Newbery Honor author Rodman Philbrick presents a gripping yet poignant novel about a twelve-year-old boy and his dog who become trapped in New Orleans during the horrors of Hurricane Katrina.
Zane Dupree is a charismatic twelve-year-old boy of mixed race visiting a relative in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hits. Unexpectedly separated from all family, Zane and his dog experience the terror of Katrina’s wind, rain, and horrific flooding. Facing death, they are rescued from an attic air vent by a kind, elderly musician and a scrappy young girl—both African American. The chaos that ensues as storm water drowns the city, shelter and food vanish, and police contribute to a dangerous, frightening atmosphere, creates a page-turning tale that completely engrosses the reader. Based on the facts of the worst hurricane disaster in US history, Philbrick includes the lawlessness and lack of government support during the disaster as well as the generosity and courage of those who risked their lives and safety to help others. Here is an unforgettable novel of heroism in the face of truly challenging circumstances.
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“An appropriately serious and occasionally gruesome tale of
surviving Hurricane Katina, buoyed by large doses of hope and humor…Careful
attention to detail in representations of the storm, the city, and local
dialect give this tale a realistic feel. Zane’s perspective as an outsider
allows Philbrick to weave in social commentary on race, class, greed, and
morality, offering rich fodder for reflection and discussion. This compelling
story of Katrina is like the floodwaters it describes: quickly moving,
sometimes treacherous, and sometimes forgiving, with a lot going on beneath the
surface.”
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Kirkus Reviews (starred review)