Gray Wolf Island

Gr 7–10—Ruby made a vow to her twin sister, Sadie before she died that she would find the legendary treasure on a nearby island. A year after Sadie's death, Ruby attempts to keep her promise after she discovers a treasure map in the form of a poem tucked inside a copy of Treasure Island. Her research leads her to Gabe, who, along with his two friends, insists on helping her. They need someone with a boat and sailing experience, which brings them to Anne. The five of them plan for a week's adventure. According to the poem, once on the island, they must let go of their secrets before they locate the treasure. Ruby's afraid to tell her secret; now that she's found friends, she doesn't want to them to think less of her. This lyrical debut novel weaves the concept of forgiving evil acts into a treasure hunt novel, and creates a dialogue about second chances and redemption. Ruby needs to forgive herself and, in doing so, her transformation from her twin's shadow into her own person becomes the highlight of the story. Though most of the book is narrated by Ruby, some of the chapters are told from the perspectives of two other characters; these chapters create confusion and might pull some readers out of the story. The conclusion feels anticlimactic and might infuriate teens.