Review: Blood is thicker than water
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 31, 2013
Ordeal At The Old Ivy Oak is a story of two very vastly different brothers--one a drama and book nerd, the other a jock--and the one-week camping trip they decide to take together. Add in some bad decisions, two escaped prisoners, and a couple kids who know everything about the outdoors and what do you get? Poison ivy, leeches, a near drowning, drunk convicts, poisonous mushrooms, handcuffs and tied-up prisoners, mosquitoes, black flies, and the worst trip ever! Jerry and his younger brother Ben are off to go camping at the family camping spot alone this year. Their parents are going to take their own vacation. Unbeknownst to mom and dad, Jerry hijacks the trip and takes Ben to a 'new' spot, one where he and his jock friends go to drink. Jerry, as a popular athlete at school, believes that he knows more than Ben so when they see two men on the side of the road, Jerry picks them up. This is simply the beginning of a downward spiral of dumb actions that eventually leads to some major decisions. Would YOU kill to get away from dangerous criminals?Although the subject matter is serious, John Funke writes this adventure story in a manner that young adults will find enjoyable and even funny. Ben is witty and intelligent, often performing his duties with a theatrical flair that is engaging to the reader. Jerry is the typical rotten older brother who eventually comes around and finds a nicer side. The boys have some sweet bonding moments that will hopefully help young readers understand that family may be different, but they are always there for you. Funke includes some great campfire recipes and lots of helpful tips--like never let a criminal tie you up facing TOWARDS the tree--to survive outdoors. It's definitely an excellent summer read for the teen underdog.