The Pull of the Ocean (by Jean-Claude Mourlevat)
common sense media says
Unsettling French fable may confuse and alarm kids.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that in the fable-like context here, there is some mild swearing and violence, and that kids run away from their awful home for several days, and one of them forever. This is the winner of the Batchelder Award, an honor given by the American Library Association for foreign books, and while some teens might appreciate the writing and open ending, this may seem like an odd book to many American readers.
Educational value:
Teen readers might enjoy this retelling of Tom Thumb and look for other interpretations of fairy tales for older kids. See our recommended list for some ideas.
Positive role models:
The brothers do look out for and care for each other. Yann is an enigmatic protagonist, and readers won't feel that they know him, or any of the other characters.
Violence:
Though this is a fable, there is child abuse, the beating of a bully, discussions of killing a litter of kittens, and children are locked up in a house and almost die.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Some mild swearing: "bitch," "screwed." A boy makes rude gestures.
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
More on The Pull of the Ocean
Review It
Most useful reviews by all members
thepulloftheocean
adult
adult
not necessary for under 13
I really enjoyed the book. No, it's not happy, but it makes you appreciate what you have, like most sad things do. Themes that grab you, and sometimes appal you, but you will be rivited.
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