The Cay
Acceptable with guidance. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
During World War II, Phillip's ship is sunk and he ends up on a tiny island with Timothy, an old Black sailor, and a cat. Phillip goes blind, and at first he looks down on Timothy, but Timothy teaches him how to survive. When a hurricane comes, Timothy gives his life to save Phillip. A moving story about seeing past skin color. Age 9, set by Common Sense Media.
For parents
Age 9, set by Common Sense Media's 9+ rating. Read aloud from 8. Common Sense notes a torpedoed ship, a head injury, slaps between Phillip and Timothy, 'damn fool' once, and Phillip calling Timothy an 'ugly black man.' Timothy dies in the hurricane. Name Phillip's early prejudice as wrong; every person is made in God's image. Ask: how did Timothy love Phillip before Phillip loved him back?