The Big Dark | Scholastic Canada
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The Big Dark

By Rodman Philbrick   

Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545789769 Paperback
192 Pages | 5.26" x 7.58" | Ages 8 to 12

Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545789752 Hardcover
192 Pages | 5.82" x 8.56" | Ages 8 to 12

Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545789776 Ebook
192 Pages | Ages 8 to 12

A solar event knocks out our planet’s electricity, and a boy must risk his life to save what matters most.

What would you do if every spark of electricity suddenly vanished, as if somebody had flipped a switch on the entire planet? Cars won’t start, the heat shuts off, there’s no water in your faucet, and your radio, TV, and flashlight go dark. Everyone in Charlie’s small town is baffled.

But as time passes, lawlessness erupts and takes an ugly turn. When the market and pharmacy are torched by an anti-Semitic arsonist, Charlie realizes his mother will die without her medicine. So he dons skis and heads off alone, seeking the nearest hospital. After traveling 50 miles through brutal ice and snow, Charlie encounters a burned out, looted city of terrified citizens. Will he be able to save his mom?

Heroic, eloquent, and unforgettable, The Big Dark raises timely questions about responsibility, tolerance, and love.

Raves & reviews:

Praise for The Big Dark:

“Readers … will find a riveting, credible, and even inspiring vision of life just after the apocalypse.” —Kirkus

"Philbrick is in his element with this kid-oriented view of global catastrophe. With a fast pace, pulse-pounding premise, and approachable first-person narration, this would be a great pick for reluctant readers.” —Booklist

“Philbrick weaves an absorbing tale about the breakdown of contemporary civilization, the return to chaotic vigilante justice, and the strength of kindness and community.” —Publisher's Weekly