Blackwater

Blackwater is a book by Eve Bunting. It is the story of thirteen-year-old Brodie Lynch who unintentionally causes the death of two teenagers. Most of the story revolves around Brodie's internal struggle to find the courage to reveal his true involvement in the deaths. This moral dilemma is intensified by the messages of an anonymous witness who urges him to admit responsibility. Who is this witness? And exactly how much do they know? And will Brodie tell the truth and face the consequences of his actions?

I quite enjoyed this book. It hooks the reader quickly and then maintains suspense until the end (although admittedly it was pretty easy to work out who the anonymous witness was). The first person narrative encourages us as readers to empathise with Brodie's situation and to understand his shame, fear and confusion as he tries to decide what to do.

I think Blackwater would appeal to good readers in upper primary, intermediate readers, and less enthusiastic readers in lower secondary. Both girls and boys might enjoy this book.