffed and charged at me knocking the fruit out of my hand. there was a wild look in her eyes that made me stop. We were going slower now, and the forest felt more enclosed than before. Clover then stopped dead and looked to the left slightly. I looked where she was looking, and I saw a sort of camp. ‘clever girl’ I whispered. But as I drew closer, I realized something was not right. It was silent. And I could not see anyone. You could hear a pin drop. But when I looked inside a tent everything changed. There were people inside. They looked like they were sleeping. ‘Can you help’ I said loudly’. They did not move. I then felt their pupils. Nothing. Dead. But then my eyes got stolen away to something else in their hands. I knew instantly. The deadly juice oozing out. It was the fruit that almost ended my life. But there was something else too. There were 6 men on the grass. But they looked like they had been attacked. As if in answer to my question a spin tingling roar. Suddenly something came crashing through the forest. It bust through the trees. It was something like I had ever seen. It had 4 legs and a lion like look to it. But it was about 3x more large and powerful. Its 8 teeth were the size of my hand. Its eyes have thin pupils, looking razor sharp. Barny and Clover growled and bared their.It looked at the dead men I was standing by and growled. I sprinted then and the rest followed. We ran for at least half an hour. When we stopped, I looked around? No Barny or Clover. What. Where are they? ‘Josh, where ar-‘but just then Josh shouted at the top of his voice, ‘LOOK’. And there were Barny and Clover dragging a raft. half built one. But it looked sturdy. I told them my plan. We were going to build this raft in a week and try to be as quiet as possible because of the beast. Right then I knew we were going to get out of here alive. As the days passed I started to feel really at home with my new life on the island. We usually got up at around sunrise and then Josh and Barny went coconut selecting the most round hairy fruit he and Barny could find. It was getting on really well. We were almost set to go. We were always looking out for the beast, but it seemed to like the denser part of the forest. We occasionally heard a distance roar that made all the birds fly rapidly out of the tall green trees. It was all ready and set to go our raft built and had had a test run and it danced in time to the fluent steady rock of the waves beneath us. It was at dusk where the gentle orange sun filled the sky that a distant thought came into my head that had stayed pushed at the back of my mind this whole time. I remember how every birthday my dad used to make carving models out of wood. My 13 b-day only came a few weeks ago and this year my dad had carved a traditional 13 birthday thing = what every pet you had. I was delighted as I got a model sculpture of Barny. In fact, it was still in my pocket of my cardigan now, slightly twisted but apart from that, fine. I remember how my mum used to make pressed dried flower petals on to glass and put them in the oven. She made one for my birthday too. It had blue bells on my fave flower and lots more exquisite flowers. I think of them now gone for ever forgotten, becoming part of the sea floor. When I wake the dogs and Josh are just setting up the right equipment and look ready to go. I tell them that I am going to go into the forest one last time to collect more coconuts as the journey might take longer than expected. They all clamber to go with me. It is when Josh is standing on my shoulder getting coconuts that we hear a roar. But this time the roar feels closer. As I try to get my bearings. The Beast suddenly came thundering through the trees. Its massive claws dug into the ground and it sprinted at us. When it ran it was like an earthquake. It was knocking down trees and very almost squashing us. Just then a massive paw batted me 5 meters in the air. When I landed all the air got sucked out of me and I lay on the floor for a moment. But a moment was just what the beast needed. Even when I started running and caught up with Josh and the others, it knew this was its chance. A tree suddenly smashed down like a bullet on me and Josh. The beast bared its yellow teeth at use. I knew this was it. Suddenly, I heard a lot of ferocious barking. Barny and Clover gave use just enough time for me and Josh to get out. I started running then stopped and looked back. I wish I had not. Barny was limping towards us clearly injured. But no Clover was not with him. ‘CLOVER’ I screamed. Where was she. But then I saw her. Limp lying down in the grass. I ran over to her. She had a massive puncher in her tummy. I knew she was gone. Well not yet. She had a few more minutes at the most. She opened those soft blue eyes and gave me a feeble lick. Her eyes then closed, and she gave her final breath. ‘I love you’ I whispered into her ear. Fat salty tears slid down my face. 9 We were on the raft and almost home. I could see land at last. I felt numb. Clover. That was all I had been thinking about. But I had made myself a promise. I was going to tell our story to the world and to everyone out there. Actually, not our story. But Clover’s story. And although I had lost my soul, Clover's soul grew bright inside me. She had given me strength to carry on fighting. Ewan Eason: The Lost Boys Ewan’s story starts right in the middle of the action, and his use of dialogue to tell the story is really well done. “I have just woken up, I’m with my best pal Logan Reese, I feel like I’m somewhere deserted, I should be in Westfield my home town but it doesn’t feel like it” I open my eyes further and see I’m crawling about on some deserted beach. Logan wakes up, taps me and says “This isn’t just any beach, this is the beach to hell, I’ve read about it in my books, be prepared that we may not survive.” Two hours earlier I was playing FIFA on my play station with Logan, I was of course Arsenal he was Spurs. I was winning 2.1 then suddenly the game started cracking up and we both went over to the tv and then like a flash of lightning teleported us to this island. Now we just need to find a way off of it. It’s fair to say that we are both feeling scared and frightened about what is going to happen to us next. Excitedly Logan sees a boat, from what he can see there is a man with the boat and loads of animals, it’s quite far ahead but because we are determined to get home somehow we run and run before the man can sail off. Huffing and puffing we reach the point where the man is and Logan yells ‘help man, we need to get home, please, please help us” The man, who is actually some kind of wizard from what we can see so far calls back to us “I am Dr Stephen Strange, what are you doing on my island?” We respond hesitantly with little breath “Please give us a minute and we will explain how we are on your island, we don’t want to cause any trouble especially if you are a wizard we just want to get home, we are only 11 years old and will be grounded if we aren’t home for dinner” Dr Strange replies in his low voice Ok boys, I will give you time, you look desperate. We head over to his rusty small boat hoping that he will somehow help us. 10 He looks us up and down and says “Looks like you two boys are kitted out from Westfield market?” We quickly scare at each other in horror, he knows Westfield? I reply “Well Sir, we are from Westfield, do you know it, how far away are we?” He replies “Well you are still in Westfield.” “What?” we respond together The Doctor replies “I know this may come as a shock but this is Westfield Sea Island.” Look you are only about 2 hours from home but then again how did you come to be here that is my concern, I live here alone with my animals. I do not want guests. We are sorry Sir, we were just playing a computer game doing no harm and we were suddenly teleported to your island, we mean no harm and do not want to disturb you or your animals we just want to get home. Please don’t hurt us, we will leave as soon as we can if you can help us. Here boys if you swear never to cause harm to any animals in your life I will help you get home and I will know if you cause harm but you don’t say anything to anybody about me being on this island to not even your closest friends, I would be executed to death if anyone knew, oh sorry that was the old days but I will be killed and it don’t be pretty my animals would not survive without me. As I stand there in front of this weird looking wizard I do feel I need to pinch myself that it’s not a bad dream, really what he is babbling on about, it’s just bizarre but I’m willing to go with it just to get home to my lovely warm bed. As soon as we are free I’m going to quiz Logan on what he knows about this island and how did he see this boat? Dr strange gets the boat ready and we set sail for home hopefully, or if not we are doomed. Olivia Doyle: Lost at Sea Olivia’s use of the first person narrator paces the story well, and the first paragraph has some amazing descriptions of her desert island. I remembered that I went out to see but then everything went black and now I’m floating on shallow water with the wind rushing past me. I closed my eyes as if I was in a dream but the water was making me shiver as its freezing temperatures cooled my face. I opened my eyes and saw loads of sand around me and I sat up. I was on an island. I was really confused as I could barely remember anything. I looked up at the blinding sun and felt the warmth of the rays shining onto me. I stood up and explored the island. I saw loads of trees, so much sand, and a small cave. I walked inside of the cave and saw a campfire and wondered if anyone else was on this island. I climbed up a tree and got a coconut as I was quite hungry. I tried to make myself remember why I was out here. I sighed and sat under the shady palm tree. I was boiling yet freezing at the same time and I couldn’t remember anything. I felt a silent 11 tear roll down my cheek but I wiped it away. I missed my family and friends and wondered how long I would be out here. I must have fallen asleep as when I opened my eyes I saw that the sun was setting and the air was a lot colder. I went into the cave and squealed as a little kid was by the campfire. I went over and said hi. I wondered what he was doing here and he must have read my mind as he told me that his parents abandoned him and he was sent out to sea. We chatted until it was night and he showed me his pile of food and we had a mini feast together before falling asleep next to the campfire. The next morning when I woke up I saw that the little boy was fishing so I went over to him. I helped him and it was great fun until he told me that the police were after him as when his parents had sent him out to sea the police heard and went after him but never caught him. I told him that there isn’t anything to worry about as no body knows about the island. He smiled and told me his name was adam. We talked about our past for ages until we got bored of fishing and went for a swim in the sea. It was freezing at first but soon I got used to the temperature. Adam seemed to love having company and I couldn’t help smiling. We played for hours and then got hungry so we cooked some of the fish we had caught earlier and I climbed up the trees to get some coconuts. It must have been late at night when I felt massive gusts of wind pounding on the island. Adam was already awake and I went out to see what he was doing. I realized the police had come to get him and I felt sad seeing him go. The police told me I had to go as well as it wasn’t safe as their trackers told them that there was a hurricane coming. I got into the back of the helicopter with Adam and fell asleep on the journey. When I woke up I saw that we were back at my home and Adam was still next to me. The police told us that my parents were going to adopt Adam and I was overjoyed. He was super happy and came straight inside. My parents had just made a spaghetti bolognese and homemade bread so we all ate that together. Adam and I talked about our adventures and then we all watched a movie together. I was overjoyed to see my family and have Adam as a half brother but I did miss the island. I closed my eyes and hope that one day I could go back there even if it was only for a day. Hannah Larkins: How we survived on a Desert Island Hannah manages to add humour to her story even while keeping it dramatic - a very difficult balance! The first-person narrator was a great choice to hear the character’s thoughts as well as her actions. I don’t know how long we were swimming for. I didn’t realise how far out we’d gone. I wish I’d told mum and dad that Lilia and I were going to the sea so they would have stopped us before we went too far. “W-where are w-w-we?” stammered Lilia. The truth was I had no idea but I didn’t want to tell that to Lilia. “Let’s just keep swimming,” I replied, my hand shaking violently. Lilia burst into tears, usually I wouldn’t do the same, but right now I did. I’m Ava and about three hours ago, I was on solid ground, having the best time of my life. Lilia (my best friend) and I were at the beach in Portugal on holiday. We decided to go in the 12 sea and were having so much fun we kept swimming without stopping until neither of us had any idea where we were and the sand was no longer visible. Just then, I saw a speck of honey-yellow and emerald-green. “LILIA!!!!!!” I howled. “WHAT!!!!!” she mimicked. “LOOK!” I shouted, pointing one frozen finger in the direction of the island. Lilia peered at where I was pointing and clapped her hands for joy. “Let’s swim over there,” said Lilia. So we did. I slapped my hands and feet against the surface of the water as we headed to the island. Suddenly my hands were no longer hitting the sea. My wet hands were embedded in the smooth texture of the sand. I lay on it, not caring that my entire body was covered in tiny grains of sticky sand. When I looked up, palm trees surrounded me. A blanket of sand lay beneath them, like slaves working tirelessly for approval. Gathered around them, sat many hazel, shaggy oval shapes, the size of mangos. The island was small, but fantastic compared to the sea. I smiled at Lilia and gave her a thumbs up sign to get started on the food we were pining for. We spent the rest of what we had left of the day trying to crack open the coconuts. They were solid rock and no matter how hard we tried, we could not get them open. A bead of sweat ran down my wrinkled forehead. This was too much. We were both exhausted and boiling. We needed water. Suddenly, I had an idea I wished we’d thought of before as it was obvious. “Lilia let’s drink the sea water!” “Ava, you know how much I hate that taste,” she replied wistfully. “Oh come on, Lilia. It’s either this or death.” And with that, she burst into tears, though reluctantly slumped over to the tide. I cupped my hands into a bowl shape and slowly sipped the salty water from my hands in tremendous relief. Finally we had what we needed to survive even though we always had it anyway. “Hey I have an idea!” I said. “Oh no,” Lilia replied giggling. “Oi! Anyway my idea; let’s make a sign saying SOS so if a plane or helicopter or s omeone sees us they know to call for help.” “Ok. For o nce you have a decent idea,” Lilia chuckled. I elbowed her as we stood up and started to collect leaves and sticks. We were now on the final ‘s’ and life was looking more promising. “What does SOS actually stand for?” Lilia asked. “I dunno. Send… one-sausage?” We burst out laughing. “No-no! Sell our son!” “Ha ha! I’d like to get rid of Oliver sometimes!” “Your brother can be very annoying,” Lilia said. “You have no idea what he’s like when he’s with us on his own,” I laughed. “Ok, enough of this talk. Serious talk now,” she pulls a posh face, “Ha ha! You actually fell for that! But really, we do need to think of a back-up plan if nobody finds us,” Lilia said. “I know. But it doesn’t mean we can’t have fun for the last few days of our life,” I told her sadly. “Don’t think like that. We are going to get out of here.” 13 The sand vibrated. A loud noise above our heads made our hair mix with the golden sand. “LOOK! LILIA A HELICOPTER!!!!” We screamed and waved our hands in order for the helicopter to see us. The spinning propellers got closer to the ground and it was then I knew we would be rescued. We were going to be saved! I clutched Lilia’s hand in mine and stepped onto the rope ladder that was being dropped for the vehicle. Lilia went second. The blue carpet on the floor was filled with dirt but I didn’t care. A man was sitting in the driver’s seat dressed in a high-vis vest and police cap. “I’m Officer Walkers. Goodness you have been here a while,” he said, noticing our wet clothes and messy hair. “Only a few days,” I replied. “I’ll get you home.” “Thank you,” Lilia and I said at the same time as Officer Walkers handed us ear defenders. And with that we were flown home. Olivia Wright Olivia’s story is short and sweet, with a happy ending. I love the use of emojis in her story, it’s so creative! Me and my little brother were on the little boat, the electric one. As I was driving I noticed Billy saying the hole and I thought nothing of it. Yet I looked again and there was a small hole although it was getting bigger and bigger second by second. 2 minutes later there was a little tiny island I quickly went as fast as the boat could go in its conditions luckily we just about got there… ��About 10 minutes later billy had made friends with the monkeys that lived there. We all started to play. It was 30-45 minutes later, we’ll that’s my estimate, because I couldn’t tell the time because we had not got phones or iPads and stuff like that. I had a feeling that my family would notice soon. ��I would say about 45 minutes in my family started to worry they Sped off on the yacht ��they happily rescued me and billy Pippa Sandford-Smith: Fairytale Fiasco Pippa’s story brings together a whole host of other stories in an incredibly creative way. Who knew how much trouble biscuits could cause? On the island, was a tree, and on the tree was a tree house, and on the tree house was a bed, and on opposite sides of the bed, glaring at each other, were the most unlikely pair you are likely to meet. As if plucked from a child’s bookshelf, the face of all toddlers’ first literacy, every small kid’s idol. “You had it last time! It’s my turn! If you think I’m sleeping outside again, then, then you are WRONG!” “Excuse me, look who’s talking, you slept on a feather bed for one hundered years, while I-” 14 As if struck by a sudden inspiration, the golden haired teen leaped onto the bed, and clutched both sides, a triumphant grin on her face. The other burst into tears. And that was the lonely sound Linda woke up to. Sleeping Beauty having a tantrum. Pain. Her head hurt. If she wasn’t very much mistaken, a shark had swallowed her whole. But, considering she was lying totally unscathed on a sandy beach, she was very much mistaken. The last thing she remembered was the jaws of death, giving her up for a snack, with a nonchalant expression. Now it was coming back to her. The boat. The biscuits. How, in a fit of rage, her three year old cousin had chucked her overboard, with an exclaim of ‘oops’. All because of the last custard cream. Linda had taken enough Buzzfeed survival quizzes to know that she needed to find water. Fast. That’s why it was so extraordinarily helpful, when cries of ‘I’ll chuck this sparkling raspberry lemonade on you if you don’t get off that bed right now’ reached her ears. It wasn’t water, but it would do. Cautiously, she padded along the soggy shoreline, very pleased with her stealth, when, for the second time that day, she feared for her life. “What’s that? Get it!” A shrill scream from above accompanied the sound of rushing footsteps, and ten minutes later, bound to a chair, Linda could have sworn that being eaten by a shark would have been the less fantastical version. There before her, were the faces imprinted in her mind, from her four year old self. “So you’re - Sleeping Beauty, you, you are the dwarves, you are Jack, you’re Rapunzel?!” “For the sixth time, YES!” Grumpy grumbled, “We were exiled years ago. For nothing I tell you. Nothing! All we did was run a few workshops, and BOOM! Life sentence on a desert island for ‘a self centered mindset’, or whatever it was.” “Oh yes, very interesting, but is there any way I could get back home?” “Well, you could tell the fairy godmother, I suppose. She seems to like mortals. Chose a mortal form for herself.” Cinderella replied. Linda had, told by all the seven dwarves separately, heard the tale of woe, in which the fairy godmother had refused to let them leave the island. But it was worth a try. After watching Jack embarrass himself with a ‘summoning spell’, she was most flummoxed to see her three year old cousin in front of her. “Well... this is awkward…” Her cousin laughed, superiority reflected in her very pigtails. “No hard feelings. Dad bought some biscuits.” She waved her stuffed frog and just like that, Linda was home. Adam Abdaless: The Desert Adam’s story is very fast moving and he makes great use of an ellipsis at the end to suggest that anything could happen after this story ends… Hi! My name is Finn Derill I’m 14 from south england, today we are going on a trip to Australia! We are going to be staying on a desert tropical island! It was very fun (and hot!). We arrived on a Sunday night at 23:27, so because it was a long day, I decided to go to sleep. 15 I woke up in the middle of nowhere looking for my parents. They were nowhere to be found. All I remember was a cruise boat. I looked into the crystal clear ocean around me. The scorching, hot sun had made me as dry as bones. I splashed water on my face feeling refreshment. Suddenly, I saw a grey shark-like fin. I started to panic, my breathing rapid, desperate to get off the boat. Then, a dolphin sprang up and pointed to an island. I reached for the oars next to me and rowed my way slowly to the island. When I reached the island, my face was dry yet again so I splashed water on my face and then got off the boat. The sand on the island was burning my feet, so I ran as fast as I could to the nearest shady thing I could find. As I ran, I found a palm tree so big that it could probably fit ten people under it. I sat down under the tree for a rest, thinking about my parents and where they would be now. I looked up and tried to climb the palm tree but I wasn’t successful. I looked around for a few rocks and threw them one by one at the top of the palm tree. When there was enough for me to eat, I dug into the food like a pig. I had managed to eat enough for a satisfied stomach. I decided to explore the island, for I was curious. As I walked, I heard an echo nearby leading to a cave I stepped onto some rocks and peering into the cave. I accidentally tripped on one of the stones, and suddenly fell into the rocky terrain… Lorelle Asiedu and Adriel Lackhee Lorelle and Adriel start their story with a massive shipwreck, and multiple people are washed up on the same island. They’re determined to pass all the obstacles on their route home! On a cruise enjoying a relaxing holiday, suddenly a blackout occurred and the boat light started flickering as fast as birds' wings flap.The boat captain hit a rigid rock and people passed out when the boat instantly started to sink. Overnight the current pulled over 100 people to different parts of the clear blue ocean. Conveniently some people were washed up onto a desert island. Looking around for pieces to make a raft with, one person spotted another. After talking for about 5 minutes, they decided to set off and hunt for delicious food to eat. While in search of food the two people spotted a beach hut. They tried to get inside but couldn't get in, so the two people went to go and find something to hit the brown wooden door down. They found a massive rock that they used to hit the door down for it to open. Slowly the door creaked open and the two people were petrified. Almost like a miracle, the old hut had some rusty supplies to build a raft, it was good enough to use. They found some juicy coconuts to eat while searching for stuff to find to build a raft. 16 Inside the beach hut, there were planks of wood that they put aside as they can be used towards building the raft. They found some long pieces of lush green grass and used them to tie the wood planks together. After finishing the raft, they tested it on the water. “It floats!” The two people were overjoyed! They had now found a solution to save themselves! Yet the question was… did it hold both of them together on the raft? Unfortunately it didn't. However the two confident people weren't going to let this make them give up! They went to find more planks of wood to create another layer on the base of the raft so that it would be stronger to hold the two of them. They were ready to test it out! They made 2 small oars out of leftover wood and a stone to carve them. They set foot on the water and started sailing north west. After about 1 hour of sailing, they reached their village that the cruise had originally left from. They were saved! Archie Dorsett: The how to survive on a desert island guide Archie’s story is vivid and full of wonderful descriptions. I especially love ‘like ghosts were playing a game of catch’! The storm was ferocious. Everything was being thrown around the place like ghosts were playing a game of catch. The tiny ship was hurled from wave to wave and eventually, it became obvious that the ship’s fate was not a pleasant one. Soon every man had abandoned the ship and were swimming for their lives. Theo woke up the way any ex-sailor loves to; with a mouthful of sand. He groaned and slowly looked up. The sun was beating down on him and hurting his eyes. He vaguely remembered something about a shipwreck but instead he decided to focus on figuring out where he was. After a brief lookabout he realized that he was on a tiny desert island on a beach with white sands around the perimeter and the rest covered in thick jungle foliage and a humongous mountain.Theo wanted to just lie down and go to sleep but he knew that when you are stranded, the first thing you have to do is to try to make shelter, find food and find some drinkable water. S helter When he looked around the place he didn’t notice any sticks lying around the place so then he had to sit down and think for a moment. Then a notion struck him: there was a shipwreck, he could find whatever he needed there! So he began to swim around the island. After an hour of aimless swimming, he found the shipwreck. It was already teeming with fish and covered in barnacles. He dived down and one by one, ripped off a plank of wood. When he was done he had about 20 planks of wood at his disposal. He then began to make a shack of sorts. He propped it up against a tree and made a bed of leaves on the ground. This helped and he slept soundlessly through the night Theo then decided that it would be an absolute necessity to find water and food sources. He went into the centre of the island to investigate and found a picturesque flowing waterfall. He then realised that all trees on the island were dripping with either coconut or banana so he got as many as it was possible to hold and then made off with it to his shack. 17 After a week of basically going through the same cycle over and over again, he was getting nervous, the volcano in the centre of the island was smoking and that was generally not a good sign. He decided to act. He had fashioned a hatchet out of wood, banana leaves and flint and used it to chop down the nearest tree to him. He repeated this mind numbing process until he had about 5 trees. Next he plaited the massive banana leaves into a somewhat rope and binded the logs together into a makeshift raft. The moment he finished the volcano exploded an ear splitting bang saw the entrance of colossal plumes of ash raining down on everything in sight. Theo now knew that he had to get the raft in the water as soon as humanly possible. The molten lava was now steamrolling down the mountainside blazing anything remotely close. Theo got the oars and paddled as fast as he could. With a quick glance over his shoulder he couldn’t see the jungle. In its place was a towering inferno, its flames almost reaching the bellicose plume of toxic ash. Theo was now safe. He stayed on the ship for 1 week drinking water from the reservoir and using his spear to impale any unfortunate passing fish. But soon a cruise liner noticed the tiny vessel and sent a dinghy to help him. Exhausted, Theo passed out the moment he was on the cruise. So after all that in the end he got a free cruise ride home. Emilia Thomas Emilia’s story is full of mysteries for the reader to figure out, and it’s left unclear how the girls got to the island - an interesting and effective choice. I fall onto the warm sand with a loud thud. There is another thud, so I turn my head and see a girl lying on the sand a few inches from my face. I cannot believe my eyes when I see that it’s my best friend from Japan. She stands up and helps me onto my feet. As soon as I’m standing, some objects fall from the sky and land right in front of us. The first thing to catch my attention is the bright red survival kit that lies in between my feet. I open it and it’s just what you would expect. There are two sleeping bags, some ropes, and a lot of other things you would need to survive on an island like this. There is also a map, which I open and find out we are on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with no way to contact anyone. Also that the island is called Payana. I can see that we’ve also got a pan to cook some food in. The island is basically a big hill with a beach all around it. We climb to the top, there are plenty of trees with all kinds of exotic fruits growing on them. When we get to a clearing, we put all of our stuff down, (not that we have much) and sit. We have a lot to catch upon, since we haven’t seen each other for four years, but all I can think about is how people are probably watching us at home on tv right now and having a good laugh at us, how it amuses people to watch someone stranded on an island, I have no idea. I must look pretty hot because Lina suggests going to find some water. I agree and we walk back down the other side of the island until we reach a little river. This island is very well prepared for our visit. I grab some iodine and a water bottle from the kit. Lina places the bottle on a rock facing the top of the river, it fills up pretty quickly. I don’t need to add the iodine because the water comes from a stream, but just to be sure I add in a few drops anyway. We have to wait thirty minutes for the water to purify, in the meantime, we still have more catching up to do. I’m rolling on the floor laughing within five minutes, which is pretty normal as I can’t remember one time I have seen her and have been able to stop laughing for more than ten seconds. 18 Once the water is ready I drink as though I’ve never seen water before. It always tastes so much better when you’re thirsty. We walk back up to the clearing, and as we will be staying the night, we need to collect some wood. I’ve always had a thing for climbing trees and building treehouses and Lina’s always been very strong, so we work very well together in that way. I find some old wood in the forest and place it between some of the branches on one of the trees near the clearing. Then I secure it with some rope. At the top of the trees are some coconuts and on another tree are some apples, which is pretty weird because they don’t grow in the same continent, but I guess the people who make the island can decide what grows where. We climb to the top of the trees and grab some of the coconuts and apples, it’s hard to get to the top of some of the trees as they haven’t any branches, but we soon create a pulley system and we can now get endless fruit. It must get pretty boring for the people at home to watch. They usually expect you to starve or get killed by an animal of some sort, but we're a lot more resourceful and smart than they thought. Lina and I are actually enjoying ourselves. We don’t cook anything because it would be pointless to try and start a fire, but we do manage to open the coconuts with a very sharp rock. We eat them slowly, I don’t find the taste of it’s milk very pleasant, but I’m hungry so I eat. The apples are fresh and juicy It is getting dark and we should probably think about getting some sleep. I roll out the sleeping bags and we settle in the trees for the night. When I wake up the sun is just rising, Lina is still asleep and I remind myself that she was never good at waking up early. I get out of the sleeping bag and grab some apples from the trees. We’ve had a delivery from the viewers overnight, it’s some bread and eggs. I immediately start a fire to heat two eggs up and cut us some bread. By the time Lina wakes up the eggs are ready and we have a very nice breakfast. Today we are going to make a plan to escape the island. Since Lina is crafty and I can climb, we gather some wood and make a plan to escape from the island on a raft. It won’t need to travel too far, as the map says that there should be an island near this one. We bring our things down onto the beach where we see what we can use from the survival kit to build a raft. There is a small leaflet on how to survive, but we don’t really need it. I’ve already read many things about building a raft, but we need bamboo, something that we won’t find here. Instead of that, we can use big barrels. I usually find those at fly tips. There is only one part of the island we haven’t searched yet. We walk around to the East side of it, where we somehow find a pile of rubbish, including a door, a chair, and a big, blue, plastic barrel. I cannot believe our luck! We have one, but we need two. Lina and I agree that I will focus on getting wood, food and water for the journey, whilst she tries to find another barrel. I go back up into the woods, where I find strawberries, mangos, coconuts and more apples. By this time it’s not even weird to find such different fruits. I pick the food, and just as I arrive at the river, a rabbit hops by. I know that this is my chance, I pull out a stray arrow from the survival kit, and stick it right into the rabbit’s head. I feel bad that I killed an animal, but we need to eat to survive. I put the food, water, and wood in my bag, and walk back down to the beach where I find Lina grinning. She is holding a second blue barrel. “It just washed up on the shore as I was looking around,” she says. We tie the wood to the barrels and create a platform with them. I make sure we have a little compartment for all of the food and water to go in. 19 As we push the raft into the water, I suddenly feel scared, the waves are slashing about and there is a big possibility that we will drown. Lina can sense that I’m scared, because she tells me that at least we would die quickly instead of starving for weeks. This somehow consoles me, and as I get on the raft, I wave at the sky, confident that all of the people watching at home from their big fancy televisions can see that I’m not afraid. Hayden Mistry: The boys who got marooned A lot of time passes in Hayden’s story but it’s well integrated into the story, and it’s interesting to see what Nathan is concerned about when he is stuck on an island! Far far away in the middle of the sea a boy called Nathan was sailing on his father’s boat with his friends as crewmates. These boys were strong boys and had been to sea so many times, before one day ago something happened. Nathan and his crewmates were dancing around, having fun and playing card and board games, then he told his crewmates that this was his dad’s boat and that they mustn't get a scratch on this boat. All of them were whining because they were going to be silly and have fun away from their parents, until… Bad luck came across them, and started chucking heaps of water and fish onto the boat. Nathan and his friends could barely breathe and most of them were praying to their family and taking heavy deep breaths. Suddenly they blacked out. They got washed up onto an island. Hours passed by and not one person woke up, then Nathan woke up and tried to find everyone and tried to wake them up so they could find a way home. 2 boys were on the top of the island searching for help whilst the others searched for food, shelter, sticks and pieces of their boat. Luckily all the boys were all together. Hours later they had a small dinner with a fire and some of the boys found a cave to sleep in and that’s where they slept. They all found it tricky to sleep but Nathan was just scared what his dad would say after he had destroyed the boat. Nathan’s dad wasn’t the nicest and never let him use any of his things. After 3 days the boys were scared, tired and missing their parents. All of them thinking “ How is mum going to react or are they going to notice I am gone.” They are still alive eating barely anything in a day. One of Nathan's crewmates ( Harry) found an animal and because they were hungry they ate it a little bit at a time enjoying every last minute and thanking god for something like that. Day 5, they were exploring and found a creature just lying on the floor. It looked very ugly and looked like a cross between a hairy mouse and a sheep. Harry started poking it around but the creature didn’t come back to life so they left then saw the stash of food they had on the boat and all grabbed a piece of food worried about how many more days they had left on this island. “Today was a good day because we found food and actually got up to explore,” said Jermey. With a few hours left in their bodies they told stories and just sat and slept in the cave they found like they mostly did on this island. All the boys could do was sit, explore or sleep and were desperate to go back home to their parents. 20 On day 6 they slept the whole day without fail. Day 7 finally came so they had been stranded on the island for a whole week. None of them woke up till about 11 o’clock and when they did they heard a bit toot sound from a boat so they stood on top of the cave and screamed so the person on the boat could see them and then the boat turned towards them and they cheered. They saw outlines on the boat of people and the closer the boat got the more the boys had hope. The boat rocked onto shore and it was their parents and everyone rushed over to them but Nathan, he knew he was in for it but his dad actually hugged him and said “i’m proud you kept everyone alive but please don’t take my things without asking.” Nathan replied “Okay dad I’m so happy you're here.” THE BOYS HAD BEEN RESCUED! Everyone was in one room having a big feast renting out a hotel because the parents were relieved everyone was alive, but before everyone went to bed the lights went out and a cake appeared. Nathan whispered “whose birthday is it?” The parents shouted “YOURS!” Nathan was shocked because he thought it was a day before his birthday but him and his friends slept a whole day so it was his birthday. Ieuan Chakma-Smith Ieuan clearly knows a lot about dinosaurs! He manages to combine a great story with some pretty cool details about the dinosaurs that his characters encounter. The bright sun shined on the stranded ship. Jack stared down thinking hard. The hole in the ship leaked with water and little strands of seaweed slithered off the ship. A dense thick canopy full of lush, green leaves and birds showing a dazzling display of bright red and yellow and blue. Jack and twelve other school children sat in a circle talking. One of them chartered away about the mysterious island and how it was a mistake to come out here in the first place. Oakwood school had always been a boring place. During a school trip a few of the students snuck out and sailed away on a boat. Only planning to visit a small island in their free time. Instead the boat which they had stolen sunk and now stranded on this desolate island they were standing. Jack looked around him and noticed a strange figure in the distance. Then as it came it grew bigger until he could just make the outline of two claws each outstretched and a gaping mouth full of small teeth. He knew it was just his imagination. He used to dream younger about terrifying monsters hiding in his wardrobe or under his bed. As he got older he was used to this. It was probably because of his fascination for dinosaurs when he was younger. He knew many types of dinosaurs. His favourite was a giant predator called Spinosaurus which was said to have a spine arching from it’s back and a crocodile-like jaw spouting from its neck. It was even said it was bigger than T-Rex and made T-rex look like a puppy compared to it. The island looked fairly large; it had lush forest springing with palm trees. The group continued to argue as Jack daydreamed about dinosaurs and from large to small ones. He thought about their terrifying teeth snapping at the prey they were hunting. One of his favourite films of all time was Jurassic park. He knew all the dinos that appeared on it. He watched as the T-rex broke the fence and the velociraptors hunting in the kitchens. “Jack! Jack!” he turned to Alfred who was snapping at him to wake up. The rest of the school children stared at him. “What?” he snapped back not wanting to be rid from his daydreams. “What are you doing?” asked Max, a boy about Jack’s age although he was shorter and more stout. 21 “Nothing.” “That doesn’t matter what matters is we are stuck on an island with no food or water. If we want to stand a chance of survival we need to get a fire going and sort out some sort of leadership,” Spoke Edward. “Ok well why don’t you go and do that then,” Jack answered the others muttered in agreement. “I volunteer to be a leader!” screamed a year 3 at the top of his voice. The other year threes cheered. Alfred, Edward and Jack laughed and Edward, Alfred and the rest of the children continued to argue. They eventually managed to start a fire going using Max’s specs after a long fought battle to try and get him to use them. Jack heard a rustle in the trees. At first he thought it was the wind rustling the leaves but as branches began to snap and a low growl came from the bushes he turned his head to look at what was coming. The other children were playing on the beach. A jaw appeared in front of them. Out of the bushes it rose. It was a dull grey in color but red teeth jutted from its mouth. Two yellow eyes both bigger than Jack himself suspended in the air. Claws dropped from its side extended. It roared. Jack ran and so did all the other school children. He ran through the forest vines and branches snapping at his face. He tripped and fell face first onto the ground. He turned around, his head twisted at an odd angle. He saw a giant foot stomp on the ground beside him. He rolled around and then dived into the cover of the bushes. He lay still. A head moved across the ground, jaws closed eyes searching the bush. It growled and the jaws moved closer searching the bush. Its head lifted and it roared running off in a different direction. Jack slumped to the floor and sighed in relief. Jack trudged on. An hour later he was joined by Alfred, then Edwardm then Max. The other twelve students must have been lost in the jungle. “What was that?” Alfred panted. “I don’t know why you are asking me.” Replied Edward his voice full of confusion. “Whatever it was we now know this island is full of dangers.” Jack knew what it was. He knew it but didn’t believe it was. It was an Allosaurus. These dinosaurs were the top animal of the late Jurassic era. Growing up to 9ft long they stalked the arid plains of North America. Jack knew this knowledge as he had read books when he was younger. He never knew that his life might depend on his knowledge. He carried on walking exchanging brief conversations with the other boys. They walked across the island. It seemed to go on forever and Jack remembered something in the news earlier. Off the edge of the British east coast a voyage had begun. It was called Voyage Atlantica. Packed with explorers it was supposed to map detailed information of the atlantic sea. The voyage was lost and the ship had never been seen again. They had reached the coastline and there lay a ship. Voyage Atlantica. The ship was abandoned. It was packed with scientific equipment and. Weapons. They must have known they were going somewhere dangerous. Guns lay untouched and Edward picked one up. “ We could really use some of these you know,” He said. “I doubt you can use it,” Replied Alfred. “I know.” The gun catered to the floor. “Did you know of the mission?” asked Jack. “I did,” This time Max replied. 22 Imogen Rennie: A day on an island Imogen’s story is captivating and she uses animals to communicate things which wouldn’t usually be understandable. The story is skillfully revealed bit by bit, keeping it suspenseful. Andy slowly sat up, coughing and heaving, but breathing. She seemed to be confused as to why she was alone on the shores of an island that was no way near the cold Leeds up in the north of England - Leeds was landlocked so that definitely didn’t make sense. It took her awhile to gather up her thoughts before she remembered that she had married about a month ago and her and her husband had come to the sunny shores of Miami, hoping to have a relaxing honeymoon next to the beach before returning home and starting their new business together. They had brought along their Pomeranian, Kiwi, who had been very excited, but who had also been a great annoyance on the flight, jumping up and down when anyone said anything, or barking when someone got up. That information told Andy why it was very sunny, but didn’t tell her why she was stranded on an island with a paddle board. Suddenly, everything clicked into place: it had been their third day in Florida and she had decided to go paddleboarding at six in the morning (with Kiwi), as that is when the sea is calmest and barely anyone is around. She was going to come back to shore, however as she loved it so much, she didn’t want to stop. The feeling of gliding across the ocean, and the tranquility and calm that came with her, had always made her lose herself. Kiwi had started swimming beside her before jumping back on and spraying her with water. A current came and took them with it and they got caught in the rip. Andy thought for a while and decided that the current must have carried her and Kiwi to this island. That was the only logical explanation she could muster. She looked around and saw her board, as she had done earlier, yet Kiwi was nowhere to be found. The colour drained from her face as she quickly scrambled up and ran around the island, calling Kiwi’s name. “Kiwi! KIWI! KIWI! Kiwi where are you!” She heard a faint rustling in the bushes and turned, hoping that her Pomeranian was behind it. However, she was greeted by two crabs scuttling, hurriedly sideways. It felt as though a rope had been bound to Andy’s chest as now she was starting to panic; her breathing quickened and her heart was pounding. She loved Kiwi dearly and didn’t want to lose her. She had looked all along the beach and didn’t really want to go in amongst all of the foliage that lay in the heart of the island, yet she found herself walking right into it with a determined mindset. *** Meanwhile, Kiwi had found shelter from the intense rays of the sun, under a palm tree. She was struggling in the heat; her thick coat almost suffocating her. She had tried to find Andy; 23 the trouble was, she couldn’t move. Kiwi’s coat was stifling her and she had been unable to move. Her breathing had become shallow, but as she heard the approaching frantic footsteps, she managed a faint bark, just loud enough for Andy to know where to find her. *** Both Andy and Kiwi, felt relieved when their eyes met, but it was obvious to Andy that Kiwi, exhausted and panting, was not in a good way. She realised that the delayed visit to the groomers, was the cause of Kiwi’s angst, and she would need to do it herself. But how? She didn’t know how to shave and even if she did, she wouldn’t be able to find a razor on a desert island. Everything seemed impossible now that they were stranded. Kiwi looked completely overheated and they both knew that she couldn’t come out of the shade because if she did, then Kiwi could develop heat stroke which could prove fatal. Andy realised that she would have to shave her whether she liked it or not. “Woof,” barked Kiwi, as if to say, “Find something and help me!,” “Alright, I’m thinking!” replied Andy as if she were able to understand Kiwi. “Woof, woof, grrr rrr!” Translation: “Don’t just stand there, find something!” “Fine!” she huffed, and began scraping around desperately in the sandy undergrowth. Suddenly it came to her; how many times had she cut her feet on razor shells when walking in the shallows before launching her board. She jumped up and ran over to the rocks. Andy went to the jagged teeth guarding the entrance of the cave and noticed something glistening in the sunlight. She walked straight towards it and gasped with delight at the distinctive shape of a razorshell. She picked it up and hurried back to Kiwi waiting to tell her the good and bad news. *** Kiwi waited anxiously for her owner, getting hotter by the minute. She saw Andy running towards her with something shimmering in her hand. She was ready to be groomed, except, not by Andy. No, she knew Andy could not groom to save her life, but her only two options were, coming out bald or dying from the intense heat. She chose being bald because at least she would survive. “Woof,” she barked, and Andy began to groom her. *** Andy stood back and admired her handiwork; Kiwi was not bald, but she did not have that much hair left either. They were finally ready to launch their boat back to the sun-kissed shores of Miami. With all the strength she had, Andy picked up her board and was just about to put it in the water, when a sudden wave of fear washed over her, eroding all her confidence away with it. She did not understand what was wrong with her, Kiwi bounded past making her drop the board and climbing onto it, but her feet were stuck to the sand not wanting to go anywhere. It wasn’t long before she realised she was afraid, afraid of being ripped away by another current and being washed up on another island. However, she wasn’t just doing this for herself, no, she was doing this for Kiwi and for Matt – her husband – so she pushed back the wave of fear, but she still could not move. A weird clicking noise arose from the water: the unmistakable sound of dolphins. Andy had always wanted to swim with dolphins. But at this moment, frozen with fear; she never wanted 24 to swim again. The enchanting pull of the dolphins pulled her to the water’s edge, like sirens enticing unsuspecting sailors. She walked forwards and stroked one of the dolphins. “Hello,” she said softly to the dolphin. When there was no reply, Andy thought that as she was in Miami she would have to speak Spanish to them so she gave it her best shot: “Hola, me llamo Andy. Necesito ayuda.” Still getting no reply she thought maybe dolphins only understand their own language - echolocation - but technically that is only when they hunt for food. Eventually she gave up. The dolphins swam over to the board and pulled it into the water, flapping their tails saying ‘come and we will guide you home.’ Andy walked over and dipped one toe in the water before she felt Kiwi push her headfirst into it. She immediately fell in love with the water all over again and wasn’t afraid anymore. Andy climbed onto the boat, ready to glide across the seas once more. She did just that; her in the middle, Kiwi in front and the dolphins guiding, on either side of them. Paddling out to sea, it wasn’t long before the glorious Miami shoreline came into view…..they were safe! Euan Sakuma-Carruthers Euan’s character, Bob, arrives on an island after a plane crash. The description of the plane crash itself is well written, and makes us very scared for Bob! Bob frantically looked around his cabin for something buoyant enough for him to float onto when the plane plunges into the winter seas. The aircraft dove into the water like a bullet and the doors broke off from the violent waves. He jumped into the freezing waters, putting a chubby jacket on for him to float on. The abnormally cold temperatures caught up to his body and bit by bit shutting down his body. He passed out. He suddenly woke up on the soft beach of a tropical island. He could see the smoke from the crash over in the waves. He slumped next to the tree and started to make a wood hut. Days have passed, and Bob was starting to make a campfire. His instincts were telling him to wait until rescue arrives. On the next day Bob decided to explore to see what was in store for Bob on this island. He scampered his way through the vines and thick grass, slashing them down with his make-shift knife. He suddenly found a bricked-off wall covered in foliage. He thought to himself ‘If there is a wall here, maybe there is a dangerous civilisation trying to wall off parts of the island?’. So he left the mysterious wall and headed back to his hut. The next day, he gathered enough resources to make a small wooden raft. Bob was very excited to get off this island. He went to the shore-line with his raft, and with one big push, he was sailing away. Isabella White Isabella’s story is not only a story of getting off a desert island, but a story about family and friendship, which is very touchingly written. My eyes slowly flickered open. A bright white light blinded me, making me squint. Slowly everything came flooding back. Being on the boat, the storm and falling off. I sat up and 25 noticed there was a figure sitting next to me. It was my best friend, Lottie with her distinctive ocean blue eyes. I stood up and held my hand out to her. She smiled nervously and took it. “Where are we?” she asked, looking around. Truthfully I said, “I have absolutely no idea.” After talking for what seemed like hours, we came up with a plan. We were going to explore where we were, and see if there was anyone living here. We knew we were on an island but apart from that we were clueless. Leaving the crystal clear ocean and soft sand, we set off into a jungle. We walked and walked for hours, finding no signs of civilization. Sighing, I sat down on a tree stump wiping my sweaty forehead. “Let’s not give up yet,” Lottie said, “Our parents might have been washed up here too.” “I doubt it.” She shook her head at me and started walking again. “Come on.” I longed to stay a bit longer but Lottie had a hopeful glint in her eyes and I didn’t want to crush it. So we walked some more. The sun was setting leaving beautiful pinks and reds in the sky. “We had better find somewhere to sleep for the night,” I said looking around for any cave or shelter. Lottie nodded, too tired to speak. I looked up and saw a clearing in the jungle. Maybe there was something there! I raced ahead and just as I had hoped there was a small cave at the edge of the clearing. It looked like a perfect little place for the night. As Lottie came to stand next to me, her face lit up like the sun. “Come on!” she said beckoning and running ahead. I followed her into the cave. I knew something was different right away. I was expecting a dark, damp cave which sent shivers down your spine. But instead the cave was lit with candles. “That’s weird,” I said, “Maybe someone stayed here too.” “Maybe they still are,” Lottie said quietly. A long silence followed. Crash! We both jumped back. Slowly edging forwards we followed the sound. We came to a small entrance just off the main part of the cave. A man was sitting there. He had his back to us and he had a pile of stones beside him that he was throwing at the wall. He stopped throwing for a minute, slowly turning around. We gasped. He jumped up, eyes wide and alert. Once he had turned around we got a good look at him. He was wearing old, ripped, threadbare clothes and had a scruffy beard. His face and hands were dirty and he was barefoot. It was obvious he had been here a while. His name was William and he had been here for 7 years. That was what we learnt after we introduced ourselves to him. He had been on a boat too and the boat had sunk with him managing to escape. Will (He said he prefers Will) had been on the boat with his wife and son. He wasn't sure if they were alive. We now sat in silence on the floor. “Don’t you want to see them again?” I asked, a thought that had been pondering me for a while. “No,” he answered quietly. At our blank expressions he explained. “There’s no point going back now, they would never let me back into our home because of what I said.” “What happened?” Lottie whispered. Taking a deep breath he begins again “Right before we crashed into the rocks, I told my wife I hated her and never wanted to see her again. We were having an argument about our son. But the worst part is, my son heard. I remember seeing his face in the doorway. He looked heartbroken and angry. He would never forgive me.” Silence followed once more. What do you say to that? 26 Lottie and I were trying to convince him to try and get home with us. He was not budging. But I felt we were getting to him. “So you're just going to stay here for the rest of your life?” “No…” “They’ll be missing you!” Lottie piped in We spent forever trying to get Will to help us. He had been on the island for much longer than us so he would be a big help. After long hours of persuasion he caved. “Fine!, I’ll help you, but just so you know I might not go back to my home when we leave” Lottie and I raised our eyebrows. And that was the beginning of our master plan. The next morning Lottie and I were refreshed and excited. “Come on.” Will grunted. Lottie and I were just leaving the cave. “We’re coming!” We walked out and Will led the way. Through dense jungles and sparkling lakes. Past squawking birds and marching ants. We walked for over 2 hours but we eventually arrived. Right away we got to our plan. Lottie and I headed off in one direction and Will went in the other. We started collecting rocks as fast as we could. Rocks, rocks, rocks. After collecting thousands of rocks resulting in us being exhausted and just wanted to sleep, we decided to take a nap. I didn’t sleep much. I couldn’t stop thinking about how I would be seeing my family soon. Walking into our small house, getting hit with the smell of Mum’s baking. I couldn’t wait. I gently shook Lottie awake. “Come on, let's get to work,” Like when she saw the cave for the first time, her face lit up. She nodded and we went to wake Will up. Looking around, we couldn’t see him. I started to panic. Where was he? We couldn’t do this on our own! “Look!” Lottie said pointing at a figure in the distance. We both sprinted to him. It was Will. “Will!” we shouted, waving at him. He looked up then looked back to what he was doing. “Better get this over and done with,” he muttered. We shrugged. At least he was helping. We got to work. Lottie handed me stones and me and Will arranged them and stood back to look at what we had done. “It’s great” I said happily “It’s definitely going to work” Lottie agreed Will nodded trying to hide his satisfaction. “SOS” was written in stones across the beach. So we waited. And we waited. We waited until a faint whirring filled the sky. We jumped up, staring intently into the sky. A small helicopter came into view. We started jumping up and down like dogs, screaming and waving our arms. The helicopter paused and started descending down onto the beach. “Yes” I cried high fiving Lottie. Will smiled and started walking away. “Where are you going?” we asked. “Back to the cave,” he replied bluntly. We tried everything we could to persuade him to come with us. We had come so far together. But before he gave in, the helicopter landed and we had no choice but to get in. A few years later, I was walking along the street and I saw a woman with a young boy and a man I recognized. I looked closer and realized it was Will, the man who had helped escape from the island Lottie and I had been stranded on! I smiled at him. He turned and looked at me then broke into a smile too. He had come home. 27 Leola Hammond Leola’s short story ends on cliffhanger, and she uses dialogue to tell a lot of the story. I wonder what happens next? “The sails are slowing down!” screamed the captain. “All is lost!” the captain's daughter cried. “Alas,god, save my daughter's soul!” He screamed. That was the last time we saw the boat the last breath of the captain and the daughter the last look of the burning broken ship. All was black…. The captain woke up on an island. He jumped up looking for his long gone daughter. “Farther!” a voice, he recognised, screeked “help meee!” The captain saw his beloved daughter and said “oh dear dont worry ill get you free” whilst looking down at his suffering daughter who had her leg stuck between rocks that had blood all around it, her blood. As The captain got his daughter free she said “I DO NOT LIKE IT HERE!” whilst hugging her dad “nor do I darling, nor do I.” Patrycja Elsner Patrycja’s two characters are very different, so the relationship between them is very interesting. The tone of the story changes at the end, quite dramatically… It was dark, roughly 8pm, and suddenly I heard a huge thump and I felt like a giant shaking me like an instrument. What I saw next was unbelievable. “ISSY! ISSY WAKE UP!” I scream, “WE CRASHED AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHERE WE ARE” She gets up and looks at me in shock. I get up and pull her arm to show her where we are. She looks at me in panic, almost as if she knew where we were. “You really just woke me up for this? Someone will find us soon, and now dont mind me i'm going back to sleep” At this point I was more mad at her then I was about being stuck. The thing is, we’re stuck in the middle of nowhere and she doesn't care! Suddenly we feel a huge thumping noise again but this time it was continuous almost as if someone was hitting the boat. I look out but see nothing but sand and rocks. Then the hitting gets harder and I go to check up on my sister because this doesn't seem normal. That's when I notice that she's gone and the trap door next to her bed is open! “That stupid kid it breaking the boat!” I thought to myself. “What on earth are you doing issy?” “The ladder got pulled up and I couldn't get out! So I thought the only way to get out of this room was to break it down!” “YOU IDIOT! We could've gotten stuck here forever because of you! Think before you do something!” “Sorry” she whined. 28 We sit there for a bit, as I'm trying to calm her down. A few minutes later I helped her up and we’re out of the small storage under the boat. At that moment we notice that our boat is surrounded by little elf looking creatures. Issy screams and moves backwards. I tell her not to move but she doesn't listen and one comes jumping right at her. “GET OFF MY YOU LITTLE BUGS” Issy screams Then the creatures huddle and start whispering some weird codes. I try to grab something but then I hear one elf say something which makes me stop. “We aren't dangerous…” “What?” I stutter “I said we aren't dangerous, we just want to help you.” I look at them and they sit down. To tell us a story. “Once upon a time we were just like you. We came to sea to travel, and see new things until we crashed onto this island. Our life supplies ran out and we were left living here alone. We didn't have much to live and we became thinner and smaller and now we look like this.” Neyla Adali: A way through a wreckage Neyla ran with the prompt in a very different way, and I love the life in her poem. The story is hidden, so the character and the emotion shine through! They’d all been washed up on the shore for years, tsunamis, screams, tornadoes crashed in each and everyone of their heads. Before they sided. One part would fight a way out of the wreck, and one part would stay back. Wait. Wait for a miracle. Imagine a world of pure hatred and pain. Imagine a world full of war, battle and shame. Well Erin was a young girl, She was an unusual being to everyone around her, She hadn’t much experience in the outside world, Born with an urge by her side Sparks in her eyes, Fireworks sizzling from her ears, She wanted nothing more, But a way in. Imagine the same world Well Agatha was a young girl She was an unusual being to everyone around her, She spent her whole life watching death, She grew up in war, She wanted nothing more, But a way out. One wanting to fight, 29 One wanting to surrender, Somehow, the girls came to one another,in a dream. They were astonished, Agatha crying to ask Erin why she wanted in, Erin crying to ask Agatha why she wanted out. You could have everything! But you could have anything ! The world is a non stop fight! The outside is a locked away cage! Back and forth back and forth the girls quarreled Before they realised something, They realised it at the same time, They were chosen to be placed on the wrong side of a beach The wrong side of a wreckage The wrong side of life, They realised they didn't have to go in, or out. They could both go through. Noah Coyne: Deserted Island Noah’s story is very in-depth, with a brilliant plot line running beneath the description and dialogue. It definitely leaves you with questions! Jonathan is on a boat, not too simple but not too big. He and his crew were on a fishing trip with family. His dad was tall and muscular with a long sleek body. His mother wasn’t into fishing but it was a family tradition so she always came on their annual fishing trip. His younger sister was only 15 and was the star capturer for the family fish shop. She was short with blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes. She was made for the ocean yet she didn’t want to fish this year. Because this time she was not going to be fishing and instead she will be driving the boat. Jonathan had already learnt to drive the boat when he was 17 so it was going to be a very long time before Wendy learned how to drive the boat since Jonathan was prepared and read the manual. “Jonathan!” shouted Wendy “Is the gage meant to be red?” “Oh, uh no,” replied Jonathan “Well if you would come over here and show me how to do this then maybe I could be better than you!” Screamed Wendy “Well if you want to be better than me, maybe I shouldn’t help.” “Jonathan, do you want me to crash this?” “Wendy, calm down, and Jonathan go up there and help her!” spoke their mother. “Fine, wait, dad if you taught me, then why don’t you teach Wendy?” “Jonathan, it is tradition that one passes on the rules to the other and so on so forth, so I taught you so you teach Wendy.” Said their dad “Sounds like you made that up but sure.” 30 2 Hours later “Wendy, uh do you remember the way back?” asked Jonathan. “Of course I… I… I do not…” stuttered Wendy. At that point the whole boat went dead silent, it was just them and the waves. Jonathan's dad quickly stood up and came over to the captain's deck, he had no idea where they were, this was obviously farther than he had ever gone before. But behind them in the distance was a big black boat shaped thing very far behind, only mother had spotted this and if she told Jonathan, Wendy and their dad, she might still be alive today; She dug through her purse and pulled out her phone, she dialed a number and spoke. The three at the captain's deck did not see the thing until it got dangerously close. It was very quick and silent, like a torpedo but at the same time different. Crash. It was so very quick, only their mother somehow knew what was happening and yet did nothing. 5 Hours later. It was pitch black, no one could see, whatever that thing was, it destroyed the boat completely. Jonathan, Wendy and their father Patrick are laying on the beach, unknown to them people were already here, watching, wondering, waiting. Patrick was the first to wake up, he quickly grabbed Jonathan’s arm and grasped it tight causing him to wake up, then Wendy woke up, they were so shocked that none of them could even speak. And none of them had the energy to stand. 4 Hours later. Patrick woke up again but this time someone else woke him, but it wasn’t Wendy or Jonathan, it was an islander, and these people seemed to not care about him, only Wendy and Jonathan. Out of Patrick's heavy-bagged eyes he could see that they were carrying his children on wood stretchers into the forest. He could barely move but he did make enough noise for them to notice him, yet they looked at him and kept moving. He tried standing up and saw a massive plane that also shipwrecked on the same island and these people are probably survivors of the crash. He stood up limp, and searched for his wife Julia, but to no avail since he found her purse and cracked phone, she seemed to have been taken already or fell off the boat before they shipwrecked. But he still followed the people's footprints into the forest until he saw smoke. He found out that there were many survivors and that they built a whole village here out of sticks and leaves. One of the islanders noticed him, stared at him and then whistled and made a strange two handed wave gesture which the others somehow understood. They quickly ran into their home and grabbed ropes of sorts and people with long wooden spears approached him with caution and then they surrounded him. They pushed him into the middle of the camp where they blew a horn. An old man with a big feathered mask stood up from a throne. “Who are you?” Spoke the old man “I am Patricks and I think I saw your people take my children?” “Yes we saw they were hurt” Patrick thought, did all of them speak or was it just this old man? He wanted to know. 31 He turned around and asked one of the guards: “Can you drop the spear please.” The guard seemed confused and poked the spear into his chest. “They cannot understand you, I am afraid.” “Where are my children and where are we?” “Your children are in the medical bay and you are in paradise.” “How is this paradise?” Patrick shouted as a guard poked him again. “This seems horrible!” The old man stood up from his chair. Let me show you. Patrick walked alongside the old man. “Oh by the way you can call me Chief.” “Great, you can call me Patrick.” They walked for what seemed like hours until they came to an abrupt stop on top of a hill. “This is it.” Chief sighed “This is paradise,” Chief cheered. He pulled back some leaves from a tree. What Patrick could see almost made him cry, it was beautiful and he never wanted to go. Maia Law Maia’s character, Finn, wakes up on a magical island with talking wolves, treasure maps and dragons. Maia clearly let her imagination run wild, and produced an incredible world. Finn woke up lying on a beach, his head was still spinning, when he looked he saw the old ship wreck of what he guessed used to be his ship. He got up and started to remember the events before, there was a terrible storm, he fell off the ship. The skies were grey as the lightning struck down onto his ship the waves crashed against it. The sea engulfed his ship into the murky waters and then he was on the beach. Looking around he noticed something sticking out of the sand he ran over there and found a map. It was old and smudged but he could just make out an X and he was convinced that he had to go there. Looking at it he found out that the only way to get home was by finding where the X was on the map. He started to head down an old path and then found himself walking through the woods. Then as the moon shone down on his map he noticed something. There was writing on the map, writing that he could not read. Then suddenly he turned around as he heard an ear piercing howl. He jumped as he saw what was in front of him. It was a wolf but unlike most wolves it was friendly and could speak. The wolf told him that he could read the writing and then she led Finn through the woods. They suddenly reached a big cave hidden in the side of a mountain. Outside the wolf explained that he needed to kill the dragon in order to get them home. They had made a deal, that if the wolf led the way and Finn killed it that they could both go through the portal. Shaking Finn picked up an old rusted sword and tiptoed towards the cave. Then as Finn peered in he threw down his sword. He couldn’t kill it, but he could knock it out. He decided to make a special power out of crushed poppies. 32 While the dragon was sleeping they crept in and went through the twisting tunnels until they found a magic portal. They then heard a growing sound echo through the tunnels. So together they jumped through the portal and made safely out the other side. Lucy Conlon: Overboard Lucy’s story has several twists and turns and a wonderful amount of humour throughout. I certainly wouldn’t be getting on a cruise if this happened to me! As my eyes slowly opened I coughed up sea water as it spilled from my mouth. Where was I? As I got up I slipped and looking down I realised that beneath my feet was not dirt but sand. I braced myself on the ground and pushing myself up I looked around, seeing sea and more sea and more sea… I started walking around taking in my surroundings, it was beautiful. I was on an island with waves all around me and then it hit me. I was on an island with waves ALL AROUND ME! It all came flooding back, how I was on a cruise and then… I remembered how Richard had pushed me, thinking it was funny - a prank as he would call it. But look at me now stranded alone with no way of getting back. You know what, I wasn’t going to give up that easily. Scanning the island, I noticed a solemn looking palm tree with drooping leaves and decaying wood, it wasn't the best but at least it was something. I tried to push the tree over but my hands were still raw with blood from being cut by glass in the water. Wait that was it, glass! I took a running jump into the water, swimming around. For once I was happy people dumped their rubbish in the sea as I found what I was looking for. A glass bottle. Now I have watched my fair share of adventure movies and I know for a fact a message in a bottle always worked. But what to use for paper? As I was pondering on that thought, a seagull squawked over me and did a huge poop that landed on a nearby leaf. Genius, I will use the poop for ink and the leaf as parchment! Several messy attempts later I was no closer to writing a legible letter. I realised this was not going to work and decided to opt for the obvious solution. “AHHHHHHHH” that was me screaming in frustration. At this point I had lost all hope of getting out of here and I might as well accept the fact I was probably gonna die on this miniscule island. When, from the corner of my eye, I noticed a squid swimming about in the water, and finally I felt grateful for school teaching us that if you hit a squid in the middle of its eyes it will die immediately and therefore release its ink! Running towards the squid I felt adrenaline course through me. I practically leaped on the squid and as it squirmed around trying to get free. I smacked it right in the forehead and it went limp. I quickly grabbed it and heaved it to the shore. I got a stick and jabbed it right in its stomach and like that the ink came flooding out. But I had to conserve it. I grabbed a leaf and put it over the squid to act as a makeshift bandage. I heard a low rumbling and realised I hadn't eaten in ages. I quickly placed my materials to the side and went in search of some sort of food. By the time I had come back with empty hands my leaf and sharpened stick were gone. Frantically running around I heard a rustle in a bush. That must be the culprit! I grabbed a nearby stick and called for them to come out. I tried to put on a menacing look in attempts to 33 mask my petrified breathing and held my stick out in front of me. I bellowed “COME OUT”. The rustling in the bush got louder. “COME OUT o-or DIE!” I have to admit I was overreacting a bit but I had to establish dominance. Suddenly I saw a mud covered foot edge from behind the shrub, and then a dirty face came out with it. ”Hello?” I said lowering my stick slightly. It said something in a hoarse whisper that I could barely make out. “Sorry what did you say?” I questioned. “W-who you?” it muttered looking to the ground “I am Alina” I responded “who are you?” At the mention of that they looked up their eyes piercing into my soul. They whispered “I-I have been here so long I no longer remember who I even am” Now things were getting weird. First I was stuck on an island and to make matters worse I was here with some kind of nut job who doesn’t even know their own name. Things were not looking good but as if the world was giving me a sign not to give up something glinted in the bush. I walked over to it and saw what looked like… A flare gun? I snatched it up and checked to make sure it was real when the man let out a hiss “s-step away from that” Of course I wasn't. I finally had a way to get out of this place and I was not going to let that pass because some psycho told me not to. I turned it in my hands and my finger found the trigger. Suddenly the stranger leaped on me and wrestled the flare from my hand. Ok now I was mad, I didn’t want to be stuck here for who knows how long. Anger blazed in my eyes as I pounced on the man almost strangling him in the process. I pushed myself up and pulled down on the trigger. A mini rocket shot from the gun and exploded launching gold sparks from the tail. It sprinkled down on me like confetti. I let out a sigh I didn’t even realize I was holding, turning around the man’s face was anything but the elation I was feeling inside. “Do you realize what you have just done” he seethed “ermm I just saved us both” I said extremely annoyed at this point. I was beaming then suddenly my face fell. I realized that what he was wearing was orange. I took a step closer and narrowed my eyes, a prison uniform. He seemed to notice me looking but instead of being shocked a small grin spread across his face as he advanced towards me. I took a step back “I told you not to do it” he whispered menacingly. He was getting closer to me and I was running out of land to step onto. I could see a helicopter in the sky, they saw the flare! I couldn't let this guy escape, I heaved a branch off a nearby bush and put it behind my head. I swung so hard it hit him onto the floor and he rolled around in pain. The air started to swirl around me as the helicopter sunk to the ground making the sand fly up around it. Bounding from the helicopter came three fully equipped police officers. The one who appeared to be the boss motioned for the other two to grab the groaning man behind me as the leader stepped forward. “I don’t know the words to thank you” She began. “We have been chasing that convict for almost two years and you have managed to bring him to justice” She grinned. I felt shocked that I had single handedly defeated an escaped prisoner without even knowing it. After the criminal was apprehended we all clambered into the tight space of the helicopter and started to ascend. The entire journey back I was thinking how Richard was not going to believe my adventure but the only thing I knew for sure is that I was never going on a cruise again! 34 Melina Panagioti Melina is another dog-loving writer, and her main character Ava is clearly a very hard worker - she always has a plan, even in the face of difficulties! Ava and her dog Benji were on the beach, (in the water) when a big wave came, it swept them away. They went very far into the beach and couldn't get back to shore. And when Ava turned around she saw a little island so Ava picked up her dog and tried to swim to the island, when they arrived they were laying down on the sand from how tired they were, after 5 minutes she got up because she heard something, it sounded a bit like someone was crying, she slowly looked behind the coconut tree and saw a little girl crying, and she looked really scared so Ava took her by her hand and started talking to her to make her feel better and the little girls name was Lea and she was on the island for 4 months I told her to not worry and we would find a way to get off the island, and she felt better that Ava was with her, and Lea didn't feel alone anymore. Ava and Lea were thinking of a plan to get off the island. Lea had a plan. She said that we should try to swim back tomorrow if the waves weren't too strong so Ava said where are we going to sleep and Lea pointed at a tent for all of them, for Lea, Ava and Benji. It was getting dark out so they all went to bed and Ava said to not worry because if you worry you won't get through anything and when Lea and Ava's dog Benji fell asleep she came out the tent and she wanted to make a wall with sand because if the waves get stronger then they were the island wouldn't get too wet, after Ava finished half the sand wall she went to bed because she was tired. The next morning Lea and Benji woke up Lea saw the sand wall and she was impressed. Lea turned around because she heard Benji bark, she was very confused but when she saw the water she saw that there were so many sharks surrounding the island and she started shouting, AVA! Ava woke up and ran to Lea and said what's wrong. Lea didn't respond but after Ava said it again, Lea shook her head pointing to the beach Ava started screaming too. Their plan backfired and they didn't know what to do, but Ava said let's go eat and think about another plan. Ava thought of a good plan but it would take a while so the plan was to put sticks on the sand spelling help really big so if a helicopter or an airplane that just took off sees it they can call someone to come. Lea thought that was a great idea so they started putting down sticks an airplane passed but it didn't seem like they did anything they waited for days but no one would come the sharks left in the middle of the night and come back early in the morning so they still had no chance of swimming back to shore then a helicopter came by but they thought that they didn't do anything as well but after 10 minutes there was a boat coming towards them and they got excited and the boat picked them up and put them on the boat and they made it. 35 Molly Blake: Stranded Molly’s three sibling characters have a tricky relationship at times, but just like any siblings they’re able to pull together when needed. She did a great job of writing their dialogue! “Oh, don’t you just love it here,” said Ashlyn, lying back on a sunbed. “I need to be studying, not sitting by a beach!” Katie replied. “I’m bored. I want to do something exciting. Like jet-skiing, or rock climbing.”Luke was the youngest, and got bored very easily. Ashlyn was the oldest sibling, aged 15. She was the most popular kid at school, and loved taking selfies. Katie, aged 13, was the most unpopular kid at school. This was mainly because she immersed herself in books and homework, and was obsessed with getting good grades. Luke was 9 and was always either hungry or bored (it was torture when he was both). He had to have something exciting to be doing or eating all of the time. The family had gone away on a trip to the Caribbean to try to get the children away from screens and books, and to find something exciting to do. “Look over there!” said Luke excitedly. “What is it?” replied Ashlyn, not bothering to look up from her phone.. “A dinghy. We could get in and paddle out to sea. We’d only be gone an hour or so.” Ashlyn knew there was no stopping Luke, and she would be in so much trouble if she let him go alone. Katie, not wanting to be left out, climbed aboard too. Soon though, they realised they’d become very lost. All they could see in any direction was sea, and there was no sign of the island they were staying on. “Ugh, this is all your fault, Luke!” cried Ashlyn. “Well, sorry for wanting to do something fun!” Luke retorted. “And the worst part is, there’s no WIFI!” Ashlyn was clearly upset. “If you guys weren’t fighting, you would have realised there’s land over there?” Katie was getting frustrated. She realised if they were going to get out of this mess, it would be entirely down to her. “Quick, PADDLE!” instructed Luke, and sat at the front of the rowboat, shouting obvious commands to the girls. Finally, they reached the island. As soon as they’d stepped onto dry land, Katie and Ashlyn collapsed on the floor, exhausted from rowing. Luke, meanwhile, had done zero rowing, so wanted to explore as soon as possible. “There is nothing to explore, Luke. It’s just an island.” Katie didn’t want to do any more running around and doing what Luke wanted to do. “Then how do you explain that weird thing?” Luke asked. “What weird thi…?” Ashlyn asked, but then trailed off when she saw, standing in front of a cluster or palm trees, a creature unlike any other. It had wings like a hawk, a body like a lion, and two legs like a flamingo. Protruding from its chest was a hairy, pink arm, a bit like a monkey’s. Its head was rather peculiar: it had a beak like an eagle, ears like a deer, and tiny eyes that were barely noticeable because of the pink hair over its face. As well as this, it had two small horns, similar to a giraffe’s, sticking out of its head. “Nobody scream,” whispered Katie. Unfortunately, Ashlyn couldn’t help herself. 36 Aaaggghhh!!!” Suddenly, the three children were sprinting around the island, until eventually they climbed up a coconut tree. The creature stood staring at them for a while, head cocked to one side. Eventually it walked away and lay down to sleep. “What do we do now?” Ashlyn asked. “Well,” Katie tried to sound like she knew what to do, but she really didn’t. “We should try to get down this tree, then find a place to shelter. I think I saw a small cave when we were being chased. Then, we should collect some wood to make a fire, and some coconuts to eat: we may be here for the night.” So, Ashlyn, Katie and Luke set about preparing themselves for a night in the wilderness. They agreed that they would take it in turns to keep watch, in case the creature came back. After eating roasted coconut flesh, which actually tasted alright, they lay down on a bed of leaves, and Ashlyn, who was first on guard duty, decided not to wake the others when it was their turn, and instead watched the stars all night long. In the morning, the children were lucky enough to hear a cruise ship sailing past, and ran down to the beach, waving frantically. The captain of the ship steered over and let them climb aboard. After they’d described what they’d seen, one of the crew members said “That’s the island’s native creature. It isn’t found anywhere else in the world. You’re very lucky, you are. Not many people get to see a Kaskeopholis.” Isla Rathbone: The Island Isla’s story is more than a desert island story. She combines elements of refugee stories, harsh governments, and rebellion to create a terrifying world - the island isn’t safe, and neither is the mainland. I wake up with the sand crumbling in my toes and the wind in my hair. I slowly sit up and take in the view in front of me. Waves lap over my cold feet and I notice that I am on a beach. Ahead of me is the horizon, where the sky touches the sea. I turn behind me and notice that I am in fact, sitting on a desert island. I place a hand to my head and cold sweat runs down my temples. There is one palm tree in the centre of this island, with a few coconuts carefully placed between the leaves. It looks like that would be the only source of food until I can get off this island. As a child, I was told coconuts can be your friends in a bad situation. There are many things you can do with coconuts, drink from them, eat from them, build from them and create fires from them. I was told this a lot as a child, especially since anything could happen where we lived, it wasn’t safe at all. At home I remembered the camps, the big wire fences trapping us in like animals. I had very little food there, but I had family, and that was what made it home. I bury my toes in the sand and ponder what I will do next. I decide to explore the island. Even though it is small, it’s worth looking in case I find anything unexpected. As I walk past the palm tree, I notice something. A fire pit. Which means that somebody was here or worse, they are here now. I check every corner of the island, and find nothing. I sigh in relief. But then something alerts me. How will I get off this island? How did I get here? I only remember waking up on this island, not how I got on it. 37 The sun slowly sets over the horizon, reds and yellows merging together like old friends greeting each other. The moon appears among the stars and I decide to find a way to set up a bed of some sort. I scale the palm tree, the way my father taught me before we became stuck in the camp. It reminds me of the sweet, old memories I made with him when I was young. I reach the top of the tree and look out onto the island below. I was right, it is completely deserted, I’m the only one here. I reach my hands to grab a palm leaf. With a gentle tug, I manage to detach two that are just bigger than me. That will do. Once I touch the ground, I lay a leaf on the ground and lie on top. Then I carefully place the other on top of my shivering, sweating body. It will make a blanket to replace the scraps of fabric the authorities handed us at home. I look to the moon and say goodnight as I settle down and immerse myself into a terrible, nightmarish sleep. The morning greets me with hope. I will get out of here alive. And soon. I walk around the island again to see if I can find anything to eat besides coconuts. There is no food in sight, but what I do see is a slip of paper, carefully camouflaged to the colour of the sand, but still there. In a curly, rushed writing it reads: If you are reading this, I was washed upon this island by monsters, terrible people, the authorities. Now the numbers in the camps are too high, they needed more space for us. Or less people. They bundled around 10 of us into a helicopter and flew us over the sea. I expect they will do this to more people 10 at a time. This sea that is surrounding you right now. They scattered us on the islands, miles apart so that the bodies would not be found. They left me here, rotting away until I would die a slow death. If you happened to be dropped here in the same way as me, rescue is coming. By the time you read this, I will no longer be on this earth, I will be in a better place. I have organised a close friend of mine to come on the 25th of February to rescue you, along with many others. So I suppose rescue is coming. February 25th… February 25th? When is that? I wrack my brains and try to shake a date out of it. A hidden memory flashes at me. I do remember being held hostage in a helicopter. Me and my family were separated, so I will be lucky to see them again. I think we were taken on February 21st. Maybe even later than that. Anyway, help is coming. And soon. I will get out of here. I scale the tree again, as hunger grows in my growling stomach. I take one of the five coconuts on the tree and split it in half. I lift the bowl to my mouth and sip the water. It refreshes me and takes me to a calm place. It quenches my thirst and I feel so much happier, so much more hopeful. I spend the day sat on the sand, the sky occupying my interest. It is so beautiful and unique how the clouds twist into shapes you can only imagine. It lets me escape the terrors of the authorities. I settle into my makeshift bed and daydream about freedom from the authorities, freedom from this island. The sun gently wakes me in the morning of the next day. I come to a conclusion that it is either the 24th or 25th of February. Either way, I’ll be out of here soon. 38 Over the next few days, I sit on the sand, my mind slowly crumbling out of boredom. Hopefully this rescue will take me far away from the authorities too. I imagine the sound of blades whirring to rescue me and soon, that becomes reality. I glimpse a black dot in the distance, slowly moving closer and closer. This must be it. I grab another coconut for the journey and wait for rescue to come. It takes several hours for the helicopter to come, I assume other refugees are being rescued right now. I look back at the letter again. ‘I will no longer be on this earth’. What does that mean? I wonder when they were on this island, when they died… It seems not that long ago, the paper is soggy but other than that, in perfect condition. I spot the black dot again, this time it is much closer and I’m hopeful that this will be my escape. The blades whirr in the distance as I prepare to be picked up. I recognise the pilot. He was the only person that provided us food when our family was starving and an inch away from death. He takes my things and I step into the helicopter. Several people greet me with a wave. I recognise them from camp. As we lift off for the journey, I realise just how isolated this island is. The other islands are a decent few hours away. No wonder it took so long for the rescue. When we become higher in the air, I spot the other islands dotted around the ocean. The driver tells me that he was on one too, but managed to escape. He plans to start a rebellion against the authorities. Somehow, I don’t see that happening. The authorities are seen as superior, and they always will be. As the helicopter descends to land, I wonder if I will be able to see my family again. I assume they, like me, have been rescued too. It turns out I’m right. As we land, we are led to a different tent each. This doesn’t seem much of an improvement from camp but they have plans to make this our new home. My family are put in the same tent as me and we are called for dinner. We make our way into the vast dining room and a feast awaits. This seems so much better than camp and everyone is so friendly here. We get three meals a day and water whenever we need it. I just hope our new home is never found by the authorities. Otherwise, who knows what will happen… 39 Weren’t they incredible? All of the stories submitted were so completely different, with wildly varied characters created and incredible depth of worlds, some set on Earth as we know it and some with incredibly magical creatures. Congratulations and well done to everyone who sent in their story, I hope you are all so proud of what you have created! 40

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Planning a desert island scene

I can plan a descriptive scene about a hot desert island.

Lesson details

Key learning points.

Precise and ambitious vocabulary related to the five senses should be included in the plan.
Linguistic devices such as figurative language (similes and personification) should be included in the plan.
The plan should be written in note-form and notes are not written in full sentences.
The 'zoom-in' structure guides the descriptive writing paragraph.

Common misconception

Planning needs to be detailed and plans should be written in full sentences.

Planning should log precise and ambitious vocabulary, linguistic devices and be written in note-from.

Plan - a framework that writers create before they write a section or whole text

Notes - written out of full sentences

Figurative language - the use of simile and personification to paint vivid pictures for the reader

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited ( 2024 ), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Starter quiz

6 questions.

The palm trees -

whispered secrets to each other in the gentle breeze.

The waves -

played a never-ending game of tag with the shore.

The relentless sun -

scowled down on the island's shimmering shoreline.

fine, golden

sea water -

warm, salty

sweet, tropical

blistering, scorching

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Writing to Inform, Explain and Describe

You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours alone on the island.

Hannah Greenslade Y10 Coursework Assignment 2 5/11/01

Task; You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours alone on the island.

The first thing that hit me was the smell. Even before I opened my eyes, I knew where I was. The tantalizing scent of washed-up waves and bananas all rolled into one. I felt the millions of grains of sand, hot against my fingers and the cool breeze against my face, - a relief from the sweltering sun. I heard the sea crawling onto the sand and, further away, the same monster dashing against the rocks. As I opened my mouth to take in a gulp of air, I tasted salt in my throat. Not the same taste as on Brighton Pier, when you look over into the sea, but a fresh, clean one, as if taking in pure oxygen. Only then, when my four other senses had taken in their share of my surroundings, did I allow myself to open my eyes.

I was amazed at how easily fantasy and reality intertwined at that moment. It was like continuing a dream after waking up. As I lifted my eyelids, as the barrier between my imagination and actuality was removed, the accuracy of my prediction astounded me.

As I sat up and looked around, I realized that I must have been asleep for a long time, as my sopping wet clothes were completely dry. I could just see the island on which I had been staying, a strip of land on the contrasting horizon. The rubber dinghy, my means of travel, was almost flat now, having carried my body weight so far across the sea. This place, where I had ended up, was the best case scenario. I didn’t really have any idea where I wanted to go, but anywhere was better than that resort. You know when you see holiday disaster programs on television about families who had to stay on a building site or put up with drunken neighbors? Well think of those and imagine it ten times worse. I hadn’t bargained for a brothel as an apartment building or Ibiza style clubs, it was pretty much my idea of hell. When I let myself drift away on the inflatable, all I could think of was the peace and quiet of somewhere like this.

It was only when I looked up that I realized how dark it was becoming. The sand had a more dull quality and the sea looked grey. I was aware of how much more happy and relaxed I was to be alone, and in a place like this!

This is a preview of the whole essay

I set about looking for a good resting-place and soon came across a shallow cave. I collected enough grass and leaves to line the floor and made a circle of rocks outside for a fire. I felt so excited, as if I was on one of the school camps I used to go on when I was younger. After I had arranged the firewood into a wigwam like formation, I fished my lighter out of my pocket. To my surprise and delight, a flame sprang up straight away and I attempted to light some of the smaller twigs. I found it slightly ironic that my lighter worked after being wet for so long, but the wood from this boiling hot island was too damp to light.

After several attempts, I coaxed a small blaze from the pile, which I fed until it got going properly. Then I lay on my back and gazed at the stars, “Swallows and Amazons” style, until my campfire was down to its last orange embers. I folded my jumper into a pillow and lay down in my cave- bedroom. Soon I was drifting into the land which they call sleep, the land where nothing really matters. I don’t know whether I dreamed that night or not, but I knew that for the first time in my life, I was genuinely happy.

The sun awakened me, beating down hot and yellow. My watch said 4:15, it obviously wasn’t waterproof! I stood up and wandered down to a large, smooth, flat rock by the water, a perfect diving board. I stripped down to my underwear, took a deep breath and dived into the luxuriously cool water. I rose to the surface, spluttering. After regaining myself, a rush of sudden happiness took over my body. I splashed about, screaming and yelling, beating the water with my palms and turning somersaults in the water. I was ecstatic to be completely stress-free with nothing and no one to bother me. I could stay there as long as I liked, no one would miss me and no one would come looking for me.

I had an overwhelming desire to discover everything about the island right then. Was there anyone living there? I hoped not, I came here to get away from civilisation. Was it really an island? From what I could see, it was, but it could be part of a mainland. How big was it? I wanted to know all about it right now, so I clambered out of the water. I started to make my way to the place where you could walk between the rocks and the sea, a little way from where I was originally washed up. I hummed to myself as I squeezed my way along the narrow path. Soon, the walkway became wider and an obvious path up over the rocks became clear. I started to scramble up, making sure I was still keeping close to the sea.

What I saw at the top nearly made me jump out of my skin. A crater, it must have been 100 metres across, dominated the island. From my spot, I could see that apart from my little home area, this was the whole space. It really was the tiniest piece of free-standing land I had ever seen in my life. The crater must have come from the Second World War and I could see that at one end, a great deal of the cliff had collapsed into the sea.

Now that I had a good picture of what I inhabited, I headed back down to my camp. What I had seen shocked me, and led me to wander whether any lives were lost when that bomb struck. It was obviously a significant island before, and it was probably assumed that all that was left was in ruins. I didn’t suppose that anyone had visited since and I doubted that it was on the map. I could have been the only person that knew about this place in the whole world, what a thought!

I remembered my slightly uncomfortable sleep the night before and set about trying to construct some sort of hammock. I found several long branches, bend them into the right shape and secured them with thick grasses. I then found some large, plate sized leaves which I placed over the holes. I pulled the stuffing out of the coat that I no longer needed and arranged it on top. I secured the mattress with more big leaves pegged down with little twigs. I used my bootlaces to hang it with so it was with great strain that it managed to take my weight. My construction was a darn sight more comfortable than the ground and I was quite proud of it. I settled down on my hammock to reflect on the day.

I wasn’t worried about being stranded forever. One, there were regular ships which passed by, so if I really wanted to, I could make a smoke signal to be rescued. And two, I was having the time of my life and probably would stay for weeks, months, maybe even years to come. I was glad that I was the only one on this tiny island. It was no one else’s but mine and I could do whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. Maybe someday I would return home, but at that moment, I was perfectly happy where I was.

Teacher Reviews

Here's what a teacher thought of this essay.

Jeff Taylor

This is an almost flawless essay. The scenario is effectively set at the beginning and the story is developed smoothly as the protagonist explores her new home. The joy of finding herself alone is well expressed in the final paragraph. Sentence and paragraph structure are well-controlled, with only one or two small slips. A few compound sentence structures would be improved by the comma being replaced by a semicolon, but this is nit-picking. One IS left wondering how the protagonist is going to find food.... 5 stars.

You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours alone on the island.

Document Details

Word Count 1357
Page Count 3
Subject English

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Embark on a thrilling quest for a legendary relic hidden within the vast desert.Create a narrative centred around deciphering cryptic clues, overcoming treacherous obstacles, and facing adversaries in pursuit of this coveted artefact. Explore the significance of the hidden relic within the desert’s lore. Discuss how it holds the key to ancient powers, historical revelations, or even the balance of the desert ecosystem. This theme adds depth and purpose to the characters’ quest, elevating it beyond a mere search for material wealth.

Rival Adventurers

Introduce the concept of rival adventurers vying for the same relic. Develop complex relationships, alliances, and conflicts among competing groups. The desert becomes the battleground for not only survival but also strategic manoeuvring and unexpected alliances in the race for the hidden treasure.

Survival in the Wilderness

Explore the theme of survival as characters brave the harsh conditions of the desert. Depict the characters’ resourcefulness, resilience, and adaptability as they navigate scorching heat, scarce resources, and the ever-present challenges of the arid landscape.

Character Evolution

Highlight the transformative journey of characters as they confront and overcome survival challenges. Discuss the psychological and emotional growth that occurs in the desert, shaping characters into resilient individuals capable of facing adversity head-on.

Wrapping Up Your Desert Adventure

Summing up your desert adventure writing journey, we’ve explored the intricacies of crafting compelling narratives in the vast and mysterious desert landscape. From the desolate dunes to oasis mysteries, and characters navigating nomadic life or encountering different creatures, the canvas is vast and rich with possibilities.

Recap of Key Insights

Reflect on the key insights gained, such as the importance of vivid descriptions, well-developed characters, and the dynamic interplay of plot twists. These elements collectively contribute to the immersive and captivating nature of desert adventure tales.

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Writing Practice
Creative writing prompt

Creative Writing - Stranded on a Deserted Island

Desert Island Activity

This idea is based on Desert Island Discs.

Explain the scenario… you are going to be on a desert island, alone, for one month (or more, according to age). Let the class come up with a story as to why they are there. Make sure you write out this story and display it. Make lists for the following which will help you to survive (make the time there be a good one), and say why each item is included.

You can have 5 of each of the following. Tools, clothes, food, drinks, books, records, animals, friends, plus one luxury which can not be alive.

This is a project which has a half-term life. The presentation can be verbal, produced with ICT, or any combination of words & pictures from any source. In the last week of half term, each group has 5 min to present their choice. This must be displayed in some form.

On the last day of half term, the class votes for the choice they like best. You can’t vote for your own choice! There must be an appropriate prize.

Next term, do your best to get as many of the items from all of the lists into the classroom and prepare a Desert Island Survival Kit. Use the book lists to find books to read to your class and record lists to play them into and out of class at the start and end of each day or week. Each group’s presentation should be prepared as a displayable sheet (this could be done during computer time) and displayed in the classroom.

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10 Words to Describe a Tropical Island

By Isobel Coughlan

Do you need some words to describe a tropical island setting in your novel? Use the following 10 to create a picturesque island, which will make readers feel like they are right there with the characters in your story.

1. Soothing

Somewhere that gives a calming or relaxing effect.

“The soothing island left the group feeling at ease, the stresses of the journey simply melted away.”

“It was a soothing island, everyone felt safe despite the fact they were miles away from home.”

How it Adds Description

The adjective “soothing” provides the reader with a clear sense of relaxation, showing the tropical island is a pleasant place to be. This can help you imply your characters are safe, and it can also contrast any unpleasant settings in your novel.

A place with weather that’s very damp, humid , or warm.

“He tried to stroll around the muggy island, but he couldn’t make it two meters without breaking a sweat.”

“The muggy island was more uncomfortable than she expected, and she wished she’d booked a room with AC.”

Tropical islands tend to have hot weather and humidity, and “muggy” provides a very clear image of how it feels to be there. Whether you want to add lots of setting description or show how a character’s feeling, this term can give greater insights into how the island makes you feel.

3. Blistering

A place with extreme heat or excess sun.

“No matter how far he ran, he could not escape the blistering tropical island.”

“The blistering tropical island offered no shade, water, or respite — it was a recipe for disaster.”

If you’re searching for a word that describes hot or tropical weather, “blistering” is an adjective that offers an extreme image. This word can be used to show your character’s discomfort, and it can also further the plot by showing how uncomfortable the island is.

4. Captivating

Somewhere or someone that fascinates or attracts others.

“The captivating island always stole the tourists’ attention, they couldn’t get enough of the sky-high palms and white sands.”

“As she traversed the captivating island, she realized that she was going in circles and didn’t quite know her way any more.”

If you want to highlight your character’s awe or fascination with the tropical island, the word “captivating” can assist you. This word emphasizes how impressed your characters are, and it can be used to further their obsession with the location. It can also be used to just show appreciation for the island’s beauty, signaling its pleasantness to your readers.

5. Outstanding

Something or somewhere that’s very attractive, impressive, or very remarkable.

“She glanced around the outstanding island, though it wasn’t her first time here she was still impressed by the natural beauty.”

“They captured the outstanding island on their camera phones, ensuring they had proof of its existence before they left.”

The word “outstanding” places the island above other places, proving to the reader that it’s one of a kind. This helps your reader understand your island is a special place, thus helping them remember it as the plot advances. If you want to make your island stand out, this adjective can help.

Somewhere that has lots of greenery or healthy plant life.

“The lush island proved difficult to travel across, especially without a machete for path clearing.”

“She lazed on the shore of the lush island and took the scenery in — it was green as far as the eye could see.”

Often, tropical islands have an abundance of green palms, jungle plants, and rare tropical nature. If this sounds like your island, “lush” will convey the plentiful setting to your reader with ease. This adjective can add a clear image in your reader’s mind, helping them understand where your characters are without dense descriptions.

7. Isolated

A place that’s far from civilization or difficult to travel to.

“They kept traveling towards the isolated island, but it didn’t seem to be getting any closer.”

“She screamed until her lungs burned, but the isolated island concealed her attempts at communication with the outside world.”

If you’re writing a thriller or horror novel, you might want to show how alone your characters are. The word “isolated” describes how far away your island is from any other people or help. This can forward the plot and describe your character’s feelings of desperation to the reader.

8. Overgrown

Somewhere that’s untidy with an excess of unruly plants/nature.

“The overgrown island blocked out the sunlight, leaving the group unaware of which way was up.”

“He continued to explore, despite the fact the overgrown island was making his path more and more difficult to walk.”

The word “overgrown” explains the power of nature on the island. If you want to provide an image of a tropical island with unruly trees and thick jungle, the word “overgrown” can help. This can further the story by showing your character’s struggle to explore the island, and it can also hint at future troubles as the jungle becomes more overpowering.

Somewhere or something quiet and calm.

“She decided to ignore their advice, the serene island called her name and she would go there without them.”

“When he arrived, he realized the serene island was quieter than he’d ever imagined.”

The word “serene” is a great option if you want to portray your tropical island in a positive light. “Serene” has connotations of relaxation, illustrating how comfortable and calm your setting is.

Somewhere that’s simple or unsophisticated .

“The island was rustic , but this didn’t bother him too much.”

“She felt comfortable on the rustic island, surviving without modern amenities came naturally to her.”

If your tropical island is undiscovered, the word “rustic” helps your reader understand its lack of modern comforts and facilities. This adjective provides a clearer image of life on the island, making your character’s plot also easier to understand.

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Desert Island Writing Prompts

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This set includes:

10 Stranded on a desert island themed writing prompts
Manuscript lines for early writers
Plain lines for upper elementary
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HELPFUL TIP:

Textures and sensations:, possible sources of conflict:, people commonly found in this setting:, setting notes and tips:, related settings that may tie in with this one:, setting description example:, techniques and devices used:, descriptive effects:.

Desert island writing activity

Desert island writing handout.

In this hypothetical situation, students must choose 5 objects to take to a desert island to help them survive. There are 10 to choose from and after that, they must think of two more additional items.

Once they have chosen the item they must write why they did so and what they will use them for. An example might be – I will take an axe. I will use it to chop down trees to make a shelter or a raft. I will also use it to break open coconuts I find and cut meat.

It’s a good activity to get basic sentence structures grammatically correct. Be sure to give the class any verbs they may require.

To take this writing activity further, get students to write answers to some of the desert island conversation questions . You can simply use them for ideas on how to write a more complex essay.

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Talk 4 Writing - Descriptions of a Setting (Desert Island) Including Model Text

Subject: English

Age range: 7-11

Resource type: Unit of work

Last updated

1 November 2021

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IMAGES

Desert Island Writing Paper
Creative Writing
Creative Writing Desert Island
Desert Island Story (Storytelling based on picture prompt)
Creative Writing Lesson 1
Deserts

VIDEO

Desert island setting
How to draw a Desert Island Step by Step
Desert Island Discs
Desert Island Discs- Ian Fleming (1963)
Desert Island Discs: Alec Guinness (1960)
How To Survive On a Deserted Island

COMMENTS

10 Words To Describe a Deserted Island
How It Adds Description. A deserted island can be quiet in a way that feels almost comforting or pleasant, or in a way that feels much more ominous. Either way, because it's been deserted, the island is likely to feel much quieter than other places your characters may have been to. 6. Secluded Definition. Hidden or screened from view ...
Setting Description Entry: Desert
Setting is much more than just a backdrop, which is why choosing the right one and describing it well is so important. To help with this, we have expanded and integrated this thesaurus into our online library at One Stop For Writers.Each entry has been enhanced to include possible sources of conflict, people commonly found in these locales, and setting-specific notes and tips, and the ...
Descriptive Writing Prompt: Deserted Island
First, we'll start with a prewriting exercise: 1Imagine being stranded on a deserted island paradise. What you discover is a dream come true. Think about what that place would look like, sound like, smell, and feel like. Use the chart below to brainstorm descriptive words and images that appeal to the five senses: Island as Dream Come True ...
Deserted Island Description
GCSE English. Shrayans 10JD. English Mr. Lynn. Deserted Island Description. I woke up with the smile of the sun on me and the abundance of sand surrounding me. The sand was rough like glass paper and lying down on it stung your back like walking on hot coals. If the amount of sand on this island were rocks it would cover all of Africa twice!
Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative
In creative writing, describing sand effectively can transport readers to exotic beaches or desert landscapes. By capturing its texture, color, and movement, writers can infuse their stories with a sensory experience that is both vivid and engaging. Let's dive into the art of painting with words, mastering the delicate grains of sand.
Year 7 Creative Writing: Desert Island
No Text Content! Pages: 1 - 40. Year Seven Creative Writing: Desert Island Your character has just washed up on an island out at sea. Anything can happen in your story, but it needs to end with them being rescued or rescuing themselves. Year Seven were given this as their first prompt for short story creative writing.
Desert Islands
The research and practical activities help engage children in the session and build up to doing some creative writing. This can be very basic or there are options to do more advanced description. ... Step 2: Desert island setting description. Find some pictures or videos of desert islands, either from the links above or from your own research.
Lesson: Writing a desert island scene
Keywords. Zoom-in - a writing technique that involves starting description with a broad idea and gradually narrowing the focus to explore specific details. Text flow - how a text is written to keep the reader engaged. Fronted adverbial - a sentence starter followed by a comma. Past tense - shows that the action happened before now
Lesson: Planning a desert island scene
Plan - a framework that writers create before they write a section or whole text. Notes - written out of full sentences. Figurative language - the use of simile and personification to paint vivid pictures for the reader. Find pictures and video clips showcasing different desert islands for engagement and to support further understanding.
creative writing desert island
creative writing desert island. Subject: English. Age range: 11-14. Resource type: Worksheet/Activity. File previews. docx, 264.49 KB. Three example of genre writing: Thriller, Romance and Adventure. Used as a follow up on a picture prompt. Weak KS4 or KS3 resource.
You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours
Writing to Inform, Explain and Describe. You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours alone on the island. ... Hannah Greenslade Y10 Coursework Assignment 2 5/11/01. Option 3. Task; You have been stranded on a desert island. Describe your first 24 hours alone on the island. The first thing that hit me was the smell ...
Desert Island
Desert Island - KS3 Creative Writing Mini-Unit - Set of Four Lessons. A well-designed and highly-engaging set of four creative writing lessons. Perfect to use with students in the final weeks of term or as part of a related scheme of work (such as survival topics). Students will create a character who is embarking on a journey.
Desert Writing Prompts
Embark on a literary odyssey with our Desert Writing Prompts. Dive into the allure of endless dunes and oasis secrets, crafting characters that brave nomadic wanderings and encounter exotic desert creatures. Whether your learners are seasoned storytellers or novices seeking inspiration, this guide promises actionable prompts to elevate their ...
Creative Writing
Students imagine that they're stranded on a desert island. What things do they think they would need? What would they do to survive? They make a list of five things they can take with them and describe how they would survive on a desert island. This is a fun exercise where kids can let their imagination run wild and can easily be enjoyed at home. This worksheet was created by www.primaryleap.co.uk
Desert Island Activity
A half-termly project is based on the Desert Island Discs show. Saturday, July 27, 2024. English. Col 1. Authors; Comprehension; Grammar; Handwriting; Col 2. ... English Writing. Desert Island Activity. by Mark Warner 9 January 2023. 0 comment. 304. Ages: 7-11 Contributor: ... Creative Writing Ideas. Fronted Adverbials Starters. Fill In The ...
10 Words to Describe a Tropical Island
The word "outstanding" places the island above other places, proving to the reader that it's one of a kind. This helps your reader understand your island is a special place, thus helping them remember it as the plot advances. If you want to make your island stand out, this adjective can help. 6. Lush Definition
30 Top "Creative Writing Desert Island" Teaching Resources ...
Desert Island Adjective Word Mat. KS2 Deserts Descriptive Setting Word Mat 3 reviews. Kensuke's Kingdom Inspired Desert Island Story Writing Lesson Teaching Pack 8 reviews. Desert Island Display Banner. Around the World with Max and Lemon Postcard Writing Templates 6 reviews. Desert Island Page Border.
Desert Island Writing Prompts
Together they are raising their six children to follow the Lord's will, no matter what. Annette longs for the day when she will meet all her angel babies who have entered heaven before her. She enjoys creating fun and engaging printables, unit studies and curriculum for homeschool families. You can follow her crazy life at In All You Do where ...
Setting: DESERT
Acacia trees. Mesquite bushes and desert broom. Bright green aloe spears. Withered trees and stunted bushes. Thorny shrubs. Thick-stemmed yellow and green grass. Vibrant desert blooms (yellow, pink, and white) after rainfall. Dying cacti riddled with bullet holes.
Desert island writing activity
Desert island writing handout. In this hypothetical situation, students must choose 5 objects to take to a desert island to help them survive. There are 10 to choose from and after that, they must think of two more additional items. Once they have chosen the item they must write why they did so and what they will use them for.
Descriptive writing task: Desert Island
Descriptive writing task: Desert Island. Subject: English. Age range: 11 - 14. Resource type: Worksheet/Activity. File previews. ppt, 500.5 KB. A nice task to complete in class to test writing skills. Maybe useful as a first lesson with a new 6th or 7th grade class to assess their writing from the start. Tes classic free licence.
Talk 4 Writing
Subject: English. Age range: 7-11. Resource type: Unit of work. File previews. zip, 15.73 MB. Talk 4 Writing - Descriptions of a Setting (Desert Island) all resources and model text. Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?
What is AI art & how does it work?
Writing a good descriptive prompt is one of the key components of creating generative AI art. Use adjectives, include the names of art movements or mediums, and try including moods and emotions as well. Learn more about writing successful AI art prompts. Explore sample prompts.
Words to Describe a Desert
Each question even comes with a fantastic bank of words to describe a desert. This makes our word mat a wonderful way to expand key stage 2 pupils' vocabularies. By referring back to this word mat during their creative writing session, they can find a range of exciting words to describe a desert such as blistering, desolate and blustery.