Welcome to Scar Island. Actually, un-welcome...
Island, lighthouse, asylum, boys' reform school, sanctuary or prison?
Yes.
I found this book to be strongly written, great character development and excellent pacing. While I usually lament the lack of plot resolution in action books--this one didn't actually need it. The resolution is built into the characters and continues to tell the story after the last page. The story is dark but not too dark, scary but not overwhelming. While an experienced reader can't help but draw comparisons between this and Lord of the Flies the author deflates any arguments of comparison by referencing that and other classic titles--incorporated so that I now want to read or re-read the books mentioned.
The adult/parent/educator part of me really enjoyed the homage paid to classic literature as well as the emotional appeal of reading aloud that plays a part in the plot as well as an unexpected librarian who acts almost as an oracle.
I am taking this book home for my boys to read--they are going to love the dismal setting, the well-paced action and the strong characters. Z and E will identify with some, shy away from others, and feel the sense of healing they undergo as the story reaches its peak. Fantastic adventure with just enough poignancy to satisfy but more than enough action to keep things exciting!
Thank you Dan Gemeinhart for this superb story!
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