The Fog Diver

Reviewed by: Jill Hooper - Freeport Middle School, Freeport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 13, 2016

Review

This high action adventure takes place on and above a futuristic Earth covered with a deadly fog. Only the highest mountains rise above the fog and provide a safe place to live. The Five Families rule over the land and control everything floating and living above the fog. Scavengers enter the fog looking for valuable remnants of humanity that they can salvage to re-purpose or sell. Many who enter the fog end up with a disease that eventually kills them, except for the main character Chess, who was born in the fog and rescued by Mrs. E. He, with other clever children whom Mrs. E. has brought together, work on a salvage raft, searching for valuables that will allow them to get to Port Oro. There they hope to cure their beloved guardian, Mrs. E., who has fallen victim to the fog disease after rescuing Chess years ago. As if the fog wasn't enough of a challenge, add Lord Kodoc who learns of Chess' apparent fog immunity. Kodoc has bigger plans for Chess and puts a bounty on his head, creating a mad dash chase against good and evil. To top it off, add a swashbuckling pirate battle, complete with canons.

The characters are endearing and clever. This novel highlights the idea that what makes us different makes us special, and that we all have strengths and talents. While this story has a satisfying end, it was not concrete, and it seems likely there will be another adventure to come - hopefully soon.

Overall Book Score: very good