From School Library Journal
Grade 5-7?When Alex moves from New York City to the rural Hudson River Valley, he meets daredevil Killian, who has worked the river with his father since he was little. Killian dreams of finding pirate treasure, and enlists Alex in the search. What seems to be a game turns real when the boys meet a strange hermit. Although the man scoffs at the local legends of Captain Kidd's buried treasure, his island cave is filled with maps and charts. Killian steals a map that apparently shows the location of a treasure cache, and the boys begin hunting in earnest. As they search, however, Alex senses that Killian's single-mindedness may put them both in danger. The setting is skillfully described in this deliberately paced adventure story. There is also ample evidence to support the connection of Kidd to the region, although this exposition is imposed on rather than integrated into the story. Killian actually conducts a lecture, even insisting that Alex take notes, which are printed, textbook style, to give readers the necessary factual background. Killian himself is a complex and not particularly admirable character. He recklessly endangers both his friend and himself, and, in the end, his obsession proves stronger than his sense of loyalty. A book with regional appeal for readers who like lots of historical detail.?Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, IL
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Gr. 5^-8. Their friendship born of a mutual fascination with the legend of Captain Kidd and the treasure he buried somewhere along the Hudson River, Killian and Alex forge their relationship as they search the river highlands for the actual site where the doubloons are hidden. Trying to outsmart Cruger, a crazy Vietnam vet also looking for the treasure, and Alex's parents, who are far more protective than Killian's single father is, the boys fight a desperate battle with Mother Nature and themselves to discover a treasure of dubious worth. Steeped in pirate lore and Hudson River history, this is an intriguing look at the effect of greed upon friendship. Unfortunately, none of the characters are created with enough depth and feeling for the outcome of their fates to create the kind of excitement the premise of the story warrants. An optional purchase for all but New York Staters, who will want it for their collections.
Frances Bradburn
