Devil's Island
ISBN: 014 1303220
Publisher: Penguin Books, Australia 1999
Luke's journey becomes a life and death struggle to survive an enormous cliff, a mountain labyrinth and a merciless killer stalking him in the jungles of the island.
Awards
- Children's Book Council of Australia, Notable Book
- WAYRBA (W.A. Children's choice), shortlisted
- KOALA (NSW Children's choice, shortlisted
- YALSA, Best Audio Books for Young Adult, shortlisted
Reviews
Inside a Dog: State Library of Victoria
I couldn't put
Devil's Island down. Mum said, 'Turn out that light,' & so I got my torch and kept reading under the blanket.
Michael R
This is one of those books that leaves the reader spellbound hours after reading the final page. Harris crafts a taut, riveting and compelling tale in what Penguin claims is the first in a series of new cliffhanger novels. The author's vivid and pictorial narrative style blends superbly with the taut, sharp and brisk storyline. The intensity and claustrophobia of the scenario is effectively sustained throughout the whole narrative. Quite simply, the reader won't experience any lapses in concentration with this book.
In facing personal demons, Luke Weston treks out to the infamous Devil's Island and finds himself at the mercy of the elements and the deranged Dr Williams. Initially I thought the premise cliched, but found myself hooked by the author's intricate descriptions of Luke's survival instincts. I challenge anyone not to be fascinated by Luke's perilous climb up a cliff. By exploring every conceivable emotional, physical and intellectual response of the character, Harris places the reader into an intimate position with the main protagonist of the text. I must say I pictured the boy undertaking this perilous climb and gasped at pivotal moments in the narrative. I particularly liked the author's handling of the moral dilemma faced by Luke during his encounter with Dr Williams. Coupled with some gruesome and nail biting moments strategically placed throughout the story and the avid reader of thrillers will be very content indeed. In all, a ripping good yarn!
AR
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This book is out of print, but may be available from your school or local library.