The Cay

Reader’s Review

An excellent that is many things at the same time: a book about true friendship, race and equality and a book about adventure and courage and overcoming difficulties. Although dated at parts, it is an astounding read both at home or as a novel study, as it describes the survival of a young boy blinded at sea and left on an island with an older man from the West Indies. The writing is poignant, and the death of a main character may be too sad for sensitive readers, but both the themes and writing make it a worthy read for all ages – even adults.

To look out for 

• Language: There are a number of insults for the black population of the West Indies that Philip learns from the adults around him. The word ‘negro’ is used but not in a derogatory sense. Philip calls his friend black and dumb at one point, but immediately regrets it and grows to love him deeply. Some terms are dated, such as the word ‘booby’ for the birds flying over the water.
• Violence: A torpedo hits Philip’s boat, and he is thrown into the water, rescued, but alone without his parents. An injury to his head and eye leaves him blind. On the island the two of them face a severe hurricane that leaves Timothy bruised and battered. Timothy eventually dies leaving Philip alone .