Zane the Hurricane

Well, this novel, by Rodman Phillbrick, had me so emotionally attached I wanted to cry with every page turn!  The imagery and uncertainty of the future of Zane and Bandy had me wanting to keep reading.  This is such a great book to read for both literary devices and historical significance.  I felt so connected with Zane as soon as the book began.  The respect he had for his mother, for his great-grandmother, and for those around him was heartwarming to read about in a young child.  It also had me thinking of what our state experienced with hurricane Sandy.  Though I was in no way affected like Zane, it reminded me of the generosity and self-sacrifice so many individuals both near and far made to protect people, like Mr. Tru and Malvina.  I was nervous throughout the whole reading, never knowing if they would survive, but I grew very concerned when Malvina met the drug dealer who sold to her mother.  But seeing Mr. Tru, Malvina, Zane, and Bandy stick together like a family was heartwarming.  I also loved the relationship between Zane and Bandy. When the storm began to hit, I was just was concerned as Zane was that most shelters didn't allow pets.  Being a dog lover, I can't imagine having to go somewhere that my own dog, Brody, wouldn't be allowed.  I also felt as though this novel was an easy read, and suitable for both middle school aged children and high school students.  Though the content is heartbreaking, and even scary, it really teaches readers what happened in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina.  Such a great read!


Lesson Learned:
Life is scary, but you need to find those who will have your back and help you "whether the storm."