Review of The Fisherman's Son

By Laurie Wood, Black Ice Reviews

THE FISHERMAN'S SON is a transitional children's book which uses fairy tale archetypes to lead young readers into higher concepts of adult literature. It is the story of twelve-year old Wiley who is caught up in a world of poverty on an island far up north around the beginning of the nineteenth century. The author, Marilyn Peake, has used careful research to give a real sense of the history of that time, for example, the wake and funeral of Wiley's mother who dies of an unnamed illness.

The archetypes mentioned before include a bear in the woods, which tests Wiley's bravery as he begins his quest for a better future. There is a beautiful woman who resembles a fairy but turns out to be one of the underwater people he later meets, and a magical golden cup which holds the key to beginning his underwater adventures with Elden, his dolphin friend.

Here, Marilyn Peake has tapped into every child's dream. Who wouldn't want to cavort with dolphins and speak their secret language? Wiley and Elden become fast friends and Elden reveals to Wiley the secrets of a fallen world, and they begin a rescue mission that will test all of Wiley's strengths and abilities.

With simple yet stimulating language, Ms. Peake brings forth the ideas that every child can be brave, one must never leave a friend in need of help, and one must see a course of action through to the end. Her fantasy story complete with beasts, danger, treasure maps, and visions of days gone by is sure to be enjoyed by both boys and girls. Ms. Peake has left her ending open for a sequel, one that will be looked forward to by her fans.

Laurie Wood
Black Ice Reviews

Copyright (c) 2008 Marilyn Peake