Room by Emma Donoghue

Emma Donoghue, born in Dublin and now residing in Canada, was first noticed by the literary world for Slammerkin, a historical mystery novel. Now, with Room, she has become a international best-selling author.

Room is narrated by 5 year old Jack, who along with his mother is imprisoned in a fortified shed they refer to as The Room. Their only view of the world outside comes from a television with limited reception and a overhead skylight. They are provided food and necessities from their captor, dubbed "Old Nick" by Jack. When Old Nick visits Ma for sex, Jack must stay closed away in a wardrobe.

With limited resources, Ma manages to educate Jack admirably. He reads, writes and performs math calculations in his head. They spend their days on a schedule of eating, play, carefully supervised TV, and personal hygiene. Born within The Room, Jack has no knowledge of the outside world.

When Jack and Ma are left for days without electricity, Ma concocts an unlikely escape plan which depends on Jack playing an impossibly difficult role. Then, miraculously, the plan succeeds and they are both rescued.

Unfortunately, the story doesn't end there with a happily-ever-after conclusion. Ma's reentry and Jack's introduction to the outside world is traumatic and confusing. Their journey of dealing with the past and adapting to a new strange world is fascinating and heart-rending.

This book will sweep you up and take you on a ride never before experienced. Jack will captivate your heart as you view life through his eyes. I predict a movie will be in the future of Room, but read the book first to fully appreciate the insight of a special boy and his most unusual first five years.