Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Sunday, August 26, 2018

The Island at the End of Everything by Kiran Millwood Hargrave

How I Heard About It:  The novel came to via the publisher.  I absolutely loved the title and cover.  I knew very little about the story so I was excited to read the story and see what was within the pages.  


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:  
1.  *Ami and her mother live on an island.  This isn't an ordinary island.  The residents of this island have leprosy and/or have a family member that does.  

2.  *She and her mother have been a home on this island and are quite content.



3.  *This contentment comes to an end when a government leader arrives on the island and changes their lives forever.  He wants to separate those that have leprosy and those that don't.  

4.  *Ami, along with other children, are sent to a neighboring island where they will reside in an orphanage.  While on this island they must follow the new rules/laws.  Ami isn't happy to be here and  away from her mother.  

5.  *When Ami finds out that her mother needs her and needs her quickly; she does everything in her power to get off the new island and back to her mother's side.  


What I Thought Of It:  The writing was beautiful.  The words just flowed from page to page.  I was intrigued by the plot and don't recall reading any other fiction that dealt with leprosy.  The author handled the subject matter with honesty, sensitivity, and emotion.  The balance between the characters that I had empathy for and the ones that were easily "disliked", was on point and added greatly to the overall story.  The imaginary, symbolism, and visuals the author provided create a deeply moving and emotional read.  


Who Should Read It:   I'm thinking this novel would be best suited for readers in grades five and/or six.  I would also add it to all middle-school libraries.  The plot can move a bit slow at times, so readers that are use to that type of format would be the perfect audience for the story.  Happy Reading!  


Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars!





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