The Big Dark

November 2, 2015
A massive power outage, triggered by a solar flare, throws a small New Hampshire town—and presumably the world at large—into turmoil, with all things electronic instantly rendered useless. After the town pharmacy burns down amid growing discontent, Charlie Cobb must devise a plan to get his diabetic mother the medicine she needs. Charlie’s adventure is rife with obstacles, including starving coyotes, frigid wintry elements, the traumatic aftermath of a downed plane, and gun-toting survivors. Philbrick (Zane and the Hurricane) weaves an absorbing tale about the breakdown of contemporary civilization, the return to chaotic vigilante justice, and the strength of kindness and community. Charlie narrates from an unspecified point in the future, looking back at events as they unfolded: “Too bad that wasn’t how it ended,” he says after the town votes to appoint an emergency leader. “The good guys win, big cheer from the crowd, and everybody lives happily ever after.” The conclusion unnecessarily veers into preachy territory, repeating the same message Charlie’s journey already conveyed with clarity and finesse. But this misstep doesn’t overshadow the story’s poignancy and gripping intensity. Ages 8–12.

Narrator Michael Crouch captures the excitement that quickly turns to fear on the night that the sky flares with magnificent lights before the power goes out all over town. Crouch projects the intense feelings that color Charlie Cobb's first-person account as his New Hampshire community suffers mounting problems. A blizzard, a fire, vigilantes, and the threat of his diabetic mother's death drive Charlie to ski all by himself to a town 50 miles away, where he faces wild animals, intimidation by terrified humans, and the pressure of time slipping away. Crouch's narration reflects the fast pace of the story, and he deepens this survival story with convincing character portrayals. Charlie's worried sister's voice trembles with fear, the town's ruthless extremist growls with menace, and touches of New Hampshire and Franco-American accents add dimension. S.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine