Ash Arising

Imagine a postapocalyptic New Zealand. Where terrorists and lawlessness abound. The general public appear incapable or generally unwilling to oppose the new evil and corrupt government. It falls upon a young man Ash, along with a like-minded small group of friends and family, holed up in a remote area, to help overthrow the corrupt government and restore New Zealand to the place it once was.

Ash McCarthy is the main character. A resilient and clear-headed young man who has to come to terms with death, betrayal by his close family members, at the same time as taking on the corrupt government!

Threaded through the depiction of a resourceful and brave young man is the picture of a young person with a fund of compassion and empathy – for an aging relative and a special needs brother. One cannot help admiring Ash. His bravery, humanity and his strength of character. His relationship with Mikey, his brother, is very uplifting.

The author has managed to depict a bleak and terrifying scenario. Of a New Zealand in the thrall of overseas Powers. And to counter-balance it with all that is best in humankind.

An exciting thriller. But also a tender and thought-provoking read. An excellent sequel to The Nature of Ash.

Title: Ash Arising

Author: Mandy Hager

Publisher: Penguin Random House, New Zealand

ISBN: 9780143772439

RRP: $19.99

Format: (hardback, paperback, boxed set, board book, e-book, etc) Paperback

Date of Publication: 2018

Ages: 13 and over

Reviewer’s name, job title, school name & region: Melanie Muir. Librarian. Hutt International Boys’ School

How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? It's gutting how much can change in just four weeks.

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