Based on true events, Where the World Ends tells the story of nine boys and three men who are marooned on a remote “stac” (a large outcrop of rock rising out of the sea) in the north Atlantic off of the coast of Scotland in 1727. Each summer a group is sent to the remote Warrior Stac to hunt for the birds that are a major part of the economy of their small home island. Their journey is told through the eyes of Quill, one of the older boys, experienced in the bird harvesting.
The three week-long hunt starts out with excitement, but soon the drudgery and harsh conditions take their toll, and the boys are counting down the days to when they return home. Except weeks go by and there is no sign of the return boat. Everyone imagines what the delay could be about, but a harsh reality sets in as the days and weeks turn into months. A fight for survival with unbelievable hardships and tragedy are what they endure for nine long months until they are finally rescued. But their return home is not the warm and welcoming reception they are expecting as another tragedy awaits these poor souls.
For lovers of historical fiction based on true events and wrought with tension even when you may know the outcome, Where the World Ends is the perfect book. Although a serious read, the book is never boring. This story of survival is intense and emotional and is recommended for fans of Lord of the flies or Robinson Crusoe.
Rating: **** Stars (I really liked it)
Availability: Book, eBook in CloudLibrary
Reviewer: Helen, Technical Services Librarian
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Where the World Ends
AWARDS: Carnegie Medal GENRE: Historical Fiction CHARACTER: Well-Developed TONE: Atmospheric; Bleak WRITING STYLE: Compelling; Spare LOCATION: Outer Hebrides; Scotland TIME PERIOD: 1720s; Georgian Era (1714-1837) SUBJECT: Abandonment; Belief & Doubt; Boys & Men; Castaways; End of the World; Hunting; Islands; Oceans; Wilderness Survival
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