Holes

I will start off this review by saying that this has been one of my favorite books since I was a kid. I have fond memories of reading this book far beyond my classmates when I was in elementary school. While everyone was on chapter 3, I had already finished the book in a single-night reading binge. The reason for that is the same today as it was back then: the plot and characters are excellent. Sachar manages to create a story that not only makes a camp out in the middle of nowhere interesting, but also weave together three storylines into a satisfying conclusion.

Sachar does something with a book for children that I have seen adult authors struggle to do: confidently weave three separate storylines together without getting the reader lost in the previous plot, while making each story interesting to read. My favorite of the three has to be the story of Kissin' Kate Barlow, as it is the most action oriented of the three. All the characters are well done, with the camp counselors being the most striking of the people at Camp Green Lake.

As a side note, the movie is totally worth watching. The acting is good, and they improve on the book in several ways. If you have not done so, watch the film, you will not regret it (after you read the book, of course.)

Is the story itself a little too convenient? Sure. Are the characters, perhaps, a bit weird? Yes, but that is part of their charm. In the end, this is a book that I seem to like despite its problems or issues, and I am just fine with that. I give it a five out of five.