DOWNRIVER by Will Hobbs

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hobbs, Will. 1996. DOWNRIVER. New York, New York: Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0440226732

PLOT SUMMARY/CRITICAL ANALYSIS

DOWNRIVER tells the story of a fifteen year old girl, Jessie, who has a troubled past.  Jessie’s dad sends her to a nine week camp in a desperate attempt to turn his daughter’s life around.  While in the wilderness Jessie and the others decide to escape from their leader the first chance they get.  The teens experience the dangers of the wilderness, raging rapids, and each other.  The self appointed group leader, Troy, struggles to stay in charge creating power struggles between the teens.

Hobbs writes this novel in first person from the perspective of Jessie.  Jessie tells the story of events and how they directly affect her life. This novel is set mainly along the river of the Grand Canyon.  Hobbs describes the river and scenery in such a way that the reader can imagine exactly what it looks like.  These teens face many challenges along the way such as what is going on in their own lives, nature, themselves, and each other. 

Along the way Jessie learns a lot about herself and about life.  Camp did make an impact on Jessie’s life and turned her life around in the right direction.  She learns the importance and significance of family, friends, and working together.  Teen readers will be able to relate to these teens.  Most all teens find themselves in a power struggle with their parents or other adults along the way.  It is part of learning what life is all about.  Teens will realize they are not alone and there is light at the end of the tunnel.  This story will give teens the hope that one day the power struggles will end and differences will be set aside. 

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

*Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “This book should settle once and for all the question of whether thrillers and mysteries can also be literature.”

*Starred review in LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Hart’s sophomore effort surpasses his debut… this work is reminiscent of Raymond Chandler’s novels…. The writing is simply superb.”

Exemplary or Favorite Lines

*“… I found myself wishing my dad could be on the river with me, that it could be like it was in the years before it all got so confusing”

*“I really do love this place, dad… I had no idea it would turn out like this…”