Chapter Book Review, 310 pages
1020L; Recommended for 5th grade and up
An afternoon of adventure in a cave turns into a life and death survival story for 12 boys and their soccer coach. They all became trapped while exploring a cave when rising floodwaters blocked their exit path. This fast-paced story chronicles the harrowing ordeal and ultimate escape of all thirteen. The seventeen-day rescue operation was covered by news outlets from around the globe. The whole world seemed to be holding its breath, waiting for the safe rescue of the team and their coach. Thousands of rescuers were involved in a complex and technical rescue. Readers will learn about the mental challenges of the 13 trapped below and their resilience in unimaginable circumstances. This true story honors the 13 as well as the rescuers who helped bring them to safety. It is a story of inspiration and hope.
The book was carefully researched, it includes illustrations, photographs, detailed source material and a bibliography.
About the Author:
Christina Soontornvat is an award-winning author of more than a dozen books for children of all ages. She grew up in Texas but made regular trips to Thailand to see her family. She was visiting Thailand when the events of this story unfolded. She has received numerous awards for this book. Check out a video by the author talking about the book. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UoonODQgjdE
Awards for this title:
Winner of the 2021 Kirkus Prize for Young People's Literature
A 2021 Newbery Honor Book
A 2021 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
A 2021 YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist
A 2021 Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Pathways connections: Heroes and Personal Feelings and Growth
Reviewed by Cheryl The, PhD
Professor of Education
Southwestern Adventist University
By Nicholas Day, Art by Brett Helquist
