In a perhaps not-too-distant future, the U.S. has been destroyed by fires across the country. Lark and his family had left their Maryland home for sanctuary in Maine, but that proves to be fleeting, as religious radicals turn to violence and persecution.
With nowhere else to go, Lark and his parents are able to get on a crowded ship to Ireland, which is apparently the only place where Americans are still welcome. The trip is treacherous and even their arrival is filled with chaos and violence, and ultimately, Lark is the only survivor left from the ship.
Alone in an unfamiliar country, Lark must find his way. Ultimately he finds two companions—Helen, a woman desperate to find her son, and Seamus, a dog who has seen quite a bit in his life. They want to make it to what they believe is a safe haven, but it will take all their strength and courage.
This is a bleak but gorgeously written book. I love the way House writes, and Seamus joins the list of my absolute favorite non-human characters this year. There is so much amazing imagery, I could see it in my mind’s eye.
Definitely not an easy, carefree read, but an important and beautiful one nonetheless!!
No comments:
Post a Comment