A book this size would usually take me around a week to read. I finished it in less than two, and that's whilst lockdown homeschooling, making meals, running a business and everything else that goes with everyday life. I was up until 3am this morning finishing it as I just HAD to get to the end to see how it all turned out - it's THAT good - and it's aimed at 9+ year olds.
I often get looks of puzzlement or mild amusement when i tell people that I read a lot of Children's Literature. In a kind of 'how quaint' way they say 'Oh that's really nice, there's some sweet books out there for kids'. But little do they realise there's so much more available to the Adult willing to delve into the world of MG and YA fiction. There's darkest and light, stories exploring loss, refugee journeys, acceptance, gender identity, inclusivity, and learning to love ourselves and others with all our unique flaws and foibles. Occasionally one comes along that reaches out, grabs you by the shirt and pulls you deep into the story, with no chance of pulling away until you've reached the end. This is one of those books.
Orphans of the Tide is a dark dystopian story, where the world has been completely flooded by the rising sea, apart from one last city, who live in fear of The Enemy returning to cause death and destruction.
A boy arrives at the island in strange circumstances and is immediately accused of being the Vessel (incubator for The Enemy to grow within). In scenes reminiscent of the great Witch Trials he is immediately sentenced to death by fire, the crowd baying for his blood.
I don't want to give too much more away for you dear reader, because part of the sheer perfection of this book is that even as an adult reader, who can usually see a plot line coming from a mile away - you are kept guessing almost to the very end. Stories and back stories weaving together in a perfectly balanced movement to a satisfying crescendo. You are left wanting for nothing the story is so well told. Our lead (female) characters are strong, independent, intelligent and fiercely loyal. Trying to fight for what they know is right, even though both have a troubled past - and one is hiding a terrible secret, that once revealed will change their lives forever.
If you've given up reading to your older children because you don't think you enjoy children's literature, and your child is 9+ and likes a dark mysterious adventure with a steampunk kind of vibe, here is the book for you to read together. You're welcome.
Orphans of the Tide, by Straun Murray, Published by Puffin Books. Out Now.