The Memory Wall

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Detention Center, S. Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 4, 2017

Review

Finding his way through a fantasy game brings Nick to accepting that his mother does have Alzheimer's. He and his dad navigate their way through living at home without her even as Nick imagines his mom is playing online within Wellhall. While Nick is a quiet twelve year old his fantasy game persona is a strong gray elf who is prepared to battle.

Gaming is the primary vehicle within this story, it bring the story to life and helps to identify the characters. Rosen has provided a world within a world offering a glimpse of both the real and fantasy. The writing is compelling and convincing. Not only does the reader experience a neat online game but they learn about a debilitating illness that has the ability to rip a family apart. How the characters deal with their situation is sometimes depressing however it is ultimately hopeful. Put this is the hands of middle school gamers and add to public library YA collections.

Overall Book Score: very good