This is one of those books that makes you ask so many questions (Z for Zachariah - Robert O'Brien)

Member Name: veerauk

Product:	Z for Zachariah - Robert O'Brien
Date:	12/04/02 (1816 review reads)
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This was a book that I read at school since then I must have read it countless times over. I still love it and will always do so. Written by Robert O?Brien it focuses on a nuclear disaster of some sought. Where its very much the survival of the fittest. We meet a brave 15 year old Ann Burden. Through the first person narrative her character is explored.

She believes she is the sole survivor of this tragedy. However, the arrival of Mr. Loomis proves otherwise however soon she realises that she is in a precarious situation. She learns how Mr. Loomis a scientists killed to survive. He has the only suite to protect from radiation. When however he becomes ill with radiation poisoning we see Ann?s caring side. She looks after him and treats him like a father figure.

However, things start to change and as Mr. Loomis regains is health he starts to become controlling and violent towards Ann. Eventually, he physically assaults her. Its unclear whether its rape or not but one thing is sure she is frightened of him and can no longer trust him. Once again Ann is all by her self. There?s some really good seasonal imagery which contrasts with her situation. In summer she had hope but has winter comes she has lost hope.

Faced to fend for herself. Ann is shot at and things with Mr. Loomis do not improve. Mr. Loomis frantically tries to fund her whilst Ann using all her wisdom and survival instincts tries to hide. Through her diary she gives a very personal account which helps the reader to emphasise with her.
At the end she has no choice but to leave. I wont go to much into the ending but one thing is for sure it makes you think. We feel extreme sadness for Ann. In search of civilisation she goes.

There is so much symbolism in this book. The title of the book Z for Zachariah encapsulating the fact that Ann believed Zachariah would be the last person on earth like A is for Adam. We learn this through Ann?s Sunday school learning.
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The book is wonderfully written. Simple to read which makes it suitable for most age group. There?s so many angles to explore so many things to think about when you read this book. There is plenty of food for thought.

The book is available from most book stores like Bookworms or Waterstones or any other in the high street. It?s a book that you will read more than once, that I can guarantee!!!

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