Fuzzy Mud, by Louis Sachar

When some kids wander into the woods and get into some unusual-looking mud, they don't know that they are on the forefront of a bioengineered biological disaster.  In Fuzzy Mud, Louis Sachar explores the dangers of messing with nature.  A lab-created organism has the potential to revolutionize energy production, offering an answer to the world's fuel shortage.  With their rapid reproduction, mutations inevitably occur, sickening people who come into contact with the resulting "fuzzy mud" with a fatal rash.

As he did with Holes, Sachar captures the culture and attitudes of teens and preteens beautifully.  As the characters make their choices, good and bad, Sachar opens a window to their minds.  He doesn't settle for simple, type-cast kids, but thoughtful, believable young people.  This isn't a funny book, and deals with rather serious subject matter, but it was fun to read.  His target audience is older elementary school kids and teens, but even a middle-aged guy likes me can enjoy Sachar's delightful writing.


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!