This book is considered youth fiction, but I really enjoyed it myself. I love the idea of the Native American Circle Justice. It was a much more effective way for Cole to change his life than prison would have done. He probably would have come out of prison angrier and more violent than he already was.
Cole is a 15 year old who caused serious injury to a classmate, Peter, by beating him up and smashing his head repeatedly into the concrete sidewalk. Cole was pulled off his classmate by others. Cole had so much anger inside of him and the only way he dealt with his feelings was through physical aggression. Cole's father was beaten as a child, so he in turn beat his own son, Cole. Cole then took that lesson and beat up others whenever he felt angry.
Cole was given the choice of going to prison for his actions or participating in Circle Justice. Choosing Circle Justice would mean that Cole would be taken to a deserted island and dropped off to live by himself for one year. He would be given supplies and food, dropped off on a regular basis. Cole chose Circle Justice, thinking that he could escape his punishment once he was on the island.
What I love about this book is the multiple themes that are explored. Two significant ones are "Karma" (what you do to others, you do to yourself) and "Life is a Circle" (what goes around, comes around). These are important lessons for all pre-teens/teens. Who am I kidding. Adults too!
Wendy's Rating: *****
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