Low Tide

The tide is so low that Charlie and his friend Wiremu are able to venture far out on the sands, where they discover a sunken boat. When a tidal wave threatens to engulf them, however, the boys, along with Charlie's little sister Elisabeth, are swept up in an odyssey of survival and self-discovery. Similar in theme to Mayne's Adrift , this work examines the responsibilities of an older sibling, the immediate issues of subsistence and the shock of returning to civilization after a foray into the wilderness. In the tradition of The Swiss Family Robinson , the novel offers suspense mixed with spiritual values and philosophical questioning to produce a thought-provoking amalgam. The book's exotic setting--New Zealand early in the century--and Mayne's somewhat sophisticated writing style may challenge slower readers, but those eager for more advanced fare will be absorbed by the fate of these mettlesome youngsters. Ages 10-up. (Mar.)