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The Toucan Trilogy #1
Night of the Purple Moon
Thirteen-year-old Abby Leigh yearns for her family to be reunited - in Cambridge, not Castine Island where she feels like an outsider. Her younger brother, Jordan, is having no problem fitting in and making friends.
Everyone on Castine Island is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the purple moon, caused by a comet entering the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists expected this thrilling phenomenon and food companies are churning out purple-colored products in celebration of the comet’s arrival.
The morning following the comet’s debut Abby and Jordan make a chilling discovery: every adult on the island is dead. The children of the island band together to withstand their new circumstances, and the older kids quickly learn a gripping truth about their own ticking clocks. It's only a matter of time before they succumb to the comet bacteria, but can they raise the next generation to survive?
"Frightening and inspiring" - Kirkus Reviews. Riveting dystopian drama for all ages (13+)
Alternate Cover edition for ISBN 9780615637082
Everyone on Castine Island is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the purple moon, caused by a comet entering the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists expected this thrilling phenomenon and food companies are churning out purple-colored products in celebration of the comet’s arrival.
The morning following the comet’s debut Abby and Jordan make a chilling discovery: every adult on the island is dead. The children of the island band together to withstand their new circumstances, and the older kids quickly learn a gripping truth about their own ticking clocks. It's only a matter of time before they succumb to the comet bacteria, but can they raise the next generation to survive?
"Frightening and inspiring" - Kirkus Reviews. Riveting dystopian drama for all ages (13+)
Alternate Cover edition for ISBN 9780615637082
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
June 11, 2024
Abby like everyone else on Earth is looking forward to seeing the comet. It will turn the light from the moon purple and the Sunsets/Sunrises would be exceptional. One problem though. The "Space Dust" that is left on the Earth killed everyone who wasn't quarantined (such as Scientists) and children who haven't reached adolescence. Abby and her brother Jordan are left to try and take care of Lisette aka Toucan. Time is running out because when children reach Adolescence they become sick and die.
I loved this book. There was no objectionable language and I was overjoyed to find a book that was wholesome. I literally didn't want to stop reading it and find myself having a hard time waiting for the sequel to this book. The characters were rich and believable and I could empathize with them. I cried when any of the characters died because they were real to me. An excellent book that I have no problems recommending to anyone.
I loved this book. There was no objectionable language and I was overjoyed to find a book that was wholesome. I literally didn't want to stop reading it and find myself having a hard time waiting for the sequel to this book. The characters were rich and believable and I could empathize with them. I cried when any of the characters died because they were real to me. An excellent book that I have no problems recommending to anyone.
September 20, 2012
Night of the Purple Moon was a brilliant read.
Life on Castine Island was absolutely normal, until the night of the purple moon. The space dust killed all the adults on the planet, save for some scientists living in quarantine. The situation leaves kids alone to take care of themselves. The lives of all children on the verge on puberty are in danger as they will be the next victims of the purple moon.
Abby, Jordan and Toucan of the Leigh family take the initiative and bring together all kids of Castine Island. All of the kids are extremely intelligent and mature for their age. What I really liked about them was that they are so inclined on making sure that everyone is safe. Especially Abby, who is so determined and a strong shoulder for the others.
The story revolves around the kids and the roles that they play in difficult situations. Many times, situations were explained from various points of views, which made the book more interesting. Sometimes, you could absolutely relate to some of the incidents and even many of the characters, which I thought made it more realistic and easy to relate to.
I thought that the book was put down in a very systematic and thorough manner. I do wish that the end was more detailed. Overall,Night of the Purple Moon was a great read. If you get the chance to read it, don't miss it! It was really touching and hard to believe that the kids are fighting not only for surviving, but also living life the best way they can manage. What I learned from the story was that bravery, courage and love are all it takes to get through almost anything!
I won the book in a giveaway and I would like to thank author Scott Cramer for it. :)
Life on Castine Island was absolutely normal, until the night of the purple moon. The space dust killed all the adults on the planet, save for some scientists living in quarantine. The situation leaves kids alone to take care of themselves. The lives of all children on the verge on puberty are in danger as they will be the next victims of the purple moon.
Abby, Jordan and Toucan of the Leigh family take the initiative and bring together all kids of Castine Island. All of the kids are extremely intelligent and mature for their age. What I really liked about them was that they are so inclined on making sure that everyone is safe. Especially Abby, who is so determined and a strong shoulder for the others.
The story revolves around the kids and the roles that they play in difficult situations. Many times, situations were explained from various points of views, which made the book more interesting. Sometimes, you could absolutely relate to some of the incidents and even many of the characters, which I thought made it more realistic and easy to relate to.
I thought that the book was put down in a very systematic and thorough manner. I do wish that the end was more detailed. Overall,Night of the Purple Moon was a great read. If you get the chance to read it, don't miss it! It was really touching and hard to believe that the kids are fighting not only for surviving, but also living life the best way they can manage. What I learned from the story was that bravery, courage and love are all it takes to get through almost anything!
I won the book in a giveaway and I would like to thank author Scott Cramer for it. :)
October 7, 2016
The moon turns purple as the earth goes through the tail of a comet. Everyone in the world settles in to watch - with their purple beer and purple pizza to celebrate the great event.
The next morning everyone who has reached puberty has died.
A group of kids are on an island off the coast of Maine - they have to learn how to look after themselves - then they start to die.....
The next morning everyone who has reached puberty has died.
A group of kids are on an island off the coast of Maine - they have to learn how to look after themselves - then they start to die.....
July 15, 2012
This is definitely the type of book that I enjoy reading. It has a post-apocalyptic setting that is wholly unique and completely frightening.
Something that really caught my attention from the beginning was the stark writing style the author has. It goes straight to the point, giving the story a good sense of urgency that really helps to set the right mood. This doesn’t mean that the story is lacking in imagination in any way. On the contrary, the plot is fun and different enough to stand out from the many, many dystopian books out there at the moment.
The characters are as complicate as you’d expect a bunch of teenagers to be when they’re thrown together to try to figure something out. Conflicts arise, personalities clash, and all written in a convincing manner with well-written dialogue. Surprisingly, this is one of the things that get a lot of young adult writers in trouble. The dialogue. Sometimes it seems forced, as if the author is trying too hard to be “cool”. It’s not the case in this book. The language the characters use feels appropriate for their age and situation.
I do recommend this one to all lovers of dystopian fiction and even to all of you who are just looking for something different to read.
Something that really caught my attention from the beginning was the stark writing style the author has. It goes straight to the point, giving the story a good sense of urgency that really helps to set the right mood. This doesn’t mean that the story is lacking in imagination in any way. On the contrary, the plot is fun and different enough to stand out from the many, many dystopian books out there at the moment.
The characters are as complicate as you’d expect a bunch of teenagers to be when they’re thrown together to try to figure something out. Conflicts arise, personalities clash, and all written in a convincing manner with well-written dialogue. Surprisingly, this is one of the things that get a lot of young adult writers in trouble. The dialogue. Sometimes it seems forced, as if the author is trying too hard to be “cool”. It’s not the case in this book. The language the characters use feels appropriate for their age and situation.
I do recommend this one to all lovers of dystopian fiction and even to all of you who are just looking for something different to read.
April 20, 2013
I like the cover of this book a great deal. It's disturbing and inviting at the same time while clearly defining its young adult audience.
The premise of the novel (and the series to follow) is solid and interesting - a space borne disease that creates a sudden planet of child only survivors with death perched at puberty's dividing line. Nice! It also featured a strong and admirable female main character. All good things and with a reasonably well thought out plot. The execution, however, as far as character development and pacing left many things to be desired.
Some have pointed out the writer's clean and succinct style but for me it was too sparse, too clinical, and created a descriptive world that was flat and often needlessly uninteresting. There were often fascinating moments happening in the story but the writer's emotionally distant style drained the color right out. Emotional moments were quickly curtailed and the barest of explanations were often given for changes in the children's conditions or outlook - moments that should have been expanded. Opportunities for the children to be conflicted between childhood and premature adulthood were often missed or glossed over with a short comment. Opportunities for the characteres to demonstrate their necessary learning of how to drive, how to cook, how to change diapers, handle injuries, run meetings, dole out punishments, develop job lists, plan for the future, learn to lead, learn to follow, how to work, how to build, etc., etc. were typically missed or handled in the briefest of brief mentions in passing. These types of moments would have allowed a great deal of humor, pathos and character development but they were missed. In many ways the novel felt like an expanded outline for a novel to be - one with better and deeper characters.
The dialogue was often too short, unhelpful or just didn't seem to ring true to the ages. Yes, their dialogue will change as they prematurely take on adult responsibilities but we never saw the transition during the story. Characters were hard to keep straight since many were nearly interchangeable. I thought digging into the motivations for the three "renegade teens" were a great opportunity missed. Their actions in the last third of the book remain more of a mystery than a revelation. Ironically, the mainland gang of children are better developed and more revealing than the ones we spent most of the book with. Odd.
I am conflicted because I liked the novel quite a bit and yet I had hoped for so much more than what is here. I would like to give it a 4 but I just can't. Perhaps, a 3.5 would be more accurate to my feelings.
The premise of the novel (and the series to follow) is solid and interesting - a space borne disease that creates a sudden planet of child only survivors with death perched at puberty's dividing line. Nice! It also featured a strong and admirable female main character. All good things and with a reasonably well thought out plot. The execution, however, as far as character development and pacing left many things to be desired.
Some have pointed out the writer's clean and succinct style but for me it was too sparse, too clinical, and created a descriptive world that was flat and often needlessly uninteresting. There were often fascinating moments happening in the story but the writer's emotionally distant style drained the color right out. Emotional moments were quickly curtailed and the barest of explanations were often given for changes in the children's conditions or outlook - moments that should have been expanded. Opportunities for the children to be conflicted between childhood and premature adulthood were often missed or glossed over with a short comment. Opportunities for the characteres to demonstrate their necessary learning of how to drive, how to cook, how to change diapers, handle injuries, run meetings, dole out punishments, develop job lists, plan for the future, learn to lead, learn to follow, how to work, how to build, etc., etc. were typically missed or handled in the briefest of brief mentions in passing. These types of moments would have allowed a great deal of humor, pathos and character development but they were missed. In many ways the novel felt like an expanded outline for a novel to be - one with better and deeper characters.
The dialogue was often too short, unhelpful or just didn't seem to ring true to the ages. Yes, their dialogue will change as they prematurely take on adult responsibilities but we never saw the transition during the story. Characters were hard to keep straight since many were nearly interchangeable. I thought digging into the motivations for the three "renegade teens" were a great opportunity missed. Their actions in the last third of the book remain more of a mystery than a revelation. Ironically, the mainland gang of children are better developed and more revealing than the ones we spent most of the book with. Odd.
I am conflicted because I liked the novel quite a bit and yet I had hoped for so much more than what is here. I would like to give it a 4 but I just can't. Perhaps, a 3.5 would be more accurate to my feelings.
December 16, 2014
Night of the Purple Moon is a very pleasant surprise. I love the idea of seeing a comet, and then having purple sunsets and moons for the weeks following. Of course, not if it would kill me and all of the other adults and older teens in the world! Which is exactly what happens in the novel. Excitement and wonder over the breathtaking sky turned into fear and the struggle to survive in just a matter of hours. The kids of Castine Island must come together and work together in order to ensure their survival, but what about when the older teens hit puberty and become susceptible to the virus in the space dust?
I really admired Abby. She stood up and took the leadership role after finding her father dead in the yard. She not only took cae of her younger siblings, but she helped gather up all of the survivors. I was amazed how she put her fear and uncertainty aside to be strong for the younger kids around her. Even when things seemed completely hopeless, Abby never once gave up.
The author did an amazing job of creating a realistic society of adolescents. They have chores, classes and meetings which every takes part in. Except for three rogues who are taking advantage of the adultless world to do things they'd otherwise not be allowed to do. This of course creates conflict on the island, since they are not helping, and actually putting everyone else at risk. There's also one girl who is so terrified of the space germs that she goes to extremes to keep her body from entering puberty. It's heartbreaking to watch her.
I read this book in one go. It's fast paced, while not action packed, it still held my attention until the very last page. I was rooting for Abby and Jordan the entire time! They're so young but took on an amazing task, and I desperately wanted them to succeed. The ending is a bit open ended, but it definitely leaves the reader with a feeling of hope.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
I really admired Abby. She stood up and took the leadership role after finding her father dead in the yard. She not only took cae of her younger siblings, but she helped gather up all of the survivors. I was amazed how she put her fear and uncertainty aside to be strong for the younger kids around her. Even when things seemed completely hopeless, Abby never once gave up.
The author did an amazing job of creating a realistic society of adolescents. They have chores, classes and meetings which every takes part in. Except for three rogues who are taking advantage of the adultless world to do things they'd otherwise not be allowed to do. This of course creates conflict on the island, since they are not helping, and actually putting everyone else at risk. There's also one girl who is so terrified of the space germs that she goes to extremes to keep her body from entering puberty. It's heartbreaking to watch her.
I read this book in one go. It's fast paced, while not action packed, it still held my attention until the very last page. I was rooting for Abby and Jordan the entire time! They're so young but took on an amazing task, and I desperately wanted them to succeed. The ending is a bit open ended, but it definitely leaves the reader with a feeling of hope.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
March 14, 2013
What to say about this book? I found it stupid, predictable and boring, gosh was it ever boring. Let me explain. The book is about a girl named Abby (grade 7) her little brother Jordan (grade 6) her baby sister Toucan and their next door neighbors Kevin (grade 7) and Emily (grade 6). All the adults die world wide after a meteor goes through the earth's atmosphere and turns the moon purple. The book changes P.O.V's constantly (Abby, Jordan, Kevin, and Emily), then if that's not bad enough the author trys to add some romance to this novel ... HELLO! they are in 6th and 7th grade, the biggest thing should be "omg he/she is holding my hand!!" but instead the author makes the romance to intamate for their age so sometimes I forgot how young they really were and instead thought that they were in atleast highschool. Anyway as the book goes on it just gets worse everything was just to predictable, *okay I seen that coming get on with it already*. I must say though the end (last 4 chapters or something) actually had some action and was intresting, but then they had to go and ruin that to This book was just so agravating. I wanted to punch Abby all the freakin time and bang my head against the wall. Sorry just my opinion.
September 16, 2012
I don't normally read dystopia genre books, but with all the free giveaways on Amazon, there is no risk in trying something new. I was pleasantly surprised by "Night of the Purple Moon". The author, Scott Cramer, does a wonderful job in developing his characters in the story - sometimes making it difficult for the reader to comprehend that these are all prepubescent youngsters trying to survive without adults. The kids are not at risk of turning into zombies, but they must eat, find shelter and keep busy. A member in the group steps up and leads this group forward. They are all fortunate to be on a secluded island and not influenced or harassed by roving gangs - intent on taking everything you have.
There is no cure during the first year and their only enemy is "puberty". Many of the preteens don't even understand what puberty is, but soon find out as the older kids begin dying from this plague that has engulfed the planet. I was saddened when some of the main characters died and wondered how the group would continue without them. The story gains momentum during the last 20%; the leaders are dying and find themselves in a race against time. Once the reader gets to this point, there is no putting down the book for the night. You are stuck and pulled into this thriller...anxious to see if they succeed or not. I am looking forward to the next work by this author.
Excellent read and well worth 5 stars. Highly recommended!
John Podlaski, author
Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel
There is no cure during the first year and their only enemy is "puberty". Many of the preteens don't even understand what puberty is, but soon find out as the older kids begin dying from this plague that has engulfed the planet. I was saddened when some of the main characters died and wondered how the group would continue without them. The story gains momentum during the last 20%; the leaders are dying and find themselves in a race against time. Once the reader gets to this point, there is no putting down the book for the night. You are stuck and pulled into this thriller...anxious to see if they succeed or not. I am looking forward to the next work by this author.
Excellent read and well worth 5 stars. Highly recommended!
John Podlaski, author
Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel
May 25, 2015
I win a copy of this book a while ago, and in one word: Amazing
The book is very entangling and the scenario that it brings forward is pretty interesting.
I watched as how the plot unfolded with all it's good and bads situations, the struggles and how in the same situation one person can change so much or stand they ground.
It's a beautiful tale of determination and courage, I really recommend it for dystopian lovers.
More reviews: www.bookwormiespot.com
The book is very entangling and the scenario that it brings forward is pretty interesting.
I watched as how the plot unfolded with all it's good and bads situations, the struggles and how in the same situation one person can change so much or stand they ground.
It's a beautiful tale of determination and courage, I really recommend it for dystopian lovers.
More reviews: www.bookwormiespot.com
November 18, 2013
A breathtaking imaginative fantasy story that is simply sensational and a scintillating read!
I was delighted to have the opportunity of reading Scott Cramer’s The Toucan Trilogy, as it sounded like something new and exciting. I am delighted to say that book 1 exceeded all expectations as I plunged into a phenomenal storyline filled with originality, creative flair and out-of-this-world imaginative ideas. As a young adult novel I would recommend this for those 13 years upwards to 15/ 16, as the plot centres around the adolescent main character Abby who captures teenage life so authentically. I was taken back to my youth instantly through this character whom I connected with and could empathize with so easily, hence it was rather a nostalgic read and one that was easy to loose myself within. This is an ideal book for the younger reader, as the author ‘gets under the skin’ of this target age group and highlights some significant situations (a few quite harsh and desperate) that makes this such an interesting read.
Abby is a gutsy, likable ‘heroine’ who I really loved and who brought such colour and vibrancy to the sci-fi, fantasy backdrop. This exciting tale is highly imaginative, well-written and truly thrilling from page 1 right to the dramatic, explosive ending that left me wanting to read on! Having sat for several hours immersed within this page turner I cannot wait to delve into book 2 of the Toucan Trilogy and continue this spectacular story from where it left off. There were so many elements that I liked within this story, including the parts that solely focused on Abby’s family and the emphasis that was placed on selflessness and compassion for others. In a world without adults it is the children who have to ultimately work together as a team and decide how to survive in such a harsh environment.
This quick, fast-paced read is one that would be ideal for holiday or something to really get stuck into as the Night of the Purple moon approaches! I would like to thank the author for having the opportunity to read and discover his work, which I totally loved and thought was an exceptional read of multilayered inner meaning and truth-drawing connotation. If you are looking for a great Young Adult series that’s unique and engaging, then I highly recommend the Toucan Trilogy… 4 stars!
I was delighted to have the opportunity of reading Scott Cramer’s The Toucan Trilogy, as it sounded like something new and exciting. I am delighted to say that book 1 exceeded all expectations as I plunged into a phenomenal storyline filled with originality, creative flair and out-of-this-world imaginative ideas. As a young adult novel I would recommend this for those 13 years upwards to 15/ 16, as the plot centres around the adolescent main character Abby who captures teenage life so authentically. I was taken back to my youth instantly through this character whom I connected with and could empathize with so easily, hence it was rather a nostalgic read and one that was easy to loose myself within. This is an ideal book for the younger reader, as the author ‘gets under the skin’ of this target age group and highlights some significant situations (a few quite harsh and desperate) that makes this such an interesting read.
Abby is a gutsy, likable ‘heroine’ who I really loved and who brought such colour and vibrancy to the sci-fi, fantasy backdrop. This exciting tale is highly imaginative, well-written and truly thrilling from page 1 right to the dramatic, explosive ending that left me wanting to read on! Having sat for several hours immersed within this page turner I cannot wait to delve into book 2 of the Toucan Trilogy and continue this spectacular story from where it left off. There were so many elements that I liked within this story, including the parts that solely focused on Abby’s family and the emphasis that was placed on selflessness and compassion for others. In a world without adults it is the children who have to ultimately work together as a team and decide how to survive in such a harsh environment.
This quick, fast-paced read is one that would be ideal for holiday or something to really get stuck into as the Night of the Purple moon approaches! I would like to thank the author for having the opportunity to read and discover his work, which I totally loved and thought was an exceptional read of multilayered inner meaning and truth-drawing connotation. If you are looking for a great Young Adult series that’s unique and engaging, then I highly recommend the Toucan Trilogy… 4 stars!
April 24, 2012
Night of the Purple Moon was quite the surprise for me. Don't get me wrong, just from reading the premise, I figured I would enjoy this book. But, I had absolutely no idea that it would produce the emotional response that it did.
The book starts out normal enough, with 13-year-old, Abby, her 12-year-old brother, Jordan, and her two-year old sister, Toucan. They have just moved to Castine Island with their father while their mother holds a job back in their old hometown of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Abby isn't too happy about being on this island, as she severely misses her old life back home (friends, mom, school, etc...).
Meanwhile, there's excitement, worldwide, over the arrival of the comet, Rudenko-Kasparov, that is going to enter the Earth's atmosphere, and turn the moon a pretty purple color from the space dust (hence, "PURPLE MOON"). As would realistically happen, people are capitalizing by selling purple soft drinks, food, you name it.
And here is where the story takes a turn. As you can read from the premise, all older teens and adults die from the dust that everyone is now breathing. Thus leaving only younger teens and...babies. Yes, THIS is where I had a hard time. I blame it on the "mommy" in me, but just the thought of little ones being left to take care of themselves... I was drawn all the more into the story and couldn't read fast enough to find out what happens to these defenseless children.
Now, as with any other dystopian novel, you not only have to worry about whatever "natural" disaster that caused chaos, but you have to worry about others who pick on the weaker ones in a disaster, such as this one. Sadly, I think that Mr. Cramer really hit the nail on the head. Unfortunately, this book probably very accurately illustrates the depravity of even our younger children. I won't give anything away, since I don't do spoilers, but there were a few parts where I had goosebumps, just imagining this happening. Mr. Cramer made it THAT believable and real.
I definitely suggest you read this book. The writing is fantastic, the story is fantastic, and it has, most assuredly, left an impression on me.
I give this book 4.5/5 stars!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
The book starts out normal enough, with 13-year-old, Abby, her 12-year-old brother, Jordan, and her two-year old sister, Toucan. They have just moved to Castine Island with their father while their mother holds a job back in their old hometown of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Abby isn't too happy about being on this island, as she severely misses her old life back home (friends, mom, school, etc...).
Meanwhile, there's excitement, worldwide, over the arrival of the comet, Rudenko-Kasparov, that is going to enter the Earth's atmosphere, and turn the moon a pretty purple color from the space dust (hence, "PURPLE MOON"). As would realistically happen, people are capitalizing by selling purple soft drinks, food, you name it.
And here is where the story takes a turn. As you can read from the premise, all older teens and adults die from the dust that everyone is now breathing. Thus leaving only younger teens and...babies. Yes, THIS is where I had a hard time. I blame it on the "mommy" in me, but just the thought of little ones being left to take care of themselves... I was drawn all the more into the story and couldn't read fast enough to find out what happens to these defenseless children.
Now, as with any other dystopian novel, you not only have to worry about whatever "natural" disaster that caused chaos, but you have to worry about others who pick on the weaker ones in a disaster, such as this one. Sadly, I think that Mr. Cramer really hit the nail on the head. Unfortunately, this book probably very accurately illustrates the depravity of even our younger children. I won't give anything away, since I don't do spoilers, but there were a few parts where I had goosebumps, just imagining this happening. Mr. Cramer made it THAT believable and real.
I definitely suggest you read this book. The writing is fantastic, the story is fantastic, and it has, most assuredly, left an impression on me.
I give this book 4.5/5 stars!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
February 10, 2016
I was approached to review the audiobook specifically, so below is my review on Audible.com.
What made the experience of listening to Night of the Purple Moon the most enjoyable?
The narrator did a great job with the voices and her presentation of the main character.
What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?
The struggle to survive and not losing hope made the book interesting. Least interesting, probably the simple way in which the story is told.
Which scene was your favorite?
I enjoyed the scene toward the end with Mandy and Abby. (no spoilers)
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
Not really.
Do you have any additional comments?
Overall, Night of the Purple Moon is an interesting apocalyptic story, where most of the adults die off instantly, leaving the young alone to survive. I wouldn’t really classify this as YA – since the oldest characters are about 13 and specifically pre-pubescent. For a YA it is a bit on the simple side – the plot and the story line are very straight forward and the characters are not developed deeply. The kids have to grow up fast to try to make it in the world post the arrival of the “space germs”. They have to watch their friends and fellow survivors die off as puberty starts to hit, and yet I can’t say I felt emotionally connected to the characters or really felt their loss (except for one and that was more the loss of what that character brought to the table for the other survivors).
What made the experience of listening to Night of the Purple Moon the most enjoyable?
The narrator did a great job with the voices and her presentation of the main character.
What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?
The struggle to survive and not losing hope made the book interesting. Least interesting, probably the simple way in which the story is told.
Which scene was your favorite?
I enjoyed the scene toward the end with Mandy and Abby. (no spoilers)
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
Not really.
Do you have any additional comments?
Overall, Night of the Purple Moon is an interesting apocalyptic story, where most of the adults die off instantly, leaving the young alone to survive. I wouldn’t really classify this as YA – since the oldest characters are about 13 and specifically pre-pubescent. For a YA it is a bit on the simple side – the plot and the story line are very straight forward and the characters are not developed deeply. The kids have to grow up fast to try to make it in the world post the arrival of the “space germs”. They have to watch their friends and fellow survivors die off as puberty starts to hit, and yet I can’t say I felt emotionally connected to the characters or really felt their loss (except for one and that was more the loss of what that character brought to the table for the other survivors).
October 16, 2015
Well that was a disappointment. It was my bad that I didn't pay attention to the fact that the oldest people alive are no older than 13, so not my thing.
Abby, 13, and her brother Jordan, 12, along with 2 of their neighbors, took it upon themselves to take are of all the kids on the island. I kept forgetting their young age because their actions were not what a typical child would do, but then I would get the constant reminder that no one has hit puberty yet. Really? They removed all the dead bodies, planted a garden, ran a farm with chickens and 2 cows (which they knew how to milk), and it was a no-brainer to drive cars & motorcycles! Kevin, the genus, was able to connect to the internet and found out that (omg!) there are a few adult survivors who work for the CDC. They just happened to be underground when the comet went by and therefore were able to create a cure. Yay! I'll pass on the rest of the series.
Abby, 13, and her brother Jordan, 12, along with 2 of their neighbors, took it upon themselves to take are of all the kids on the island. I kept forgetting their young age because their actions were not what a typical child would do, but then I would get the constant reminder that no one has hit puberty yet. Really? They removed all the dead bodies, planted a garden, ran a farm with chickens and 2 cows (which they knew how to milk), and it was a no-brainer to drive cars & motorcycles! Kevin, the genus, was able to connect to the internet and found out that (omg!) there are a few adult survivors who work for the CDC. They just happened to be underground when the comet went by and therefore were able to create a cure. Yay! I'll pass on the rest of the series.
August 25, 2017
I found this book too 'young' for me. The characters are all pre-puberty and seem to have a limited knowledge of the real world. I seriously cringed when one kid had to explain to another what CNN was! The thought that some of these kids could suddenly be running their own community and growing food and doing security etc wasn't greatly realistic given the immature behaviour and lack of knowledge they had. I also feel that the kids were a bit on the young side to be involved in the kind of relationships that the author was developing.
Not for me. However to be fair to the author, the story itself was well thought out and put together. The first half I read was intriguing and I liked it. But when the kids formed the bigger group I started to have a few issues with it and lost interest in the story.
Not for me. However to be fair to the author, the story itself was well thought out and put together. The first half I read was intriguing and I liked it. But when the kids formed the bigger group I started to have a few issues with it and lost interest in the story.
August 15, 2013
Overall this is your typical apocalypse book, but with pre-teens and younger. Narration does move through time quickly - just touching on the important bits (sometimes day to day or sometimes picking up a month or a few months later).
Anyhow, what lowered the star level is really a result of the characters not speaking age-appropriately. Minus Kevin, the Indian genius, none of the kids spoke like typical 12 or 13 year olds.
Anyhow, what lowered the star level is really a result of the characters not speaking age-appropriately. Minus Kevin, the Indian genius, none of the kids spoke like typical 12 or 13 year olds.
August 6, 2014
This was a good surprise because you never know what you're going to get with a book suggested by amazon.
Earth passed through the tail of a comet which causes a weird purple fog to form during the days afterward. What happens to the people exposed to this is baffling, but it seems to affect adults only. Abby leads her friends to try and find a cure, but puberty is just around the corner for some.
Earth passed through the tail of a comet which causes a weird purple fog to form during the days afterward. What happens to the people exposed to this is baffling, but it seems to affect adults only. Abby leads her friends to try and find a cure, but puberty is just around the corner for some.
January 10, 2020
This and other reviews can be found on The Psychotic Nerd
MY THOUGHTS
I have had this book on my TBR for quite a while and I was fully ready to take it off my TBR. Reading the synopsis, it just did not seem like my kind of book anymore. But, I decided to give the book a chance. I told myself that I would read the first few chapters and then decide whether I wanted to keep reading. And I became invested in the story. While I did not end up loving this book, I did like it.
The passing comet was supposed to be a night of excitement, but the comet exposes the Earth to a space bacteria. Abby wakes up to find her father dead, and her neighbors pound on the door saying that they have found their parents dead. It seems that every adult on the island is dead, the only survivors are those who have yet to hit puberty. Abby and the rest of the kids start their own society, but Abby fears what will happen to her, and the other children, when they reach puberty.
I don't go for post-apocalyptic books anymore. I used to really love these types of books, books featuring kids in a world without adults, but now they don't pique my interest. So I was surprised by how this book roped me into the story. I found myself wanting to know how these kids would survive. Parts of this story are very similar to other post-apocalyptic books, but it did still feel different. The age group was especially different because they were all pre-teens or younger, but they had to act older (I had to remind myself of their age sometimes). They did seem to act too old for their age at points, such as when it came to romance. They did feel more like teenagers than pre-teens. I also wondered about the puberty age shown in this book because it seemed like puberty was equal to being a teenager (13-14) when girls oftentimes start at 12.
The book was fairly short and a pretty quick read. Each chapter focuses on a certain point of time (like a day after, a week after, a month, etc.). I liked this format as it gave a slice of life of how they were trying to survive and it showed the community slowly progressing. The plot really changes in the second half of the book. Throughout the book, there is the ticking time bomb of puberty (and with that the space dust disease) and it certainly progresses the further along in the book we get. It kept me reading and it made me want to hope for the best for these children.
This book does have its fair share of dark moments, there is plenty of death, but there is plenty of hope in the book. I loved seeing how the community of children banded together and created a semblance of society and routine (even though not every child on the island joined the community). I loved how they kept their hope for the world and how Abby still tried to see the best in people even after seeing people at their worst.
IN CONCLUSION
Overall, I did end up liking this book. It was a fairly quick read and I found myself wanting to know what will happen to these children. This is the first book in a series but I will admit that I do not think I will continue. While I liked this book, I do not wish to buy more books. I do have some questions, but I like how this one ended.
MY THOUGHTS
I have had this book on my TBR for quite a while and I was fully ready to take it off my TBR. Reading the synopsis, it just did not seem like my kind of book anymore. But, I decided to give the book a chance. I told myself that I would read the first few chapters and then decide whether I wanted to keep reading. And I became invested in the story. While I did not end up loving this book, I did like it.
The passing comet was supposed to be a night of excitement, but the comet exposes the Earth to a space bacteria. Abby wakes up to find her father dead, and her neighbors pound on the door saying that they have found their parents dead. It seems that every adult on the island is dead, the only survivors are those who have yet to hit puberty. Abby and the rest of the kids start their own society, but Abby fears what will happen to her, and the other children, when they reach puberty.
I don't go for post-apocalyptic books anymore. I used to really love these types of books, books featuring kids in a world without adults, but now they don't pique my interest. So I was surprised by how this book roped me into the story. I found myself wanting to know how these kids would survive. Parts of this story are very similar to other post-apocalyptic books, but it did still feel different. The age group was especially different because they were all pre-teens or younger, but they had to act older (I had to remind myself of their age sometimes). They did seem to act too old for their age at points, such as when it came to romance. They did feel more like teenagers than pre-teens. I also wondered about the puberty age shown in this book because it seemed like puberty was equal to being a teenager (13-14) when girls oftentimes start at 12.
The book was fairly short and a pretty quick read. Each chapter focuses on a certain point of time (like a day after, a week after, a month, etc.). I liked this format as it gave a slice of life of how they were trying to survive and it showed the community slowly progressing. The plot really changes in the second half of the book. Throughout the book, there is the ticking time bomb of puberty (and with that the space dust disease) and it certainly progresses the further along in the book we get. It kept me reading and it made me want to hope for the best for these children.
This book does have its fair share of dark moments, there is plenty of death, but there is plenty of hope in the book. I loved seeing how the community of children banded together and created a semblance of society and routine (even though not every child on the island joined the community). I loved how they kept their hope for the world and how Abby still tried to see the best in people even after seeing people at their worst.
IN CONCLUSION
Overall, I did end up liking this book. It was a fairly quick read and I found myself wanting to know what will happen to these children. This is the first book in a series but I will admit that I do not think I will continue. While I liked this book, I do not wish to buy more books. I do have some questions, but I like how this one ended.
July 6, 2023
I sped through this book! It’s a random one I’ve had on my Kindle for ages, so I decided to clear out the backlog. I wasn’t expecting much, so I was pleasantly surprised!
The premise of this book is pretty terrifying. I’ve read my share of YA dystopias; this felt Hunger Games dark. The pacing was perfect: slow enough to add details and flesh out characters yet quick enough to keep me turning (digital) pages excitedly. Having the main sibling pair be so close in age was an interesting choice. They might as well have been twins.
As the story ended, some new characters popped us as foils and parallels that I didn’t care for. They were more distracting than helpful additions. The ending seemed abrupt at first, but now that I’ve slept on it, I’m satisfied. I’ve got the second book now, and I look forward to reading it!
The premise of this book is pretty terrifying. I’ve read my share of YA dystopias; this felt Hunger Games dark. The pacing was perfect: slow enough to add details and flesh out characters yet quick enough to keep me turning (digital) pages excitedly. Having the main sibling pair be so close in age was an interesting choice. They might as well have been twins.
As the story ended, some new characters popped us as foils and parallels that I didn’t care for. They were more distracting than helpful additions. The ending seemed abrupt at first, but now that I’ve slept on it, I’m satisfied. I’ve got the second book now, and I look forward to reading it!
September 12, 2012
Kindle Version (free via author for honest review)
Abby, Jordan, Toucan, and their Dad all live on a little island off the coast of Maine. Abby's Mom is still living in their old hometown until she can find a job on the island and can move. Abby hates the small island and would love nothing more than to move back to where they came from, but that doesn't look like it will happen. Abby comes to hate the island even more the night of the purple moon phenominon. Her brother, Jordan, and her watched the purple comet tail start to sweep over the sun and planet before heading up to bed. It is said the purple hew to everything will be around awhile. When Abby wakes up she is in her own horror movie or nightmare. All is quiet...too quiet. Upon getting up and investigating some she finds her sister in her room (highly unusal at this time of the morning), her Dad missing, the outside world soaked in purple and purple space dust, and a local company truck crashed into the neighbors front gate. While trying to sort things out with her brother the neighbor kids come pounding on their door. They say their parents are dead. Later Abby finds her father dead too, but that's not the weirdest part. All the adults seem to be dead, only the children that haven't hit puberty yet are alive, there is no TV, no radio, no internet. What happened during this purple comet? With the help of Kevin, the extremely "geeky smart" boy from next door, they manage to hack into the internet service to get to the CDC site and find out that they are working on a cure, but any adults that were not in secure buildings are now dead. They found a connection between hormones that start in puberty and the deadly disease the comet has started. As if puberty wasn't bad enough to worry about going through, now it is a death sentence too! Abby and Jordan do the best they can to gather all children that are alive and start "organized choas" to try and survive, but they also know that they won't last long themselves being so close to puberty ages. They must think of their sister Toucan though and be positive and hope for a cure before it's too late. How long can a bunch of kids survive in a world of chaos though? How will they get food and supplies in a world that has stopped working? Can the CDC find a cure and somehow distribute it to all of them before it's too late? Can they survive long enough to find out? Never before has the awkward stage of adolescence meant to much to a bunch of kids that see it as a death sentence. How can you be happy on your own birthday knowing it is just bringing you that much closer to death?
I must say that this book was like no other I have read...and I loved it. I really felt the characters made the book too, they were very well developed as the book went on. I really came to like all the kids that came to live with Abby and Jordan to try and survive. I also thought Abby was a really great character, kind, caring, willing to help people she didn't even know, and very driven to help their survival rate any way possible. I liked how the kids all, for the most part, came together to work as a group to increase survival while hoping for a cure. They really were very smart kids, gathering food from all the houses that they could, tending to the farm animals that they found to get fresh foods like milk and eggs, and starting routines in their days so it didn't feel so foreign to them and they could take their minds off the constant worry. I loved the relationships they formed too while trying to survive and how close the bonds between them all became. They were willing to do anything for the good of the group and for each other if it meant survival could be possible. This book was written in such a way that you just wanted to keep reading and not put it down. Before I knew it I was finished with the book and it was the wee hours of the morning. I just was drawn into the book and plot and couldn't wait to see how it would turn out. These kids have so much against them, but they refuse to give up and promise each other to be positive and hopeful and never ever give up the fight to stay alive until the CDC can help them by finding a cure. Very good book and I must say that I am already excited for the follow-up book and can't wait to read on when it comes out.
5/5 Stars!!
Abby, Jordan, Toucan, and their Dad all live on a little island off the coast of Maine. Abby's Mom is still living in their old hometown until she can find a job on the island and can move. Abby hates the small island and would love nothing more than to move back to where they came from, but that doesn't look like it will happen. Abby comes to hate the island even more the night of the purple moon phenominon. Her brother, Jordan, and her watched the purple comet tail start to sweep over the sun and planet before heading up to bed. It is said the purple hew to everything will be around awhile. When Abby wakes up she is in her own horror movie or nightmare. All is quiet...too quiet. Upon getting up and investigating some she finds her sister in her room (highly unusal at this time of the morning), her Dad missing, the outside world soaked in purple and purple space dust, and a local company truck crashed into the neighbors front gate. While trying to sort things out with her brother the neighbor kids come pounding on their door. They say their parents are dead. Later Abby finds her father dead too, but that's not the weirdest part. All the adults seem to be dead, only the children that haven't hit puberty yet are alive, there is no TV, no radio, no internet. What happened during this purple comet? With the help of Kevin, the extremely "geeky smart" boy from next door, they manage to hack into the internet service to get to the CDC site and find out that they are working on a cure, but any adults that were not in secure buildings are now dead. They found a connection between hormones that start in puberty and the deadly disease the comet has started. As if puberty wasn't bad enough to worry about going through, now it is a death sentence too! Abby and Jordan do the best they can to gather all children that are alive and start "organized choas" to try and survive, but they also know that they won't last long themselves being so close to puberty ages. They must think of their sister Toucan though and be positive and hope for a cure before it's too late. How long can a bunch of kids survive in a world of chaos though? How will they get food and supplies in a world that has stopped working? Can the CDC find a cure and somehow distribute it to all of them before it's too late? Can they survive long enough to find out? Never before has the awkward stage of adolescence meant to much to a bunch of kids that see it as a death sentence. How can you be happy on your own birthday knowing it is just bringing you that much closer to death?
I must say that this book was like no other I have read...and I loved it. I really felt the characters made the book too, they were very well developed as the book went on. I really came to like all the kids that came to live with Abby and Jordan to try and survive. I also thought Abby was a really great character, kind, caring, willing to help people she didn't even know, and very driven to help their survival rate any way possible. I liked how the kids all, for the most part, came together to work as a group to increase survival while hoping for a cure. They really were very smart kids, gathering food from all the houses that they could, tending to the farm animals that they found to get fresh foods like milk and eggs, and starting routines in their days so it didn't feel so foreign to them and they could take their minds off the constant worry. I loved the relationships they formed too while trying to survive and how close the bonds between them all became. They were willing to do anything for the good of the group and for each other if it meant survival could be possible. This book was written in such a way that you just wanted to keep reading and not put it down. Before I knew it I was finished with the book and it was the wee hours of the morning. I just was drawn into the book and plot and couldn't wait to see how it would turn out. These kids have so much against them, but they refuse to give up and promise each other to be positive and hopeful and never ever give up the fight to stay alive until the CDC can help them by finding a cure. Very good book and I must say that I am already excited for the follow-up book and can't wait to read on when it comes out.
5/5 Stars!!
August 19, 2013
Abby and Jordan and Baby Toucan moved to an Island town near Portland Maine with their father. Their mother would join them as soon as she could get a job in Portland. Abby hated moving from her Massachusetts home but there was nothing she could do about it. Her brother, Jordon - a year younger than she - was happy living on the island, spending time with his dad.
At school, the day of the purple moon, there was plenty of talk and excitement. A comet was passing between the earth and moon. Scientists didn't know what effect that would have on the earth but the dust would leave purple space dust trail, causing the moon to look purple. In honor of this event, ice cream companies, beverage companies, etc. were coloring their products purple. Most everyone would be observing the passing of the comet around 11:00 P.M. Abby had put Toucan to sleep since she was but two years old. Jordan went in to bed just as soon as it started to pass by, but Abby insisted on staying up with her father on the porch until almost midnight. She fell asleep quickly figuring her dad would come in soon thereafter.
While it was barely dawn, Abby was awakened with a steady pounding on her door and shouting. She went to wake her father but his bed had not been slept in. Where could he be? As she carefully approached the door to peek out before opening it, she was confused and relieve it was only her next door neighbor - her age - and his sister - Jordan's age. He was crying but his sister just stared into space. As soon as she opened the door, Kevin and Emily - the neighbors - slid into the house, informing her their parents were dead in their bed and Abby's father was dead, sitting on the porch. Abby frantically awakened Jordan.
Upon several attempts at calling emergency services, and any adults they could think of, they concluded all older kids and adults were dead. After a couple of days, they took precautions by creating masks and gloves and hooded jackets trying to find survivors. They discovered an older neighbor man talking crazy then died within minutes. Other tan that, all adults they discovered were dead. They then divided the town up and went as pairs in search of any others. they ended finding 28 survivors. They discovered a mansion on the hill by the lake that would house them all. They next organized clean up, a scavenger group, a group t feed chickens and cows plus, gather eggs and mil the cows. The older ones taught the younger ones. Those who had knowledge of certain chores, taught the others. The 12-years-old and up held council each night to report, then rotate jobs for the next day. Things mostly went well, except each story has to have villains and twists.
Kevin was a science nerd but was able to make temporary connection to the outside world. A few scientists and other adults were barricaded in secure places when the comet went by so were spared. They discovered the dust was deadly to anyone once they reached puberty. The scientists around the world were working non-stop together to try to develop an antibody for the bacteria.
The story describes the motivation, unity problems, and fears they encountered. Everyone waited for the antibiotic development, wondering who in the meantime would die of the terrible disease.
This is a series written in the context aimed at older elementary and younger YA. However, there is profanity in a few places I feel disqualifies this as a good book for youth. I am aware the children hear this language at school in the media, and even at home. If we are to create a better society and higher education and learning, it is important as adults to set a higher example.
The writing was done fairly well except much of the dialogue and activity was beleaguered and slightly repetitive. I felt it really dragged in the middle and again toward the end.
The plot was interesting and offered a, somewhat, unique idea and resulting circumstances.
I truly feel the most this book review can offer this novel is a weak Three Stars rating.
This book was generously sent to me by the author for an honest review of which I have given.
At school, the day of the purple moon, there was plenty of talk and excitement. A comet was passing between the earth and moon. Scientists didn't know what effect that would have on the earth but the dust would leave purple space dust trail, causing the moon to look purple. In honor of this event, ice cream companies, beverage companies, etc. were coloring their products purple. Most everyone would be observing the passing of the comet around 11:00 P.M. Abby had put Toucan to sleep since she was but two years old. Jordan went in to bed just as soon as it started to pass by, but Abby insisted on staying up with her father on the porch until almost midnight. She fell asleep quickly figuring her dad would come in soon thereafter.
While it was barely dawn, Abby was awakened with a steady pounding on her door and shouting. She went to wake her father but his bed had not been slept in. Where could he be? As she carefully approached the door to peek out before opening it, she was confused and relieve it was only her next door neighbor - her age - and his sister - Jordan's age. He was crying but his sister just stared into space. As soon as she opened the door, Kevin and Emily - the neighbors - slid into the house, informing her their parents were dead in their bed and Abby's father was dead, sitting on the porch. Abby frantically awakened Jordan.
Upon several attempts at calling emergency services, and any adults they could think of, they concluded all older kids and adults were dead. After a couple of days, they took precautions by creating masks and gloves and hooded jackets trying to find survivors. They discovered an older neighbor man talking crazy then died within minutes. Other tan that, all adults they discovered were dead. They then divided the town up and went as pairs in search of any others. they ended finding 28 survivors. They discovered a mansion on the hill by the lake that would house them all. They next organized clean up, a scavenger group, a group t feed chickens and cows plus, gather eggs and mil the cows. The older ones taught the younger ones. Those who had knowledge of certain chores, taught the others. The 12-years-old and up held council each night to report, then rotate jobs for the next day. Things mostly went well, except each story has to have villains and twists.
Kevin was a science nerd but was able to make temporary connection to the outside world. A few scientists and other adults were barricaded in secure places when the comet went by so were spared. They discovered the dust was deadly to anyone once they reached puberty. The scientists around the world were working non-stop together to try to develop an antibody for the bacteria.
The story describes the motivation, unity problems, and fears they encountered. Everyone waited for the antibiotic development, wondering who in the meantime would die of the terrible disease.
This is a series written in the context aimed at older elementary and younger YA. However, there is profanity in a few places I feel disqualifies this as a good book for youth. I am aware the children hear this language at school in the media, and even at home. If we are to create a better society and higher education and learning, it is important as adults to set a higher example.
The writing was done fairly well except much of the dialogue and activity was beleaguered and slightly repetitive. I felt it really dragged in the middle and again toward the end.
The plot was interesting and offered a, somewhat, unique idea and resulting circumstances.
I truly feel the most this book review can offer this novel is a weak Three Stars rating.
This book was generously sent to me by the author for an honest review of which I have given.
February 26, 2013
Title: Night of the Purple Moon
Author: Scott Cramer
Genre: Middle Grade/Young Adult Science Fiction
Length: 188 pages
Reviewer: Katie French
THE RUNDOWN
Just like everyone on her small island town, seventh grader Abby Leigh is looking forward to the purple moon, an event caused by the earth being swallowed by a comet's tale. They watch the purple hues filter into the night sky, yawn and go to bed. It is when she awakens that she realizes what has become of the world as she knew it.
Pounding on her door wakens Abby. It's her friend Kevin who announces his parents are dead. Desperate to find the truth, she and her siblings try to find her father. Sadly, he too is dead. Slowly they begin to realize that anyone who has matured to puberty succumbed to the toxic space dust. The adults are gone. Now their only hope of survival is to stick together and build a new life all their own.
They build a life, one rather civil, organized and tidy, but there is a renagade tribe of boys that threaten their upotia. Soon, they learn the CDC is conducting trials to create an antiboitic that can save them from falling to the same fate as their parents once they reach puberty. Abby and her crew must leave their little world behind and find a cure before it is too late.
THE RECOMMENDATION
Night of the Purple Moon has all the elements of a successful book. The pace is fast and enthralling, the characters are likable, hard-working and kind and the premise is killer. What child hasn't fantasied about a world with no parents? I found myself wondering what would happen to my own children if suddenly this sort of thing were to occur. How would children survive without the adults that shepherd them? Cramer sets up his much tamer Lord of the Flies well, guiding us through each step of their new found independence so we can picture Abby's world and wonder what might become of our own should a tragedy of this magnitude befall us.
My qualms are few and minor compared to the above. The children acted very mature for their age. Almost instantaneously they formed a democratic society with scheduled chores, meetings and duties. I know my own children only need about five minutes alone before they are close to braining each other over a cup of applesauce. I had to suspend some disbelief that these children are the most kind, thoughtful, selfless children on the planet. Perhaps they are. Perhaps island air makes them saints.
Another qualm was the middle dragged a bit. The conflict present was in the form of three boys who stole eggs and said the s-word. I admit I am a fan of dark literature, so when the boys laughed off stealing eggs and everyone went on their merry way I craved more.
The last issue is the one that I think may be what's keeping Cramer's story down. I am not sure what audience he is writing to. The protagonists are mainly in middle school, though most middle schoolers might find the themes of mass death and body removal too dark for their developing minds. Teens are unlikely to pick up a book about children younger than them, and adults often read YA, but not generally MG. Unfortunately, that may keep audiences from picking up this title and missing out on an interesting story.
Overall, it is a quality book worth 4 out of 5 stars.
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Author: Scott Cramer
Genre: Middle Grade/Young Adult Science Fiction
Length: 188 pages
Reviewer: Katie French
THE RUNDOWN
Just like everyone on her small island town, seventh grader Abby Leigh is looking forward to the purple moon, an event caused by the earth being swallowed by a comet's tale. They watch the purple hues filter into the night sky, yawn and go to bed. It is when she awakens that she realizes what has become of the world as she knew it.
Pounding on her door wakens Abby. It's her friend Kevin who announces his parents are dead. Desperate to find the truth, she and her siblings try to find her father. Sadly, he too is dead. Slowly they begin to realize that anyone who has matured to puberty succumbed to the toxic space dust. The adults are gone. Now their only hope of survival is to stick together and build a new life all their own.
They build a life, one rather civil, organized and tidy, but there is a renagade tribe of boys that threaten their upotia. Soon, they learn the CDC is conducting trials to create an antiboitic that can save them from falling to the same fate as their parents once they reach puberty. Abby and her crew must leave their little world behind and find a cure before it is too late.
THE RECOMMENDATION
Night of the Purple Moon has all the elements of a successful book. The pace is fast and enthralling, the characters are likable, hard-working and kind and the premise is killer. What child hasn't fantasied about a world with no parents? I found myself wondering what would happen to my own children if suddenly this sort of thing were to occur. How would children survive without the adults that shepherd them? Cramer sets up his much tamer Lord of the Flies well, guiding us through each step of their new found independence so we can picture Abby's world and wonder what might become of our own should a tragedy of this magnitude befall us.
My qualms are few and minor compared to the above. The children acted very mature for their age. Almost instantaneously they formed a democratic society with scheduled chores, meetings and duties. I know my own children only need about five minutes alone before they are close to braining each other over a cup of applesauce. I had to suspend some disbelief that these children are the most kind, thoughtful, selfless children on the planet. Perhaps they are. Perhaps island air makes them saints.
Another qualm was the middle dragged a bit. The conflict present was in the form of three boys who stole eggs and said the s-word. I admit I am a fan of dark literature, so when the boys laughed off stealing eggs and everyone went on their merry way I craved more.
The last issue is the one that I think may be what's keeping Cramer's story down. I am not sure what audience he is writing to. The protagonists are mainly in middle school, though most middle schoolers might find the themes of mass death and body removal too dark for their developing minds. Teens are unlikely to pick up a book about children younger than them, and adults often read YA, but not generally MG. Unfortunately, that may keep audiences from picking up this title and missing out on an interesting story.
Overall, it is a quality book worth 4 out of 5 stars.
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May 25, 2012
THREE WORDS: Gripping. Palpable. Well-Developed
MY REVIEW: There is no shortage of dystopian novels available today, but Scott Cramer’s Night of the Purple Moon is unique in that its main characters are middle school age teens and tweens. But don’t think that just because the characters in this book are young that the story lacks suspense, powerful emotions or intense experiences. It doesn’t lack these things at all!
Life for Abby and her family on Castine Island is seemingly normal, until the night of the comet and the purple moon. With the comet comes a contaminated space dust that attacks hormones, killing grown-ups and older teens. With her parents dead, middle-schooler Abby and her brother Jordan, along with their young neighbors, must band together to take care of the island’s remaining children. The small group of survivors face many obstacles (lack of food, reckless older kids, sickness) all while knowing that with each passing day their chances of getting sick only grows.
Night of the Purple Moon is a quick, yet powerful read that captivated me from beginning to end. Cramer has crafted a well-developed story full of excellent world-building, riveting situations and likable characters.
The basic idea of space germs killing off the grown-ups and teens that have gone through puberty is out there enough to be intriguing, but isn’t so farfetched as to be unbelievable. And whether realistic or not, it makes for a frightening and suspenseful story. There’s a very gripping intensity to this premise that makes it quite thought-provoking and unforgettable.
I love the fact that the survivors are all middle-school age kids and younger because this adds an even more emotionally complex layer to the story, making it almost impossible for readers to not become invested in these characters. And the characters themselves are easy to connect with and like. I really enjoyed to getting to know Abby, Jordan and their neighbors and watching them all grow and mature as characters. There is something so poignant and startling in the way that these characters have to emotionally mature quickly and yet be terrified of physically maturing.
I was greatly impressed with how palpable every emotion is in this book and how real this world feels. I felt every heart-wrenching, painful, scary moment as if I too were experiencing them. The isolation Cramer creates with his characters’ physical location (an island accessible by boat only) works so well as a storytelling tool, creating an enthralling and tangible fear in readers.
Without giving anything away, I can honestly say that the last handful of chapters in this book were some of the most nerve wracking, yet absolutely captivating chapters I’ve read in a long time. The last few pages were breathtaking…I literally forget to breathe while reading them!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Night of the Purple Moon is a wonderful example of how to create a terrifyingly realistic and captivating post-apocalyptic world that will leave readers thoughtful and entertained.
MY REVIEW: There is no shortage of dystopian novels available today, but Scott Cramer’s Night of the Purple Moon is unique in that its main characters are middle school age teens and tweens. But don’t think that just because the characters in this book are young that the story lacks suspense, powerful emotions or intense experiences. It doesn’t lack these things at all!
Life for Abby and her family on Castine Island is seemingly normal, until the night of the comet and the purple moon. With the comet comes a contaminated space dust that attacks hormones, killing grown-ups and older teens. With her parents dead, middle-schooler Abby and her brother Jordan, along with their young neighbors, must band together to take care of the island’s remaining children. The small group of survivors face many obstacles (lack of food, reckless older kids, sickness) all while knowing that with each passing day their chances of getting sick only grows.
Night of the Purple Moon is a quick, yet powerful read that captivated me from beginning to end. Cramer has crafted a well-developed story full of excellent world-building, riveting situations and likable characters.
The basic idea of space germs killing off the grown-ups and teens that have gone through puberty is out there enough to be intriguing, but isn’t so farfetched as to be unbelievable. And whether realistic or not, it makes for a frightening and suspenseful story. There’s a very gripping intensity to this premise that makes it quite thought-provoking and unforgettable.
I love the fact that the survivors are all middle-school age kids and younger because this adds an even more emotionally complex layer to the story, making it almost impossible for readers to not become invested in these characters. And the characters themselves are easy to connect with and like. I really enjoyed to getting to know Abby, Jordan and their neighbors and watching them all grow and mature as characters. There is something so poignant and startling in the way that these characters have to emotionally mature quickly and yet be terrified of physically maturing.
I was greatly impressed with how palpable every emotion is in this book and how real this world feels. I felt every heart-wrenching, painful, scary moment as if I too were experiencing them. The isolation Cramer creates with his characters’ physical location (an island accessible by boat only) works so well as a storytelling tool, creating an enthralling and tangible fear in readers.
Without giving anything away, I can honestly say that the last handful of chapters in this book were some of the most nerve wracking, yet absolutely captivating chapters I’ve read in a long time. The last few pages were breathtaking…I literally forget to breathe while reading them!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: Night of the Purple Moon is a wonderful example of how to create a terrifyingly realistic and captivating post-apocalyptic world that will leave readers thoughtful and entertained.
August 21, 2012
Night of the Purple Moon is a great read for dystopia and YA fans! Being a huge fan myself, I have to say that this book is one of my top favorites, and I have read TONS of dystopia books. I was offered this book from the author himself and I’m glad that I got the chance to review It because this one was a real page turner.
It’s the night of the purple moon—when Earth enters the comet’s tail, and astronomers predict weeks of colorful sunsets and sunrises, and best of all—a purple moon. The whole world has a front view seat and is excited for the event. Little did they know, this ‘purple moon’ was going to do more than just provide a colorful scene, the space dust is going to [unknowingly] kill anyone that has hormones of puberty. So, who does that leave? You guessed it—the children. The world as they know it is in chaos with children trying to survive on their own.
In a small foggy island, away from the main cities, thirteen-year-old Abby must do all she can in order to protect her living family members—her little brother Jordan and baby sister Toucan. As they work together to find a plan, they end up gathering all the kids from their island and developing a small community to take care of themselves. Suddenly, children start dying once they hit puberty, and Abby (and the other elders) must find another way to save them before it’s too late, even for them.
This incredible story will take you on a rollercoaster ride as you engage in the adventure and journey these children have to go through in order to survive. They experience death and survival that a great apocalypse story will bring.
The characters were amazing, especially Abby, who is a true female heroine in this story. She goes through so many obstacles to survive and her commitment to protect these children is astonishing. Her brother Jordan is a typical young boy who tries his best in helping, and he does a great job. We meet other characters like the potential love interest, Kevin, who is into technology and a true leader—so that helps with the survival. And Emily, who is Kevin’s sister, is sweet and helps a lot with the younger children and farming. There are many more survivors that are equally good and bad, and each of these characters play through well.
The plot is amazing and unpredictable, which will have you flipping through these pages as fast as you can to see what’s next! The story is well-developed and well-written, so you won’t have any trouble seeing this story unfold before your eyes. I love how there is so much action and suspense throughout the story--there were plenty of twists and turns that will capture you in.
Overall, we experience death, loss, survival, courage, action, suspense and just enough romance to keep you on your toes. I highly recommend this book to children 13 or older, young adults that love a good dystopian story, or even adults—like me—who just love YA and Dystopia!
It’s the night of the purple moon—when Earth enters the comet’s tail, and astronomers predict weeks of colorful sunsets and sunrises, and best of all—a purple moon. The whole world has a front view seat and is excited for the event. Little did they know, this ‘purple moon’ was going to do more than just provide a colorful scene, the space dust is going to [unknowingly] kill anyone that has hormones of puberty. So, who does that leave? You guessed it—the children. The world as they know it is in chaos with children trying to survive on their own.
In a small foggy island, away from the main cities, thirteen-year-old Abby must do all she can in order to protect her living family members—her little brother Jordan and baby sister Toucan. As they work together to find a plan, they end up gathering all the kids from their island and developing a small community to take care of themselves. Suddenly, children start dying once they hit puberty, and Abby (and the other elders) must find another way to save them before it’s too late, even for them.
This incredible story will take you on a rollercoaster ride as you engage in the adventure and journey these children have to go through in order to survive. They experience death and survival that a great apocalypse story will bring.
The characters were amazing, especially Abby, who is a true female heroine in this story. She goes through so many obstacles to survive and her commitment to protect these children is astonishing. Her brother Jordan is a typical young boy who tries his best in helping, and he does a great job. We meet other characters like the potential love interest, Kevin, who is into technology and a true leader—so that helps with the survival. And Emily, who is Kevin’s sister, is sweet and helps a lot with the younger children and farming. There are many more survivors that are equally good and bad, and each of these characters play through well.
The plot is amazing and unpredictable, which will have you flipping through these pages as fast as you can to see what’s next! The story is well-developed and well-written, so you won’t have any trouble seeing this story unfold before your eyes. I love how there is so much action and suspense throughout the story--there were plenty of twists and turns that will capture you in.
Overall, we experience death, loss, survival, courage, action, suspense and just enough romance to keep you on your toes. I highly recommend this book to children 13 or older, young adults that love a good dystopian story, or even adults—like me—who just love YA and Dystopia!
September 11, 2012
* A copy was provided by the author for review.
Also posted on Rally The Readers.
Night of the Purple Moon is a harrowing dystopian novel that is both inspiring and heartbreaking. It’s hard to imagine waking up the morning after watching a comet streak through the sky and finding out that all of the adults have died. This is exactly what happens to Abby Leigh and her siblings, twelve-year-old Jordan and two-year-old Toucan (real name: Lisette), though, and the ensuing story of survival kept me glued to the page. The pacing was spot-on, and I became engrossed in the Castine Island survivors’ efforts to stay alive as they waited for a cure.
The way in which the kids form an organized society is very impressive without seeming implausible. In fact, the novel maintains its sense of realism throughout. Scenes involving the burial of the dead at sea are balanced with lighter scenes, like the surprise party that’s arranged for those sharing the same birthday month. There’s even an ice cream machine that the group’s resident genius, Kevin Patel, manages to get working; I couldn’t help but love geeky Kevin. This picture of a bunch of kids enjoying a day at the bowling alley eating ice cream and cake reminds you that they are still kids, even though the rest of the time they’re working a farm, taking care of the younger children, and disposing of the adult bodies. Everyone on this island has to grow up fast, but it happens at a rate that is convincing.
I thought that the characters were well-developed, and Cramer did an excellent job making the dialogue sound authentic for twelve and thirteen-year-olds. Abby is a selfless, natural leader and a big reason why the Castine Island survivors work together and avoid the chaos on the mainland that is seen later in the book. Her brother Jordan possesses some fine leadership skills of his own, and when the Leigh siblings embark on a dangerous mission together, they must continue to tap into the courage and resolve that they’ve demonstrated all along. Just when you think these two can’t possibly give anymore than they already have, they somehow find the strength to press on. The last few chapters were absolutely riveting, and I couldn’t read them fast enough.
There are a lot of dystopians to choose from these days, but Night of the Purple Moon distinguishes itself with its unique premise and strong, determined characters. I think that middle grade readers would easily connect with Abby, Jordan, Kevin, and the others. Dystopian fans of any age will want to check this one out. The ending hints strongly at a sequel, which I’ll definitely read.
Also posted on Rally The Readers.
Night of the Purple Moon is a harrowing dystopian novel that is both inspiring and heartbreaking. It’s hard to imagine waking up the morning after watching a comet streak through the sky and finding out that all of the adults have died. This is exactly what happens to Abby Leigh and her siblings, twelve-year-old Jordan and two-year-old Toucan (real name: Lisette), though, and the ensuing story of survival kept me glued to the page. The pacing was spot-on, and I became engrossed in the Castine Island survivors’ efforts to stay alive as they waited for a cure.
The way in which the kids form an organized society is very impressive without seeming implausible. In fact, the novel maintains its sense of realism throughout. Scenes involving the burial of the dead at sea are balanced with lighter scenes, like the surprise party that’s arranged for those sharing the same birthday month. There’s even an ice cream machine that the group’s resident genius, Kevin Patel, manages to get working; I couldn’t help but love geeky Kevin. This picture of a bunch of kids enjoying a day at the bowling alley eating ice cream and cake reminds you that they are still kids, even though the rest of the time they’re working a farm, taking care of the younger children, and disposing of the adult bodies. Everyone on this island has to grow up fast, but it happens at a rate that is convincing.
I thought that the characters were well-developed, and Cramer did an excellent job making the dialogue sound authentic for twelve and thirteen-year-olds. Abby is a selfless, natural leader and a big reason why the Castine Island survivors work together and avoid the chaos on the mainland that is seen later in the book. Her brother Jordan possesses some fine leadership skills of his own, and when the Leigh siblings embark on a dangerous mission together, they must continue to tap into the courage and resolve that they’ve demonstrated all along. Just when you think these two can’t possibly give anymore than they already have, they somehow find the strength to press on. The last few chapters were absolutely riveting, and I couldn’t read them fast enough.
There are a lot of dystopians to choose from these days, but Night of the Purple Moon distinguishes itself with its unique premise and strong, determined characters. I think that middle grade readers would easily connect with Abby, Jordan, Kevin, and the others. Dystopian fans of any age will want to check this one out. The ending hints strongly at a sequel, which I’ll definitely read.
November 21, 2014
I've had the eBook of this on my kindle since it came out and have wanted to read it since but never found the time. When I saw the audio book, I grabbed it and started it straight away.
When a comet enters earths atmosphere and moves across the moon, it creates a purple moon. Everyone is excited to see this once in a lifetime event and there are parties planned. Abby is going to watch it with her family in their back lawn. The comet passes and it looks so pretty but Abby has school the next day and goes to bed. When she gets up in the morning she finds it odd that it's so quite, and why is there a van crashed in their neighbours lawn with no one around?? She calls to her dad but gets no answer, where is he? She wakes her brother and younger sister and they all debate what's happening. Next thing they know, their other neighbours kids bang at the door saying their parents are dead. Abby faces up to the fact that all is not well, she looks out the back where she was watching the comet, and sees her father dead. With every adult dead and kids dying when they reach maturity, Abby and the gang have to learn to survive.
With the plethora of Post Apocalyptic books out there, it's often hard to find a truly unique one but I think the author has managed it. I loved the idea that the comet introduced the pathogen which attacks the hormones of adults. I also loved that it changed the moon to purple, how cool is that!!!
The fact that the characters are all young kids helps as well. Everything they went through and accomplished felt that much more than if they were adults. They all have to grow up so quick. Also because they are so young, there are pleanty of heart wrenching moments and some quits scary situations too. I cried a few times during the story.
The plot was fast paced too. From the moment they wake up to see every adult dead to the very last page, the kids are put through their paces. They have some hard decisions to make but they do so as a team and that's what I loved the most. This isn't just a Post Apocalyptic book, it's a story of survival, it's a tale of overcoming the worst things possible and it's also a tale of how a group of kids work together to live.
The audio for me was what made the book that much more. Deanna Moffitts voice really pulled you in and made you experience the heartache much more than you would while reading. She did an amazing job and I can't wait to listen to more from her. I also can't wait till book 2 of this series comes to audio because after the ending I need to know what happens next. Where will the author take the gang?
When a comet enters earths atmosphere and moves across the moon, it creates a purple moon. Everyone is excited to see this once in a lifetime event and there are parties planned. Abby is going to watch it with her family in their back lawn. The comet passes and it looks so pretty but Abby has school the next day and goes to bed. When she gets up in the morning she finds it odd that it's so quite, and why is there a van crashed in their neighbours lawn with no one around?? She calls to her dad but gets no answer, where is he? She wakes her brother and younger sister and they all debate what's happening. Next thing they know, their other neighbours kids bang at the door saying their parents are dead. Abby faces up to the fact that all is not well, she looks out the back where she was watching the comet, and sees her father dead. With every adult dead and kids dying when they reach maturity, Abby and the gang have to learn to survive.
With the plethora of Post Apocalyptic books out there, it's often hard to find a truly unique one but I think the author has managed it. I loved the idea that the comet introduced the pathogen which attacks the hormones of adults. I also loved that it changed the moon to purple, how cool is that!!!
The fact that the characters are all young kids helps as well. Everything they went through and accomplished felt that much more than if they were adults. They all have to grow up so quick. Also because they are so young, there are pleanty of heart wrenching moments and some quits scary situations too. I cried a few times during the story.
The plot was fast paced too. From the moment they wake up to see every adult dead to the very last page, the kids are put through their paces. They have some hard decisions to make but they do so as a team and that's what I loved the most. This isn't just a Post Apocalyptic book, it's a story of survival, it's a tale of overcoming the worst things possible and it's also a tale of how a group of kids work together to live.
The audio for me was what made the book that much more. Deanna Moffitts voice really pulled you in and made you experience the heartache much more than you would while reading. She did an amazing job and I can't wait to listen to more from her. I also can't wait till book 2 of this series comes to audio because after the ending I need to know what happens next. Where will the author take the gang?
August 13, 2012
First thoughts
The synopsis was so good. The plot was so unique and even though I had no free time really I couldn’t pass it up. This needs to be a movie! Scott Cramer did an amazing with this book and I am sooo glad I accepted the request to review it!
My thoughts
I really enjoyed this book! It was so unique and unlike any other book that I’ve read, especially for a post-apocalyptic book. Night of the purple had me from the very beginning! I loved that I didn’t have to wait long before the story to get started; it was never a slow or dull moment. With the unique plot, likable characters this is a grade A book.
First let’s talk about the plot and how creative it is. I comes passes though earth and sets off a purple moon which brings space germs that attack the human bodies with high levels of hormones. That means that all adults are gone, and children that have reached adolescents. Children are now left without parents, internet, electricity and the basic things they need to survive. Everyone has to grow up quickly and stick together to build a better future for the younger kids, all the while dreading getting older, because as soon as one enters adolescents your time is limited, and no one is safe.
The characters in this book where Abby, Jordan, and their younger sister toucan (lisette).Abby is the oldest sibling; she learns of the outcomes from the comet and tries to get the island together so that they can care for themselves and their younger sibling. Kevin and Emily is Abby’s neighbors’ and they band together and figure out ways to survive. After everyone is finally accounted for there is just a small group of kids left. Now it’s up to them to determine the best way to stay alive. Kevin and Abby were my favorite character’s followed closely by everyone else. I enjoyed watching everything the kids had to do and learn in order to sustain their lives.
Overall this was a great story! I don’t think I could have been in that situation and was strong enough to grow up that fast. Night of the purple moon kept me guessing! Who was next? What’s going to happen? When would the cure be available? And if so would the character’s I’ve grown to love be alive to receive it? This story will grip your heartstrings. It’s a wonderful story told in the span of one year, and a lot happens, it’s a book that you don’t want to miss. The second one is one my books to watch list because I must find out what happens next.
I highly recommend this book it’s a great must read for middle- school aged kids and beyond! Don’t miss out!
The synopsis was so good. The plot was so unique and even though I had no free time really I couldn’t pass it up. This needs to be a movie! Scott Cramer did an amazing with this book and I am sooo glad I accepted the request to review it!
My thoughts
I really enjoyed this book! It was so unique and unlike any other book that I’ve read, especially for a post-apocalyptic book. Night of the purple had me from the very beginning! I loved that I didn’t have to wait long before the story to get started; it was never a slow or dull moment. With the unique plot, likable characters this is a grade A book.
First let’s talk about the plot and how creative it is. I comes passes though earth and sets off a purple moon which brings space germs that attack the human bodies with high levels of hormones. That means that all adults are gone, and children that have reached adolescents. Children are now left without parents, internet, electricity and the basic things they need to survive. Everyone has to grow up quickly and stick together to build a better future for the younger kids, all the while dreading getting older, because as soon as one enters adolescents your time is limited, and no one is safe.
The characters in this book where Abby, Jordan, and their younger sister toucan (lisette).Abby is the oldest sibling; she learns of the outcomes from the comet and tries to get the island together so that they can care for themselves and their younger sibling. Kevin and Emily is Abby’s neighbors’ and they band together and figure out ways to survive. After everyone is finally accounted for there is just a small group of kids left. Now it’s up to them to determine the best way to stay alive. Kevin and Abby were my favorite character’s followed closely by everyone else. I enjoyed watching everything the kids had to do and learn in order to sustain their lives.
Overall this was a great story! I don’t think I could have been in that situation and was strong enough to grow up that fast. Night of the purple moon kept me guessing! Who was next? What’s going to happen? When would the cure be available? And if so would the character’s I’ve grown to love be alive to receive it? This story will grip your heartstrings. It’s a wonderful story told in the span of one year, and a lot happens, it’s a book that you don’t want to miss. The second one is one my books to watch list because I must find out what happens next.
I highly recommend this book it’s a great must read for middle- school aged kids and beyond! Don’t miss out!
May 22, 2012
My review copy of Night of the Purple Moon was graciously provided by the author, Scott Cramer.
The purple moon is a fabulous construct – and one I had to google to determine whether or not it did, in fact, exist (it appears it does not in science – although there are a startling number of things with the name “purple moon”, as you can see here if you are interested – and too lazy, I’m sorry, I mean BUSY, to run your own Google search. Teehee.). Scott Cramer’s purple moon is a phenomenon caused by cosmic dust left behind after the Earth travels through the tail of a comet. It’s also a harbinger – but no one knows this until after it occurs. The purple moon is the visual proof of the dust – and of the “space germs” carried in the dust. Space germs that have one deadly destination – adults (and older YA-types on the threshold of adulthood).
After the germs take over, there isn’t an adult left alive on Earth – and there isn’t a child who doesn’t learn, overnight, what a wild world it is. Cramer’s take on the if-children-ruled-the-world genre is a very unique one, and quite well crafted. The construct of the purple moon and germs from space that attach (attack?) hormones is clever and intriguing. The aftermath of the removal of all adults from the world isn’t quite Lord of the Flies-ish-ness (or, maybe it’s better to say it isn’t all LotF-ish-ness) and it offers a view of children and the world that is much more optimistic than current news headlines suggests – which was refreshing.
The story moves along at a solid pace. The characters are eminently likable and pretty believable (if you’re willing to be an optimist about kids, and I am). There were times when I stopped to wonder how my step-kids/nephews would handle themselves – and more importantly, others – in a world without grown-ups. I love when a book makes me think, and this one took me onto some entirely new ground, so bonus points for that. My only complaint is that the book needed a solid round of editing. There were more than a handful of typos/grammatical mistakes – something I always find a little distracting – but the story itself is well-told and worth the read.
Well done, Scott. I look forward to seeing what kind of a world you craft next…
**P.S., The author tells me he's updated the available version a couple of times in a continual effort to eliminate typos. Just so you know! :)
The purple moon is a fabulous construct – and one I had to google to determine whether or not it did, in fact, exist (it appears it does not in science – although there are a startling number of things with the name “purple moon”, as you can see here if you are interested – and too lazy, I’m sorry, I mean BUSY, to run your own Google search. Teehee.). Scott Cramer’s purple moon is a phenomenon caused by cosmic dust left behind after the Earth travels through the tail of a comet. It’s also a harbinger – but no one knows this until after it occurs. The purple moon is the visual proof of the dust – and of the “space germs” carried in the dust. Space germs that have one deadly destination – adults (and older YA-types on the threshold of adulthood).
After the germs take over, there isn’t an adult left alive on Earth – and there isn’t a child who doesn’t learn, overnight, what a wild world it is. Cramer’s take on the if-children-ruled-the-world genre is a very unique one, and quite well crafted. The construct of the purple moon and germs from space that attach (attack?) hormones is clever and intriguing. The aftermath of the removal of all adults from the world isn’t quite Lord of the Flies-ish-ness (or, maybe it’s better to say it isn’t all LotF-ish-ness) and it offers a view of children and the world that is much more optimistic than current news headlines suggests – which was refreshing.
The story moves along at a solid pace. The characters are eminently likable and pretty believable (if you’re willing to be an optimist about kids, and I am). There were times when I stopped to wonder how my step-kids/nephews would handle themselves – and more importantly, others – in a world without grown-ups. I love when a book makes me think, and this one took me onto some entirely new ground, so bonus points for that. My only complaint is that the book needed a solid round of editing. There were more than a handful of typos/grammatical mistakes – something I always find a little distracting – but the story itself is well-told and worth the read.
Well done, Scott. I look forward to seeing what kind of a world you craft next…
**P.S., The author tells me he's updated the available version a couple of times in a continual effort to eliminate typos. Just so you know! :)
April 4, 2012
(I was given an electronic copy of this book by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.)
Virtually everyone on Earth is looking forward to seeing the purple moon they’ve been promised for months. The planet will pass through the tail of a comet, creating weeks of colourful sunsets and sunrises for them to enjoy. What they’re not expecting, though, is the space dust which has a devastating effect, killing off older teens and adults in just hours. Abby Leigh, her brother Jordan, and their neighbours Kevin and Emily are left frantically trying to look after the other children on their small island. Can they survive until a cure is found? As well as the problems in feeding and caring for themselves and a bunch of smaller children, they’re all too aware that it’s a race against time – because Abby, and some of the others, are getting close to puberty themselves.
This is a fairly strange way to start a review of a sci-fi book, but what really got me about Night of the Purple Moon was how realistic it felt. Everything after the initial deaths due to the dust seems to be incredibly well thought out, both in the way in which characters act and the effects their actions have. Similarly, the characters – especially Abby and Emily – are very well-developed and this makes it gut-wrenching when bad things happen to them. (And believe me, some very bad things happen to some of them – I was stunned by how dark it got at points.) I also had a soft spot for Abby’s two-year-old sister Toucan, an incredibly cute toddler.
Given how easy it is to fall for these characters, I found it to be a gripping book because I was desperate to find out what happened to them. I read the last two-thirds while sitting in a dentist’s waiting room about to have a filling, and it completely took the thought of the upcoming procedure out of my head – no mean feat given my general dread of dental visits!
Strong recommendation as a really impressive novel. I’m hoping Scott Cramer releases something else in the near future!
Virtually everyone on Earth is looking forward to seeing the purple moon they’ve been promised for months. The planet will pass through the tail of a comet, creating weeks of colourful sunsets and sunrises for them to enjoy. What they’re not expecting, though, is the space dust which has a devastating effect, killing off older teens and adults in just hours. Abby Leigh, her brother Jordan, and their neighbours Kevin and Emily are left frantically trying to look after the other children on their small island. Can they survive until a cure is found? As well as the problems in feeding and caring for themselves and a bunch of smaller children, they’re all too aware that it’s a race against time – because Abby, and some of the others, are getting close to puberty themselves.
This is a fairly strange way to start a review of a sci-fi book, but what really got me about Night of the Purple Moon was how realistic it felt. Everything after the initial deaths due to the dust seems to be incredibly well thought out, both in the way in which characters act and the effects their actions have. Similarly, the characters – especially Abby and Emily – are very well-developed and this makes it gut-wrenching when bad things happen to them. (And believe me, some very bad things happen to some of them – I was stunned by how dark it got at points.) I also had a soft spot for Abby’s two-year-old sister Toucan, an incredibly cute toddler.
Given how easy it is to fall for these characters, I found it to be a gripping book because I was desperate to find out what happened to them. I read the last two-thirds while sitting in a dentist’s waiting room about to have a filling, and it completely took the thought of the upcoming procedure out of my head – no mean feat given my general dread of dental visits!
Strong recommendation as a really impressive novel. I’m hoping Scott Cramer releases something else in the near future!
July 21, 2012
I recieved this book from the author give an honest review.
Night of the Purple Moon was not what I was expecting it to be.
I was amazed on how the plot came together, and how the characters were written.
Imagined waking up one day and watching a comet and knowing that space dust would cover things, but what happens next is not what you expected. You and all other kids under the puberty age are the only survivors, all adults are dead. How would you survive?
Night of the Purple Moon takes you into the lives of those that are having to survive on their own without any adult help and on a small island away from the city. They start worrying when some of the older kids start hitting puberty and the symptoms of the space germs start attacking their body. Would there ever be a cure? Until Kevin one of the pre-teens who is very intelligent listens to the radio for some answers. The CDC is working on a cure. How many from the island will survive to be cured?
Abby, her brother Jordan, their sister Toucan and their father are waiting to watch the comet. It is said that the comet will causes colorful sunsets, sunrises and a purple moon. Abby does not really care to watch it, but her class assignment is to WATCH THE COMET. Before the comet comes everyone ends up falling asleep. When Abby and her siblings wake they find that their lives have been changed forever. Not only is there a purple moon, but all the adults have died. With the help of Kevin and his sister Emily, Abby and Jordan gather all the children from the island and start trying to survive. They learn how to milk cows, tend to chickens, gather fresh drinking water just in case they run out, and most of all start taking care of one another.
If you enjoy a good story that will keep you guessing what is going to happen next, and like to read what I would call post apocalyptic. Then I suggest you give Night of the Purple Moon a read,
Night of the Purple Moon was not what I was expecting it to be.
I was amazed on how the plot came together, and how the characters were written.
Imagined waking up one day and watching a comet and knowing that space dust would cover things, but what happens next is not what you expected. You and all other kids under the puberty age are the only survivors, all adults are dead. How would you survive?
Night of the Purple Moon takes you into the lives of those that are having to survive on their own without any adult help and on a small island away from the city. They start worrying when some of the older kids start hitting puberty and the symptoms of the space germs start attacking their body. Would there ever be a cure? Until Kevin one of the pre-teens who is very intelligent listens to the radio for some answers. The CDC is working on a cure. How many from the island will survive to be cured?
Abby, her brother Jordan, their sister Toucan and their father are waiting to watch the comet. It is said that the comet will causes colorful sunsets, sunrises and a purple moon. Abby does not really care to watch it, but her class assignment is to WATCH THE COMET. Before the comet comes everyone ends up falling asleep. When Abby and her siblings wake they find that their lives have been changed forever. Not only is there a purple moon, but all the adults have died. With the help of Kevin and his sister Emily, Abby and Jordan gather all the children from the island and start trying to survive. They learn how to milk cows, tend to chickens, gather fresh drinking water just in case they run out, and most of all start taking care of one another.
If you enjoy a good story that will keep you guessing what is going to happen next, and like to read what I would call post apocalyptic. Then I suggest you give Night of the Purple Moon a read,
April 9, 2013
** Free download on Amazon April2013 **
First I have to ask, who else thinks that the one cover here is SO similar to the movie cover for "The Color Purple" (maybe too much so, as other covers have been introduced)?
While a comet spreading germs that kill anyone who has passed through puberty isn't exactly "normal", I didn't consider this a paranormal read in any way. Everything presented was pretty realistic/scientific (within a fiction realm). I don't know that I really even consider it dystopian, well, not futuristic anyway, more survivalistic.
For some reason, I've always been drawn to books where kids are forced to survive. Island of the Blue Dolphins, Call it Courage, Hatchet, Z for Zachariah ... I read a book as a teen (The Girl Who Owned a City) and watched a similar cable series (Jeremiah) ... in both of these, it's also a virus that kills everyone over the age of 13 or so. I have in my "to read" queue Apocalypsis (all the adults died) and "Gone" where all the adults simply disappear. Then of course, there is always "Lord of the Flies" although this is not nearly as disturbing as that book!
This was very simple writing, a quick read. Appropriate for young audiences, if they can deal with the theme. Although obviously there is death all over, there is no language, sex (some simple kisses) or anything else inappropriate, although some of the talk of puberty may make readers feel like they are at their 5th grade maturation program.
I did NOT care for the little girl's name (Toucan???) and even when it was explained that it was a nickname, I thought it was strange. Now I see that this book is actually the first in "The Toucan Trilogy" ... I thought this book did wrap up (no cliff hanger) but is certainly open enough to continue on to future books.
*** I picked this Kindle copy free at Amazon. Also available for borrowing on Prime if it looses free status, but actually I'd say it's worth the $3 price tag ***
First I have to ask, who else thinks that the one cover here is SO similar to the movie cover for "The Color Purple" (maybe too much so, as other covers have been introduced)?
While a comet spreading germs that kill anyone who has passed through puberty isn't exactly "normal", I didn't consider this a paranormal read in any way. Everything presented was pretty realistic/scientific (within a fiction realm). I don't know that I really even consider it dystopian, well, not futuristic anyway, more survivalistic.
For some reason, I've always been drawn to books where kids are forced to survive. Island of the Blue Dolphins, Call it Courage, Hatchet, Z for Zachariah ... I read a book as a teen (The Girl Who Owned a City) and watched a similar cable series (Jeremiah) ... in both of these, it's also a virus that kills everyone over the age of 13 or so. I have in my "to read" queue Apocalypsis (all the adults died) and "Gone" where all the adults simply disappear. Then of course, there is always "Lord of the Flies" although this is not nearly as disturbing as that book!
This was very simple writing, a quick read. Appropriate for young audiences, if they can deal with the theme. Although obviously there is death all over, there is no language, sex (some simple kisses) or anything else inappropriate, although some of the talk of puberty may make readers feel like they are at their 5th grade maturation program.
I did NOT care for the little girl's name (Toucan???) and even when it was explained that it was a nickname, I thought it was strange. Now I see that this book is actually the first in "The Toucan Trilogy" ... I thought this book did wrap up (no cliff hanger) but is certainly open enough to continue on to future books.
*** I picked this Kindle copy free at Amazon. Also available for borrowing on Prime if it looses free status, but actually I'd say it's worth the $3 price tag ***
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