The Starlight Claim

Twenty-four years after the publication of Wynne-Jones’s The Maestro, which traces 14-year-old Burl’s flight from his abusive father, comes this “intergenerational sequel,” an equally riveting survival tale featuring Burl’s teenage son, Nate. Nearly four months have passed since Nate’s friend Dodge disappeared from their families’ campsite in the Canadian wilderness. He is presumed dead, but his body hasn’t been found, and Nate is determined to search the site himself. His solo trek to Ghost Lake (Nate’s parents mistakenly think he’ll be accompanied by a friend) is hazardous enough in the winter, but the dangers increase when Nate finds that his family’s cabin is occupied by escaped convicts. With no cellphone service and a blizzard on its way, Nate holes up in a neighboring cabin and must rely on his knowledge, wits, and instincts to survive his ordeal. An action-packed adventure featuring snowmobile chases, violent encounters, and Nate’s courageous attempt to provide aid, the book is also a poignant coming-of-age story with Nate, haunted by memories of Dodge, gaining new insight into his friend and discovering new facets of his heritage. Heavy foreshadowing makes some of the plot predictable, but the book’s fast pace and frequent dramatic moments will hold the attention of even reluctant readers. Ages 14–up. [em](Sept.) [/em]