Visions

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for pre-teens; her latest books are
Jessa Be Nimble, Rebel Be Quick; Raven’s Revenge; and Tarragon Island.

Visions is a juvenile novel that combines elements of mystery,
adventure, and Inuit legends with a realistic story of recovery
following the death of a loved one.

Twins Rob and Mark find it difficult to cope after their father dies.
Each boy responds differently: Mark retreats into silence, while Rob
denies his feelings of hurt and anger. The two boys join their mother on
a scientific expedition to study muskox on a remote island in the
Arctic. Expecting a boring trip (made even more annoying by the presence
of their mother’s new male companion), the boys are shocked to find
themselves so absorbed with an ancient mystery that they can’t share
their bizarre discoveries with anyone but each other.

Walters skilfully mixes the wonderful legends of the north with the two
intertwined but distinct stories of the two adolescents struggling to
come to terms with profound loss. The boys are well-drawn, convincing
characters. The supporting adult characters (with the exception of the
bush pilot, Crash) are unremarkable—not necessarily a bad thing since
relegating parents and adults to supporting roles allows the boys to
remain front and centre in the story. Walters does a good job of
rendering the landscape and moods unique to the remote Arctic setting.
The plot moves along quickly and contains enough eerie twists and turns
to keep the pages turning. The resolution is satisfying, if bizarre.
Readers who enjoy a good adventure novel with supernatural undertones
should enjoy this well-told tale of the Far North. Recommended.