As published in Localiez magazine (by me)

This issue's beach bum pick is Lone Wolf by Jodi Picoult. It is one of those rare books that could truly fit into either the beach bum or book club categories. Readers of all interests should enjoy this interesting tale of a family in tragedy.

A terrible car accident draws Edward, the prodigal son, home from halfway around the world to be reunited with his family. However the reunion is far from a fairy tale. Unfortunately, his father Luke and sister Cara have been injured in a serious accident and both are hospitalized. Luke is on life support forcing the siblings to face near impossible choices. With differing perspectives on their father's wishes, the debate soon becomes heated and violent clashes of opinions ensue. The situation heats to boiling point and beyond as you discover just how far each child is willing to go for their father.

Luke is a naturalist and works with - you guessed it - wolves. Throughout the story parallels are drawn between modern family life and that of a pack of wolves. If it sounds a little far fetched for you, it may be. I found Luke's character a little unrealistic and difficult to relate to. That said, once I was halfway through the book, I did become hooked and looked forward to reading onward. The book is sure to please Jodi's usual fans and can still appeal to book clubs by covering easily debated subjects.