Quake, 2010
ISBN: 9781590806708
Availability: New
Abby McNabb’s father is “eccentric,” at least according to the rest of the town. He believes in ghosts and aliens, and he’s passed that on to Abby. When a mysterious spirit hints to Abby that her father might not be from this planet, it’s up to her to figure out the truth. Is it possible that her father is an alien?
There were some interesting concepts in this book, particularly with the idea of aliens having the ability to “possess” human bodies. It also takes place in a great setting (America’s Stonehenge) that would fascinate anyone, particularly kids who have visited the site. However, the writing was very poor, and the characterization and voice were almost non-existent. The plot had a little too much going on, and didn’t seem to follow a strong arc of any kind. Carbone goes into the head of adults again and again, which usually bores kids.
This book is not recommended for most libraries. It might be of interest in Massachusetts, where the story takes place and where kids can relate to the setting. The only other time I would recommend it is if a child adores aliens and has read every other book on the subject. But otherwise, I think most would find it dull.
Contains: N/A
Reviewed by Cherylynne W. Bago