Beyond the Western Sea 1: The Escape from Home

Avi has written several classics, such as the Dimwood Forest Series and Don't You Know There's A War On. This book, Beyond The Western Sea Book One, is a credit to his writing. An exciting book, it also is educational and great for kids who like historical fiction. It is SO hard to find a writer like this these days!! Avi, in my book, will always be mentioned in the same category as Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle. To me, this paints a picture that is so real and vivid. A very good book. I'd rate this ten stars if I could. A must-buy. One that the parents will love just as much.

Title: Beyond the Western Sea Book One "Escape from Home" Author: Avi # of Pages: 293 Beyond the Western Sea is a book full of suspense. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book. There are many twists and turns from start to end, along with a very suspenseful ending making you want to read on. Beyond the Western Sea is the story of two young boys. Patrick O'Connell comes from a poor family in a small community. He lives with his mother and sister, Maura. Mr. O'Connell has been away for a year in America seeking a fortune, and promising to send for his family once he becomes rich. Patrick, Maura, and Mrs. O'Connell finally receive notice that their father is alive and rich. Lawrence Kirkle has a completely different situation. He comes from one of the richest families in London. Lawrence decides to run away to get away from his older brother who takes advantage of seniority. On his way, Lawrence manages to steal a 1,000 dollar bank note from his fathers desk. A chase begins in the port city of Liverpool with many surprises. Both boys eventually meet in Liverpool and help each other during their times of need. This book shows the different aspects of both boy's adventure. From "runners" to blackmail this book is a great story of adventure during the early years of America. Beyond the Western Sea is continued in an exciting sequel called Lord Kirkle's Money.

I just finished reading this book, and am impatiently waiting for the next book to come in at the library. It was about the hardships Irish children go through, just to get on the ship to America. I especially liked how it was almost two stories in one, with the rich English boy, Lawrence, and the two poor Irish kids, Maura and Patrick going back and forth between the two. My advice is that you buy both Thsi book and the second one, because once you read this one, even overnight shipping will not get this book to you fast enough. Over all, it was one of the best books I've read.

I loved this novel! It has history and adventure. An Irish brother and sister who have been kicked out of their home meet the son of their cruel landlord who is running away. They are all trying to get on a ship to America, but there are many who will try and stop them. You will learn about sticking together and beating the odds from this book.

I was disappointed in this book only because I had to wait for its sequel. It is a book geared for the young adult but all ages would enjoy it. I found it intelligent and engripping and I'm certainly looking forward to reading other books by Avi