Some older elementary students will be too sensitve to read The Wreckers by Iain Lawrence. But those who love adventure stories will enjoy this action-packed book.
John Spencer is fourteen-years-old and on his first voyage with his father, who is a merchant. They’ve been to Spain and are on their way back to London when a squall hits their ship. The captain recommends dropping anchor and waiting it out, but John’s father is owner and anxious to get back to London.
In the midst of the storm, John spies two lights. Assuming they indicate a safe harbor, the captain turns the ship – straight into the rocks.
John finds himself on shore, waiting for help. There he witnesses the murder of one of the ship’s sailors, and runs for his life. The local gentleman rescues him, but not before John learns that his father has survived the wreck and is being held prisoner.
Who can John trust in a town of wreckers? Will he be able to rescue his father? Or will both die at the hands of the wreckers?
Full of suspense, red herrings and nerve-wracking plot twists, The Wreckers is a book most boys – and girls – will enjoy.
As a bonus, readers can follow John’s further adventures in the other two books in the series.
Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Cultivating Readers 
Leave a Reply