Reading is my ESCAPE from Reality!

That's what mortal terror felt like, he realized. Tiny fingers tickling you from the inside.

-Chapter 13

 

The dividing line between genius and insanity is very thin and quite permeable--which is why so many geniuses descend into madness.

-Chapter 33

 

It came down to that flexibility of a person's mind. An ability to withstand horrors and snap back, like a fresh elastic band. A flinty mind shattered.

-Chapter 36 

 

 

Wow. This book is creepy and I couldn't put it down. There were times when I was cringing and trying to read a little faster just to get through a part - like when the sea turtle was attacked and during the vivd descriptions of the effects of the contagion.

This is very old school horror - gritty and bloody and gross. And it doesn't let up for all 358 pages. If you are squeamish, then this book is not for you. The sickness tears people apart and Cutter describes every detail vividly. He doesn't hold back, not one bit.

However, this book isn't all about gore. There is a psychological component to  the story. The group dynamics are fascinating. Each boy has his own back story that gives the reader insight into his actions on the island. Many times, it had me thinking of Lord of the Flies. But you add in this contagion and the stakes are raised immeasurably.  

I kept trying to figure out who, if anyone would survive the island. But, it wasn't easy. Cutter kept that secret well hidden until the very end.

So, if you are a fan of creepy, gory horror that doesn't let up, then you need to read this book.

I will leave you with this quote that really resonated with me:

They'd made a pact to be friends forever, but forever could be so, so brief.