GABE IN THE AFTER by Shannon Doleski

 

There's been a worldwide pandemic and you survived. How many others are still alive?

Gabe grew up on a small island off the coast of Maine. His parents and sister died from the sickness, but he survived along with a small group in his community. There are twenty of them left, two adults and the rest children.

It's Gabe's turn to check for other survivors. He rows a boat from the island to the mainland to wait by the post they placed in hopes that others passing by might stop and wait for help. Could today be the day? 

A red-haired girl about Gabe's age appears at the post. At first Gabe fears he is dreaming, but he soon realizes she is real. She tells him she has been walking and walking hoping to find someone alive. Despite being alone and exhausted, the girl named Relle has an infectious, positive outlook. She returns to the island with Gabe where she's greeted with excitement. 

Though Relle is welcomed by the group, there are some tense times. There's a tragic death of one of their own, a bit of jealousy when new activities threaten old traditions, and Gabe bravely volunteers to make the two week journey to check out a military base said to shelter more survivors.

Author Shannon Doleski taps into all too familiar feelings about the isolation and sacrifice involving a global pandemic. Readers will easily step into the world of Gabe and the others as they accept Relle and learn change can be welcome. Doleski is also the author of MARY UNDERWATER.