Peyton Aldrich, a twelve-year-old army kid, relocates yet again to a base somewhere in the remote US west. His father, Colonel Aldrich has top secret clearance, but why would he command a run down supply base? Peyton accidentally overhears his father’s conversation and discovers this base conceals a top secret weapon. He befriends two other army kids, Gill and Dave, and together they decide to train to become Rangers-in-waiting at an awesome old obstacle course off base. As the boys meld into a unit, they seek a “Ranger” mission. A trip to the base motor pool provides an opportunity as Peyton overhears three suspicious men hatching a plot to steal the secret package. The three boys trail the men and gain additional clues as to when and where these terrorist types intend to strike. Unable to warn his father, Peyton plans a mission to intercept the thieves. Filled with rigorous training, spying, night vision goggles, face paint and a generator, the story’s tension builds as the trio’s plan approaches its climax.
Max Anderson gives his readers a good feel for life as a twelve-year-old son of an army officer. While maintaining good pace and tension, When the Lights Go Out also demonstrates strong family relationships, courage and responsibility. A secondary character adds an unobtrusive spiritual dimension making this book a strong blend of action-adventure and moral modeling. Max’s use of point of view and traditional dialogue tags also facilitates readability for younger middle grade readers, although some readers might prefer a faster pace and deeper connection with the main character
Age Range: 8-12
Genre: Action Adventure
Comfort Publishing 2012
Available: Amazon, Christianbook.com Also ask for this book at your local library
