Fathomless (Spineless) by Samantha San Miguel

What worked:

Two of the main characters, Lulu and Vic, share a common problem. They both feel underappreciated as individuals and that others, especially their fathers, don’t expect anything from them. Vic is only able to see hazy shapes after battling a disease at the age of ten so his father is overly concerned about his son’s blindness. Lulu views herself as Frankie’s little sister so she’s used to Frankie always taking control whenever she’s around. Lulu is surprised when Frankie lets her captain a small sailboat to a spooky island but perhaps capsizing the boat shows she isn’t ready. Or perhaps things going on with Frankie that Lulu doesn’t know.

The plot is a wonderful blend of mystery and adventure with a touch of supernatural tossed in. The seaside town tells tales of a pirate from long ago and rumors say the ghost of Captain Ale has been seen searching for a new crew. These stories get Lulu’s imagination going especially when she sees an eerie, green light in a castle window. Vic’s father is a member of the harbor police and he’s in town investigating a smuggling ring. The idea of criminals lurking around the seashore and ghosts haunting the area at night will pique the interest of most young readers.

Much of the plot centers on Lulu and Vic as they search for the lost treasure of Captain Ale. The kids encounter a new fishing company that’s killing other wildlife and harming the environment and Frankie is especially motivated to stop them. Readers will follow Lulu and Vic as they uncover coded clues and a map that leads them to dark, hidden places. It turns out Vic’s blindness can be an advantage in some circumstances. The story includes many scenes where the characters are sailing small boats and Lulu helps Vic rediscover some unused skills from his past. The author throws in additional issues surrounding Lulu’s father as he runs for mayor and reveals some questionable business decisions.

What didn’t work as well:

There are a lot of things going on, maybe too many. It feels like some things are red herrings and readers’ attention will shift as the plot moves along. Everything works well together but that’s not clear as readers encounter different predicaments.

The final verdict:

The story uses the sea and sailing throughout so lovers of boating and beaches will easily connect with it. It will especially interest readers who enjoy mysteries as Lulu and Vic overcome self-doubt to uncover secrets. Overall, it’s a stealthy adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.