Beyond the Bright Sea

Beyond the Bright Sea
By Lauren Wolk
Button Books for Young Readers, 2017, 304 pg., Youth Historical Fiction

It is human nature to want to know where we came from, where we were born, and who our parents were. For many, these questions can be easily answered; but there are many for whom these questions may take a life time to figure out. Crow is one of these latter people. All she knows is that Osh, her adopted father figure, found her washed up on the shore of his little island in the Elizabeths. The boat she was in was small and barley sea worthy and she was only hours old. Up until her 12th year this was satisfactory for Crow, but now she wants to know more. Where are, or were, her parents? Why did they send her away? Does she have family somewhere other then Cuttyhunk?

Wolk has written a touching and poignant tale. The characters are wonderful and the reader becomes attached to them. This attachment pulls the reader into the story; making them want to know what happens next, what are the answers to Crow's questions, and what is she going to do about them? Wolk has done some excellent research about the Elizabeth Islands off the coast of Massachusetts in the 1920's. Readers will learn things they may never have known existed. As far as reading level goes this book is good for children 5 grade and up, and adults will enjoy it as well. As far as content is concerned, readers should know that this book may shock or upset sensitive readers. A major plot point revolves around a serious illness, and while it is not necessarily frightening, it is sad. That being said the book resolves into a contented, though not perfect ending. I for one was pleased with it's bittersweet story. This would be a great read for those who enjoyed Wolk's Wolf Hollow.