If you've ever read a book that swallowed you whole and then spit you out at the end longing for more, you'll understand how my eleven-year-old, Sierra, felt about Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder. I watched my daughter live and love this book for a couple of weeks and then completely mourn the end (which she claimed was perfect). She's an avid reader--one of those who's already planning her next read before she's finished with her current one--and this time she was like, "Nothing will ever compare!" I sympathized because I've been there. The end of book blues... 💘
In the tradition of modern-day classics like Sara Pennypacker's Pax and Lois Lowry's The Givercomes a deep, compelling, heartbreaking, and completely one-of-a-kind novel about nine children who live on a mysterious island.
On the island, everything is perfect. The sun rises in a sky filled with dancing shapes; the wind, water, and trees shelter and protect those who live there; when the nine children go to sleep in their cabins, it is with full stomachs and joy in their hearts. And only one thing ever changes: on that day, each year, when a boat appears from the mist upon the ocean carrying one young child to join them—and taking the eldest one away, never to be seen again.
Today’s Changing is no different. The boat arrives, taking away Jinny’s best friend, Deen, replacing him with a new little girl named Ess, and leaving Jinny as the new Elder. Jinny knows her responsibility now—to teach Ess everything she needs to know about the island, to keep things as they’ve always been. But will she be ready for the inevitable day when the boat will come back—and take her away forever from the only home she’s known?
THE KIDLITERATI 10:
Tell us a little about yourself: what is your first name, how old are you, and what is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
My name is Sierra. I'm eleven-years-old and my favorite flavor of ice cream is chocolate.
What book did you read and why did you choose it?
I read Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder. I chose it because when I read the description on the back of the book I was really intrigued.
Can you describe this book in one word?
AMAZING.
What was your favorite part of this story?
I'm going to say when Ess, who is the second youngest, was climbing the cliffs and no one knew where she was. I couldn't put the book down until I found out what happened!
If you had a problem similar to the main character's problem, what would you do?
I don't know! Send me to Orphan Island (please!) and then I'll answer this question. 😉
What would you say to your best friend to convince them to read this book?
I would tell her that it's the best book ever! It's funny and relatable and it makes you wish you could go there.
What do you think about the book's cover?
Very intriguing--the cover is what made me pick up the book.
Would you want to read another book about these characters? Why or why not?
YESSSSSSSS! I'd love to. I love the characters and this one ended with a cliffhanger--I HAVE to know what happens!
Can you name another book that reminds you of this one?
I can't think of one, but I really enjoyed Perijee & Me by Ross Montgomery.
If you could ask the author one question about this book what would it be?
Is there a second book in the works? (::whispers:: please say yes!)
🌟Author, Laurel Snyder answered Sierra's question🌟
Hey Sierra!
I'm so glad you liked the book! I will tell you that I am TRYING to write another island book. Sometimes, the words come slowly. But it's there, and finding its way out. It will be a prequel, not a sequel. Abbie's story. Hope that's okay?
xo
Laurel
Thank you, Laurel--you made Sierra's day!
**Thanks so much, Sierra, for sharing your love for this book with us!**
Hey Sierra!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you liked the book! I will tell you that I am TRYING to write another island book. Sometimes, the words come slowly. But it's there, and finding its way out. It will be a prequel, not a sequel. Abbie's story. Hope that's okay?
xo
Laurel