An ordinary family. An impossible competition. A secret beneath the Red Planet.

Book details: Paperback adventure novel • Author Eric Henry • Illustrations by Questbound Studios Ltd • Published by Questbound Studios Ltd, UK • First Edition • First printed in the UK in 2026 • ISBN 9781066878314 • Number of Pages 218 • Recommended Reading Age 8-12. Language: British English. Finished book size: 148 × 210 mm.

Themes: Space exploration, family adventure, courage, resilience, teamwork, problem-solving, adapting to change, survival, curiosity, science and technology, responsibility, friendship, perseverance, discovery, and growing up.

About the book

Vocabulary & Comprehension Adventure Book specifically designed to prepare for English comprehension tests (UK Grammar Schools).

On a rain-soaked morning in North Yorkshire, the Archer family receives a mysterious silver envelope with no stamp. Their entry to a nationwide Mars competition has reached the final stage—and their ordinary lives are about to change forever.

Cassie, Ravi and Tilly, together with their parents and their muddy, biscuit-powered cockapoo Bramble, are swept into a thrilling space adventure involving astronaut training, international friendships, zero-gravity chaos, dangerous storms, mysterious signals and a discovery hidden beneath the surface of Mars.

As the family prepares to help build the first permanent international community on the Red Planet, they must solve difficult problems, protect one another and decide what kind of world Mars should become.

MARSBOUND combines an exciting science-fiction adventure with meaningful English practice. It is designed as a novel first and a learning resource second, allowing children to meet challenging vocabulary naturally through mystery, humour, action and character-driven storytelling.

Inside the book

• 24 exciting adventure chapters
• 360 mission words woven naturally into the story
• 100 statutory Year 5 and Year 6 spelling-list words
• 260 additional high-value vocabulary words
• 168 comprehension questions
• Six multiple-choice questions and one written-response question for every chapter
• An alphabetical vocabulary glossary with difficulty level, chapter reference and child-friendly meaning
• A practical Reading Toolkit
• Vocabulary-in-context and inference techniques
• A Reading Mission Tracker
• Optional vocabulary and reflection activities
• A complete answer key
• Attractive black-and-white illustrations throughout

Helps children practise

• Reading comprehension
• Vocabulary in context
• Inference and deduction
• Retrieval of information
• Synonyms and word meaning
• Verbal precision
• Evidence-based written answers
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Independent reading

Perfect for

• Young readers preparing for the English Comprehension tests
• Grammar school entrance-test preparation
• Year 5 and Year 6 English practice
• Home learning and home education
• Classroom extension activities
• Children who enjoy space, science, mystery and adventure
• Birthday, Christmas and educational gifts

Educational note

MARSBOUND is an enrichment resource rather than an official examination paper. Eleven-plus content and testing arrangements vary between schools, areas and test providers, and the book does not guarantee admission to a grammar school. Parents should check the current requirements for the schools to which their child may apply.

Frequently asked questions

Is MARSBOUND suitable for children aged 8–12?
Yes. It is recommended for readers aged 8–12 and written in British English.

Does this book help with 11+ preparation (Grammar School)?
Yes. It includes vocabulary, comprehension, inference and written-response practice designed to support 11+ English preparation.

Is this a story book or a workbook?
It is a novel first and a learning resource second, combining an exciting story with English practice.

Does the book include answers?
Yes. A complete answer key is included.