She thought this would be a great opportunity. She just felt she needed to do this one more thing before she settled down and had children. Her husband was supportive and encouraged her to do it. The producers of the reality show said it would be a race among twelve competitors -a race for survival out in the wilds with a big reward at the end for the one who made it first. With her background as an educator and her love of nature and animals this challenge seemed doable and she was determined to win.  The producers liked her and nicknamed her Zoo along with other competitors who also had nicknames like Tracker, Air Force, Asian Chick, Waitress, Banker and Rancher. Each one bringing some unique skill to the competition, something that would give them an edge over the others. It would be tough to win, but Zoo was determined that she would be the one to take the prize.

Initially, the competitors worked in teams, learning basic survival skills while also competing for certain equipment that would help them survive; things like a machete, or a camping stove and matches. But once their training was over and they received their final instructions, they would be on their own; even the camera crews would be out of sight.

But something unexpected happened. It began with a cough and rapidly spread everywhere causing death and destruction so quickly it could not be stopped. Soon the camera crews were affected and then others and by the time the producer realized he needed to tell someone about the competitors out in the wild, it was all too late. Now they really were on their own!

Oliva has obviously done a lot of research or has a lot of experience in surviving in the wild, because her descriptions of how to make a shelter, follow tracks, make traps for food and start fires are all so vivid.  Zoo is an interesting character with an enormous heart and determination. Although we are kept somewhat at arms length, she is still compelling and engaging.  Through Zoo we are introduced to the other characters as she assesses their skills and abilities and determines their value to her in winning the competition. Intriguing and compelling, this book explores the idea of what is real and how we often choose not to see it when reality contradicts our own suppositions or is too painful to acknowledge.

Brenda’s Rating: **** (4 out of 5 Stars)

Recommend this book to: Sharon, Marian, Lauren and Keith

Book Study Worthy? Yes

Read in ebook format.