Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick
“This is a gripping read! From the moment that the bloodied hand hits the coach window, we know that we are in for a thrill. The beauty of this book comes less from what has been put in, but more from what has been left out. The air of this book positively tingles with mystery and suspense and the pages will keep turning as we desperately want to know the answers to the many questions that will buzz around in our heads like annoying insects! As well as being a good mystery/thriller, this book holds within it many themes; friendship, loyalty, overcoming fears and endurance. Whilst its intention is to thrill and to scare, it never does so in a gratuitous nor ’can’t-sleep-without-a light-on’ way. It is the perfect introduction to the thriller genre and will have children absolutely gripped. They will recognise traits on the main characters, will be able to visualise an overbearing controlling Assistant Headteacher and will be willing the kids to get out of Crater Lake alive. They may consider whether or not to sign up for the school residential trip however! There is much to praise this book for and I would certainly choose it as a read aloud for a class of Y5/6.”