Gaspar De Portola Middle School

Kids' Book Picks

Alabama Moon by Watt Key

A flood of all emotions ranging from laughter, worry, compassion to sorrow.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a father and his 10-year-old son, Moon, who live out in the forest. They are constantly out of touch with civilization besides an occasional trip to the general store for supplies. Moon’s father dies out in the forest and the last thing that he remembers is his father saying, “Travel to Alaska to find others like us.” Moon’s problem is that it is hard to leave without being spotted. If the government finds out about him, he would be in a wad of trouble. The bad guy or antagonist is Constable Sander who plays sort of a cat-and-mouse game with Moon. Sanders is trying to get Moon in the governments hands.

Along with Moon and Constable Sanders, there are also Kit and Hal. Kit is Moon’s best friends that has a disease. He gets a severe attack in the middle of the wilderness. Hal is the bad guy of the bunch, always giving Moon a hard time. Even though Hal can be a big pain, he processes a message through Moon basically saying that he isn’t superman. He can’t do everything.

Students at Portola would find this book interesting because of the adventure and suspense. Sure it’s not relatable, but who says a good big has to be a published copy of someone’s life?

The best part of this book in my opinion is the end, but I don’t want to ruin the surprise by telling you all about it. I recommend this book for anyone that likes adventure. Read the book if you really want to know how it ends.

Reviewed by Eliza B.

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key, is a story about a young boy and his father who live in the forest, on the run from the government. The main character is named Moon. Moon and his father on their own, making their own food and shelter. The story takes place sometime in the 1970s. The conflict centers around Moon trying to live on his own when his father passes from an infected leg. The story gets complicated when he’s taken by the government, in to a boys home named Pinson. It takes another interesting turn when he and two boys from Pinson sneak out. The climax is their attempt to live on their own in the forest with only Moon’s way of survival.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Sanders, a mean man who brings Moon to the boys home, Hal, a teenage boy he met at Pinson who is at first against Moon, but later one of his good friends, and Kit, his best friend he also met and Pinson.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because its adventurous and exciting. They could relate to to Alabama Moon because the main characters is around their age.

The most interesting part of the story was when they broke out of Pinson. Their plan was so well thought out. It surprised me when they actually got away because it seemed really hard to escape from a place that secure. I recommend this book because its so full of details that you can picture every setting they’re in. Its overall a great book.

Reviewed by Targol M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who goes to Alaska to find people like him. The main character is Moon Blake, a ten-year-old boy who was raised in the woods with his father. It takes place in Alabama, after the Vietnam War. The conflict centers around Moon’s father dying. The story gets complicated when he has to get over his fathers death. It takes another interesting turn when he decides to go to Alaska to find people like him that hate the government. The climax is at the point when Constable Sanders takes Moon court, accusing Moon of attempting to murder him.

In addition to Moon, there were several other great characters. Moon’s father was another great character because his death influenced the conflict of the story. Kit, Moon’s best friend, was another great character in the book because he went with Moon to Alaska.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it is about a kid who goes by himself to Alaska. They could also relate to him not understanding the government.

The most interesting part of the story was when he chose to stay with his uncle instead of going to Alaska. It surprised me because I thought he would pursue what his father wanted him to do. I don’t recommend this book because for me it was very boring, but it was probably boring because I had to read through the book quickly to get it over with.

Reviewed by Amanda S.

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key, is about a kid that has to survive in the forest by himself. The boy, Moon Blake, has lived in the Alabama forest with his father for a really long time enough not tom remember the last time he saw another person. This story takes place after the Vietnam War, but very shortly. When Moons father dies, he has to survive on his own. He has to Alaska like his father had told him to before his death. The main conflict is that the government is trying to find Moon after his father died, but Moon didnt want to be found because his father taught him to believe that the government is bad. During his journey, Moon becomes friends with Kit and Hal. Hal shows Moon what its like to live in a real house and Kit shows him what real friendship is like. The climax happens when Moon realizes having a family and being in society would be better than going to Alaska.

Students at Portola would find this interesting because they could realize how different it would be to live without modern inventions and away from a civilized community. They would also like the action and adventure that this book has.

The most interesting part of this story for me was when Moon decided to live with his uncle Mike in Mobile instead of going to Alaska like his father had told him to. I would recommend this book because it is a great book about how living alone would be really hard and how you need to know how to survive to live.

Reviewed by Michael S.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about hardships, people who hate the government, and a great sense of understanding what life is all about. The main character is Moon Blake, a 10-year-old boy who doesn’t have a mother or father and lives in the wilderness. The conflict centers around Moon being free from the government. The antagonist of the book is Constable Sanders. He complicates the story so much that I wouldn’t be surprised if he had his own book explaining his own side of the story.

In addition to Moon and Sanders, there are many other very contributing characters. Kit, Moon’s best friend, has a disease that, while in the middle of the wilderness, attacks him severely. Hal (yes, that is spelled correctly) is the bully of the trio, and him always giving Moon a hard time help Moon realize that he can’t do everything and improves his point of view a lot.

The students at Portola would find this novel exciting, spine chilling and very mysterious. This is because, from my point of view, most people that I know like adventure, thrills and even the mild language.

The most interesting part of the entire novel was the very end. It surprised me very much when ….well, to find out what happens, you will have to read the book and be surprised all on your own. I would recommend this book because it could be awe inspiring for many people.

Reviewed by Austin W.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lives with his father in the woods and has to survive off of the things they can find, with occasional trips to see people in the town. The main character is Moon, a boy who has to survive in the woods by himself with only the animals and the dark night with him. It takes place in Alabama during a time of people being parentless and just ordinary people living. The conflict centers around when Pap dies and Moon has to live on his own. The story gets complicated when the government starts to look for Moon, since they do not allow kids to live with no parents. It takes another interesting turn when he gets put into Pinson, a place for boys who are misbehaving. The climax is when they run away and the government starts to look for them, so they run away to a state park to hide.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Kit and Hal, the friends who served a role as the friends who helped everybody escape and welcome Moon to Pinson.

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because it has curse words and parts with suspense. They could also relate this to other books they have read about people trying to live on their own in the woods.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon and the others were trying to get out of Pinson. It surprised me because, I thought that somebody would catch them and they would be guarded by guards every second of the day. I recommend/don’t recommend this book, because there are curse words a and because it has a lot of suspense and some details.

Review by Deena L

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lives out in the wild. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who is very rebellious and hates the government and is heading his way towards Alaska. It takes place in Alabama during a time of hippies and rebels. The conflict centers around Moon and his father hating the government. The story gets complicated when Moon’s father dies and Moon tries walking to Alaska. It takes another interesting turn when he nearly gets arrested. The climax turns out with him going to Alaska and getting stopped multiple times by the police.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Hal, the juvenile delinquent who served a role as someone who helped Moon on his way to Alaska.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it has some interesting parts. They could also relate to the way homeless people might live in the woods.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon escaped the juvenile hall he was in. It surprised me because I thought he would never escape and make it to Alaska. I don’t recommend this book because it sometimes gets boring.

Reviewed by Alex M.

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key, is about surviving in the forest on your own. It is about a boy, Moon Blake, who has lived in the Alabama forest as long as he can remember with his father, away from other human contact. This story takes place after the Vietnam war. When Moon’s father dies, he has to survive on his own and go to Alaska like his father had told him to. The main conflict is that the government is trying to find Moon after his father died, but Moon didn’t want to be found because his father taught him to believe that the government is bad. During his journey, Moon becomes friends with Kit and Hal. Hal shows Moon what it’s like to live in a real house and Kit shows him what real friendship is like. The climax happens when Moon realizes having a family and being in society would be better than going to Alaska.

Reviewed by Ava M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a ten-year-old boy named Moon Blake who lives in a forest in Alabama with his dad. The conflict centers on Moon wanting to follow his father’s wishes and go to Alaska, avoiding the government. During the story Moon realizes he also wants to have friends and family. The story gets complicated when Moon is taken by authorities to a boy’s home after his father’s death. It takes another interesting turn when he, Hal and Kit escape out of the home. The story goes in another direction when Hal returns to the forest to get Moon and show him what it’s like to live in a real house. The climax of the story occurs at the court hearing where Moon is set free and constable Sanders is jailed for lying.

In addition to Moon, there were several other great characters. Kit became Moon’s best friend, and he made Moon realize how important friends really are. Moon realizes it is more important than going to Alaska. Unfortunately, Kit is sick and dies in the story. Sanders, the constable, served a role as a mean old man trying to prove his authority.

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because it shows how clever and resourceful Moon was while living in the forest. However, I think they would find it hard to relate to such an environment because they are used to technology and the conveniences of home.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon’s uncle was located. It surprised me because his dad never mentioned he had an uncle. Mr. Wellington, Moon’s lawyer, found him by searching records and looking at pictures. I recommend this book because it was easy reading and entertaining. It has a happy ending for Moon, who joins his uncle’s loving family in Mobile.

Reviewed by Michael R.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a boy named Moon Blake. He just escaped from juvy and is in the Alabama forest and his father died. This takes place in Alabama during a time where the vietnam war has just ended. The conflict centers around Moon and his friends going through obstacles to get to Alaska. The story gets complicated when this darned cop puts Moon in a foster home. It takes another interesting turn when Moon's friend Kit dies. The climax is when he realizes that having a loving family is better than going to Alaska.

With the role of Moon there were a few other great characters that have a role in Alabama Moon by Watt Key. Such as Kit and Hal who played roles as Moon's friends and the two people who he could trust.

Students would find this story interesting because you can really get into it and follow the story easily. They can also relate to Kit and Hal's loyalty to Moon.

The most interesting part of this story was when Moon decided not to full-fill his father's dream of going to Alaska and instead staying with a loving family of his own. It surprised me because the whole story was about him getting to Alaska and all of a sudden he changes his mind! I recommend this book because It's adventurist and easy to relate to!

Reviewed by Adam E.

Alabama Moon is a heartwarming but steady story about a young 10 year old boy named Moon. Before his father passed away, he lived in a shelter with his father. They didn't interact much with other people...those people might be called outsiders, if you will. He becomes a fugitive, as you get deeper into the book. His father had told him that he would be just fine without other people in his life, and Moon grows to live on what his father says. In a part of the book, a person named Mr. Carter mentions how Sanders roughed him up, but Moon shrugs it off. This shows Moon has a rugged side, too. Moon would rather be on his way to Alaska, instead of the warmth Mr. Carter suggests. Later in the story, Moon interacts with people like Kit, Hal, Eddie, etc, along with critters they have to eat.

It is amazing what they eat- animals like deer and rabbit. Moon is used to living this life style, so it isn't a problem. Moon is an amazing kid, he doesn't care about the drama, as long as it gets done. He is willing to walk to Alaska, by foot. As we get to nearing the end of the book, Moon is told by his Uncle Mike that it's hard starting a new life, and it takes time. He is a character who is warm, and a person to look up to. Moon knows his new life in a new place is going to be fine- he likes it already. Uncle Mike reassures everything, and everything comes together in a fine line as the book is closed off with a warm ending. I recommend this book especially for Middle schoolers because it has action we commonly desire. You will like the ending, and action that goes on.

Reviewed by Monique M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who is 10 years old named Moon. He is left alone in the Alabama forest when his father died. His father has taught him much about the forest, so he used his knowledge to guide him. The main conflict is when Moon must learn to live alone in the crowded city. He travels through a lot of places. He is sent from going to jail, to a boy’s home, a shelter in the forest, his friend’s trailer, and eventually lives with his uncle. During the time he needed to learn who he should trust. He almost experiences death more than once.It gets complicated when Moon escapes from the boys home. It takes another interesting turn when his best friend Kit dies.

There were several other characters besides Moon. There was Hal, a good friend that he made at the boys home, Pap which is his father, Sanders the Constable, and Kit his best friend.

Students at Portola will find this story interesting because the boy who is around our age. This is an adventure story so it may interest the people who are into adventure books. Some kids could relate to being lonely and independent. The most interesting part of the story is when Moon jumps and beats up people. It is interesting because Moon punches people like it‘s not a big deal. I recommend this book because it is a story that some of the students can all relate to.

Reviewed by Kiana H.

Alabama Moon is a story about a child named Moon Blake escaping juvy hall and surviving in the wilderness. It takes place in Alabama after the Vietnamese War. The story gets complicated when Moon's father dies and he must break the law. It takes another interesting turn when he escapes juvy with his two friends, Kit and Hal, but Hal leaves because he wants two find his lost father. Not long after, Kit becomes ill and

has to go to the hospital. Moon becomes a wanted criminal. Luckily, he finds a

lawyer. The climax is when he wins the lawsuit.

In addition to Moon, there were several other important characters. Davy

Sanders, who was apparently the bad guy, who always tried to hunt down Moon. Another one was Mr. Wellington, who was Moon's lawyer and helped him out of all of his trouble.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it talks about a kid who goes through great measures to get what he wants. The most interesting part of the story was when he kept beating up police officers. This book

surprised me when he was caught by the law and put in jail. I would recommend this book because it could inspire other kids not to stop doing what they want to do just because there are some obstacles in the way.

Reviewed by Arya D.

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key, is a story about a ten year old kid named Moon who has always lived in the forest with his dad. He knows nothing about how the rest of the world lives. It takes place in the present day. The conflict centers around what Moon will do to live by himself and a few friends. His father dies, and the government soon finds him and takes him to Juvenile, where he and some new friends run away and discover they have to live by themselves in the forest. One of them runs off, and only Moon and his friend Kit are left to depend on Moon’s survival skills. The climax occurs when start getting chased by a determined policeman.

In addition to Moon, other interesting characters are Hal and Kit, his friends that he makes at jail. They all develop stronger care for one another as the story goes on, even though Hal runs away from them and reappears occasionally. They come to admire Moon’s way of living that he learned from his dad. Officer Sanders is another memorable character who is chasing Moon a lot of the story and is the reason they both are on the news. There is also Mr. Wellington, a lawyer who at first has no care for Moon but also hates Officer Sanders.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because they could appreciate the climaxes and relate to the way Moon handles them. The story leaves you thinking for a lot of it.

My favorite part of the story was when Mr. Wellington finally takes Moon’s side and realized how hard his life was. It surprised me because Moon could relate to how to real world functions. I recommend this book because it always leaves you waiting for what will happen in the next chapter.

Reviewed by Andy W.

Alabama Moon is a story about a ten-year-old boy named Moon Blake. Moon lives in the forest with his Dad. The book takes place in 1982. They live off of the land and don’t have much contact with the outside world. His Dad has been on the run, since being a draft dodger in the Viet Nam war. Moon’s father dies. He goes into the town to sell his Dad’s belongings at the general store. The storekeeper turns Moon in to Sheriff Sanders. The Sheriff jails Moon, and treats him poorly. Moon is sent to a juvenile hall, called Pinson. He breaks out of juvenile hall. Eventually, Moon goes on trial and his lawyer helps him find his uncle, and Moon goes to live with his new family.

Moon’s lawyer, Mr. Wellington, is a very good character. He helps Moon by letting him stay at his house and giving him food. He represents Moon at his trial and helps him find his Uncle. While at juvenile hall, Moon meets two boys. One is named Hal, and the other is Kit. Kit is very sickly, and needs medication. The three of them are the ones who hatch the plan to escape from juvenile hall.

Relating to this story would be easy if you had a distrust of the government and or authority figures. It is also a good lesson that you can overcome any obstacle if you have the guts to do it.

I think that this was an excellent book. It had a lot of action, and a good plot line. I liked that I got to know the characters very well. I really enjoyed this book, and would recommend it to anyone.

Reviewed by Nick D.

In the novel, Alabama Moon by Watt Key, shows a 10-year-old boy, who feels more at home among forest than people. He was raised in a little old shelter in the Alabama woods, Moon Blake knows only two people: Pap, a veteran against the government, and Mr. Abroscotto, the owner of a store in Gainsville. After Pap dies, Moon starts carrying out his father's hopes and wishes by finding his way to Alaska. Unfortunately, the authorities want to make Moon a ward of the state. At a fight for what he believes in with Constable Sanders, Moon gets an experience with society.

However, Moon begins to question his father's beliefs and wishes, especially when Kit (Moon's friend) gets sick and absolutely needs medical attention. Other than giving a dangerous and treacherous adventure, Alabama Moon also gives an account of lessons Moon's father has taught him on being how to survive and what to do for any emergency. "If Moon emerges as too sociable and articulate a character for someone who has grown up in an isolated environment, he remains likable; readers will admire his ability to outwit authority figures. Ages 10 and up." Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information Inc.)

I recommend this book to Portola Students because there is and always will be a mystery of what is around the corner. It will absolutely keep students and teachers at the edge of their chairs! Many others will agree as well. This story provides scenes where you will be tearing up, laughing out loud, or even begging for more. All though this story is not exactly unique or very interesting at first, it suddenly gives a dramatic twist or nudge the next corner you go around. In my point of view, everyone can relate to this story because in certain times of your life you literally do NOT have anyone to turn to! Moon took his life, lived it, and did not give up... something I personally think that everyone should consider.

Reviewed by Anahita A.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a realistic fictional novel about an orphaned boy

trying to get to Alaska and not get caught by the law. The main character of Alabama

Moon is Moon Blake, a 10 year old orphan fleeing from the law to get to Alaska. This

book takes place in the states around Alabama in 2002.

This story gets complicated when the half insane cop, Sanders, finds him and puts him in a boys home. It takes another turn shortly after Moon gets put in a boy’s home. He breaks out. The climax of the story is when Moon goes to court for supposedly attacking Sanders and his dogs.

In addition to Moon, there is Sanders the insane cop, bent on the jailing and/or the

destruction of Moon. He is also the main antagonist. There is Kit, a boy from the

boy’s home and Moon’s best friend. There is Hal Mitchell the tough friend of Moon. A

store clerk named Mr.Abroscotto an old friend of Moon’s deceased father. Also Mr.

Wellington, Moon’s lawyer and friend.

Students at Portola would find Alabama Moon interesting because of the language

and the survival strategies and wild freedom. Some kids could relate to his actions or

what they would do in similar situations. Most would love to bite and kick Sanders just

like Moon.

The most interesting part of Alabama Moon was when Moon was in court

trying to prove his innocence. It was interesting because I just loved visualizing how

Sanders looked when losing. I only recommend this book to people who love reading.

Those who don’t love reading would lose interest quickly for there are some slow parts.

Reviewed by Rashelle D.

For as long as ten-year-old Moon can remember, he has lived out in the forest in a shelter with his father. They keep to themselves, their only contact with other human beings an occasional trip to the nearest general store. When Moon's father dies, Moon follows his father's last instructions: to travel to Alaska to find others like themselves. But Moon is soon caught and entangled in a world he doesn't know or understand, apparent property of the government he has been avoiding all his life. As the spirited and resourceful Moon encounters constables, jails, institutions, lawyers, true friends, and true enemies, he adapts his wilderness survival skills and learns to survive in the outside world, and even, perhaps, make his home there.

Raised in a primitive shelter deep in the Alabama woods, Moon Blake knows only two people: Pap, a Vietnam veteran holding a grudge against the government, and Mr. Abroscotto, the storekeeper in Gainsville who buys their vegetables and sells them provisions. After Pap dies, Moon fully intends to carry out his father's wishes by finding his way to Alaska, a place where 'no one would find him' and 'people could still make a living off trapping.' But the authorities want to make Moon a ward of the state. During a harrowing cat-and-mouse game against mean-spirited Constable Sanders, Moon gets a taste of society, and he even makes friends during his brief stint at a boys' home, where he carries out an escape plan and brings two boys back to the forest with him. Over time, however, Moon begins to question his father's lifestyle and beliefs, especially when his friend Kit takes ill and is in need of medical attention. Besides offering adventure, the book provides a detailed account of lessons Moon's father has taught him on being self-sufficient.

Reviewed by Alonzo R.

In the novel Alabama Moon by Watt Key a ten-year-old boy named Moon has to survive on his own. Moon’s father dies of an infection due to a broken leg but before he dies he tells Moon to go to Alaska. Moon is soon caught by a crazy constable named Sanders, after Moon went to a rich lawyer named Mr. Wellington for help. Instead, Wellington hands Moon over to Sanders. Moon is taken by Sanders to a boys home where Moon meets Hal and Kit. Later on they all escape the home in a school bus and drive to a preserved forest near by before Sanders even knows that they left. Then Hal decides to leave Kit and Moon to go find his dad. After Hal leaves Sanders soon finds Moon and Kit but as clever as they are the boys trap Sanders and send him down the river back to the city. Kit ends up getting sick and Moon takes him to the hospital. Hal and Moon meet up and Moon goes to Hal’s dad’s place and wait for Kit to get better. Moon goes to the hospital only to find that Kit had died and to be caught by Sanders. Sanders takes Moon to court and Mr. Wellington helps moon win the case against Sanders. Mr. Wellington finds out that Moon has an uncle, aunt, and cousins and sends Moon to live with them. The end.

I believe that Moon is the most interesting character in the story because he lives on his own. He, for a ten year old, is very independent and clever. Like when he, Kit, and Hal steal a school bus that seems to me a very clever thing to do. And when he buries his own dad if that’s not independence I don’t know what is.

I think the most interesting point in the book was when Kit and Moon trap Sanders. This was not only an exiting part of the story but I also feel that it was brilliantly clever of Moon to think of trapping Sanders. I think that this was the best part of the book.

My overall opinion of Alabama Moon is that it is an epic tale of survival with witty characters. To sum it all up it is a fantastically written book that I would recommend to anyone.

Reviewed by Preston S.

Alabama Moon is a story about Moon Blake, a ten year old kid whose dad “brings him up” in the woods and teaches him how to live out on his own and avoid the government because his dad always told him that the government was bad and was always after them. Early on in the book, the father dies and the main character, Moon is left alone to survive out in the forest.

The story takes place in Alabama during the end of the 1990’s, about twenty years after the Vietnam War. The conflict in this book centers around multiple elements: Moon being alone in the wilderness, forced to live on his own; Moon’s emotional struggles from losing his “pap” who was one of the only people he knew; losing his best friend Kit, who was a young boy who had a medical condition and was Moon’s best friend; and having to leave the only place, the forest, that he called home. The story gets interesting when Moon makes a gamble to trust the only other person he knew, before “Pap” died Mr. Abroscotto. Mr. Abroscotto was a store owner who bought hides and meat that Pap and Moon sold him, and ended up betraying Moon’s trust causing him to get so mad that he actually hit him, or as Moon would say, “Whipped him up.”

The climax takes place when a man named Constable Sanders gets sent to jail and Moon’s name is cleared. Constable Sanders is a police officer, who in Moon’s mind represents the bad government his father spoke of. He hates Moon because Moon hit him and ruined his pride. Throughout the story, Sanders is trying to bring Moon in and recover his lost pride. Moon, being who he is, does not want to be locked up where he cannot be in the forest, so he does everything in his power to make sure that Sanders does not catch him. When Sanders is finally brought in for abusing his powers, Moon’s name is cleared and Moon can finally move on with his life.

In addition to Moon Blake and those mentioned above, there were several other great characters. For example; Haul, Mr. Wellington, and Uncle Mike. Haul was a kid a little older than Moon who acted like an older brother to him. He played the role as a friend and he was someone Moon could “lean” on. Mr. Wellington was the lawyer in the story who moved near Moon’s original home, but ended up becoming Moon’s lawyer when Moon needed one most. Uncle Mike was a long lost relative who Mr. Wellington located. Uncle Mike ended up adopting Moon and becoming his new Pap.

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because it is not a typical book one would read in English class. In fact, it is a book that I would go to the library and check out myself. I feel that the Portola kids will like the solid plot that comes with action, a young kid that they can identify with, and the endless stream of new challenges. Plots in this story are very easy to relate to. For example when a family member dies, you feel that you are on your own, you may feel loneliness, or anxious about having to move and leave your friends. These are only some of the great things that the reader can relate to.

The most interesting part of the story takes place in the forest where Moon and Kit set a trap for Constable Sanders that results in his being pulled into a river because of the weight of a log he gets tied to. This event surprised me because I was amazed that two ten year olds could catch and trap a fully grown, fit man who did not want to be caught. I recommend this book to anyone who is in search of an action book filled with drama, friendship, loss, happiness, sadness, and even information about the forest. This book is truly a book I would give a five star rating to.

Reviewed by Kendall M.

In the novel, Alabama Moon by Watt Key a ten-year-old boy named Moon has to survive on his own. He tries to escape juvenile hall and survive in the wilderness with two friends. The time it takes place in Alabama during the Vietnam War. The story gets complicated when Moons father dies and his friends Hal and Kit travel with him, but sadly Hal leaves them to find his father. Soon later Kit has to leave him and gets sick when Moon becomes a wanted criminal. Soon after, Moon gets caught and has to go to court and wins in the climax.

In addition to Moon and his friends there are more characters. Like one main support character Mr. Wellington who was Moon’s lawyer and helped him out in his time of need.

Students of Portola would love this book because there are twists and turns in the story. They also show how prison was back then and challenges people had to go through everyday. I would recommend this book because it is a thriller with a good message and it keeps you interested the whole way through well if u can find them anyways.

Reviewed by Jacob S.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a father and son who live in the forest. When the father dies, Moon (the son) follows his instructions to travel to Alaska to find others like themselves. The main character is Moon, a boy who’s strong and courageous. It takes place in Alabama during the 19th century. The conflict centers on how Moon has no shelter, fresh water, or food to survive and he’s still taking the journey to Alaska. It takes another interesting turn when his friend Kit has died. The climax of this story is when he finally realizes that he rather have a family then go to Alaska.

In addition to Moon, there were several other great characters such as Kit and Hal, Moon’s best friends during the long journey. Hal helped protect Moon and Kit from the police officers by hiding them so they wouldn’t get captured. Kit, Moons other best friend, is a bit of a problem. He is sick during the journey and dies because he didn’t take the right medicine.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because you never know what would happen to these three kids. There is always a dramatic twist which would keep Portola students very interested in the book. They can also relate to this because kids at Portola probably had a relative who died.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon’s father, Pap, died. I thought Moon would be devastated and think there is nothing to life anymore. It surprised me because he didn’t feel sad. Instead he conquered his feelings and followed Pap’s last instructions: to go to Alaska and meet people like himself. I do recommend this book because you get into it and you would want to read more to see what will happen next.

Reviewed by Sharona T.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a kid who must adapt to a new life quickly. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who lives with his father in a tree in the wilderness. It takes place in Alabama during a time of thieves and liars. After his father dies and leaves him to survive on his own, Moon goes on a rough adventure far from home to Alaska to stand by a promise he made to his father. The conflict centers on Moon running from a constable because he is a minor and he doesn’t want to go to a boy’s home and be the property of the state. He wants to follow his father’s instructions to go to Alaska and find other people like him.

The story gets complicated when moon makes friends and has to journey without them because they had other business to tend to. It takes another interesting turn when moon is caught by the constable who is trying to get Moon to a jail or an institution. The climax starts when moon is in court and the constable lies on the oath of the bible.

In addition to moon there were several other great characters. One is Kit, the disease prone kid who served a role as the break out guy who helped him run away from the boy’s home. Hal is another character. He is the tough bully that helps Moon but leaves for unknown business.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it is a great book of the troubles one kid has when he did nothing wrong. They could also relate to being blamed for a lot of stuff when they did nothing wrong.

The most interesting part of the story was moon kicking Stanley’s (the constable) butt. It surprised me because Stanley is three times his size. I recommend this book because it is awesome; it has so many great fight scenes and a great ending.

Reviewed by Austin S.

Alabama Moon was a story I did not expect to find. It was a unique but not totally original story that I enjoyed reading. This book, written by Watt Key, is about a 10 year-old boy named Moon Blake. Moon and his father live in the forest in Alabama in the 80’s. Moon and his father live off the land, hunting and growing crops for food, using plants/herbs for medicine, and not relying on anybody else except for Mr. Abbroscotto, a nearby store owner, where Moon’s father, Oliver, would trade with him. Early in the story Moon’s father dies of an accident. Oliver tells Moon to go up to Alaska and live away from the government. Moon intends to do this, but is sidetracked many times.

On Moon’s journey he is confronted by Deputy Davy Sanders, a “psychotic” cop. Moon tries to escape from the cop but eventually Sanders gets a hold of him. Moon ends up going to Pinson, an all boys prison-of-sorts, where he meets two of his first friends, Hal (a big “tough guy”) and Kit (a very skimpy boy with some medical condition that is never explained). From the moment Moon gets to Pinson, he is convinced he will escape, and he does. With the help of Kit and Hal, Moon plus all of Pinson escapes. In the end Moon, Hal, and Kit end up living in the forest and share some great experiences. Things however, do not go according to plans, with Sanders following Moon and company in the forest, Kit’s medical condition, and Moon trying to keep everyone together. In the very end Moon never goes to Alaska, but something better happens.

The story greatly depicts Moon’s character. It was easy to visualize most things in the story, but I never really understood what Moon was supposed to look like. I ended up enjoying Moon’s vast knowledge of survival skills, and how he could “whip”(beat up) anyone he saw. An interesting question never explained until later in the book is, “Why were Moon and his father living in the forest in the first place.” It is explained later that Moon’s father was a Vietnam Veteran and he had probably been traumatized by war. This leads to Moon’s father having very little trust in society and hatred toward the government. I found all of this story to be slightly similar to the story behind the character John Rambo, and the RAMBO series.

Overall I suggest this book to those who can visualize a story easily, because it is a very exciting story. It is not the most “nice” story, and is not entirely “politically correct”, but for those open to a unique story, I say give Alabama Moon a go.

Reviewed by Robbie Ball III

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy and his father who live in the woods of Alabama. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who lives in the woods and ends up getting arrested. It takes place in 1945 during a time where Vietnam and America are fighting. The conflict centers around Moon and his two best friends Hall and Kit. The story gets complicated when Moon gets arrested for living out in the forest and gets taken to Pinson. It takes another interesting turn when Moon breaks out of Pinson with all the boys there and steals a bus. The climax is very interesting because Moon lives with Hal and Kit and hides from the police.

In addition to Moon, there are several other great characters. Mr. Wellington, a man who served the role as Moon’s lawyer and friend,

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because many kids wan to read about something they never had heard of. They could also relate to getting or wanting to get in trouble.

The most interesting part of the story was when Hal came back for Moon. It surprised me because he didn’t want to do with any of them but he came back. I recommend this book because it’s an interesting story.

Reviewed by Valeska T.

Alabama Moon is a story about a ten-year old boy named Moon. He had been living in the forest with his father all his life until his father died. After that, constable Sanders and the government are going after him. After they put him in jail, Moon is sent to Pinston; where he meets Kit Slip, his first true friend. Moon also encounters a boy named Hal. He’s a bully to all the other kids, and gives Moon a lot of trouble. Later on however, they become good friends. The climax is when Kit gets very sick and constable Sanders takes him to court accusing him of attempting to murder him.

At the end of the story, Mr. Wellington, Moon’s lawyer in court, located Moon’s uncle. Moon is soon after adopted by his uncle. Before Moon leaves for his new home, he goes to see his friends. Moon is devastated after the loss of his best friend, Kit.

Students at Portola would find this very interesting, because Moon is a clever boy who is very strong and knows how to survive on his own. They could also possibly relate to a loss of a loved one or also, a friend.

The most interesting part of the story to me was when Moon, Kit, and Hal stole Mr. Gene’s school bus and escaped into Talladega National Forest. I liked that part the most because most everyday ten-years old probably wouldn’t think of a plan that good. I would recommend this book because it was very well written, captivating, and I could see a clear picture of what was going on.

Reviewed by Audrey D.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a child escaping juvenile hall and surviving in the wilderness with two friends. It takes place in Alabama after the Vietnam War. The story gets complicated when the protagonist’s (Moon) father dies and the law chases him down. It takes another interesting turn when he escapes juvy with two friends (Kit and Hal) but Hal leaves because he wants two find his father. Not long after, Kit gets sick and has to go to the hospital. Moon becomes a wanted criminal. He finds a lawyer and wins the lawsuit in the climax.

In addition to Moon, there were several other great characters. Davy Sanders, the constable, served a role as the villain/antagonist, who tried and tried again to hunt down Moon. Another one was Mr. Wellington, who was Moon’s lawyer and helped him out in his time of need.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it states interesting ways of living in the wilderness and is a thrilling story that has a lot of plot twists and turns. It also talks about a main character where there is almost nothing that he can’t do.

The most interesting part of the story was when he kept beating up police officers and also when he was living in the wilderness. This book surprised me when he was caught by the law and put in jail. I would recommend this book because it is a thriller with a good message and it keeps you interested the whole way through.

Reviewed by Max C.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a 10-year-old boy who learns to survive alone in the forest. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who lives in the forest with his government- hating father. It takes place in a forest in Alabama during a time in the early-mid. ‘70s. The conflict centers on Chapters 8-46. The story gets complicated when Moon has to leave his friends and survive on his own again. It takes another interesting turn when Constable Sanders blames Moon and his friends for attempting to murder him. The climax is when Moon finally belongs to a loving family (his Uncle Mike).

In addition to Moon, there were a few other interesting characters. Kit and Hal, Moon’s best friends, helped him face the many problems he had. Also, Mr. Wellington, Moon’s lawyer, helped to solve the case and made Moon feel comfortable at his home.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting for a few reasons. One, because the story takes place in a forest. Two, because the story describes how a ten- year- old can survive in the forest. Three, because the story explains that we should be thankful for the many things that we take for granted.

The most interesting part of the story for me was when Moon and Kit made the deer hats. It surprised me because I did not know that a young child was capable of doing such a thing. I recommend this book to fellow students, but in the beginning the story is a bit “boring”. Later on, though, the story gets more interesting and active. This was a good book!

Reviewed by Izabel I.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lives in the forest but is forced to adapt to a world he does not know. The main character is a boy called Moon whose father tells him to go to Alaska just before he dies. Along the way Moon encounters a psycho policeman, two new friends, and a new father. It takes place after the Vietnam War. The conflict centers on Sanders and Moon. The story gets complicated when Moon and his two new friends escape from Pinson and hide in the forest. It takes another interesting turn when Mr. Wellington decides to help Moon by defending him in court. The climax is when Moon realizes that he would not live in Alaska alone.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Sanders, the policeman, served a role as to bringing moon to justice by putting him in jail. There is also Mr. Wellington the lawyer who served as the person who put Moon into Pinson and the one who ended up defending him in court from Sanders.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because the story will capture you to want to find out the next part.

The most interesting part of the story was Moon and his two friends escaped from Pinson. It surprised me because I didn’t think their plan was going to work. I recommend this book because it is not your average everyday story. It is more interesting and might even blow you away.

Reviewed by Brandon N.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lives out in the wilderness with his dad. When his dad dies, the boy tries to follow his directions of moving to Alaska where he will find more people like himself. The main character is Moon a boy who is strong and independent. It takes place in Alabama, during present time. The conflict centers on how Moon is trying to make it to Alaska but experiences many problems on the way. The story gets complicated when Moon’s father dies from breaking his leg and Moon is left alone. It takes another interesting turn when Moon gets into a mix up with the law and is sent to a boy’s home. The climax is when he escapes from there with many other boys by his side.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Constable Sanders, the ‘bad guy’ who served a role as a police officer who was always trying to get Moon in jail.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it isn’t like other stories. It is sweet and unpredictable. They could also relate to the bully problems and love for a friend that is involved in this story.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon’s best new friend died from cancer at the end, it surprised me because I didn’t think he would die and it was very unpredictable. I recommend this book because it made me laugh and cry and sit at the edge of my seat throughout the book without boring me.

Reviewed by Nicole S.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a family that lived in the wilderness. One day the father dies from a leg wound, leaving Moon, the 10-year-old main character to live by himself. Moon is now alone in the wilderness surviving on his fathers last instructions: Go to Alaska to meet people like his father, away from the law. The only contact Moon has with civilization is a occasional convenience store named Mr. Abroscotto to sell slurpus supplies for money for their rifles. Soon after his father's death he is caught by the police and then thrown into the confusion of orphanage, military school, and even jail. In the end he finally finds a home with his uncle and cousins he never knew.

In addition to Moon, there was his friend Kit and his friend Hal and his father who help Moon stay away from the law by staying in the wilderness. There was also Sanders, the menace of the story, trying to put Moon in prison. Then there was Mr. Gene, a retired lawyer who was a second father for Moon.

Students at Portola would like this thrilling tale of I guess cussing, action with Moons resourcefulness and cunning. There are no boring and it will keep reading and make you anxious until the very end.

The most interesting part of this fantastic book was how Moon trapped Sanders and threw him into a river. A ten-year-old boy outsmarts a full grown adult. I give this book two thumbs up!

Reviewed by: Noah Y.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a ten year old boy named Alabama Moon living in the forests all by himself, going through adventures and my difficulties. The main character is Alabama Moon, a boy who lives out in a forest all by him self when his dad dies. It takes place in a forest during a time of the 19th century. The conflict centers on the part of the novel when Moon’s dad dies and the government struggle to get him out of juvenile. The story gets complicated for Moon when many people he is close to die. It takes another interesting turn when the police officer Sanders tries to catch Moon, but Moon keeps trapping him! The climax is when Moon gets caught and has to go to juvenile from attempting to murder Sanders and when Sanders goes to Jail.

In addition to Alabama Moon, there were several other great characters. Kit and Hal, the nerd and the bully from juvenile, served a role as Moons friends.

Students at Portola MS would find the story interesting because the story has many adventures and the story is about survival. They could also relate to the novel because when you read it, you feel like you are Alabama Moon yourself!

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon actually thought that he could walk to Alaska! It surprised me because I did not at all think that Moon was that dumb. I recommend this book because you will not know what you will find throughout the journey of Alabama Moon.

Reviewed by Justin E.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy named Moon Blake and his adventure. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who lived in the forest his whole life and didn’t know anyone but his Ma’, Pap and Mr. Abroscotto. It takes place in Alabamaduring the 19TH century. The conflict centers around the beginning of the novel when Moon’s father dies and he has to fend for himself. The story gets complicated when social services tries to take Moon from his home. It takes another interesting turn when he is running from the police. The climax is when he tries to escape a boy’s home with everyone from there.

In addition to Moon Blake there were several other great characters. Hal, the “Bully” who served a role as a “Bully” and moons friend. Another great character is Kit Moon’s best friend whom is terminally ill. Students at Portola would find the story interesting because there is a great plot and a great climactic scene. They could also relate to the novel because Moon feels like he doesn’t belong and through peoples lives they might feel like that too. The most interesting part of the story was they found out moon still had living family members. It surprised me because Moon thought he was the last of his relatives. I recommend this book because it is very well written.

Reviewed by Nick B.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a young ten year old boy that was raised by his two wanted outlawed parents that lived in the forest for a long time so they can survive for the time they live. Moon is a boy that can whip anyone three times him size. It takes place in many places but the man two places Moon is at most of the time is the forest and an adoption home. It was during a time when the government was looking for wanted people and when the justice system was about to develop a lot. The conflict centers on Moon because when his dad dies he tries to go to Alaska but instead makes new friends and meets new people. The story gets complicated when Moon and his friends run away from their shelter home and they try to escape to Alaska with a school bus. It takes Another interesting turns when constable sanders find Moon and takes him to jail. But eventually Moon and his lawyer bust him and make him go to jail. The climax is when moons uncle finds him and takes him to his relatives were he would spend most of his life with.

Reviewed by Keon M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy surviving in the forest while running away from the government when his parents died. The main

character is Moon Blake, a boy who was raised to hate the government, and runs away from them when both of his parents passes away. It takes place mostly in the forest during a time when many people hated the government and started living in the wilderness. The conflict centers around when the government comes after Moon after finding out that Moon’s father, who he calls Pap, died. The story gets complicated when Constable Sanders sends him to Pinston, a boy’s home, and Moon tries to run away. It takes another interesting turn when two other boys run away with Moon, and one of them drives a bus to a forest. The climax is when he wins the case about Sanders lying about Moon trying to kill him, and he goes to jail.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. There was Hal, a thirteen-year old boy who let Moon stay with him after their friend Kit went to the hospital because of illness, and Kit who died in the hospital after staying with Moon in the forest. They were both the boys who ran away from Pinston with Moon.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it is very interesting with many unexpected parts. They could also relate to this story because their close friends or parents might have passed away or gone somewhere where they couldn’t see them for a long time.

The most interesting part of the story was when Kit died. It surprised me because I thought he would get better and live with Moon, so it was unexpected. I recommend this book because it was very interesting, and had a lot of suspense which drove me into reading it more.

Reviewed by Jae H.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a ten-year-old hermit whose father, a retired Vietnam veteran with a grudge against the government, dies and leaves him alone in the world. The main character is Moon Blake, a kid who knows everything about the ways of forests and nothing about the ways of society. It takes place during a time after the Vietnam War. The conflict centers on Moon and his survival, alone in the world with nobody to look to. The story gets complicated when Moon is discovered living alone and is thrown in jail with other delinquents his age. It takes another interesting turn when Moon escapes the jail, along with every boy in it. The climax is when the judge is deciding whether or not to put Moon behind bars for a long time, or not.

In addition to Moon Blake, there are other great characters. Constable Sanders, the policeman, who plays the role as Moon’s hunter and warden.

Students at Portola would find this book interesting because it is a tale of a little boy’s survival by his own hand. They could also relate to it because like Moon, in stressful times in their life they sometimes feel like they have no one to turn to.

The most interesting part of the story was Moon’s jailbreak with the other inmates. It surprised me because I would never have thought of such a clever and daring way to escape as he did. I recommend this book because it sets people thinking about how lucky they are to have what they have in this world, and it makes you excited and draws you into the story.

Reviewed by Ryan M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a kid named Moon, who has been raised out in the wild by his Dad. This works out until his Dad dies, and his dad’s final request is to “Go into the wild and go to Alaska, where you will find more people who hate the government.” The story then goes to him getting entangled with the force his dad has hated for all those years, the government. He gets new friends, new enemies, fights with a constable, and then as every fairy tale ends, live happily ever after. The story gets complicated when he gets a constable really angry.

In addition the Moon, the other characters made the story unique and great. Some of the characters are Hal, Kit, Mr. Wellington, Dad, and Sanders. Some characters, like Sanders, where the “Bad guys” because they were really spiteful to Moon, while Dad and Kit act friendly towards Moon.

My fellow students at Portola would really love “Alabama Moon” because of the action and the spots in this book that really leave you hanging. They could relate to some of the events in this book, because some of them are realistic for these kids, like having a parent dying.

The most interesting part of this book was when he finally gets an actual “family”. I liked it because it made me so joyful that he finally got what he wanted for so long. I recommend this book because it had a ton of action and suspense. I would also recommend this book because it is certainly not one of those mushy-gushy, a prince falling in love with a princess, kind of fairy tale.

Reviewed by Tyler G.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a 10 year old boy named Moon. He is left alone when his father died in the Alabama forest with his knowledge of the forest to guild him. The main conflict is that Moon must learn to live alone in the loud and busy city. He is sent from place to place, going to jail, a boy’s home, a shelter in the forest, his friend’s trailer, and finally lives with his uncle. He must learn who to trust and make friendships with. He encounters death more than once with people he is very close to. It gets complicated when he escapes from the boys home. It takes another interesting turn when his best friend Kit dies.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Some more characters are Hal, a good friend he makes at the boys home, Kit, his best friend who dies, Pap, his father who taught him about the forest, Sanders, the Constable, Mr. Wellington, his lawyer, and Mr. Abroscotto, a shop owner.

Students at Portola will find this story interesting because it is about a boy who is around their age. The adventure of the story will also interest students. The way Moon doesn’t care about adults and shows them no respect fascinates. They could relate to the death, and loneliness of the story. Also they would be able to relate to the adventure of the story, it is like camping when he was building his shelter, and most students have been camping.

The most interesting parts of the story are when Moon jumps up and “beats up” (like he says it) on people. It surprises me because it is always so unexpected and Moon just punches people like it is no big deal. I recommend this book because it is a story that we can all relate to parts of it, and it teaches a theme which is that some times you must overcome big ordeals, but if you try and know what you want, you can make it through.

Reviewed by Roya N.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a boy, Moon, and his father, Pap, who live in the forest to hide from the government in the 1980’s. The main character is Moon, a boy who has lived his whole life in the forest with his Pap when Pap dies; Pap tells Moon that, he has to make it to Alaska, because there are people like them there. The conflict centers on the fact that a ten-year-old boy is going to Alaska by himself. Moon is soon property of the government he gets sent to a boy’s home. Moon must escape with Hal and Kit. Moon, Hal, and Kit must live in the forest which leads to the; when Sanders find the boys in the forest.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Hal, Moon’s friend, who helped Moon and Kit out of the all boys’ home and into the forest to hide from the police officer, Sanders. Kit, another friend Moon made in the home, is a bit of a problem to the boys because he has to take medicine to keep from getting sick, and Kit left it at the home when they left. Kit gets very ill when they are in the forest and he has to go to the hospital, he doesn’t get the right medicine and soon after dies.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it has some action and isn’t long and tiring. They could also relate to the fact that Moon morns his Pap, kids at Portola has probably had a family member die.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon carried Kit miles and miles to the nearest road and hid in a tree until someone helped his friend he left his friend on the ground and hid in the tree to make sure no one saw him. It surprised me because a 10-year-old boy waited days and days hiding in a tree to help his friend, Kit. I don’t recommend this book because it’s exciting and adventurous. It has a good plot and good characters. The way the author wrote it makes you want to find out what happens.

Reviewed by Natalie M.

The book Alabama Moon is very unique. The plot and conflict were very confusing to me as I have never read anything like it. It is about a boy named Moon who lives with his father in the woods of Alabama. Moon's father had always hated the government and taught Moon to avoid "The law". When Moon's father dies, he is determined to make it on his own. He doesn't need anyone but himself. His father told him in Alaska there are people just like them who hate the government and don't owe anything to anyone. Moon's plan doesn't go quite as he expected. He is caught by a constable and sent to jail then pilson, a boys home. Moon knows he can fight anything, so he runs away with two friends. But talking to other people that are not his father is is deciding on what he has to believe.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat and I always wanted to read more. This books moral is that you cant believe what others think, you have to believe what you think.

Reviewed by Noah Y.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is about a boy named Moon Blake who lived in the woods with his father in a little shelter underground. His dad died then he was living on his own until Mr. Wellington found him and turned him in to the police because he was wanted. After that he was sent to a boy's home where he had to stay. Moon made one friend named Kit and an enemy named Hal. A couple of days after he was there he planned a plot to escape from there, so then he told Hal and they became friends. After that they escaped and stole a bus that Hal drove to the forest. Days after the three boys stayed in the forest Hal decided to leave. Moon and Kit were living there in the shelter they built until one day Kit got really sick. Moon took him to the road where people saw him and took him to the hospital. Hours later Hal and his dad came and found Moon and he went with them. He stayed there for a while until one day Hal drove Moon to the hospital to go see Kit, while Hal stayed in the car. Moon went and found Kit's room. Minutes later he was walking to leave out, while he was walking down the hallway constable Sanders grabbed him in a headlock. Sanders took him to go find his gun that Moon stole from him. While they were there Mr. Wellington saw them and told Sanders to stop because he had Moon on a leash. After that Moon ran away into the forest, hours later he went to Mr. Wellington's place. There he told Moon that he would help him in a case because he was wanted. After that he took Mr. Wellington to the forest where he stayed so he could take pictures for evidence. At the end of the trial Sanders ended up going to jail and Moon was going to be the son of his uncle that Mr. Wellington found. Before his uncle came he went to go see Hal to say goodbye. When they went to see Kit it turned out that he had died. Then Moon left to live with his uncle.

Students at Portola would find this book interesting because it’s a ten year old who knows how to survive on his own in the forest, and he beats up a constable. The most interesting part of the story was when constable Sanders puts him in a headlock at the hospital. It surprised me because I didn’t think the nurse would recognize Moon and call Sanders. I recommend this book because there is lots of action.

Reviewed by Kendall M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who learns to survive on his own. The main character is a boy, named Moon Blake. He lived in the Alabama woods with his dad. Moon and his dad caught fish and deer to survive. Moon thought life could never be better, but one day Moon’s dad fell and got his shin caught between two branches. This is when the story takes and interesting turn. His dad’s leg was broken and he died because of infection, but before he died he told Moon to travel to Alaska. The climax is when he is headed for Alaska and he realized he would like a family instead.

There were many interesting characters in the story Alabama Moon. Two important characters are Moons’ dad and officer Sanders. Moons’ dad was often referred to as Pap. Pap was a very stubborn man. He didn’t like anyone except for Moon and the local store man, Mr. Abroscotto. Pap went to Mr. Abroscotto’s store every now-and-then to sell things. Pap used to be a soldier fighting in Vietnam. Since then he hated the government and didn’t like them bossing him a round. So he built his own house and didn’t let anyone see him. Every time someone drove near them or walked by he would duck and hide. You would think Moon would hate this, but he got used to it. He lived a simple life with Moon. Then one day he tripped, broke his leg, and died due to infection. Officer Sanders was a mean police man. When Sanders was cruising around town one day he happened to see Moon. Officer Sanders was curious what a boy was going walking alone. He Pulled over and asked Moon a few questions. Moon didn’t answer and attacked Sanders. Sanders took Moon and drove him to jail. There he was driven to Pinson, a holding for kids with no parents. Once Moon escaped Pinson, Sanders chased after them. He even sent dogs to get him! When Sanders couldn’t find him he made up lies like “he shot at me” and “he ate my dogs”. Once Moon came out from hiding Sanders tried to get him arrested because of attempted murder. That didn’t work and Moon was free. He made the story so interesting because it seemed like he would catch Moon and that would be terrible.

Students at Portola would like this book because it was very realistic and it seemed like this could happen to anyone. The writer makes it seem like you were actually there because the story is so descriptive. The details are so vivid. “We could boil the blueberries in the can and make syrup to pour over warm acorn cakes and have frying bacon from a wild hog I would kill.” A student could relate to this because Moon is almost as old as a teenager and he sometimes acts as a normal kid. I learned that you don’t need to be an expert to live by yourself. Moon and his dad caught fish, made dear traps, collected acorns, killed animals for food, and a lot of other fascinating things in the Alabama woods. One of Moon’s favorite things is killing dear and using their fur for clothes. He made hats, jackets, and pants out of the fur. Moon liked this because he thought the dears’ fur was very soft and comfortable. I don’t know if I could do all of this! It would be lonely though and too hard for me.

The most interesting part of this story to me was when Moons’ dad died. Moon thought life could never be better, until his dad fell and got his shin caught between two branches. His dad’s leg was broken. Moon’s dad died because of an infection. This changed his whole world. I thought this was interesting because I wondered how Moon would have survived without his dad. I didn’t think he would have survived as long as he did since he was alone. I think a very surprising thing that happened in the novel was when Moon settled down with a family and didn’t travel to Alaska. I thought he was going to make it to Alaska and live there forever instead of living with a family. I thought that because of the life he had with his Dad he would not want to live with a family at first. Moon’s uncle was the perfect match for him. He was really patient and understood Moon and what he had been through. I would recommend this book because of how interesting and real it seems. This may be one of the best books I have ever read.

Reviewed by Nicholas M.

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lives in a forest, but after his father dies, he must try to adapt to city life. The main character is a boy named Moon Blake, who is a rebel that needs to learn to be a regular person, but after being sent to a boys home, breaks out. The story takes place mainly in a forest, but also in the boys’ home. The story gets complicated when Moon is taken to a boys home where he quickly finds an enemy, named Hal. It takes another interesting turn when Moon, along with his friend Kit, and Hal break out of the boys’ home and bring everybody else with them. The climax is when Moon and his friend Kit, after Hal leaves, need to keep there home in the forest a secret to hide from constable Sanders.

In addition to Moon, the are other interesting characters, such as Hal, Kit and Sanders. Hal is the leader of all the boys and the home, even though he is just a boy himself. He is a bully, but chooses to go along with Moon and Kit on their journey to the forest. Kit is Moon’s best friend and would never choose to leave Moon’s side. Sanders is a cop that resents Moon for beating him up, multiple times. Once he gets stuck in the wood after trying to search for Moon, he goes crazy, spending all his time on trying to find Moon.

Students at Portola would find this book interesting because it shows them what it would be like being a kid living in the forest, while teaching you survival techniques. They can relate to it because many of them have that one good friend that will stay with them through thick and thin.

The most interesting part of the book was when the boys are breaking out and it shows you the process of Moon’s thoughts on how to get out. It surprised me because I didn’t think it would go as smoothly as it did. I would recommend this book the students because not only does it teach you survival techniques, but it also is interesting to see how Moon, Hal, Kit, get through thier many troubles at the boys’ home and the forest.

Reviewed by Jillian S.

Alabama Moon is a novel written by Watt Key, about a boy, named Moon Blake, who lives away from society, soon after the Vietnam War. The father of Moon, passes away in the beginning of the story, and Moon tries to live alone in the wilderness, using his late father's advice and techniques. Getting caught leaving his house without a parent, Moon encounters the main antagonist, Constable Sanders. They get in a mini fight, and Moon is taken to Pinson, a prison where juvenile orphans are being taken care of. Eventually, Moon escapes with two new friends, to Talledega National Forest. After a long fight with the government, Moon is taken to his uncle's family, where he's going to live.

In the story were some very interesting characters. Moon, of course, was one, but there were also others. Kit and Hal were Moon's friends from Pinson, and they were the other two that escaped to Talledega National Forest. Constable Sanders, who is Moon's main enemy, is also interesting.

The most interesting part for me was when Moon, Kit, and Hal made their way out of Pinson with things that he saw and really observed. It intrigued me because a regular ten year old kid wouldn't be able to see these little details and use them to get out.

I think Portola students would like this novel because it is full of suspense and turning points that change the whole story.

Reviewed by Allen M.

Alabama Moon is a story about how a boy was raised in the wild and how his life changes for the better when his father dies causing the government to want to take him in so he could learn and be a normal boy. The main characters name is Moon, a boy who was raised in the wild and taught to hate and run from the government. It takes place in Alabama during a time of hunting popularity. The conflict surrounds round Moon and his two new friends. The story gets complicated when Moon gets caught by the authorities. It gets even more interesting when Moon busts all of his friends out of the foster home. The climax of the story is when Moon’s best friend, Kit, dies of a disease.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters Kit, Moon’s best friend, Sanders, the officer that was always chasing Moon, and Hal, Moon’s second best friend

The students at Portola would find this story interesting because every time you go to put the book down another interesting turn occurs causing the reader to keep on reading and reading and reading. They could also relate to when the felt as if someone was out to get them in trouble or to capture them.

The most interesting part of the story in my opinion was when Moon escapes from the foster home along with all of his friends. It surprised me because when he told his friends he was going to bust out, they were skeptical, but asked to come along anyway. I recommend this book because it keeps you interested and continuously gives vivid details so you can imagine the scene to its full potential.

Reviewed by Ian B.

Alabama Moon by Watt Kye is a story about a young boy that lives in the forest with his father, but when his father dies he is determined to go to Alaska and meet people like himself. The main character is Moon Blake, a boy who is very accustomed to a life of hating the government and running away from it every time they are after him. It takes place in Alabama during a time when many people hated the government and started leaving their regular lives to start living in the wild any way they want to.

The conflict centers around Moon after his father dies, he sets out for Alaska. But on the way there her gets arrested and taken to juvenile area named Pinson where he makes friends and they go with him to Alaska. The story gets complicated when Moon and his friends set out for the forest and one of the friends get sick. The climax starts when Moon is discovered by police.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. Hal the older kid who served a role as Moon’s way out of prison helped because he gave Moon his gun back to shoot at something for a court case to prove Moon was not wrong. Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it’s a very good book. They could also relate to other stories read by other people at Portola. The most interesting part of the story was when Moon was released and sent to his uncle in Mobile. It surprised me because I thought he was going to be in jail. I recommend this book because t is very interesting.

Reviewed by Alex M.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy who lived with his parents in the woods. By the time the boy was ten, his mother and father had passed away. Now the boy had to live on his own, encountering new adventures everywhere he turned. The main character of Alabama Moon is Moon Blake, who is a ten year-old boy. This story takes place in 1980 in Alabama. In the climax of the story, Moon’s best friend, Kit has to be sent to the hospital because he is very sick.

Another important character was Kit. Kit was a boy that Moon met while he was at Pinson (a place where boys without a home lived until they were 15). Kit then went on with Moon to many adventures and eventually became his best friend. The last important character is Hal. Hal is another boy that lived in Pinson. Hal was the bully at Pinson, but once he left Pinson with Moon and Kit, he began to show that he wasn’t mean after all. Hal also sacrificed his liberty for Moon.

Students of Portola would find the story interesting because it is a great adventure about a boy who never new about the real world, and as he encountered all the difficulties of life that he never new existed.

The most interesting part about the story was when Hal left the campsite to find his father. It surprised me because I didn’t know how or if he was going to ever find his father. I recommend this book to other readers because it draws your mind into the book and allows you to feel like you’re a part of the story.

Reviewed by Michelle K.

There's another interesting turn when a constable named Sanders goes after them to get them back, but it turns out he couldn’t get them and they had escaped. The climax is when Moon's friend Kit gets sick and goes to the hospital, and while Moon is checking up on him, he gets caught by Sanders and gets taken away.

Other than Moon there were several other great characters. One is named Kit, one of Moon’s best friend. Sanders, who was the constable, and Hal, who was also Moon’s friend, and Mr. Wellington, Moon’s lawyer.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because you never know what's going to happen next and you get to know how life in the wild is really like.They can also relate to the story because then they know how a kid close to their age acts when alone in the wild.

The most interesting parts of the story was when Moon got in fights with people mostly.It surprised me because he fought some older people and was beating them real bad.I recommend this book because many students can relate to the actions and emotions of Moon and connect with him.

Reviewed by Saman N.

Reviewed by Narimousa S.

Alabama Moon by Key Watt, is a story about a boy who goes threw major changes in a course of months. The main character, Moon, lived with his government hating dad in a forest for all his life. He is very resourceful and knows how to survive in the wild. Things take an interesting turn when his dad dies, and his final wish was for Moon to make it to Alaska. Instead, Moon is put in a boys home where he makes friends. He then escapes but is followed by a crazy police officer, but in the end Moon decides its not bad to live in civilization and goes to live with his uncle instead of Alaska.

In addition to Moon, there were other interesting characters. Kit, who was Moon’s first friend, came to live with him when they escaped, although he dies in the end of the book. Hal is another character who seems mean and tough, but really, he just wants to go live with his dad. There is also Sanders, the crazy police officer who is out to get Moon.

Students would find this story interesting because throughout the whole book you are wondering whether he will stay in civilization or go to Alaska. It is also interesting because many kids think they would want to run away and live out in the wild, but its not as fun as you think it would be, as Moon finds out.

The most interesting part of the story to me was when he was in the boys' home or the ending of the book where he goes to live with his uncle. I like these parts because they are fun to read about and also it is nice to know he will have a real family. The book on the most part was good and fun to read, but sometimes it went into to much detail in the forest, and I just skimmed over those parts. I would recommend this book because it wasn’t really boring and there is a good story line to it.

Reviewed by Ashley S.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a ten-year-old kid that tries to survive on his own, but faces a lot of conflicts. The main character is a kid named Moon, a boy who lived with his dad, but then later on when his dad dies, his goal was to get to Alaska. It takes place mostly in the forest, after the Vietnam War ended. The conflict centers around when Moon gets caught living on his own and gets sent to Pinson, where all kids with no guardians lived. The story gets complicated when Moon finds friends and tries to get out of Pinson and get to Alaska with them. It takes another interesting turn when a constable named Sanders goes after them to get them back, but it turns out he couldn’t get them and they had escaped. The climax is when Moon's friend Kit gets sick and goes to the hospital, and while Moon is checking up on him, he gets caught by Sanders and gets taken away.

In addition to Moon there were several other great characters. One is named Kit, who played a role of Moon’s best friend. Sanders, who was the constable, and Hal, who was also Moon’s friend, and Mr. Wellington, Moon’s lawyer.

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because there are a lot of turning points and would want them to read more about this book. They could also relate to a kid that has no home or family, but at the end everything works out and lives happily ever after.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon was in the hospital checking on Kit, but while he was in the elevator he spots Sanders right next to him. It surprised me because Sanders started choking and hurting him and Moon got sent to jail instead of going back to Pinson. I recommend this book because it has some parts where Moon will use natural resources to help him survive and it has some touching parts where you want to help out Moon in the story.

Reviewed by Sean G.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a ten-year-old boy who lives by himself and his adventures. The main character is Moon, a boy who grew up with his mother and father in the forest. It takes place in Alabama not that long ago. The conflict centers on the government coming after him and learning how to survive in different places.

The story gets complicated when Moon gets sent to a boy’s home called Pinson and there seems to be no escape. It takes another interesting turn when he breaks out and lives in the forest again with two other boys. The climax is when Kit becomes ill and Moon has too live by himself again.

In addition to Moon, there were several other great characters. Kit, who serves the role as Moon’s best friend, lives with him in the forest and has the time of his life.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it is action packed and exciting. They could also relate to all of Moon’s emotions because there are a lot of them!

An interesting part of the story was when Moon captures Sanders with Kit and they take his pistol and send him off into the river. It surprised me because I thought Sanders was going to capture them instead. I definitely recommend this book because so many exciting things happen and you get a good description of everything.

Reviewed by Amanda R.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about how to survive on your own when there is no one left to take care of you. The main character is Moon, a boy whose mother and father died, and left him alone to survive in the wilderness. It takes place in the forest at first, then a lodge, a jail, and after that a boy’s home. The conflict centers around Moon’s pap, and how much he hates the government. The story gets complicated when Moon’s father dies, and he has to live on his own. It takes another interesting turn when Moon goes to Pinson, and orphanage home. He escapes with two of his friends, and they start to live alone in the forest. The climax of this story is when Moon and Mr. Wellington win the case, and a rude constable goes to jail.

In addition to Moon, there were many other interesting characters such as Pap, Mr. Abroscotto, Mr. Wellington, Mr. Sanders, Kit, Hal, and Uncle Mike. They all had a role that had to do with saving lives, records staying clear, true friends, and even trying to kill.

Students at Portola would find this story interesting because at one point, everyone wants to leave their home for a certain reason. Maybe they want to run away, or just don’t want to interact with others. Although no one can do what Moon did, it is a great story if you want to survive in the wilderness, and Moon teaches you how to do it.

The most interesting part of the story was when Moon, Kit, and Hal made food, and a shelter in the forest. It surprised me because to survive in a forest, make your own food, keep your own look out, and not be scared at all is an absolutely huge accomplishment. I recommend this book because if anyone wants to live like Moon, or enjoys suspense, mystery, or surprise, this is definitely the book for you!

Reviewed by Rochell R.

Alabama Moon by Watt Key is a story about a boy that lives in a forest. The main character is Moon Blake. It takes place in Alabama during the 1980's. The conflict centers around when he leaves the forest and the constable sees him and they fight.

The story gets complicated when Moon and his friends escape from Pinston and goes to live in Talledega National Forest. It takes another interesting turn when Kit gets sick and goes to a hospital. The climax is when Constable Sanders has Moon go to criminal court and then Sanders goes nuts, so he goes to jail. In addition to Moon Blake there were several other great characters. Hal and kit are two who served a role as Moon's best and only friends.

Students at Portola would find the story interesting because it gets very interesting once you get into it. The most interesting part of the story was when Kit died. It surprised me because I was expecting him to get better. I recommend this book because it was a very well written story .

Reviewed by Ethan S.

The award-winning novel Alabama Moon by Watt Key was about a 10 year old boy named Moon who lived in the forest with his father who he called Pap. But when Pap dies, it is up to moon to continue thriving in a forest with only the skills that were taught by his father. In the next few paragraphs, I will further explain what this book was about, and what I liked about it.

Just before Moon’s dad dies, he tells Moon to walk all the way to Alaska to live in the forest with more people just like him who hate the government. On his adventures, he meets 2 boys named Kit and Hal who help him escape from the home for boys after Moon gets caught by the police. Together, the boys eventually clear his name and give him a home. But, when Kit gets ill, he is confined to a hospital bed, and he eventually dies of what was most likely cancer. Moon continues to cry about this news all the way until he was told that he would be adopted by his uncle named Mike. He soon grows comfortable to his new home and family and he loves his new life. That is what the story Alabama Moon was about.

I liked the story Alabama Moon because I liked the way the story was very action-packed, and I loved the personalities of the characters. My favorite character was Moon because he was very kind, but he had a big wild side to him. I almost cried at the end when Kit died, but I enjoyed the fact that it had a happy ending. If I were to recommend this book to anyone, I would recommend it to anyone that likes action-packed stories and wildlife stories. That is what Alabama Moon was about, and who I would recommend it to.

Reviewed by Heather B.

© Gaspar De Portola Middle School, 18720 Linnet Street Tarzana, CA 91356 Phone: (818) 654-3300 - Fax: (818) 996-0292