Cracks

He was looking for an opportunity to run away from his foster parents. Instead, he embarked upon a journey that would either land him in jail or get him killed.

He was looking for an opportunity to run away from his foster parents. Instead, he embarked upon a journey that would either land him in jail or get him killed. Fifteen-year-old Bodie McCann is on a youth-rehabilitation spelunking trip in the Ozarks of Arkansas when the adult chaperones are killed in an earthquake, leaving him stranded in the wilderness with four other juvenile delinquents. As they struggle to feed themselves and escape the dangers of the wild, tensions escalate, until the discovery of a marijuana farm and a rash decision trap Bodie in a pitch-black cave—all by himself. A classic Mike Klaassen youth-oriented adventure story, "Cracks" is a deftly-woven tale reminiscent of "Hatchet", "Lord of the Flies" and "Deliverance". Thrills and adventure abound in this inventive YA novel.

Mike Klaassen crafts thought-provoking, action-packed stories about young protagonists grappling with formidable challenges. His three novels, The Brute, Cracks, and Backlash: A War of 1812 Novel, each earned a B.R.A.G. Medallion, distinguishing them for their quality among independent publications. Driven by a passion for continuous learning and research, Mike delved into the art of storytelling, producing a series of insightful books about the craft of writing fiction. These works not only offer practical guidance for aspiring writers but also illuminate the intricate processes behind compelling storytelling. Fusing his love for folklore and his expertise in fiction, Mike initiated "Klaassen's Classic Folktales," which retells ancient stories as engaging novellas. Through this collection, he breathes new life into time-honored tales, offering readers, both young and old, a fresh perspective on these enduring stories.