If you’re the parent of a young gaming fan, it’s likely you’ve heard of Fortnite. My 11-year-old son, Ewan, is a fan of the game, so the Secrets of a Fortnite Fan book, by Eddie Robson, was the perfect choice for his latest read.
Secrets of a Fortnite Fan, published by Welbeck, is an independent and unofficial chapter book. It combines an accessible Fortnite play guide with the story of one child’s quest for gaming glory.
The story is told through the eyes of Tyler Meeks, who is bored with being left out of the Fortnite craze. And now he’s on a mission to become the world’s best Fortnite player… or at least the best player in Class 5C.
What I thought of the book
Ewan is the gamer in our family, so Secrets of a Fortnite Fan isn’t the type of book I’d usually have at the top of my ‘to be read’ pile. But reading this book has given me an education in Fortnite, which means that while I’ve never played the popular online video game, at least I know a bit of the lingo and what it’s all about.
If you’re still wondering what on earth Fortnite is, the game can be summed up as a ‘world of many experiences’. For example, you can drop onto the ‘Island’ and compete to be the last player — or team — standing. Other options include creating a world of your own with your own rules.
In Secrets of a Fortnite Fan, you’ll find tips, tricks and secrets, as well as Tyler’s story. From my 40-something-non-gamer point of view, I enjoyed the story the most. It was interesting to read about the main character’s friendships and rivalries, and his daily school life. I also liked that his best friend, Alfie, isn’t allowed to ‘shoot’ in games, so focuses on building instead. This shows that children can play a game like Fortnite without ‘fighting’.
The illustrations, by Oscar Herrero, add interest to the book, and help children to get used to reading chapter books. And I found some parts of the book amusing – although Ewan didn’t.
So, if like me you’re bemused by online video games like Fortnite, this book could enlighten you (but I must admit it hasn’t persuaded me to pick up a gaming controller and have a go). It would also be ideal for a reluctant reader who might benefit from swapping a computer screen for a book every so often.
What Ewan thought of the book
Ewan said: “I like the book; it’s good. Some bits are the writer’s opinion on how to play Fortnite, for example the ‘Worst to Best’ weapons, and there are some things I agree with. In Fortnite, some people like to get off the ‘Battle Bus’ straight away, while others, like me, try to choose a place that won’t be too busy.
“In some parts, the author talks like I would to my friends. I also like that he’s included a character, Alfie, who prefers to build in the game, rather than shoot. Shooting is more the point of the game, but you can still win just by building and not shooting. I’ve been playing Fortnite for about a year, and I can build, although not as fast as other people.
“The book is something children can relate to, but I didn’t find it funny, and it was a bit easy for me. Anyone who plays Fortnite could probably read it – even adults. I also like the pictures, and I’m excited to see the next book, Secrets of a Fortnite Fan: Last Squad Standing.”
How much is the book and where can you buy it?
The paperback is £4 and the eBook is £3.80. To buy, click here. Do check Amazon for their updated price as it may change.
About the book
Title: Secrets of a Fortnite Fan
Author: Eddie Robson
Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Group
Reading age: 10 years and up
ISBN: 978-1839350450
Pages: 208
About the Author
Eddie Robson is an acclaimed scriptwriter and novelist who has written for TV and radio. His comic book writing has appeared in Marvel comics, Doctor Who Adventures and 2000AD.
About the illustrator
Oscar Herrero was born in Madrid, Spain, in 1973. He graduated in journalism at the Complutense University of Madrid. Oscar worked as a layout artist for many years in animation movies and TV series, and he’s now a full-time writer and illustrator.
Review by: Colette Warbrook
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*We were given a copy of the book in return for a feature. All opinions are our own.
13 comments
Ooh this is definitely a book I will be picking up for Jack! He is a big Fortnite fan so I think he would enjoy it.
So glad to hear that, hope he enjoys this book
My eldest 2 boys love Fortnite so this would be great for them. Love books on topics they find fun as it helps inspire them to read. Great price too.
I agree, we love helping parents find books which their children love reading
I know so many friends’ kids who love Fortnite. I don’t know much about what it involves but I’m sure this book will be a hit too.
Yes it certainly is a hit with kids and great way to get them away from the game to read the book
This sounds like a great value book for Fortnite fans, definitely something my children would enjoy.
So glad to hear that, it is an entertaining book indeed
One of my daughters is literally playing Fortnite at the moment. I think this would be ideal for her. The tips and tricks would come in handy.
It would indeed, hope you do get a copy of the book for her
Fortnite sounds like a great game to play. I will look into this. Have to kill the boredom of being at home. The book would be a great guide to learn tips and tricks too. I think my nieces play this game. I will ask if they also want a copy of the book.
I agree, it is a fabulous gift for Fortnite fans
It’s good that you’ve learnt a bit more about the game having read the book. I’ve never played it before and I think my fiance is a bit old to have been pulled into the hype x