Book Reviews: Crenshaw & The Wilder Boys
Crenshaw
Katherine Applegate
HarperCollins Children’s Book 2015
What’s it about?
10-year old Jackson lives with his mother, father and younger sister. Their lives are financially unstable with both parents out of work and father sick with MS. There is no money for rent and barely enough for food. Despite their best efforts to get back on track, the family is on the verge of homelessness. This happened once before when the family was forced to live in their van for 14 weeks, a time Jackson remembers all too clearly. Jackson deals with everything thrown his way with quiet dignity and the help of his imaginary friend Crenshaw. Crenshaw is a large, obnoxious cat with a tendency to interfere in Jackson’s life. This is a book about friendship and family. This is not a violent or disreputable family and the story of their decline may help younger readers understand that homelessness and poverty can sometimes be the result of bad luck rather than wrongdoing. The story does end with a positive outlook.
Who would like it:
Lower Middle Years 8-12yrs
Animal lovers, readers who enjoy a story with a slightly magical theme
Wilder Boys
Brandon Wallace
Aladdin Books 2015
What’s it about?
Brothers Jake and Taylor live a precarious life with a bed ridden mother and her bullying boyfriend Bull. The boy’s father took off years before and no one seems to know where he is. One night the boys witness a violent incident between Bull and some men and then the next day their mother ends up in hospital, probably at the hand of Bull so the boys decide it’s time to take matters into their own hands. They stuff their backpacks with the barest of necessities and a vague plan to head West to find their father.
At heart this is a survival story that would appeal to readers of Hatchet and My Side of the Mountain. Jake and Taylor are forced onto their resources and must deal with the obstacles and challenges they face on the road. The boys are able to solve some of their problems using their common sense and basic survival skills gleaned from books and their experience of looking after themselves. Along the way they encounter help from decent and understanding adults but also face setbacks as well meaning authorities force them further from society. Their journey is complicated by their fears for their mother and the possibility that Bull might catch up with them.The dangers are real enough to appeal to young readers but not overly disturbing. The book does resolve leaving the door open for a sequel which will be released this year
Who would like it:
Lower Middle Year 8-12yrs
Probably more boy than girl oriented.
Lovers of survival, action and adventure.
