The Coastwatcher

Augusta, Georgia author Elise Weston offers readers an intriguing mystery set during the time period of World War II -- August 1943 to be specific -- on the coast of South Carolina. The story begins when eleven-year-old Hugh, who is coastwatching with binoculars, spots a periscope that he believes belongs to a German submarine close to the beach. Hugh continues to monitor the area where he's staying with his family in a beach house. A flashing light in an abandoned beach house dubbed "the spook house" by Hugh and his siblings catches his eye. As the plot unfolds, Hugh keeps a scrap book of the war, adding details and evidence that result from his coastwatching adventures. Though this book is a perfect companion for a lazy afternoon at the beach, it is also a good reading choice for any time of the year. The plot moves fast, the setting will make the reader wish for the beach, and the historical accuracy and details bring this period to life for readers young and old. Well-drawn characters that literally step off the pages, sand, salt air, and a satisfying ending all combine to make this an outstanding read.

While scouting for books for my grandson I found Coastwatcher and read it less than 24 hours because I couldn't put it down. There is a fast paced plot which begins with a periscope sighting off the South Carolina coast by an 11 year old boy. He pursues his clues and there is an exciting conclusion. Of interest to me were descriptions of 1943 wartime America which I lived through - including rationing, radio news, blackouts, and the great volunteer war effort. It has historical interest for children and the book has useful information at the back for teachers. The descriptions of life in a south Atlantic coastal setting are beautifull and evocative of the place and time. It is wonderful to read about children playing together without so much adult supervision and the sedentary influences of TV, computers, and Ipods. All the characters, including the dog, are well drawn and charming.