The Skeleton Tree

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired school librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 9, 2016

Review

This compelling survival story is well written and fast paced. Twelve year old Chris and a mysterious older teenager, Frank, are sailing the Alaskan cost with Jack when a storm hits. Chris and Frank are the only survivors. Chris can not understand why his Uncle Jack brought Frank on this trip. Frank is not easy to get along with which makes it very difficult for Chris. Chris befriends a raven which Frank clearly shows he does not like. The boys need to work together to survive. It is salmon season, but winter is fast approaching. The characters are well developed and believable. The story is realistic showing the hardships the boys face together and alone. The descriptions of the wild life and setting are detailed and fascinating. I would heartily recommend this novel for anyone who enjoys adventure and mystery. This would work well for a classroom novel because of its wide appeal and the variety of topics that could be discussed.

Overall Book Score: excellent