Alone on a Wide Wide Sea - Michael Morpurgo

Advantages: Mystery makes the book an interesting read
Disadvantages: Aimed at children

...Author:Michael Morpurgo, a British author who was born in 1943, growing up in wartime London. He held the title of children's laurerate from 2003-2005. Kensuke's Kingdom is one of his favourite books out of the books he himself has written. Kensuke's Kingdom: The book was published in 1982. Although it was written for children, it was also well received by adults, increasing its popularity. Although it is not the most successful book by Morpurgo, it is one which is often used at school level. Plot: Michael's parents take him away from his school, his friends and his life after his father buys a boat called the Peggy Sue. Alongside his parents and his loyal dog, Stella Artois, the family decide to travel around the world. During a storm in the Pacific Ocean, Michael and his dog are washed overboard. When they awake, they discover... Read review

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Advantages: Good storyline that stays interesting
Disadvantages: None

...Another fine piece of literature from Michael Morpurgo. This book is apparently aimed at year 6 but I find that Michael Morpurgo just writes such great stories that 2 or three years below would enjoy it. This book is about a boy (Michael) , his Mum and Dad who, due to unemployment, decide to sell up, buy a boat and sail around the world. Michael falls over board with his dog and is marooned on an island. With no evident water or food supply Michael is certain he will die until he discovers a bowl of water and some fish, clearly left for him. The story then bases itself about Michael's relationship with Kensuke (an old Japanese man) and how he has managed to survive for long on the island alone and why he chooses to stay when all Michael wants to do is light a fire to summon help......much to Kensuke's horror. Why is Kensuke so... Read review

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Advantages: Exciting enthralling and mysterious.
Disadvantages: None

..., which he uses as a lucky mascot. His mum who takes some persuading is the skipper, as she is the most experienced sailor. They do six months training with a very grumpy "Barnacle Bill" as previously they had only sailed a dinghy. Michael is made responsible for keeping the ships log and Stella Artois is the ships cat. This first part of the story makes the reader aware of the family bond and the boys' view of his parents. There are minor differences but the routine of work required to sail a boat establishes a rapport between them and sense of responsibility. They encounter rough seas, the dog goes overboard and they see flying fish and other wonders. They visit Brazil, Africa, and Australia but one night he and the dog go overboard and experience the terror of being alone in a large ocean. The boy and the dog are eventually washed up... Read review

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