Mau was just coming back from his coming of age ritual when the big wave came. The wave wiped out everything in the Nation- people and animals alike. The wave also crashed the English vessel, Sweet Judy, into the Nation and killed all of her crew- all, that is, but Daphne. Daphne and Mau meet, and soon after that survivors from other islands in the chain arrive. They bring word that the Raiders- a cannibalistic tribe from the farthest island- are going to each of the islands in the chain, one by one, and looking for people to kill. They have a new chief, too: First Mate Cox, the leader of an attempted mutiny on the Sweet Judy which Daphne witnessed. Mau has to fight Cox in a battle to protect all the islanders from death and slavery- but Cox is a clever leader and a strong fighter.
Nation was a brilliant and detailed book which should be an addition to every library. It shows the shock and grief of losing everyone in his life and then the recovery and hope of starting over. The story is a bittersweet one with many good life lessons set into the foundation subliminally. And, despite the beginning of the story, the overall tone is actually joyful and in good spirits most of the time. Because: When much is taken, something is returned.
It is labeled as ages 12 and up, due to religious questioning and the initial subject of losing so many things.
Reviewer Age:14
Reviewer City, State and Country: Colleyville, Texas USA
