About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
Northern Ireland. In 1999, one year after the Good Friday peace accord, sectarian violence still runs rampant in Belfast and the hatred between Protestant and Catholic runs deep. Liam O'Donnell's father is a peacemaker to the Catholic community. When twelve-year-old Liam's parents are brutally murdered in front of him, he is frozen in place. But when he sees the face of one of the attackers, he is forced to run for his life. Escaping, he finds shelter with a neighboring family.
Taken to a police safe house, Liam is betrayed and forced to run again, from the very people who are supposed to be protecting him. Can he escape from his pursuer? Is there anywhere to turn for help?
A thrilling tale of suspense set against a background that is brought brilliantly to life, Safe House is a story told from the heart.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- , Forest of Reading Golden Oak Award
- Commended, Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Our Choice
- Short-listed, BC and Yukon Book Prizes - Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize
- Commended, Ontario Library association (OLA) Best Bets
- Short-listed, Chocolate Lily Book Awards
- Commended, Resource Links, The Year's Best Books
Editorial Reviews
"Readers will be drawn by the fast action and the breathless escape adventure, but they'll also respond to the politics of war in Belfast...True to the boy's viewpoint, the betrayal and terrorism is very close, especially in the unforgettable images of what is lost."
— Booklist
"This stark, taut thriller starts off with a bang and does not stop racing...A poignant adventure story [that] will be relished by most teen readers."
— VOYA
*no details*
— Canadian Literature
"It will appeal to reluctant readers, especially males."
— KLIATT
"Teachers in particular will find this text useful."
— Quill & Quire
"An awesome book filled with thrills and adventure...impossible to put down."
— kalwriters.com
