Book Review
“Jake Whyte- Pig Hunter” by J D Crouchley, published by Bateman Books, price $23.99. Reviewed by Tony Orman.
This is a book aimed at Kiwi youngsters and thus has an admirable target readership. There’s no better classroom than the outdoors.It’s sure to inspire kids into the outdoors with some gripping tales that will lead them to leave their screens and mobile phones and get some healthy outdoor exercise and build self esteem and confidence.
The story is told through the eyes and mind of Jake Whyte. Jake is the son of a solo mother and cost of living pressures are strong. When Jake finds an injured wild piglet, it occurs to him that hunting might put much needed food on the table.
Jake teaches himself to hunt by first using snares and succeeds. Soon he encounters the Marshall family and it just happens the father Andy Marshall is an avid pig hunter and invites Jake along – and besides Jake has a crush on the daughter Georgie Marshall.
But there’s a downside. The son Bevan is grumpy that Jake has been invited to go on family hunts. So the adventures unfold into a tale about not only hunting but human relationships, that is sure to be eagerly absorbed by young readers.
J D Crouchley is the pen name for husband and wife writing team Joy and Dave Crouchley.
Joy is a retired primary school teacher with a love of writing while Dave, a life long hunter, has recently retired from a conservation job. Living in Fiordland provides a great background for the writing.
The duo have written an engaging story – even adults will be absorbed. Neat illustrations by Cat Chapman feature at chapter headings.
Highly recommended. Get one for your son, daughter or grandkids.
