Alabama Moon

Alabama Moon, by Watt Key (2006)

Moon Blake lives with his survivalist father in a remote wilderness shelter on land owned by a paper company. From the day he is born, Moon is told that the government is out to get him and his family. He is instructed by his Pap in every aspect of living off of the land. From creating shelter to hunting and gathering food, the two have virtually everything they need to survive without others.

Moon’s isolated existence is threatened when his Pap develops a serious infection. Lacking proper medical care, the father passes away, but not before he tells Moon to find his way to Alaska, where there are other people like them.

Following Pap’s death, Moon tries to find his way in a world that is completely alien to him. He turns to the few people he knows, who promptly alert authorities. Rather than finding his new home, Moon becomes a ward of the state and he is transferred to a home for boys. In spite of the tight security there, Moon’s skills pay off as he executes an escape. He absconds to the woods with a couple of new friends from the boys’ home.

On the run from a determined and abusive constable, Moon learns that there are consequences for his actions. He begins to question what he has been told about the government and about living off of the land. Will Moon be able to outrun the authorities and make his way to Alaska, or will his journey end at another boys’ home, or worse, jail?

Key’s first novel is very well written and while it is intended for young adult audiences, the plot and characters are strong enough to keep the attention of older readers as well. Strongly recommended.