By Suzanne King
COASTAL Australia. The Future. A virus has wiped out the population and a rogue gang is scouring among the few survivors for what has become a type of currency: females. Females bring hope: the promise of life and regeneration of the community for the sliver of population that is eking out a bleak existence.
At first, the aftermath of the tragedy is like a never-ending summer holiday for Finn. Fifteen years old, alone but for his dog, Rowdy, Finn is surviving well enough. His skills as a trapper and forager are keeping him alive after his parents succumbed to the virus. Finn has had to grow up fast, but with the assurance that only one survivor knows of his existence. Finn finds time to enjoy his life and even the occasional surf. That is until he meets Rose.
Rose is quite ill. And more than ill. She needs help. She tells Finn that the gang of opportunistic bullies have turned into terrorists. They are kidnapping the few remaining girls on the coast. Feared by everyone for their cruelty, Finn realises he has no choice but to help this girl find her stolen sister.
Finn is a reluctant hero: after all, he’s sorted out a life for himself and Rowdy that works. But being around Rose, Finn soon learns that being human means caring for others, and not just looking after himself.
The Road to Winter is Mark Smith’s first book and a great read for young adults who like an adventure story with a harder edge. You’ll find it at the Noosaville Library.
