Wild Things

Gr 4—6—Reminiscent in many ways of Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn-Dixie, Clay Carmichael's novel (Front Street, 2009) tells the humorous and heartbreaking story of a number of wild characters both human and animal. The narration is mainly told in the first person by feisty 11-year-old orphan Zoe who has been sent to live with Uncle Henry, a famous sculptor, after her mother's suicide. Mr. C'mere, a feral cat, narrates occasional chapters. Liz Morton delivers the cat's thoughts in a cool, matter-of-fact way, and does an excellent job of bringing the other characters to life. Zoe acts as a catalyst in her new surroundings, bringing together various solitary people, Mr. C'Mere, and a mysterious white deer. As the relationships build so too does Zoe's sense of well-being and security. Carmichael's accomplished handling of characterization is all the more compelling when compared to the many plot-driven aspects of this story. Highly recommended.—B. Allison Gray, Santa Barbara Public Library, Goleta Branch, CA