A mighty struggle between man (or, in this case, boy) and fish—sound familiar? With a nod to Hemingway, author Rodman Philbrick tells Skiff Beaman’s story. Twelve-year-old Skiff’s mother recently died, and his father has sunk into a debilitating depression, seldom stirring from the couch. Skiff can’t get through to his dad, even when their fishing boat—and the source of the family income—sinks at the dock. Skiff tackles the problem himself and, with the help of an elderly neighbor, sets out to earn the cash needed for boat repairs. When a bully sabotages his money-making plans, the lure of a big catch and its quick payoff tempt Skiff to head out to sea solo. The hunt for a giant tuna and the resulting battle between boy and fish stretch credibility, but the scene’s excitement and tension are undeniable. Especially poignant are the internal conversations Skiff holds with his mother, whose imagined voice helps him when he most needs support. Goaded from his grief by his son’s dangerous journey, Skifffather reassumes his role as a parent and the book ends on a hopeful note. (Ages 9–12)

Twelve-year-old Skiff Beaman's mom just died, and his fisherman dad is too depressed to drag himself off the couch and go to work. So these days Skiff has to take care of everything himself. But when his dad's boat sinks, Skiff discovers it will cost thousands to buy a new engine. Skiff's lobster traps won't earn him enough, but there are bigger fish in the sea -- bluefin tuna. If he can catch one of those monster fish, Skiff just might save the boat -- and his family.