Middle Grade Monday: Orphaned by Eliot Schrefer

Orphaned by Eliot Schrefer. Ape Quartet #4. 336 p. Scholastic, September, 2018. 9780545655057. (Review from arc courtesy of publisher.)

Middle Grade Monday features Orphaned by Eliot Schrefer. Book four in the Ape Quartet brings the reader back to prehistoric Rift Valley where Snub is dealing with sibling rivalry. Mother has a new baby. He looks like a worm and Snub doesn't like this intruder one bit. The security of her family unit, led by Silverback is disrupted when the land shifts and a volcano erupts, changing the landscape and their family forever.

The novel is told quite effectively in verse. The form lends itself to the startling imagery one might experience when fleeing disaster and attempting to survive. The short sentences and various rhythms enhance feelings of confusion, anger, exhaustion and fear.

Orphaned is a must-purchase for any library, like mine, that has the previous three books. Orphaned stands alone just like the rest. Orphaned would be a fantastic place to start if, for some reason this is the first you are hearing of the Ape Quartet. Your animal story loving readers will thank you for it.

Don't skip over the interview and other backmatter. This book was well-researched and the information is fascinating.