Review: Lost in a River of Grass

Courtesy of Carolrhoda Books

Lost in a River of Grass by Ginny Rorby

Pages: 264, hardcover

ISBN: 9780761356851

Publisher: Carolrhoda Lab

Date Released: March 1st, 2011

Genre/themes: YA / adventure / survival

Source: Galley from the publisher

Premise:

A science-class field trip to the Everglades is supposed to be fun, but Sarah's new at Glades Academy, and her fellow freshmen aren't exactly making her feel welcome. When an opportunity for an unauthorized side trip on an airboat presents itself, it seems like a perfect escape—an afternoon without feeling like a sore thumb. But one simple oversight turns a joyride into a race for survival across the river of grass. Sarah will have to count on her instincts—and a guy she barely knows—if they have any hope of making it back alive.

Lost in the River of Grass takes on the classic survival genre using one of the country's most unique wild places as a backdrop. In this tense, character-driven thriller, Sarah must overcome prejudice and the unforgiving wilderness in a struggle to survive. (Taken from Goodreads)

Okay, so the first thing I noticed about this book was that it was written in first person present. Now, it's really hard to pull off, mainly only if the story is very plot driven and filled to the brim with action, which, unfortunately, this book has neither. It starts off slow, which makes the first person present writing feel awkward and sluggy. Thankfully, though, it picks up a bit, but only several chapters later.

Personally, I'm questioning Sarah's sanity and intelligence for ditching the safety of her field trip and going on a date with a strange, persistant guy she just met. Especially when he wants to take her out on a boat... in the middle of nowhere. Now, that just feels creepy, no matter how hot he may be or whatever.

I love the contrast between Andy and Sarah. They're just so different from each other. He's this cool, laid back country bumpkin who handles snakes and she's scared of all things creepy and crawly.

Sarah becomes incredibly annoying once they depart on their journey back, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, as Andy's frustration towards her gives just the right amount of comedic relief to lighten the mood of this otherwise serious story.

Their story of survival is really quite interesting. I've never really heard much about the Everglades and what goes on in there, but this reveals a lot of scary truths about nature.

Teapot, despite being just a duck, became my favourite character. The scenes where she's described are vivid and provide enough detail to start to think of her as one of the main characters. Plus, because she's such a sweet and innocent baby duckie, I had grown emotionally attatched to her. Everytime she was in danger, I was afraid for her safety.

Overall, an interesting story with great character development, but with a slow beginning.

Cover Art: 4 (do you guys see the gator hiding in the water? I didn't see it until after I read it. It was awesome)
Plot: 3
Characters: 4
Writing: 3
Level of Interest: 4

Total: 3/5