Young Adult Fiction Survival Stories
Knifepoint
- Publisher
- Orca Book Publishers
- Initial publish date
- Oct 2010
- Category
- Survival Stories, Law & Crime, General (see also headings under Family)
- Recommended Age
- 12 to 18
- Recommended Grade
- 8 to 12
- Recommended Reading age
- 12 to 18
-
Paperback / softback
- ISBN
- 9781554693054
- Publish Date
- Oct 2010
- List Price
- $9.95
-
eBook
- ISBN
- 9781554694921
- Publish Date
- Oct 2010
- List Price
- $7.99
-
Downloadable audio file
- ISBN
- 9781459803404
- Publish Date
- May 2012
- List Price
- $28.99
Classroom Resources
Where to buy it
Description
Jill took a job which sounded perfect for the summer, guiding tourists on trail rides in the beautiful mountains.
Jill didn't realize that the money was terrible, the hours long and the coworkers insufferable. After a blow-up with her boss, she takes a single man into the mountains for a ride, only to find that he is a dangerous killer. When Jill fights back and manages to escape, she is in a desperate race to survive and make it to safety.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! Available in Spanish as A punta de Cuchillo.
About the author
Alex Van Tol taught middle school for eight years, then made the switch to writing for a living. A writer of fiction and nonfiction for kids and teens, she has published over 10 books including Great Bear Rainforest: A Giant-Screen Adventure in the Land of the Spirit Bear with Ian McAllister and several titles in the Orca Currents, Soundings and Sports lines. Alex lives in Victoria, British Columbia, with her family.
Awards
- Commended, TriState Young Adult Book Review Committee Book of Note
- Commended, Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) Quick Picks
Excerpt: Knifepoint (by (author) Alex Van Tol)
Suddenly my outrage dissolves, replaced by cold fear. It sticks in my throat. Darren takes a step toward me. I jump back, but he grabs my wrist and yanks me around, twisting my arm behind my back. Pain explodes in a series of flashing white and red lights. My body locks up with agony as my shoulder rotates toward the outer edge of its range of motion. I scream. What the hell is going on? How can this be happening to me?
I’ve never heard myself scream before. Not like this.
Editorial Reviews
"The story is fast moving, and reluctant readers will be on the edge of their seats as Jill tries to outrun—and outthink—her tormentor in this suspenseful page-turner."
The Horn Book Guide
"I can't remember ever reacting to a book the way I did with Knifepoint; it was crazy to actually feel my heart beating through my chest. The story was so real; I can see how this novel could really help reluctant readers become interested in reading. It’s a very fast read, but well worth it! Four stars!"
A Book A Vacation
"From the moment Jill and her sociopathic tourist head into the mountains until her final harrowing escape, the suspense is palpable. Both reluctant and avid readers who enjoy nail-biting tension will race through to find out whether or not Jill reaches safety."
Booklist
"Reluctant readers will like this action-filled read."
Washington State Young Adult Review Group
"This quick read from the Orca Soundings series will keep teens riveted to the terror Jill feels."
Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's Media
"Nail-biting suspense, fast-paced adventure, and believable characters will pull even the most reluctant reader through to the end...Strongly recommended where action/adventure titles are needed."
TriState Young Adult Book Review
"Thrilling and fast-paced…[Knifepoint] will appeal to those who struggle with reading…The Rocky Mountains setting is an inspired backdrop for the gripping suspense of this novel."
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