The Journey Beyond: Universal Truths is a middle grade fantasy novel by author Cheryl A. Matsen-Nieves. Another instalment in The Journey Beyond, this story sees brother and sister Raphael and Haniel facing new trials and tribulations in the quest to recover and rebuild their kingdom. Determination fuels the youngsters and they are supported by an adorable cast of friends and allies, including Frogeye, a charming three-eyed frog with a penchant for getting into trouble. Their adversary is a woman on a crystal broom, whose witchy ways pose a threat to the siblings’ wishes coming true. Magic, fortitude, and friendship will be required for them to overcome evil and continue their quest.

Cheryl A. Matsen-Nieves knows her middle grade audience well and creates a simple but imaginative tale that is certain to delight the target audience. The world in which the adventure is set is vibrant, colourful and interesting, as are the animal servants who accompany and aid our central heroes. I preferred Haniel to Raphael, finding her strength and willpower very inspiring, but the best developed character by far was the villain. The scenes, including the murderer of the siblings’ mother, leapt off the page with a sinister note that doesn’t permeate the rest of the book. Overall, I feel that The Journey Beyond: Universal Truths contributes a small part to a greater narrative, which is going to get better and better as it unfolds. For now, it’s definitely recommended for parents looking for a short, enjoyable fantasy read to inspire their children’s imaginations.

“I will not take any more of your poison! I know what you did to my mother and her servants. I know how you fed and poisoned many in the castle. But you did not succeed in poisoning me. My mother warned me about you and your broth. I welcome battle with you and I challenge you now, old woman. You and your evil will not walk this universe as long as I live! You will be defeated so we can travel through the next geode. We will reach the castle and conquer all!” This young Haniel proclaims in the wake of an attack against the old woman responsible for her mother’s death. Haniel is determined to regain and rebuild the kingdom once ruled by her parents. With the aid of loyal servants - Frogeye, Wise Old Owl, and Wolvarith - Haniel and her brother Raphael must defeat the old lady on the crystal broom in order to reclaim their inheritance and keep the forest and its creatures safe. Can they succeed?

The Journey Beyond: Universal Truths is a middle grade fantasy written by Cheryl A. Matsen-Nieves. With the addition of character pencil sketches, this makes for a winning tale for fantasy-loving young readers. The vocabulary Matsen-Nieves employs in her descriptive passages brings an enchanted world to life in an infectious style that leaves the reader wanting a continuation of this well-written story. A sincere lesson in loyalty provides a combination of mature thinking with the innocence of youth. This is a lovely story for middle grade youngsters.