About This Book

An ALA Best Book for Young Adults 

Internationally acclaimed author and artist Don Wood creates an explosive, unforgettable graphic novel for all ages.

Don Wood, creator of such children's classics as The Napping House; Quick as a Cricket and King Bidgood's in the Bathtub, now applies his artistic genius to the graphic novel genre. In 176 full-color pages of spellbinding, astonishing art, readers follow the island adventures of two brothers, Sumo and Duffy, as they overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Wood takes readers on a journey to the center of a wild and unexplored volcanic island where only the brave survive.

In this coming-of-age story, the two brothers must face their personal fears and the treachery of family members who have torn apart their relationships in search of treasure that will bring them astounding wealth.  When Duffy falls down a perilous cliff, Sumo must come to grips with his role in the incident — and whether or not he can rescue his brother. 

Brilliant, provocative, and arresting, Don Wood's new book presents young and old readers with an utterly original page-turner.

"With such a thrilling story, Wood scores points for both pacing and characterization. The action moves along at break-neck speed, and through all of the twists and turns the reader is left wondering if the boys will survive. The art is beautifully rendered in thick bold lines and a rich color palette, and is a nice break from the mainstream comic style...it makes a fun book for parents and children to share together." — Booklist, starred review *

"Wood's vividly colored artwork brings the perils the siblings face into startling focus. Keenly observed depictions of the Hawaiian landscape and geological processes lend an impressive veracity to this exciting and unusual offering." — School Library Journal, starred review *

"...an inventive and imaginative graphic adventure...Wood’s illustrations of the fictional Kokalaha are particularly clever and lush...The narrative moves along swiftly and incorporates elements of fantasy, demanding that the audience suspend disbelief and roll with the punches. Those who do will find a rollicking, fast-paced story that resolves itself nicely—an overall creative yarn of greed, family and survival." —Kirkus Reviews

"Wood's first foray into graphic novels is a visual stunner. Wood's full-color digital illustrations vividly depict fabulous scenery—lava flows, ocean swells, lush foliage—and the muscularity of the action will impress thrill-seeking readers.... living vicariously through Sumo and Duffy's ultimately excellent adventure..." — Publishers Weekly

"...of lava-washed action...this is a trek worth taking. Wood’s graphic-novel debut is visually exciting, with eerily delineated characters of questionable loyalty, a pair of Everykid brothers who are wondrously expressive on this emotional rollercoaster ride, and an active volcano whose pyrotechnics are real scene-stealers.  Expect the enticing theme to make this red-hot item at the circulation desk."  — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"His use of vivid colors and action-filled panels brings to life the dramatic contrast between ocean and volcano. The visual format combined with nonstop action will keep reluctant readers and adventure fans turning pages to the very end." — VOYA