The One Safe Place is an unexpected and engaging dystopian novel set in a world where the rich rule and the poor stay out of their way. More than the larger social commentary, however, this story explores the life of homeless orphans and a society that exploits them. Slightly reminiscent of
The Lord of the Flies or
Among The Hidden, children take matters into their own hands when they discover the truth behind their isolated world.
Devin is a boy who lives on a secluded farm with his loving grandfather. When his grandfather dies, however, he isn't able to maintain the farm by himself and sets off to a city he has never seen to find help. Unfortunately, he quickly realizes he has lived a very sheltered life and the security he has known is tenuous for a city orphan. A kind act attracts the attention of an older boy, Roman, who invites Devin to live in a special home for children. Devin and his new friend, Kit, eagerly trust Roman and travel to the Gabriel H. Penn Home for Childhood.
At first glance, the Home has everything a child could ever want or imagine. But, after the initial sparkle has worn off, Devin realizes something is not quite right and nobody is allowed to leave. While he and his new friends at the Home search for a way out, they also try to solve the mysteries surrounding the sinister Administrator and the "Visitors" that observe the children.
This gripping adventure is also somewhat creepy, but will keep you turning pages looking for the happy ending. While geared to a YA audience, I would recommend
The One Safe Place to anyone looking for a good read with a grim twist.
The One Safe Place
by Tania Unsworth
published by Algonquin Young Readers
April 2014
recommended for ages 12 and up
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