A Green Thumb

Earthquake Terror by Peg Kehret

Adolescent Thriller

Kehret has a green thumb with books--everything she writes is just a really cool read.  Not Pulitzer or Newberry worthy, just really, really good.  I'm such a fan of hers, a new fan.  All of her books are perfect for my classroom and the kids love her stuff.  Her books are always checked out.

This one has danger and disaster from the get-go and it doesn't let up until the last chapter.

Jonathan and his family are used to roughing it.  That's why they are vacationing on very remote Magpie Island with no running water, no electricity, and only one road.  But their camping trip takes a turn for the worse when Jonathan's mom trips and breaks her ankle.  Dad is forced to leave Jonathan to watch Abby, his handicapped little sister.  Then, roughing it becomes way too rough when an earthquake flattens their camper and cuts off the road.  Now, Jonathan is left to take care of things on his own with just his dog to help them.  When the island starts to flood, Jonathan realizes that he can't stay put and wait for help.  He's going to rescue them all.  But, how can he when his sister can't walk, can't swim? 

What follows is a non-stop life or death struggle for the siblings.  I honestly didn't know at several parts in the book if all three of them were going to make it.  It is easy to see why Kehret's books are so popular with kids.  You just can't stop reading at the end of the chapter!  You have to keep reading to see if they'll make it.  It's perfect for low level readers and any young reader who likes a fast, thrilling read.