The Fisherman's Son
By Marilyn Peake

     When his mother dies from a virulent fever, twelve year old Wiley O'Mara's life is forever changed. His father has disappeared and he is thrust into the role of decision maker. Wiley knows that his father, a fisherman who is probably in the grip of alcohol, may be gone for several days. Wiley will have to travel to the next town to contact the priest assigned to his village to perform the last rites for his mother and make sure that she has a proper burial. His travel to the next village is fraught with danger...and magic.

     Along the way, as he walks through the forest at night, an unlikely white rabbit shows him a patch of strawberries. Upon waking from a nap, he sees a vision of the beautiful Lucinda who leads him to a lake and bids him quench his thirst using a golden goblet with the inscription: Drink Deeply by Land or Sea. Earth Comes Only Once.

       She doesn't explain the inscription, but she shows up to guide him periodically as he deals with the problems of his life. At her request for assistance, he meets with a dolphin who enables him to swim beneath the sea to a lost village of children, reminiscent of the Atlantis legend.

     The author's descriptions of the underwater world are exhilarating as Wiley traverses the depths and meets up with wonderful undersea creatures and the fearsome dragon-beast that guards the entrance to the village.

     This book would be a great read-aloud project for the whole family. The characters are compelling, and the multilevel plot will hold the interest of even reluctant readers.