Anything that has the premise of being set in the rainforest is sure to bring about a few interested groups of young people. It’s such a fascinating place full of adventure, intrigue and just a touch of danger. And what a ride it really is!
Let’s start with our main character, Jack. Jack’s having a bit of time since his dad died. Ever since that terrible day he’s begun to hang around a group that everyone (including him) know is no good for him. But that’s the way it is.
His mum is an anthropologist spending time either away or at the very least lost in her research and work. So it is really out of the blue when she asks him to join her on a trip away from everything - particularly the new gang related friends. Usually they communicate through notes on the fridge that ultimately cause more of a breakdown in the relationship rather than any kind of connection after the death of his father.
When she lies and lets Jack into the secret that she’s actually taking him to the rainforest as part of her work, he is less than pleased. The trip will take them to the deepest jungle in search of a tribe who, put simply, don’t want to be found.
Jack as a narrator is not a likeable character, he’s frustrated and exudes that typical teenage frustration and angst. However, over the course of the novel there is an opening up of the rationale behind his thoughts and actions and we, as readers, get inside the mind of a pretty remarkable character and connect with him on a much more personal level.
The shift to the rainforest awakens something within Jack - after he gets over the initial shock of being stolen away to the middle of nowhere - and there is a shift in the relationship between him and his mum as he notices others who are in similar situations and find the strength to move on.
Overall, this is a story of loss and love. It’s a connection between parents and children that creates a real sense of togetherness and the importance of holding on to something while you have it. It’s a wonderfully engaging story and really draws the reader into the narrative. Expertly told and highly entertaining!
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Pushkin Press