War of the Wind

Max’s world has changed. Before, he had friends, sports, and a life, but a boating accident left him deaf and stuck in the class with the zoomers (aka space cadets). And if that isn’t bad enough, his father won’t even try to communicate with him, which is just fine as he’s out to sea most weeks. When their Scottish island has a chance to get Wi-Fi, the residents are quick to agree to the ugly wind turbines that will be placed close to shore.

However, Max learns there’s more than just Wi-Fi coming. He notices how everyone else who can hear reacts to the turbines, which makes him suspect that there is a bigger problem than the ugliness at their coastline, and if he can’t stop it, it may cost him everything.

Max is not likeable, not at first. Before the accident, he was the bully and picked on the kids who have disabilities, but his character arc over the course of the book is redeeming and hopeful. The portrayal of hearing loss is spot on (no, hearing aids aren’t the answer for everyone) and the science fiction mystery is compelling and original. Perfect for Roland Smith and Rodman Philbrick readers.