By Kate O’Shaughnessy
New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2024. Fiction. 325 pages.
Fern and her mother live in an isolated community called the Ranch where their community leader, Dr. Ben, tells them to avoid all the things that could ruin their lives and health (cell phones, books that aren’t written by Dr. Ben, sugar, computers, anything from the outside world…) When Fern’s mom sneaks them off the Ranch to go and live in the modern world, Fern's only wish is to go back to the life she has known. As Fern starts to live in a seaside town in California, she begins to realize that maybe the teachings of Dr. Ben aren’t quite true. For example, her science teacher with diabetes would die if he didn’t have medicine. Also, Fern starts to make friends who get her interested in books, the environment, and learning about whales and things. Fern then has to navigate all the mixed-up feelings that come with each new discovery, fighting against the sense of home and acceptance that she felt at the Ranch.
This is a good book that deals with seeing the signs of cult-like behaviors and who to trust and what is good vs. evil. Fern is a remarkable kid who has a lot to learn and discover about herself, her mom, and the world. Kids who want to think and who are interested in trying to understand why other kids might have different beliefs, opinions, or who just might need some extra love and support will enjoy reading Fern’s story.
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