Boy on the Edge

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - Retired school librarian, Sebago, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 14, 2014

Review

This is the story of Henry, a boy born with a clubfoot. He stutters and has great difficulty learning to read which make him a target for bullying. After much abuse he lashes out and finds himself being sent to a farm for troubled boys run by a preacher and his wife. The husband and wife couldn't be more different in their approaches to what they believe is important for helping these boys. This gripping, yet sensitive story is set in the author's native country of Iceland. The character development and descriptions of Iceland's landscape are exceptional. There is much to ponder after reading this well written novel. Using this book in a classroom or a small group would bring about a variety of discussion topics. I highly recommend this book.

Overall Book Score: excellent