The Ruinous Sweep by Tim Wynne-Jones

Donovan Turner is kicked out of a car at nighttime. He can't remember anything that has happened to him over the past day, and he is desperate to escape the dark road. He steps out to hitch hike when a driver, surprised by him, flips his car and crashes. Donovan makes his way to the car and finds a briefcase full of cash. Not understanding anything, Donovan takes the case and runs.

Bee's boyfriend Donovan has been in a near fatal car crash. A hit-and-run, no one seems to know who killed Donovan or what their motive was. However, the police are almost sure of one thing- Donovan killed his father with a bat. Bee, knows that Donovan would never do that, but the police don't believe her. When she visits him at the hospital, Donovan is in a coma and no one is sure if he will survive. Bee vows to find Donovan's would be murderer.

I enjoyed Tim Wynne-Jones' The Ruinous Sweep very much. Although some parts of the book (especially the ones told from Donovan's perspective) are very confusing, I think that added to the appeal and overall atmosphere to the novel. I feel as if the book is supposed to be mysterious and is supposed to keep the reader in the dark. Although it was confusing, the book was written very well, and it was hard to put down. The novel was eerie and sad, and I really started to feel these emotions when I got near the end of the novel. I think that readers who enjoy mystery novels would enjoy this book. I would recommend this novel, but be aware that some parts of it are confusing.

Reviewed by N K., Grade 10
Montrose Library