Mason

October 1, 2008
Gr 9 Up-Mason Avrett, who is mentally slow, has an uncanny ability to create realistic images with his imagination. He's been the subject of his older brother's hatred for years: at age nine, Gene, angered by the special attention Mason received from their parents, tried to kill him. Now in high school, the boys live with their aunt, who is oblivious to their animosity. Coldhearted and cruel, Gene is the brains behind a drug-dealing ring and continues to mentally and physically abuse his younger brother. When Rene, Mason's kindhearted childhood friend, is brutally beaten by Gene's thugs and left in a coma, Mason's special talent allows him to "see" her attackers. Using his power to create terrifying images in the minds of his victims, Mason soon becomes a formidable force as he seeks revenge on the perpetrators. This wonderfully written suspense story takes sibling rivalry to a scary level. Torn between his fear of his brother and his affection for Rene, Mason must ultimately move beyond this fear to overcome Gene's bullying. Pendleton has created a hero who is sometimes dark and scary, yet as gentle as a puppy. As the novel moves to its dramatic climax, readers can't help but feel the pain of this poignant young man whose birth places him in a dangerous environment. Horror fans will be thrilled by Mason's story."Caryl Soriano, New York Public Library"

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