GENRE: Fiction, Illustrated Novel
HONORS: None
REVIEW: At the loss of his father, Blue Blaker has some emotional issues to deal with. At the advise of a counselor, Blue decides to release some of his angst through writing and illustrating a story about a boy who scavenges in the woods and is without family, friends or knowledge of where he came from. Equipped with an ax and the capacity to hunt, the further Blue writes on, the closer "the Savage" comes to real life.
OPINION: Even though the book is written for ages 9 - 12, the illustrations and plot appear to be geared towards younger teens.* Blue uses profane language and has a ruthless attitude, which is exemplified through the character he creates in his story. When Blue and the Savage come in contact with each other, it allows the reader to think beyond literal terms and question Blue's psychological state. His mother also comes off as a little too supportive, which disqualifies some validity to the plot.
IDEAS: An attractive illustrative novel for discouraged readers that may be turned off by the usual YA novel, or a nice introduction to a creative writing workshop.
*The library that held this book has it labeled as "Teen" fiction.
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