The Islanders

About the book

From the esteemed Mary Alice Monroe, author of numerous New York Times bestsellers, comes a touching tale of companionship, heartache, and the soothing influence of nature in her debut novel aimed at young readers.

The protagonist, eleven-year-old Jake, finds himself in a state of disarray as his father sustains an injury in Afghanistan and his mother departs to tend to him. Left in the care of his grandmother, Jake's summer will be spent on the diminutive Dewees Island, a haven for wildlife with no modern amenities. Devoid of technology and entertainment, Jake is faced with a grim prospect of monotony throughout the season.

However, his dreary circumstances take a turn for the better when he crosses paths with Macon, a fellow visitor to the island, and Lovie, a native resident well-versed in island life. Together, the trio embarks on excursions around Dewees Island, forming a close-knit bond despite their individual family troubles. A mishap involving an abandoned boat lands them in trouble, resulting in the trio's assignment to the Island Turtle Team where they must safeguard a threatened turtle nest from predators. Will they be able to rescue the nest and nurture Jake's newfound affection for the island and its inhabitants, aiding in his father's recovery?