Wild

Original author: Alex Mallory
Wild

SYNOPSIS:
The forest is full of secrets, and no one understands that better than Cade. Foraging, hunting, surviving-that’s all he knows. Alone for years, Cade believes he’s the sole survivor. At least, until he catches a glimpse of a beautiful stranger…

Dara expected to find natural wonders when she set off for a spring break camping trip. Instead, she discovers a primitive boy–he’s stealthy and handsome and he might be following her. Intrigued, Dara seeks him out and sets a catastrophe in motion.

Thrust into society, Cade struggles with the realization that the life he knew was a lie. But he’s not the only one. Trying to explain life in a normal town leaves Dara questioning it.

As the media swarm and the police close in, Dara and Cade risk everything to get closer. But will the truth about Cade’s past tear them apart?

WHY SHOULD YOU CHECK IT OUT?
In case you can’t tell from the synopsis, this is a retelling of Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs. Who knew that the classic pulp tale could be repacked in a modern YA setting! It will be interesting to see if this one has series potential, and how closely it sticks to the source material.

The cover recalls novels like HATCHET or WHITE FANG. The accent of crimson lettering against the otherwise black and white images conjures both danger and simplicity—events which Cade and Dara will no doubt encounter.

This is the debut for Alex Mallory, pen name for author Saundra Mitchell. She is most well-known for her historical YA series THE VESPERTINE and her recent paranormal MISTWALKER.

EARLY REVIEWS SAY…
[T]this novel combines adventure and romance into an engaging read. … Cade and Dara’s struggle to be together shines. (Kirkus Reviews)

Some mentions of modern technologies such as Tumblr, Skype, and iPhones will date the novel, but they add to Cade’s overwhelming lack of knowledge about the world he is suddenly a part of. A fine addition to any YA collection. (School Library Journal)

NECESSARY DETAILS
YA Retelling
Hardcover & ebook, 448 pages
Published on July 8th 2014 by HarperTeen (ISBN 0062218743)
http://www.harpercollins.com/9780062218742/wild


Previous article

Jane Austen Mansfield Park

Next article

Soundbites