young Reader Book REcommendation: 'The Cay' By Theodore Taylor

'The Cay' is a children's novel written by Theodore Taylor in which the author based the character of the boy in his book on a child who was aboard the Hato, when it was torpedoed, who drifts out to sea on a lifeboat. The novel was published in 1969 and dedicated to Martin Luther King, Jr.

​The story is about Phillip who is excited when the Germans invade the small island of Curaçao. War has always been a game to him, and he’s eager to glimpse it firsthand–until the freighter, he and his mother are traveling to the United States on, is torpedoed.

When Phillip comes to, he is on a small raft in the middle of the sea. Besides Stew Cat, his only companion is an old West Indian, Timothy. Phillip remembers his mother’s warning about black people: “They are different, and they live differently.”

But by the time the castaways arrive on a small island, Phillip’s head injury has made him blind and dependent on Timothy.

Here's what young reader, Huda Kurdi, 12, wrote about the book after finishing it over Easter break:

'I found 'The Cay' a very creative and inspiring novel that makes the reader want to keep turning the book's pages. The story takes place during World War II, where the main character Philip encounters many problems as his parents are arguing about wether or not they should move to another country to stay safe.

Overall, it was a very intriguing book, although the ending made me question the whole point of the book. I recommend this book to people aged 10 and above, as its language is very simple and to the point. I also recommend this book to people who enjoy learning about history and people's past and lifestyles, as that is what 'The Cay' is all about'.

For more on the author, check out his website HERE.