The
Final Warning (Maximum Ride, Book 4) ,
by James Patterson (Read by Jill Apple)
Maximum Ride, the heroine who is part girl and
part bird, not only has to save herself and her flock of 'birdkids,"
but now she's been assigned the responsibility of saving the
world. Just when it looks like she'll have some normal vacation
time with her newly discovered mother, room service dinner
turns out to be an exploding pizza, and the flock is on the
move again. The only safe location appears to be a remote
area of Antarctica, in the midst of a science expedition.
Working with the scientists, the birdkids learn about the
effect global warming is having on the planet and how they
can use their enhanced powers to help the scientists. Did
I say this was a safe location? Wrong! As usual, ruthless
individuals are plotting to capture Max and her flock and
exploit them before destroying them. A spine-tingling encounter
with a very angry mother nature puts Max to the test and brings
the story to a breathtaking conclusion.
This is the fourth book in Patterson's Angel
Experiment series. Although there are references to earlier
events and characters, the book stands on its own. Explanations
offered by the characters are sufficient to give the listener
a complete appreciation and understanding of Max's current
situation. An added bonus in this book is the information
about the very real and immediate danger of allowing global
warming to progress unchecked. Without being preachy, Patterson
suggests steps that citizens of the world can take to preserve
the planet for future generations.
Jill Apple, the narrator, creates voices for
Max and the flock that are easily identifiable. She makes
Max at times full of sarcasm, cynicism and bravado and at
other times, tender and nurturing. This is a book that truly
bridges the generation gap. Children will relate to 6 year
old Angel, while their older siblings and parents will identify
with Max and her handlers. The fact that this exciting book
is appealing to listeners of all ages makes it a perfect road
trip book, whether the trip is to soccer practice across town
or a five-hour ride across the state.
Ruth
Mormon
4/4/08
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