Review of Justice of the Wild

[sayjil gordhan]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Justice of the Wild" by Michael du Preez.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Michael du Preez created a phenomenal world that is set in Johannesburg, South Africa. The story follows teens Rampha Singh and Paul Patterson from Woodlands Private School. Situated near Woodlands Private School, six lions escape a lion park due to a tree being struck by lightning. Citizens are assured that the lions are still enclosed by the fenced perimeter; however, why are the lions not found? Rampha and Paul happen to cross paths with lions and see the lions being taken. The naive teens believe that the lions are captured by the officials, saving everyone. They soon learn that this is not the case and are entangled in a deeper plot of corruption and poaching.

The book is fast-paced and easy to finish. This speaks to the unique prose of the writer. It is written in the third person. The author writes each chapter to keep the reader guessing of what's to come. I think the characters' names could’ve been more creative than Rampha Singh and Paul Patterson. However, I do love the diversity in the book, which is accurate as the book is set in South Africa. There is vast depth to each character, even antagonists. I commend that the characters had the appropriate maturity and dialogue for their ages. The dynamic between characters captivates the reader as much as the plot does. For example, I noticed that despite the disparity of classes, they can still be found grouped as friends or colleagues in any organization (school, government organization, or environmental organization)—this is something that isn't unusual in South Africa. Themes of endangered species, protected wildlife, poaching, and animals in captivity are prominent in the novel. I must state that these issues are actually relevant in South Africa today, and wildlife is protected as much as possible in this part. The plot of the book is probable to an extent. This is what made the book exciting to read.

It was utterly delightful to read this book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes adventure, action, and thrilling novels involving rambunctious teens. This book is suited for young readers, but given the graphic details of lions and prey, I would state that the reader should be over thirteen. The book seems to be professionally edited, as I have not found any errors. I rate this book five out of five stars.

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Justice of the Wild
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[Gerry Steen]

Lions are interesting animals. South Africa is an interesting country. Lions on the loose in a populated area cannot be a good thing. What is the story behind the poaching of lions? I must read this book!