cover image La Incognita del Volcan = The Mystery of the Volcano

La Incognita del Volcan = The Mystery of the Volcano

Jose Maria Latorre. EDBE, $0 (234pp) ISBN 978-84-236-5517-5

Gr 9 Up-In this adventure story, reminiscent of Jack London's tales, an English scientist and his two young assistants travel to Papua New Guinea seeking a cure for cancer. Their quest brings them into contact with shady characters; indigenous people (some friendly, others not); and loyal, albeit crusty guides. In their search for a specific native plant, the scientists must travel deep into the heart of the jungle, down treacherous rivers, over giant waterfalls, and into the fiery tunnels beneath an active volcano. Complications occur as greed propels one of the assistants to pursue his own despicable goals and place his companions at risk. Death and disaster loom large throughout the story. The action is well paced and the requisite love interest will keep readers turning pages. The simplistic black-and-white sketches are unremarkable. A good choice for thrill-seeking young adults.