Books like Thunder Cave

At first I honestly wasn't sure what to make of this book. On one hand I was intrigued by it because I've read very few (if any!) books set in Kenya specifically, but on the other hand I'd heard from other readers that the story was very silly and lame. Luckily it was the exact opposite. The author clearly did their research when writing this fictional novel, and moreover their passion for African wildlife shines on every page. Even more importantly, Thunder Cave addresses the death of a loved one, a topic often sidestepped around in middle-grade fiction or portrayed in a very heavy-handed manner. It was subtle in Thunder Cave, but still realistic and important. The protagonist's grief feels real as he struggles to come to terms with it by seeking his father, who is studying elephants.While the book may come across as a bit silly to some adult readers, I really thought it was very well-written and I think it should be a welcome addition to any collection. The poetic depth, usage of language and the culture portrayed in the novel is really impressive and unforgettable, and something that really makes it stand out as a terrific coming-of-age story.