Recommended for young teenagers, especially boys who are struggling with issues of life and death.
Rated 5 out of 5
Cloie Belle Daffon –
In the End by Ken Saik is a grueling and fast-paced story that piqued my interest from the very first chapter. Saik writes many heartwarming moments, and a few made my heart ache, especially after I think about all the tragedies the teenagers went through. I loved the deep bond that the boys had with each other. Each of them showed remarkable bravery in the face of danger. I could envision the struggles they were facing while maneuvering around the tunnels and I was afraid and horrified on their behalf. I had goosebumps when Perry voiced his concerns about someone following them as they were checking on the different tunnels. The story was so detailed that I could feel the fear and desperation that each of the boys felt as though I was there with them. The characters of the story and its unique plot are the foundations that built up this story. I admired Perry for his unwavering faith and Calvin for his selflessness. The intricate, exciting plot is what allowed these characters and others to shine! The ending was so unexpected, but it was truly a great one. Well done!
Rated 5 out of 5
Nicholus Schroeder –
In The End was an amazing book and one that I’m glad I got to read. The book had an incredible plot that had me really intrigued as to how it would all play out. The group’s journey in the tunnels was conveyed with clarity, and it was very interesting as their explorations frequently unearthed mysteries and other points of interest that piqued my curiosity. The characters were also another great thing about this book as they were all well-written. Ken Saik definitely put a lot of thought into his characters as each is unique and authentic. Their lines, personalities, and convictions could easily be portrayed as is by actors in a film, and the scenes would still be very organic and life-like. I also appreciated the author’s creativity in how a character met their demise and that each was probable as I do enjoy a bit of realism in my books. I loved reading In The End and have no problem recommending this one to fans of the adventure genre.
Rated 5 out of 5
Pickasho Deka –
Filled with suspense and plenty of hair-raising moments, In the End is a tale of brotherhood and the act of letting go. There is a sense of warmth and heart you’ll find in this survival tale, as author Ken Saik infuses a lot of touching moments into the story. You feel for the characters and find yourself caring for every single one of them as they fight for survival under harrowing circumstances. Despite the large cast, Saik manages to convey a strong dynamic between the friends with vastly different personalities. Their friendship forms the bedrock of the narrative. I have to say the ending took me by surprise. It felt a little bittersweet yet satisfying, nonetheless. If you love coming-of-age stories about friendship, definitely check out In the End
Rated 5 out of 5
Clementinah Feranmi Ogunsiakan –
Ken Saik’s exciting young adult novel, in the End, is a captivating exploration of themes such as deceit, disloyalty, and companionship, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Saik’s writing style is engaging, and he skillfully examines important issues that are not commonly addressed in contemporary society, such as religion, technology, and wrongdoing.
The narrative centres around a group of twelve boys who are struggling for survival in a perilous mine. The story explores themes of fear, betrayal, and the search for hope amidst seemingly hopeless circumstances. While their access to food and water is a concern, the boys are more preoccupied with finding a way out of the mine before it’s too late. The book’s tension is heightened by the group’s dwindling numbers, as each new obstacle claims yet another life. Through it all, Saik keeps readers on edge with his skilful handling of suspenseful moments, without revealing too much. The characters’ shifting priorities and inner demons make for a captivating read, and Saik’s exploration of deeper themes like religion and corruption adds another layer of complexity to the story.
One of the standout features of the book is the author’s skilful character development. Saik expertly creates 12 distinct personalities, each with its own unique voice and traits. The interpersonal relationships between the characters are also explored in depth, resulting in a rich tapestry of dynamics that add depth to the story. Through these well-crafted characters, Saik delves into themes of loyalty and betrayal, giving greater meaning to the narrative. The writing style is both engaging and suspenseful, making the book a page-turner from start to finish. Overall, Saik’s ability to breathe life into his characters is a testament to his skill as a writer and adds greatly to the success of the novel.
In my opinion, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys adventure and survival stories. What sets this book apart is the author’s perceptive and stimulating approach to the themes presented, which elevates it beyond a mere thrilling adventure. I found nothing to dislike about the book, and the editing was exceptionally well done, with no grammatical or typographical errors to be found.
I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This action-packed adventure book is not only thought-provoking but also explores important themes such as the importance of trust in relationships, friendship, and betrayal, which will undoubtedly captivate readers. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for a thrilling and insightful read. Saik’s attention to detail and the seamless integration of multiple themes into the plot make it a must-read for fans of young adult fiction.
Rated 5 out of 5
Hazel Mae Bagarinao –
In the End is a young adult novel written by Ken Saik. Sampson throws a party in his garage, which is attended by his eleven teenage friends: Larry, Len, Graham, Terry, Conrad, Arny, Perry, Victor, Calvin, Brayden, and Jen. In a blink of an eye, they faced the reality that they were sunk and stuck in a hole measuring sixteen feet deep and thirty wide. All the teens were panicking. The whole garage where they stand was collapsed, and there was no way to go back to the top. There was no sign of a rescue, so they explored the area, and they discovered that it was an old mine shaft. The group explored the numerous tunnels and tried to find a way out. But something Arny found—a miner’s diary written in Haiku. The miner wrote about the heavenly place, Vanna, so they continued their journey believing it was true. Was Vanna fictional or real? Will the group succeed in finding it? To discover the answers, read this incredible book, In the End, by Ken Saik.
When Yazpar pushed Victor off the cliff, I was devastated. My reaction was a profane word. It makes me eager to continue reading, and then I discover that the title of the book makes sense to me. Ken Saik made me deeply moved by how he amazingly ended the book. I was happy about how the group ended their journey. Yazpar was an interesting character in the book. He was mysterious. Furthermore, the heavenly place, Vanna, made me think about how desirable it is to be there, similar to how the characters desired it. Moreover, I applaud the editors for the flawless editing of the book; it was error-free.
However, I have one criticism about this 196-page book with 18 chapters. Unfortunately, it has poor character development. For a book with more than twelve characters, it must leave the reader with a vivid description of them all, but I had a hard time imagining what the teenage boys looked like. The author stated their jobs, but he failed to mention their appearances, which is crucial for the reader’s imagination. It would be easy to follow through if it was included. The book would be so much better if the characters were developed. Other than this, there’s nothing I considered a fault with this book.
Therefore, I joyfully rate the book 5 out of 5 stars because the negative aspect I previously mentioned doesn’t yield a major bad impression about the book, rather the positive outweighs the negative. Furthermore, I love the ending of the book, which is another good reason to give it a full rating.
This reader-friendly and life-changing book will be a wonderful read for those interested in discovering themselves, learning how to sacrifice, and valuing friendship. I would love it if the author launched another book because he has a great way of teaching moral lessons to readers.
Rated 5 out of 5
Babalola Oluseyi –
Sampson and eleven of his pals are having a party in his garage during a rainstorm that lasts several days. Sampson’s father calls him on the third morning but gets no answer. When he looks outside, he sees that his garage has fallen into a sinkhole. He then makes an emergency call to ask for assistance in finding the twelve friends. Meanwhile, the search for an escape leads twelve young lads into abandoned mine tunnels after they realize that they are trapped in a garage that has been swallowed by a sinkhole. At first, the boys see this misfortune as an adventure, but as the days go by and death begins to claim the lives of these adolescents one by one, what began as an adventure gets harder.
I was constantly wondering what would happen next because of the book’s high degree of suspense. The author’s imaginative writing and word use made for an engrossing and fascinating read. The characters were properly developed. The narrative was more realistic because of their strength during their adversity and grief during their darkest hours. It was easy to relate to the characters and grasp their emotional connection because of this and the book’s straightforward language. It was easy to see that the plot was well thought out. The characters were expertly introduced by the author, and the story’s climax hit the mark. The tale might have ended on a depressing note, but instead, it took an amazing turn.
Despite being in such a terrible position, I admired the guys’ ability to maintain humor. They kept laughing even as horrible events began to happen to them. The teamwork was also excellent. The book also had excellent character development and a quick-paced narrative. Ken Saik deserves praise for the effort put into creating the characters. The characters seemed relatable because of the captivating manner in which Ken highlighted the feelings, interactions, abilities, and characteristics of each adolescent.
This book deserves a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This is due to the book’s excellent narration, quick-paced narrative, excellent character development, suspense, amazing plot, and satisfactory ending. This well-edited book also happens to be error-free. I could not find anything that I hated about this book.
I recommend In The End to readers who enjoy suspenseful books and exciting thrillers. This book is also excellent for young adults who enjoy reading books that are filled with mystery and suspense.
Rated 5 out of 5
Kehinde_211 –
Kehinde_211 » 01 Mar 2023, 13:17
[Following is a volunteer review of “In the End” by Ken Saik.]
Mystery thrillers are one genre I am particularly interested in. This is for no reason, but as a result of the thrills it gives, and that one gets to understand the way humans think and the solutions they arrive at to get a hang of the problem and out of the situation. In the End by Ken Saik is no exception and a testament to this notion.
This book richly explores the experiences of twelve children stuck in an experience they never thought they’d get into. Under the garage of Mr Sanfield, the parent of one of these kids, Sampson, twelve children get lost after a heavy downpour of rain on a certain party night, and they are nowhere to be found. After several searches by security forces in the community, all to no avail, their parents mourn their losses, give up, and move on. Unknown to them, these children are faced with the situation of achieving and reaching the destination of their childhood fantasy, Vanna, and are forced to adapt to the unprecedented situations they encounter in the tunnels. They come through numerous challenges and fatalities while they learn to understand the core values of friendship and togetherness. What turns out to be the endgame of the story? A trial of this book will surely give readers a glimpse of how this mystery turns out.
To begin with, I’d like to mention that this book combined a lot of heart-wrenching experiences to share. The author’s beginning of the narration was so mysterious and suspenseful that I yearned to understand it and get into the events that transpired in the story. From the elements of pity to confusion, it was all I ever hoped to get from the book.
More so, I found the experiences between these children to be quite a tale. From their unwavering faith to their willingness to navigate between trying options and the deeper friendship between them, these were quite captivating. Sometimes, I even shared a tear in between their discussions. The denouement simply summed up the answers readers like myself had been longing for at the story’s conclusion. This was satisfactory, no doubt.
On the other hand, this book was certainly a boring read, even though it was mysterious. The author’s writing style was not catchy enough to interest me in continuing. I had to keep tossing back the pages at intervals so as not to get bored before completion. It was only its conclusion that saved it for me. I also wished the author dwelled more on the continuation of the side of other parents in the story.
Due to its professional and expert editing, I found no errors in it. I’d rather reiterate that it helped me finish the book quite succinctly. Therefore, I’d rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. It is further recommended for adventure and mystery lovers. This is because it entails a chokehold of experiences they’d yearn to savor and relate to.
Rated 5 out of 5
Ndagire Hasifah –
When twelve teenage boys realise they are stuck in a garage swallowed by a sinkhole, their quest to find an escape lands them in old mining tunnels. What started as an adventure becomes harder as the days pass and death starts to claim the lives of these teenagers one after another. As they explore further into these tunnels, many discoveries are made, and questions arise, such as: who made these tunnels; would the boys be able to make it out of these dark tunnels; will they be able to reunite with their parents; and what dangers await them on this journey? To find out, read “In the End” by Ken Saik.
This fictional book is an intriguing narrative that portrays many themes in life, such as love, family, friendship, faith, danger, survival, sorrow, and>togetherness. The book focuses on the lives of twelve teenagers as they face different dangers on their quest to find their way home. The level of suspense within the book kept me in anticipation of what the next event could be. The author’s creative imagination, writing style, story setting, and choice of words made for a captivating and interesting read.
What I liked most about the book were the fast-paced narration and the character development. Ken must be commended for the work put into the development of the characters. The way Ken brought out the emotions, interactions, skills, and traits of each teenager was mesmerising and also made the characters seem relatable. Calvin’s courage and selflessness to help his friends, Perry’s faith in God, and Sampson’s leadership skills were what I admired about these characters.
Furthermore, I found nothing to dislike about this book. I was completely thrilled with the book because of its compelling and thrilling plot. Considering all the positive aspects I found in this book, I rate In the End five out of five stars. I did not find any errors in the book, and I believe it was exceptionally well edited. The language used by the author was also simple and easy to understand.
I would recommend this book to readers who love adventurous thrillers and novels filled with suspense. Readers who enjoy reading stories with a real-life feel to them would also love this book. Even though the book illustrates the Christian faith and prayers, I believe it is suitable for people of all religions. Lovers of fiction novels, mostly young adults, would also have a great time reading this book.
Rated 4 out of 5
Justine Ocsebio –
Mr. Sanfield’s son and his friends took the house garage for their party. One night, upon looking at their garage, Mr. Sanfield noticed that it was already gone. A giant sinkhole has swallowed their yard with his son and his friends. Rattled by his son’s disappearance, Mr. Sanfield seeks the assistance of the authorities. Down the abyss, twelve teenagers hope to escape their predicament before death catches up to them. Will they be able to make it out alive and safe?
In the End by Ken Saik is a young adult novel that features a tragedy involving twelve teenagers. Much of the narrative deals with their survival and the sufferings they endured. It is interesting to see how a bunch of teenage boys come up with ways to get out of the situation. What is intriguing in survival stories is seeing how the characters’ minds work when their lives are in danger. It becomes all the more interesting when these characters are teenagers whose brains are still developing. I can say that the story manages to do well in this aspect. This is what I like the most about this book.
This novel is a plot-driven story. As expected, the novel commits a flaw common in plenty of stories like this. It might be both a positive and a negative aspect that a book jumps into the main plot right away. A few pages into the story and the reader is already down the sinkhole with the characters. The problem with this aspect of the story is that we’re already dealing with characters we don’t know yet. Nobody knows a bit about their backgrounds or a portion of their lives that might allow us to slightly care about them. While glimpses of their lives come in further in the story, I don’t think they are enough. Also, I felt like it would’ve been more interesting had the author added some teenage drama into the narrative. These are some of my dislikes in the story.
I have no problem in terms of writing. The straightforward writing style is very much what the story needs. I only found a couple of errors throughout so the text. Despite these two errors, It still felt like the book went through professional editing.
I’m awarding this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. There were a few positive aspects, but there were narrative issues that affected my overall enjoyment of the book. Nevertheless, I would still recommend this novel to young adult readers who enjoy survival stories.
Rated 4 out of 5
Kurt Williams –
In the End by Ken Saik is a young adult book about twelve teenagers involved in a tragedy. The book starts with a tragedy involving twelve teenagers who were missing. Sampson and his friends were partying in a two-car garage. Mr. Sanfield, Sampson’s father, tried reaching him, but there was no answer. First responders arrive, and Mrs. Sanfield is requested to provide the phone numbers and names of the teenagers lost in the hole. The parents of the teenagers thought their children were lost or dead, but the teenagers were trying to survive since the sinkhole had tunnels. The hole was dark, so they started looking for a lighter to bring some light so that they would find a path. They started finding their way out. They used tools such as ax and continued walking to find out how down the tunnels went. Will they find a way out? Read this book and find out.
I liked the emotion the author created when he wrote about the tragedies and the suffering the teenagers endured. You could feel pity for them since they were on their own because their parents counted them as dead. The teenagers had a strong love for each other and were brave since they explored the tunnels together and helped each other during the tragedy. The descriptive content of the book was good. As the author explained the events, you could feel the cloud of fear that was building among the characters, for instance, when Perry claimed a person was following them. Finally, I liked the book’s storyline. The storyline involves tragedies that befall teenagers because they are eager to do something. It educates teenagers to be careful when doing their stuff, and when things go wrong, they should be united.
The book was great in all other aspects except its layout. The layout was a bit shaggy since the author did not start a new chapter on a fresh page. He should have done that to bring distinction between the chapters.
I rate In the End by Ken Saik four out of five. The book was exceptionally well-edited because I did not find any errors. The storyline was good, and the author brought real emotion by describing events so well, which deserves a perfect rating, but I deducted a star because of the negative aspect. The formatting of the chapters was not as expected.
I recommend this book to young adults, especially college and high school students. The book involves the tragedy of twelve teenagers. They helped each other by being there for each other even when situations got out of control. So young adults would learn the importance of true friendship and teamwork.
Rated 4 out of 5
Arianne Joy Melendres –
Life is full of surprises. Sometimes, that surprise is a sinkhole below your garage. With some adventurous souls and heavy rain, someone is bound to be trapped. It’s no surprise to be scared that no one will see them again. But how does anyone survive while everyone mourns their deaths? In the End by Ken Saik is a book about this exact situation, and every page he brings is an absolute treat.
In the End is a book about twelve boys who were buried alive. The book begins when the Sanfield family garage disappears due to heavy rain. Upon calling a group of rescuers, the only report that the families received was darkness. There were no reports of bodies, blood, or human life. With nothing but emptiness eating the families alive, the twelve boys are declared dead. This book is about how the twelve boys struggle with only their limited resources, each other’s companies, and their religious faith.
I would easily recommend this book to fans of thrillers and adventure books. In the End is quite the premise, although mildly unrealistic. It is for those who crave the wonders of survival. Another group of people I would recommend this to are religious readers. By no means was this book purely catered to a specific religion, I believe all religions would be able to read it. However, faith was a big part of all the characters’ survival. I assume that religious readers would greatly appreciate this aspect of the book.
I did not find any major errors that interfered with my reading experience, but there were a lot of punctuation errors in this book. In terms of the storyline itself, I was not particularly fond of some unrealistic scenes in this book. I wished that there was a stronger expression of relief from the families when they found out that the boys were alive. I also wished that the rescue scene, in the beginning, was executed better. For these reasons, I will be rating this book four out of five stars. However, I would like to acknowledge Ken’s smooth writing style. He did not fail to deliver thrill, suspense, and a sense of surprise with this book. He also did a great job of developing his characters. I liked their dynamics and how they were made distinct from one another.
Overall, this book was enjoyable in its own right. The twist at the end was satisfying and the build-up was good. I enjoyed seeing the twelve boys work together in everyone’s interest to survive. Ken’s storyline and imagination have strong potential, and I cannot wait to see more of what he has in store for his readers.
Rated 3 out of 5
Emiglee –
Sampson and his friends retired to bed in his father’s garage, where they had partied endlessly for two days. It had rained heavily, and partying while locked up in the garage, felt like the perfect way to enjoy the downpour. None of them expected to be thrown out of their cots dead in the night with the power off. After getting some flashlights, the boys discovered a deep depression on the garage floor. Terrified and curious, the boys investigated this abnormality. They soon found out that not only had the garage sunk into a deep hole, but it was also hanging in the air with only a tiny rock holding it in place. Thoughts of survival immediately filled their mind amongst many other thoughts. How would they survive this impossible development?
In the End by Ken Saik tells the touching story of 12 boys on a journey of survival. This arresting tale transported me into a world of desperation, grief, humour, and adventure. I found it admirable that the story started from the climax and kept building to an intriguing end. Most times, books that start from the climax end up losing their charms, but this book delivered an impressive plot. I enjoyed reading about the boy’s adventures and travails. At first, they didn’t take their situations seriously, and they were enthusiastic about the prospects of an adventure, but when danger presented itself, their fear wore off their optimism. I admired their perseverance and survival skills. I also enjoyed reading about how they deflected their grief with mindless humour. Half the time, the challenges they faced discouraged me, but somehow their optimism gave me hope.
Sampson’s character charmed me. I loved how cautious and logical he was about every situation. Whenever he set out to lead the group, I always felt a sense of comfort, like I could trust his decisions. The book’s theme was gripping. Not only did the book provide an adventure, but its contents offered a thought-provoking view of the meaning of existence, love, loyalty, and friendship. I also loved that all the questions I had were attended to at the end of the book, which gave a meaningful interpretation of the title of the book.
Though this book was a lovely read, I found displeasure in its characterization. There were so many characters to keep up with. I found it confusing to keep up with the many names flying about at the beginning of the story. Most times, I had to stop mid-reading to figure out who each character is before continuing the story. Some characters didn’t play a major role worth remembering. The story could have done well in their absence. Although the plot was intriguing, the story itself lacked depth. There wasn’t enough backstory on each character to fully bond with them. Sometimes the author described their emotions vaguely, and I didn’t truly feel them. I only went along with it because I had no choice. I constantly had to convince myself the characters felt what the author described.
I would rate this book 3 out of 5 stars. It was a wonderful read, but I didn’t quite enjoy the story as much as I would have loved to, hence the imperfect rating. The book’s editing was poorly done. I found some grammatical errors and proofreading errors, like paragraphs breaking in the middle of sentences. At first, it was manageable, but it became increasingly distracting and displeasing. I believe a second round of editing can fix all these. Despite my displeasure, the plot and theme of the story impressed me enough to sustain my attention. This book was lovely, but I believe it will be more compelling with a better description and characterization.
I would recommend this book to lovers of adventure novels. This book would entertain readers of this genre. It’s a perfect book for lovers of fast-paced stories too. The action in the book unfolds almost immediately and keeps occurring dramatically till the end. Readers who love tear-jacking books will enjoy this read as well. The book contains events that are liable to make them cry out in shock.
Rated 5 out of 5
Shillah Andeso –
While Sampson and his eleven friends are partying in his father’s garage, a heavy downpour lasts three days. On the third morning, Sampson’s father, Mr. Sanfield, tries to call Sampson from the house but gets no reply. This is when he looks outside and realizes his garage has disappeared into a sinkhole. He calls emergency services to help look for the twelve friends. While the search continues, Sampson and his friends try to find a way out of the tunnels. They encounter journals in these caves that help them plan a way out. They are not aware that death lurks in the shadows of these tunnels. Will their efforts to find their way home succeed? Read In the End by Ken Saik to experience this adventure.
Reading In the End by Ken Saik is an epic and mysterious journey to a new world. The characters in this book are well-developed. When these friends find themselves in this rare situation, we learn the stories of their lives. It is at these critical moments that we interact better with the characters. I love the simple language used by the author. It is easier to relate to the characters’ emotions. Their courage at these fateful times and grief during their lowest moments made the book more realistic. It was easier to connect with the characters and understand their emotional connection. When the boys experienced mysterious events, I could sense the fear they developed. They still managed to have the courage to find a way out. Ken Saik also includes some paranormal explanations in this book. This increases the likely explanation for the characters’ disappearances. I love how this aspect fits into this story without making the story sound cliché.
I found some of the scenes in this book predictable, but I didn’t expect the creativity incorporated into these scenes. This makes the book resemble a guide to a new world. This book teaches loyalty and teamwork. I would, however, recommend a better ending for this story. When I began reading this book, I noticed the author had a well-structured plot. The end could, however, be modified to be more realistic since, in the real world, bad things are bound to happen. This is only an aspect that could use a change. It did not disrupt my reading experience.
One aspect I dislike about this book is that the pages are not numbered. I find this a bother because page numbering is vital for any book. I rate In the End by Ken Saik 5 out of 5 stars. I do not deduct a star for this aspect because this is merely a bonus for a good book. The book uses simple grammar and language. I did not encounter any grammatical errors or typos. I conclude that the book was exceptionally well edited. Ken incorporated a lot of lessons in the book, resulting in an educational and entertaining read. This book, therefore, gains access to the list of the best teen books I’ve read.
I recommend this book to teens ready for a mysterious and suspense-filled adventure. The book is captivating and not unnecessarily lengthy. It’s a great book to read for educational and entertainment purposes.
Rated 4 out of 5
sssns –
What starts as a night of fun male bonding instantly becomes a tragic event for a community. After days of constant rains, a garage falls into a sinkhole where twelve teenage boys are partying. Desperate efforts for search and rescue seem futile. Down the hole, the boys discover an abandoned mine tunnel. Built by mysterious men, the tunnels supposedly lead to an exotic place. With slim chances of getting to the surface, finding this rather intriguing land is an alternative. With supplies running low, the boys find themselves in entangled tunnels. But what disconcerts them the most are the deaths of their youthful friends. One by one, the maze is claiming them. A sinister presence lurks in the darkness. Fatigue, homesickness, and paranoia compel them to an uncertain quest. Will the boys ever get back to safety?
In the End by Ken Saik blends adventure, suspense, mystery, and spirituality in a novel for young adults. It follows the story of teenage boys in a quest for survival and discovery. The cover art hint at the adventure, while the title suggests mystery. The linear chronology does not preempt the events, effectively maintaining the suspense. Likewise, chapter titles are appropriate introductions to the contents. They heighten anticipation and sustain curiosity. In addition, the third-person point of view works well to present different perspectives from the characters. The various standpoints support the conflicts in the plot. Worldbuilding is familiar and relatable. Subtle deviations from the ordinary are warnings that trigger the imagination. It is an appropriate approach to generate suspense.
The clever weaving of genres makes for an engaging reading experience. There is action and adventure in exploring the unknown and surviving the elements, giving a rush of adrenalin. The unpredictable twists from start to finish create anticipation and surprise. Unknown factors at play build suspense, bringing out intense emotions like hope, despair, paranoia, and determination, to name a few. The spirituality components carefully integrate into the story as the characters internalize their experiences. It additionally includes subtle spiritual symbolisms. Consequently, these elements contribute to a surprising resolution.
The book touches on relatable themes like friendship, faith, and death. Intertwining these themes provides a scenario to explore the concept of death from diverse contexts. People demonstrate various ways of dealing with loss and grief. A tragedy unites a community through their faith. Outliving their children is heartbreaking for parents. Teenagers display a vast range of reactions toward losing a friend. I have reservations about some of the ideas, but they are thought-provoking. Death is an inevitable and irreversible phenomenon, yet many are uncomfortable discussing it. The book draws attention to a sensitive topic, clearing away the awkwardness. It is what I appreciate the most.
There is nothing I disliked in the book. But I have some comments that are matters of preference. They do not affect enjoying the book. There are many names and characters, which are a bit overwhelming at the start of the story. They get more familiar as the story moves along. I gently suggest adding more apparent distinction in the physical features and speech. In addition, the cast is predominantly male. It looks into the friendship of the teenage boys and touches on the father-and-son relationship. The approach seems to present a symbolism to support the spiritual component.
The direct words and conversational language contribute generously to a smooth reading flow. Rare instances of swearing are almost unnoticeable. Editing issues are minor but more than a handful. Despite apparent references to the Christian faith, the contents are suitable for any religious group. This book is appropriate for teenagers and adults. It will appeal to those keen on stories about adventure quests and friendship. Those interested in exploring an alternative perception of death might want to look into this work. Although the characters are chiefly male, the story will nevertheless be of interest to the female audience. Support groups dealing with loss and grief might consider this an additional resource.
The book draws attention to a delicate topic. The clever weaving of adventure, suspense, and spirituality presents a subtle approach that conveys a thought-provoking message. However, I have to drop a star because of the editing issues. For these reasons, I assign a rating of four out of five.
Rated 4 out of 5
Rocky Ellery James Tumbelaka –
In the End by Ken Saik is a book in the young adult genre. It told the story of twelve teenage boys that fell into a sinkhole. They had to work together to find their way out and go back home. Each boy had different skills and knowledge, so each of them had to do what they could to contribute to reaching their goal. They explored tunnel after tunnel. After some time, they began to lose hope of ever returning home. Instead, they found a journal made by a miner who once worked in the tunnels. In the journals, the miner described his homeland called Vanna. The boys decided to find a way to Vanna because of the description they read about it. But one of the boys felt that someone was watching their every move. Would they ever reach Vanna? Would all of them survive long enough to see the place? Or did someone have other plans for them?
What I liked the most about this book was the story. The author did a great job of capturing the feeling of being trapped in a dark and strange tunnel. I could understand the boys’ feelings and fears as they ventured into the unknown. Not knowing what they would find or what would be waiting for them as they searched each tunnel for a way out. I felt scared for the boys’ safety every time they reached a new place or did something risky. The first chapter of the book told the story from the parents’ perspective. On how they mourned and cried because they just lost their children. I felt very touched and sad. That is why I kept on hoping the boys would all return home safely as I turned each page. I had to congratulate the author for making me feel so much as I read the book.
I also liked the way the author wrote the story from each boy’s perspective. I liked how they cared for one another and helped each other throughout the book. The bond they shared was very wonderful and it made me very emotional. That’s why I am glad with how the book ended. It made me happy and satisfied with what the boys went through in the book.
I had nothing to dislike about this book. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I reduced a star because I found quite a few errors and typos. I say this book could use another round of editing. This is a book that’s filled with thrilling and dangerous adventures which lead to an emotional and satisfying ending.
I recommend this book to readers who like adventure stories and journeys into the unknown. Because you will never know what will happen on the next page. This book had a heavy theme about the afterlife and Heaven. Readers who don’t believe in such things may want to skip this book.
Rated 3 out of 5
Stevenmusk –
There is always a start to an adventure, and not all have a happy ending, but this one has a surprising twist. The book In the End by Ken Saik is fascinating. It is about 12 boys who come together for a garage party on a stormy day. An unexpected accident occurs, and a sinkhole swallows the garage. The boys escape the crash but are stranded in a maze of tunnels and are left to figure out which tunnel will lead them home. These were once mining tunnels, and finding the right tunnel as the days passed became difficult.
Navigating the tunnels seemed fun, but there is more to this story than an adventure in the tunnels. Unknown to them, something is lurking in the tunnels with them. The boys decide to label each tunnel to aid identification and exploration in the hopes of finding their way home. One of the boys realizes a presence following them, but it wouldn’t be easy to prove.
There are many twists and themes, but the most highlighted ones are courage, friendship, and grief. The book moves along at a good pace. The journey in the tunnels felt like an adventure, and I enjoyed watching each mystery unfold. I learned a lot of survival tactics and how to handle different situations, with the number one lesson being to follow your instincts. Each character had a relatable backstory and explained the reason for their behaviors throughout their journey. Despite the tragedy in this book, it was humorous and courageous. It was full of suspense and kept my attention. I went through a roller coaster of emotions as I read the book, and this made me like this book even more because I believe that emotional reactions are a sign of a good book. I didn’t understand why the parents came to accept the situation of their children so quickly, but I guess hope is a factor that can change anything. The boys’ bravery, teamwork, and hard work were admirable. The beginning of the book was straightforward and eventful.
There were many positive aspects to this book. I found many negative parts that conflicted with my decision and experience. There were a lot of characters in the opening scene, which made it difficult to understand. It took a while to understand the situation. Though the author did his best to identify each character and their roles, it was also hard to tell which character was speaking each time.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars because it had multiple errors and many other aspects that hindered my reading experience. I commend the author for his writing style and narrative skills.
I recommend this book to readers interested in adventure stories filled with mysteries, suspense, and subtle messages.
Rated 5 out of 5
Rosemary Wright –
In the End, by Ken Saik, is a young adult mystery novel. Mr. Sanfield’s son, Sampson, and eleven of his friends are partying in his two-car garage while there is a downpour. On the morning of the third day, the rain lets up, and Mr. Sanfield calls his son. When Sampson does not answer, through the window, he looks out, thinking that the boys are playing in the rain. Surprisingly, he sees that his garage has disappeared. It has dropped into a sinkhole.
The boys find themselves in a dark place with several tunnels. Later on, they see and read a journal and look forward to locating a place called Vanna to have a good time there. Afterwards, they discover that they are trapped in the tunnels, and they search for a way out, but they get eliminated mysteriously one after another. The boys left courageously continue their search for an escape route out of the tunnels, but will they succeed?
Exploring chiefly the themes of faith, courage, loyalty, friendship, and grief, this book is appealing. It flows smoothly. I love how it starts with the disappearance of the garage and then reveals the kids’ journey in the tunnels, involving their quest for survival. I commend the author for how he introduced the paranormal mystery aspect, making Perry, one of the boys, mention his mysterious experiences. The book is easy to read with simple and comprehensible words, suitable for teens.
Regarding the characters, they’re interesting. There are enough details that make them relatable. The backstories from the kids’ memories highlight their background information. The boys are strong and courageous. In spite of their weird experiences, they had hope and struggled to survive so that they could find their way out of the tunnels.
There’s nothing I don’t like about In the End, except that the ending got me somewhat confused, concerning the existence of all the boys. Anyway, that’s how the author wanted his story to end. It’s a worthwhile read. However, it includes a lot of losses, and sensitive readers may not want to read it.
Finally, I rate In the End 5 out of 5 stars. I couldn’t rate it lower because it was engaging. It has interesting themes. Besides, the descriptions of events and scenery are vivid. Moreover, it was exceptionally well edited; I didn’t notice any grammar errors or typos. It’ll be a great read for young adults, who enjoy novels that include adventures and the paranormal.
Rated 5 out of 5
dala J Phiri –
In The End by Ken Saik is a fascinating young adult novel. As good friends, the 12 senior high school boys organize a party in the garage of Mr. Sanfield. While enjoying themselves, the sinkhole swallows the garage. The boys escape death by climbing into an old mining tunnel. In the tunnel, they find so many tunnels and they need to figure out the tunnel that may lead them out of the tunnel so that they can get back to their homes. The way gets tougher than expected. It becomes longer than they thought. To find the tunnel that may lead them home, they label the tunnels and assign each other to check the tunnels.
At first, the search excites them as they explore the tunnels. One of them listens to his instincts and senses a frightening presence following them. Unfortunately, he cannot convince his friends about it without proof. Death claims the lives of these young adults one after another. Not as every book ends, but this book ends with good news. What good news comes amid tragedies? Get your copy and explore how this happens and how the boys shared sweet memories.
The story glued me to the novel as each chapter brought new experiences. It kept me in suspense, as I could not figure out the next move. I was able to follow the plot of the story. The setting was identifiable; the author brilliantly introduced the characters, and the climax of the story was right on point. I thought the story would have a sad ending, but a wondrous, exciting twist occurred. The ending of the stories is where most writers miss out. This novel ended exceptionally. Reading this story felt real. The novel drew my attention and my emotions to it. It grew my curiosity because I wanted to know how the boys would make it out and what would be their experience.
I would have loved to hear more about the parents of the boys as well. It was only at the beginning that the story captured the parent’s reactions to the news. Knowing how they took it and their acceptance of what happened would have brought a good feeling as well. Otherwise, I liked the novel entirely and there was nothing to dislike. I found only two errors that did not disturb my reading. The two errors are not worthy of deducting any star. I rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars because it is well-edited and follows the rules and elements of writing. The design of the cover is on point as well.
There are plenty of lessons that most youth may yield from reading this novel. With that, I recommend it to the young generation of today. The oneness that was portrayed in the novel may help some groups of young adults. Parents should also read this novel because if a parent was careful in this story, the boys would not be in trouble. The novel was written in simple and comprehensive language. The novel did not give me a headache with unnecessary jargon. The book is best suited for all people of different religions. I salute the author for the great work done.
Rated 4 out of 5
re De Klerk –
What do you do when you get swallowed by a sinkhole? In the End by Ken Saik is a suspense-filled book about twelve senior boys who were in a garage when the garage disappeared down a sinkhole during very heavy rain. Although there were some bumps and bruises, nobody was seriously hurt. They tried to climb up, but the walls were too muddy and slippery. They investigated what was below the garage as they could hear water falling and splashing. One of the boys spotted a cave-like hole below them, and they decided to take the risk of searching for a way out through the cave rather than wait for the garage to plummet to the bottom and into the water. The cave turned out to be an entrance to a labyrinth of mining tunnels.
Luckily, the garage had a lot of supplies to aid them on their journey through the caves, including lamps, ropes, flashlights, and a lot of potatoes. The boys methodically started exploring the different caves and branches, seeking a way out, and even made maps to guide them. They found the main cave, which they used as their home base for a while. One of the boys kept sensing a menacing presence in the dark tunnels with them, and during their explorations, life after life was lost. Would any of them get out of these tunnels? Their food and light were running out, and there were gases in some tunnels that made them hallucinate. Luckily, they found drinkable water, and they kept positive through faith and prayer.
I absolutely love thrillers with a real-life feel to them. It is something that can happen in reality, and that makes the book much more believable. You are able to imagine yourself in the characters’ shoes, emotions, and journeys. This book was very relatable, and I was immersed in the boys’ mission to get out. This book and its descriptions were superbly written by the author. It made it easy for my mind to create the tunnels, the darkness, and the dampness, feeling the tension and fear but also the close-knit boys and the thrill of exploring adventures. The only aspect I disliked was when the parents came together. I felt their emotions were too calm and friendly after believing they had just lost their children. Everything after that was exceptionally well done.
I did find a few errors while reading, but it didn’t take any pleasure out of my reading. I rate In the End by Ken Saik 4 out of 5 stars. I absolutely enjoyed the boys’ bickering and also the stuff they said about their situation. Perry was the boy who kept having the feeling that something was watching them, and when they discovered the gases in some tunnels, his reaction to it was: Page 64: “Gas,” thought Perry. “More like the devil himself waiting for an opportunity to snatch us. I knew these tunnels were dangerous. We’ve got to get out of here.” Although this book described a very serious and life-threatening situation, the humor and loyalty of the boys surprised me. This is what friendship is about: staying together in the toughest situations and believing in each other.
The ending completely blew my mind! It was nothing I had expected, and nowhere during the book was there any indication of the surprising twist I received at the end. It is my first time reading a book like this, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend this book to teen readers and older people who love adventure, suspense, an emotional rollercoaster, and learning how to stick together. This book refers to faith and prayer a lot, but I do think this book is suitable for people of all religions. This book is very relatable and believable, and the journey kept me hooked.
Rated 4 out of 5
Andrada Madalina –
In the End by Ken Saik is a young-adult adventure novel about sustained effort and loss. It presents the exploration of tunnels of twelve teenagers buried alive. Also, the book highlights themes such as survival, teamwork, death, and friendship.
Briefly, the story focuses on a group of boys’ adventure in a sinkhole. The action escalates from the first pages when Mr. Sanfield’s garage disappears out of nowhere alongside his son and his eleven friends, leaving behind a deep hole. The rescuers try to find them, but a part of the garage seems to be swallowed by the ground. Soon the death of the twelve teenagers is announced and shocks the people of Pine Valley. The parents deal with their losses while the boys try to discover an escape route.
I liked the fast-paced plot and how the author created suspense in the tunnels. I could anticipate the dead ends, but the plot twists shocked me. I felt I was watching a thriller when the boys had to deal with climbing and running water. Also, I loved the character development. Ken Saik did a great job of highlighting different types of teenagers and their behaviors during a crisis. For instance, I admired Calvin’s courage to risk his life for his friends and appreciated Sampson’s leadership skills and judgment in making decisions.
Another positive aspect of this novel was its fluid writing style. I appreciated that the cave’s descriptions did not bore me, the conversations between the boys were prompt, and some dialogues were interspersed with humor and flashbacks despite the tragic context in which they found themselves. The teenagers’ investigation of the tunnels captivated me, and I felt their mixture of hope and paranoia. Also, I empathized with both parents and their children during the whole story. For example, I understood the boys’ anxiety inside the cave and Mr. Sanfield’s guilt and worry when his son disappeared.
There is nothing I disliked about this book because it taught me the importance of mutual support and how much human lives weigh. I enjoyed the suspenseful action and the teenagers’ teamwork in the sinkhole. I empathized with the boys’ progress in the tunnels and their critical decisions and was totally shocked by the ending. I only rate In the End 4 out of 5 stars because it was not professionally edited. I discovered many punctuation errors, but they did not affect my reading experience.
I recommend this book to adventure seekers, especially those who enjoy fast-paced narration sprinkled with mystery and suspense. It is perfect for people interested in stories about secret tunnels but not for those who dislike tragedies and tense situations on the brink of death. Also, In the End is suitable for a large audience because of its light profanity and lack of erotic content.
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admin (verified owner) –
love it
Reta H. –
Recommended for young teenagers, especially boys who are struggling with issues of life and death.
Cloie Belle Daffon –
In the End by Ken Saik is a grueling and fast-paced story that piqued my interest from the very first chapter. Saik writes many heartwarming moments, and a few made my heart ache, especially after I think about all the tragedies the teenagers went through. I loved the deep bond that the boys had with each other. Each of them showed remarkable bravery in the face of danger. I could envision the struggles they were facing while maneuvering around the tunnels and I was afraid and horrified on their behalf. I had goosebumps when Perry voiced his concerns about someone following them as they were checking on the different tunnels. The story was so detailed that I could feel the fear and desperation that each of the boys felt as though I was there with them. The characters of the story and its unique plot are the foundations that built up this story. I admired Perry for his unwavering faith and Calvin for his selflessness. The intricate, exciting plot is what allowed these characters and others to shine! The ending was so unexpected, but it was truly a great one. Well done!
Nicholus Schroeder –
In The End was an amazing book and one that I’m glad I got to read. The book had an incredible plot that had me really intrigued as to how it would all play out. The group’s journey in the tunnels was conveyed with clarity, and it was very interesting as their explorations frequently unearthed mysteries and other points of interest that piqued my curiosity. The characters were also another great thing about this book as they were all well-written. Ken Saik definitely put a lot of thought into his characters as each is unique and authentic. Their lines, personalities, and convictions could easily be portrayed as is by actors in a film, and the scenes would still be very organic and life-like. I also appreciated the author’s creativity in how a character met their demise and that each was probable as I do enjoy a bit of realism in my books. I loved reading In The End and have no problem recommending this one to fans of the adventure genre.
Pickasho Deka –
Filled with suspense and plenty of hair-raising moments, In the End is a tale of brotherhood and the act of letting go. There is a sense of warmth and heart you’ll find in this survival tale, as author Ken Saik infuses a lot of touching moments into the story. You feel for the characters and find yourself caring for every single one of them as they fight for survival under harrowing circumstances. Despite the large cast, Saik manages to convey a strong dynamic between the friends with vastly different personalities. Their friendship forms the bedrock of the narrative. I have to say the ending took me by surprise. It felt a little bittersweet yet satisfying, nonetheless. If you love coming-of-age stories about friendship, definitely check out In the End
Clementinah Feranmi Ogunsiakan –
Ken Saik’s exciting young adult novel, in the End, is a captivating exploration of themes such as deceit, disloyalty, and companionship, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Saik’s writing style is engaging, and he skillfully examines important issues that are not commonly addressed in contemporary society, such as religion, technology, and wrongdoing.
The narrative centres around a group of twelve boys who are struggling for survival in a perilous mine. The story explores themes of fear, betrayal, and the search for hope amidst seemingly hopeless circumstances. While their access to food and water is a concern, the boys are more preoccupied with finding a way out of the mine before it’s too late. The book’s tension is heightened by the group’s dwindling numbers, as each new obstacle claims yet another life. Through it all, Saik keeps readers on edge with his skilful handling of suspenseful moments, without revealing too much. The characters’ shifting priorities and inner demons make for a captivating read, and Saik’s exploration of deeper themes like religion and corruption adds another layer of complexity to the story.
One of the standout features of the book is the author’s skilful character development. Saik expertly creates 12 distinct personalities, each with its own unique voice and traits. The interpersonal relationships between the characters are also explored in depth, resulting in a rich tapestry of dynamics that add depth to the story. Through these well-crafted characters, Saik delves into themes of loyalty and betrayal, giving greater meaning to the narrative. The writing style is both engaging and suspenseful, making the book a page-turner from start to finish. Overall, Saik’s ability to breathe life into his characters is a testament to his skill as a writer and adds greatly to the success of the novel.
In my opinion, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys adventure and survival stories. What sets this book apart is the author’s perceptive and stimulating approach to the themes presented, which elevates it beyond a mere thrilling adventure. I found nothing to dislike about the book, and the editing was exceptionally well done, with no grammatical or typographical errors to be found.
I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This action-packed adventure book is not only thought-provoking but also explores important themes such as the importance of trust in relationships, friendship, and betrayal, which will undoubtedly captivate readers. Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for a thrilling and insightful read. Saik’s attention to detail and the seamless integration of multiple themes into the plot make it a must-read for fans of young adult fiction.
Hazel Mae Bagarinao –
In the End is a young adult novel written by Ken Saik. Sampson throws a party in his garage, which is attended by his eleven teenage friends: Larry, Len, Graham, Terry, Conrad, Arny, Perry, Victor, Calvin, Brayden, and Jen. In a blink of an eye, they faced the reality that they were sunk and stuck in a hole measuring sixteen feet deep and thirty wide. All the teens were panicking. The whole garage where they stand was collapsed, and there was no way to go back to the top. There was no sign of a rescue, so they explored the area, and they discovered that it was an old mine shaft. The group explored the numerous tunnels and tried to find a way out. But something Arny found—a miner’s diary written in Haiku. The miner wrote about the heavenly place, Vanna, so they continued their journey believing it was true. Was Vanna fictional or real? Will the group succeed in finding it? To discover the answers, read this incredible book, In the End, by Ken Saik.
When Yazpar pushed Victor off the cliff, I was devastated. My reaction was a profane word. It makes me eager to continue reading, and then I discover that the title of the book makes sense to me. Ken Saik made me deeply moved by how he amazingly ended the book. I was happy about how the group ended their journey. Yazpar was an interesting character in the book. He was mysterious. Furthermore, the heavenly place, Vanna, made me think about how desirable it is to be there, similar to how the characters desired it. Moreover, I applaud the editors for the flawless editing of the book; it was error-free.
However, I have one criticism about this 196-page book with 18 chapters. Unfortunately, it has poor character development. For a book with more than twelve characters, it must leave the reader with a vivid description of them all, but I had a hard time imagining what the teenage boys looked like. The author stated their jobs, but he failed to mention their appearances, which is crucial for the reader’s imagination. It would be easy to follow through if it was included. The book would be so much better if the characters were developed. Other than this, there’s nothing I considered a fault with this book.
Therefore, I joyfully rate the book 5 out of 5 stars because the negative aspect I previously mentioned doesn’t yield a major bad impression about the book, rather the positive outweighs the negative. Furthermore, I love the ending of the book, which is another good reason to give it a full rating.
This reader-friendly and life-changing book will be a wonderful read for those interested in discovering themselves, learning how to sacrifice, and valuing friendship. I would love it if the author launched another book because he has a great way of teaching moral lessons to readers.
Babalola Oluseyi –
Sampson and eleven of his pals are having a party in his garage during a rainstorm that lasts several days. Sampson’s father calls him on the third morning but gets no answer. When he looks outside, he sees that his garage has fallen into a sinkhole. He then makes an emergency call to ask for assistance in finding the twelve friends. Meanwhile, the search for an escape leads twelve young lads into abandoned mine tunnels after they realize that they are trapped in a garage that has been swallowed by a sinkhole. At first, the boys see this misfortune as an adventure, but as the days go by and death begins to claim the lives of these adolescents one by one, what began as an adventure gets harder.
I was constantly wondering what would happen next because of the book’s high degree of suspense. The author’s imaginative writing and word use made for an engrossing and fascinating read. The characters were properly developed. The narrative was more realistic because of their strength during their adversity and grief during their darkest hours. It was easy to relate to the characters and grasp their emotional connection because of this and the book’s straightforward language. It was easy to see that the plot was well thought out. The characters were expertly introduced by the author, and the story’s climax hit the mark. The tale might have ended on a depressing note, but instead, it took an amazing turn.
Despite being in such a terrible position, I admired the guys’ ability to maintain humor. They kept laughing even as horrible events began to happen to them. The teamwork was also excellent. The book also had excellent character development and a quick-paced narrative. Ken Saik deserves praise for the effort put into creating the characters. The characters seemed relatable because of the captivating manner in which Ken highlighted the feelings, interactions, abilities, and characteristics of each adolescent.
This book deserves a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This is due to the book’s excellent narration, quick-paced narrative, excellent character development, suspense, amazing plot, and satisfactory ending. This well-edited book also happens to be error-free. I could not find anything that I hated about this book.
I recommend In The End to readers who enjoy suspenseful books and exciting thrillers. This book is also excellent for young adults who enjoy reading books that are filled with mystery and suspense.
Kehinde_211 –
Kehinde_211 » 01 Mar 2023, 13:17
[Following is a volunteer review of “In the End” by Ken Saik.]
4 out of 5 stars
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Mystery thrillers are one genre I am particularly interested in. This is for no reason, but as a result of the thrills it gives, and that one gets to understand the way humans think and the solutions they arrive at to get a hang of the problem and out of the situation. In the End by Ken Saik is no exception and a testament to this notion.
This book richly explores the experiences of twelve children stuck in an experience they never thought they’d get into. Under the garage of Mr Sanfield, the parent of one of these kids, Sampson, twelve children get lost after a heavy downpour of rain on a certain party night, and they are nowhere to be found. After several searches by security forces in the community, all to no avail, their parents mourn their losses, give up, and move on. Unknown to them, these children are faced with the situation of achieving and reaching the destination of their childhood fantasy, Vanna, and are forced to adapt to the unprecedented situations they encounter in the tunnels. They come through numerous challenges and fatalities while they learn to understand the core values of friendship and togetherness. What turns out to be the endgame of the story? A trial of this book will surely give readers a glimpse of how this mystery turns out.
To begin with, I’d like to mention that this book combined a lot of heart-wrenching experiences to share. The author’s beginning of the narration was so mysterious and suspenseful that I yearned to understand it and get into the events that transpired in the story. From the elements of pity to confusion, it was all I ever hoped to get from the book.
More so, I found the experiences between these children to be quite a tale. From their unwavering faith to their willingness to navigate between trying options and the deeper friendship between them, these were quite captivating. Sometimes, I even shared a tear in between their discussions. The denouement simply summed up the answers readers like myself had been longing for at the story’s conclusion. This was satisfactory, no doubt.
On the other hand, this book was certainly a boring read, even though it was mysterious. The author’s writing style was not catchy enough to interest me in continuing. I had to keep tossing back the pages at intervals so as not to get bored before completion. It was only its conclusion that saved it for me. I also wished the author dwelled more on the continuation of the side of other parents in the story.
Due to its professional and expert editing, I found no errors in it. I’d rather reiterate that it helped me finish the book quite succinctly. Therefore, I’d rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. It is further recommended for adventure and mystery lovers. This is because it entails a chokehold of experiences they’d yearn to savor and relate to.
Ndagire Hasifah –
When twelve teenage boys realise they are stuck in a garage swallowed by a sinkhole, their quest to find an escape lands them in old mining tunnels. What started as an adventure becomes harder as the days pass and death starts to claim the lives of these teenagers one after another. As they explore further into these tunnels, many discoveries are made, and questions arise, such as: who made these tunnels; would the boys be able to make it out of these dark tunnels; will they be able to reunite with their parents; and what dangers await them on this journey? To find out, read “In the End” by Ken Saik.
This fictional book is an intriguing narrative that portrays many themes in life, such as love, family, friendship, faith, danger, survival, sorrow, and>togetherness. The book focuses on the lives of twelve teenagers as they face different dangers on their quest to find their way home. The level of suspense within the book kept me in anticipation of what the next event could be. The author’s creative imagination, writing style, story setting, and choice of words made for a captivating and interesting read.
What I liked most about the book were the fast-paced narration and the character development. Ken must be commended for the work put into the development of the characters. The way Ken brought out the emotions, interactions, skills, and traits of each teenager was mesmerising and also made the characters seem relatable. Calvin’s courage and selflessness to help his friends, Perry’s faith in God, and Sampson’s leadership skills were what I admired about these characters.
Furthermore, I found nothing to dislike about this book. I was completely thrilled with the book because of its compelling and thrilling plot. Considering all the positive aspects I found in this book, I rate In the End five out of five stars. I did not find any errors in the book, and I believe it was exceptionally well edited. The language used by the author was also simple and easy to understand.
I would recommend this book to readers who love adventurous thrillers and novels filled with suspense. Readers who enjoy reading stories with a real-life feel to them would also love this book. Even though the book illustrates the Christian faith and prayers, I believe it is suitable for people of all religions. Lovers of fiction novels, mostly young adults, would also have a great time reading this book.
Justine Ocsebio –
Mr. Sanfield’s son and his friends took the house garage for their party. One night, upon looking at their garage, Mr. Sanfield noticed that it was already gone. A giant sinkhole has swallowed their yard with his son and his friends. Rattled by his son’s disappearance, Mr. Sanfield seeks the assistance of the authorities. Down the abyss, twelve teenagers hope to escape their predicament before death catches up to them. Will they be able to make it out alive and safe?
In the End by Ken Saik is a young adult novel that features a tragedy involving twelve teenagers. Much of the narrative deals with their survival and the sufferings they endured. It is interesting to see how a bunch of teenage boys come up with ways to get out of the situation. What is intriguing in survival stories is seeing how the characters’ minds work when their lives are in danger. It becomes all the more interesting when these characters are teenagers whose brains are still developing. I can say that the story manages to do well in this aspect. This is what I like the most about this book.
This novel is a plot-driven story. As expected, the novel commits a flaw common in plenty of stories like this. It might be both a positive and a negative aspect that a book jumps into the main plot right away. A few pages into the story and the reader is already down the sinkhole with the characters. The problem with this aspect of the story is that we’re already dealing with characters we don’t know yet. Nobody knows a bit about their backgrounds or a portion of their lives that might allow us to slightly care about them. While glimpses of their lives come in further in the story, I don’t think they are enough. Also, I felt like it would’ve been more interesting had the author added some teenage drama into the narrative. These are some of my dislikes in the story.
I have no problem in terms of writing. The straightforward writing style is very much what the story needs. I only found a couple of errors throughout so the text. Despite these two errors, It still felt like the book went through professional editing.
I’m awarding this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. There were a few positive aspects, but there were narrative issues that affected my overall enjoyment of the book. Nevertheless, I would still recommend this novel to young adult readers who enjoy survival stories.
Kurt Williams –
In the End by Ken Saik is a young adult book about twelve teenagers involved in a tragedy. The book starts with a tragedy involving twelve teenagers who were missing. Sampson and his friends were partying in a two-car garage. Mr. Sanfield, Sampson’s father, tried reaching him, but there was no answer. First responders arrive, and Mrs. Sanfield is requested to provide the phone numbers and names of the teenagers lost in the hole. The parents of the teenagers thought their children were lost or dead, but the teenagers were trying to survive since the sinkhole had tunnels. The hole was dark, so they started looking for a lighter to bring some light so that they would find a path. They started finding their way out. They used tools such as ax and continued walking to find out how down the tunnels went. Will they find a way out? Read this book and find out.
I liked the emotion the author created when he wrote about the tragedies and the suffering the teenagers endured. You could feel pity for them since they were on their own because their parents counted them as dead. The teenagers had a strong love for each other and were brave since they explored the tunnels together and helped each other during the tragedy. The descriptive content of the book was good. As the author explained the events, you could feel the cloud of fear that was building among the characters, for instance, when Perry claimed a person was following them. Finally, I liked the book’s storyline. The storyline involves tragedies that befall teenagers because they are eager to do something. It educates teenagers to be careful when doing their stuff, and when things go wrong, they should be united.
The book was great in all other aspects except its layout. The layout was a bit shaggy since the author did not start a new chapter on a fresh page. He should have done that to bring distinction between the chapters.
I rate In the End by Ken Saik four out of five. The book was exceptionally well-edited because I did not find any errors. The storyline was good, and the author brought real emotion by describing events so well, which deserves a perfect rating, but I deducted a star because of the negative aspect. The formatting of the chapters was not as expected.
I recommend this book to young adults, especially college and high school students. The book involves the tragedy of twelve teenagers. They helped each other by being there for each other even when situations got out of control. So young adults would learn the importance of true friendship and teamwork.
Arianne Joy Melendres –
Life is full of surprises. Sometimes, that surprise is a sinkhole below your garage. With some adventurous souls and heavy rain, someone is bound to be trapped. It’s no surprise to be scared that no one will see them again. But how does anyone survive while everyone mourns their deaths? In the End by Ken Saik is a book about this exact situation, and every page he brings is an absolute treat.
In the End is a book about twelve boys who were buried alive. The book begins when the Sanfield family garage disappears due to heavy rain. Upon calling a group of rescuers, the only report that the families received was darkness. There were no reports of bodies, blood, or human life. With nothing but emptiness eating the families alive, the twelve boys are declared dead. This book is about how the twelve boys struggle with only their limited resources, each other’s companies, and their religious faith.
I would easily recommend this book to fans of thrillers and adventure books. In the End is quite the premise, although mildly unrealistic. It is for those who crave the wonders of survival. Another group of people I would recommend this to are religious readers. By no means was this book purely catered to a specific religion, I believe all religions would be able to read it. However, faith was a big part of all the characters’ survival. I assume that religious readers would greatly appreciate this aspect of the book.
I did not find any major errors that interfered with my reading experience, but there were a lot of punctuation errors in this book. In terms of the storyline itself, I was not particularly fond of some unrealistic scenes in this book. I wished that there was a stronger expression of relief from the families when they found out that the boys were alive. I also wished that the rescue scene, in the beginning, was executed better. For these reasons, I will be rating this book four out of five stars. However, I would like to acknowledge Ken’s smooth writing style. He did not fail to deliver thrill, suspense, and a sense of surprise with this book. He also did a great job of developing his characters. I liked their dynamics and how they were made distinct from one another.
Overall, this book was enjoyable in its own right. The twist at the end was satisfying and the build-up was good. I enjoyed seeing the twelve boys work together in everyone’s interest to survive. Ken’s storyline and imagination have strong potential, and I cannot wait to see more of what he has in store for his readers.
Emiglee –
Sampson and his friends retired to bed in his father’s garage, where they had partied endlessly for two days. It had rained heavily, and partying while locked up in the garage, felt like the perfect way to enjoy the downpour. None of them expected to be thrown out of their cots dead in the night with the power off. After getting some flashlights, the boys discovered a deep depression on the garage floor. Terrified and curious, the boys investigated this abnormality. They soon found out that not only had the garage sunk into a deep hole, but it was also hanging in the air with only a tiny rock holding it in place. Thoughts of survival immediately filled their mind amongst many other thoughts. How would they survive this impossible development?
In the End by Ken Saik tells the touching story of 12 boys on a journey of survival. This arresting tale transported me into a world of desperation, grief, humour, and adventure. I found it admirable that the story started from the climax and kept building to an intriguing end. Most times, books that start from the climax end up losing their charms, but this book delivered an impressive plot. I enjoyed reading about the boy’s adventures and travails. At first, they didn’t take their situations seriously, and they were enthusiastic about the prospects of an adventure, but when danger presented itself, their fear wore off their optimism. I admired their perseverance and survival skills. I also enjoyed reading about how they deflected their grief with mindless humour. Half the time, the challenges they faced discouraged me, but somehow their optimism gave me hope.
Sampson’s character charmed me. I loved how cautious and logical he was about every situation. Whenever he set out to lead the group, I always felt a sense of comfort, like I could trust his decisions. The book’s theme was gripping. Not only did the book provide an adventure, but its contents offered a thought-provoking view of the meaning of existence, love, loyalty, and friendship. I also loved that all the questions I had were attended to at the end of the book, which gave a meaningful interpretation of the title of the book.
Though this book was a lovely read, I found displeasure in its characterization. There were so many characters to keep up with. I found it confusing to keep up with the many names flying about at the beginning of the story. Most times, I had to stop mid-reading to figure out who each character is before continuing the story. Some characters didn’t play a major role worth remembering. The story could have done well in their absence. Although the plot was intriguing, the story itself lacked depth. There wasn’t enough backstory on each character to fully bond with them. Sometimes the author described their emotions vaguely, and I didn’t truly feel them. I only went along with it because I had no choice. I constantly had to convince myself the characters felt what the author described.
I would rate this book 3 out of 5 stars. It was a wonderful read, but I didn’t quite enjoy the story as much as I would have loved to, hence the imperfect rating. The book’s editing was poorly done. I found some grammatical errors and proofreading errors, like paragraphs breaking in the middle of sentences. At first, it was manageable, but it became increasingly distracting and displeasing. I believe a second round of editing can fix all these. Despite my displeasure, the plot and theme of the story impressed me enough to sustain my attention. This book was lovely, but I believe it will be more compelling with a better description and characterization.
I would recommend this book to lovers of adventure novels. This book would entertain readers of this genre. It’s a perfect book for lovers of fast-paced stories too. The action in the book unfolds almost immediately and keeps occurring dramatically till the end. Readers who love tear-jacking books will enjoy this read as well. The book contains events that are liable to make them cry out in shock.
Shillah Andeso –
While Sampson and his eleven friends are partying in his father’s garage, a heavy downpour lasts three days. On the third morning, Sampson’s father, Mr. Sanfield, tries to call Sampson from the house but gets no reply. This is when he looks outside and realizes his garage has disappeared into a sinkhole. He calls emergency services to help look for the twelve friends. While the search continues, Sampson and his friends try to find a way out of the tunnels. They encounter journals in these caves that help them plan a way out. They are not aware that death lurks in the shadows of these tunnels. Will their efforts to find their way home succeed? Read In the End by Ken Saik to experience this adventure.
Reading In the End by Ken Saik is an epic and mysterious journey to a new world. The characters in this book are well-developed. When these friends find themselves in this rare situation, we learn the stories of their lives. It is at these critical moments that we interact better with the characters. I love the simple language used by the author. It is easier to relate to the characters’ emotions. Their courage at these fateful times and grief during their lowest moments made the book more realistic. It was easier to connect with the characters and understand their emotional connection. When the boys experienced mysterious events, I could sense the fear they developed. They still managed to have the courage to find a way out. Ken Saik also includes some paranormal explanations in this book. This increases the likely explanation for the characters’ disappearances. I love how this aspect fits into this story without making the story sound cliché.
I found some of the scenes in this book predictable, but I didn’t expect the creativity incorporated into these scenes. This makes the book resemble a guide to a new world. This book teaches loyalty and teamwork. I would, however, recommend a better ending for this story. When I began reading this book, I noticed the author had a well-structured plot. The end could, however, be modified to be more realistic since, in the real world, bad things are bound to happen. This is only an aspect that could use a change. It did not disrupt my reading experience.
One aspect I dislike about this book is that the pages are not numbered. I find this a bother because page numbering is vital for any book. I rate In the End by Ken Saik 5 out of 5 stars. I do not deduct a star for this aspect because this is merely a bonus for a good book. The book uses simple grammar and language. I did not encounter any grammatical errors or typos. I conclude that the book was exceptionally well edited. Ken incorporated a lot of lessons in the book, resulting in an educational and entertaining read. This book, therefore, gains access to the list of the best teen books I’ve read.
I recommend this book to teens ready for a mysterious and suspense-filled adventure. The book is captivating and not unnecessarily lengthy. It’s a great book to read for educational and entertainment purposes.
sssns –
What starts as a night of fun male bonding instantly becomes a tragic event for a community. After days of constant rains, a garage falls into a sinkhole where twelve teenage boys are partying. Desperate efforts for search and rescue seem futile. Down the hole, the boys discover an abandoned mine tunnel. Built by mysterious men, the tunnels supposedly lead to an exotic place. With slim chances of getting to the surface, finding this rather intriguing land is an alternative. With supplies running low, the boys find themselves in entangled tunnels. But what disconcerts them the most are the deaths of their youthful friends. One by one, the maze is claiming them. A sinister presence lurks in the darkness. Fatigue, homesickness, and paranoia compel them to an uncertain quest. Will the boys ever get back to safety?
In the End by Ken Saik blends adventure, suspense, mystery, and spirituality in a novel for young adults. It follows the story of teenage boys in a quest for survival and discovery. The cover art hint at the adventure, while the title suggests mystery. The linear chronology does not preempt the events, effectively maintaining the suspense. Likewise, chapter titles are appropriate introductions to the contents. They heighten anticipation and sustain curiosity. In addition, the third-person point of view works well to present different perspectives from the characters. The various standpoints support the conflicts in the plot. Worldbuilding is familiar and relatable. Subtle deviations from the ordinary are warnings that trigger the imagination. It is an appropriate approach to generate suspense.
The clever weaving of genres makes for an engaging reading experience. There is action and adventure in exploring the unknown and surviving the elements, giving a rush of adrenalin. The unpredictable twists from start to finish create anticipation and surprise. Unknown factors at play build suspense, bringing out intense emotions like hope, despair, paranoia, and determination, to name a few. The spirituality components carefully integrate into the story as the characters internalize their experiences. It additionally includes subtle spiritual symbolisms. Consequently, these elements contribute to a surprising resolution.
The book touches on relatable themes like friendship, faith, and death. Intertwining these themes provides a scenario to explore the concept of death from diverse contexts. People demonstrate various ways of dealing with loss and grief. A tragedy unites a community through their faith. Outliving their children is heartbreaking for parents. Teenagers display a vast range of reactions toward losing a friend. I have reservations about some of the ideas, but they are thought-provoking. Death is an inevitable and irreversible phenomenon, yet many are uncomfortable discussing it. The book draws attention to a sensitive topic, clearing away the awkwardness. It is what I appreciate the most.
There is nothing I disliked in the book. But I have some comments that are matters of preference. They do not affect enjoying the book. There are many names and characters, which are a bit overwhelming at the start of the story. They get more familiar as the story moves along. I gently suggest adding more apparent distinction in the physical features and speech. In addition, the cast is predominantly male. It looks into the friendship of the teenage boys and touches on the father-and-son relationship. The approach seems to present a symbolism to support the spiritual component.
The direct words and conversational language contribute generously to a smooth reading flow. Rare instances of swearing are almost unnoticeable. Editing issues are minor but more than a handful. Despite apparent references to the Christian faith, the contents are suitable for any religious group. This book is appropriate for teenagers and adults. It will appeal to those keen on stories about adventure quests and friendship. Those interested in exploring an alternative perception of death might want to look into this work. Although the characters are chiefly male, the story will nevertheless be of interest to the female audience. Support groups dealing with loss and grief might consider this an additional resource.
The book draws attention to a delicate topic. The clever weaving of adventure, suspense, and spirituality presents a subtle approach that conveys a thought-provoking message. However, I have to drop a star because of the editing issues. For these reasons, I assign a rating of four out of five.
Rocky Ellery James Tumbelaka –
In the End by Ken Saik is a book in the young adult genre. It told the story of twelve teenage boys that fell into a sinkhole. They had to work together to find their way out and go back home. Each boy had different skills and knowledge, so each of them had to do what they could to contribute to reaching their goal. They explored tunnel after tunnel. After some time, they began to lose hope of ever returning home. Instead, they found a journal made by a miner who once worked in the tunnels. In the journals, the miner described his homeland called Vanna. The boys decided to find a way to Vanna because of the description they read about it. But one of the boys felt that someone was watching their every move. Would they ever reach Vanna? Would all of them survive long enough to see the place? Or did someone have other plans for them?
What I liked the most about this book was the story. The author did a great job of capturing the feeling of being trapped in a dark and strange tunnel. I could understand the boys’ feelings and fears as they ventured into the unknown. Not knowing what they would find or what would be waiting for them as they searched each tunnel for a way out. I felt scared for the boys’ safety every time they reached a new place or did something risky. The first chapter of the book told the story from the parents’ perspective. On how they mourned and cried because they just lost their children. I felt very touched and sad. That is why I kept on hoping the boys would all return home safely as I turned each page. I had to congratulate the author for making me feel so much as I read the book.
I also liked the way the author wrote the story from each boy’s perspective. I liked how they cared for one another and helped each other throughout the book. The bond they shared was very wonderful and it made me very emotional. That’s why I am glad with how the book ended. It made me happy and satisfied with what the boys went through in the book.
I had nothing to dislike about this book. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I reduced a star because I found quite a few errors and typos. I say this book could use another round of editing. This is a book that’s filled with thrilling and dangerous adventures which lead to an emotional and satisfying ending.
I recommend this book to readers who like adventure stories and journeys into the unknown. Because you will never know what will happen on the next page. This book had a heavy theme about the afterlife and Heaven. Readers who don’t believe in such things may want to skip this book.
Stevenmusk –
There is always a start to an adventure, and not all have a happy ending, but this one has a surprising twist. The book In the End by Ken Saik is fascinating. It is about 12 boys who come together for a garage party on a stormy day. An unexpected accident occurs, and a sinkhole swallows the garage. The boys escape the crash but are stranded in a maze of tunnels and are left to figure out which tunnel will lead them home. These were once mining tunnels, and finding the right tunnel as the days passed became difficult.
Navigating the tunnels seemed fun, but there is more to this story than an adventure in the tunnels. Unknown to them, something is lurking in the tunnels with them. The boys decide to label each tunnel to aid identification and exploration in the hopes of finding their way home. One of the boys realizes a presence following them, but it wouldn’t be easy to prove.
There are many twists and themes, but the most highlighted ones are courage, friendship, and grief. The book moves along at a good pace. The journey in the tunnels felt like an adventure, and I enjoyed watching each mystery unfold. I learned a lot of survival tactics and how to handle different situations, with the number one lesson being to follow your instincts. Each character had a relatable backstory and explained the reason for their behaviors throughout their journey. Despite the tragedy in this book, it was humorous and courageous. It was full of suspense and kept my attention. I went through a roller coaster of emotions as I read the book, and this made me like this book even more because I believe that emotional reactions are a sign of a good book. I didn’t understand why the parents came to accept the situation of their children so quickly, but I guess hope is a factor that can change anything. The boys’ bravery, teamwork, and hard work were admirable. The beginning of the book was straightforward and eventful.
There were many positive aspects to this book. I found many negative parts that conflicted with my decision and experience. There were a lot of characters in the opening scene, which made it difficult to understand. It took a while to understand the situation. Though the author did his best to identify each character and their roles, it was also hard to tell which character was speaking each time.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars because it had multiple errors and many other aspects that hindered my reading experience. I commend the author for his writing style and narrative skills.
I recommend this book to readers interested in adventure stories filled with mysteries, suspense, and subtle messages.
Rosemary Wright –
In the End, by Ken Saik, is a young adult mystery novel. Mr. Sanfield’s son, Sampson, and eleven of his friends are partying in his two-car garage while there is a downpour. On the morning of the third day, the rain lets up, and Mr. Sanfield calls his son. When Sampson does not answer, through the window, he looks out, thinking that the boys are playing in the rain. Surprisingly, he sees that his garage has disappeared. It has dropped into a sinkhole.
The boys find themselves in a dark place with several tunnels. Later on, they see and read a journal and look forward to locating a place called Vanna to have a good time there. Afterwards, they discover that they are trapped in the tunnels, and they search for a way out, but they get eliminated mysteriously one after another. The boys left courageously continue their search for an escape route out of the tunnels, but will they succeed?
Exploring chiefly the themes of faith, courage, loyalty, friendship, and grief, this book is appealing. It flows smoothly. I love how it starts with the disappearance of the garage and then reveals the kids’ journey in the tunnels, involving their quest for survival. I commend the author for how he introduced the paranormal mystery aspect, making Perry, one of the boys, mention his mysterious experiences. The book is easy to read with simple and comprehensible words, suitable for teens.
Regarding the characters, they’re interesting. There are enough details that make them relatable. The backstories from the kids’ memories highlight their background information. The boys are strong and courageous. In spite of their weird experiences, they had hope and struggled to survive so that they could find their way out of the tunnels.
There’s nothing I don’t like about In the End, except that the ending got me somewhat confused, concerning the existence of all the boys. Anyway, that’s how the author wanted his story to end. It’s a worthwhile read. However, it includes a lot of losses, and sensitive readers may not want to read it.
Finally, I rate In the End 5 out of 5 stars. I couldn’t rate it lower because it was engaging. It has interesting themes. Besides, the descriptions of events and scenery are vivid. Moreover, it was exceptionally well edited; I didn’t notice any grammar errors or typos. It’ll be a great read for young adults, who enjoy novels that include adventures and the paranormal.
dala J Phiri –
In The End by Ken Saik is a fascinating young adult novel. As good friends, the 12 senior high school boys organize a party in the garage of Mr. Sanfield. While enjoying themselves, the sinkhole swallows the garage. The boys escape death by climbing into an old mining tunnel. In the tunnel, they find so many tunnels and they need to figure out the tunnel that may lead them out of the tunnel so that they can get back to their homes. The way gets tougher than expected. It becomes longer than they thought. To find the tunnel that may lead them home, they label the tunnels and assign each other to check the tunnels.
At first, the search excites them as they explore the tunnels. One of them listens to his instincts and senses a frightening presence following them. Unfortunately, he cannot convince his friends about it without proof. Death claims the lives of these young adults one after another. Not as every book ends, but this book ends with good news. What good news comes amid tragedies? Get your copy and explore how this happens and how the boys shared sweet memories.
The story glued me to the novel as each chapter brought new experiences. It kept me in suspense, as I could not figure out the next move. I was able to follow the plot of the story. The setting was identifiable; the author brilliantly introduced the characters, and the climax of the story was right on point. I thought the story would have a sad ending, but a wondrous, exciting twist occurred. The ending of the stories is where most writers miss out. This novel ended exceptionally. Reading this story felt real. The novel drew my attention and my emotions to it. It grew my curiosity because I wanted to know how the boys would make it out and what would be their experience.
I would have loved to hear more about the parents of the boys as well. It was only at the beginning that the story captured the parent’s reactions to the news. Knowing how they took it and their acceptance of what happened would have brought a good feeling as well. Otherwise, I liked the novel entirely and there was nothing to dislike. I found only two errors that did not disturb my reading. The two errors are not worthy of deducting any star. I rate this novel 5 out of 5 stars because it is well-edited and follows the rules and elements of writing. The design of the cover is on point as well.
There are plenty of lessons that most youth may yield from reading this novel. With that, I recommend it to the young generation of today. The oneness that was portrayed in the novel may help some groups of young adults. Parents should also read this novel because if a parent was careful in this story, the boys would not be in trouble. The novel was written in simple and comprehensive language. The novel did not give me a headache with unnecessary jargon. The book is best suited for all people of different religions. I salute the author for the great work done.
re De Klerk –
What do you do when you get swallowed by a sinkhole? In the End by Ken Saik is a suspense-filled book about twelve senior boys who were in a garage when the garage disappeared down a sinkhole during very heavy rain. Although there were some bumps and bruises, nobody was seriously hurt. They tried to climb up, but the walls were too muddy and slippery. They investigated what was below the garage as they could hear water falling and splashing. One of the boys spotted a cave-like hole below them, and they decided to take the risk of searching for a way out through the cave rather than wait for the garage to plummet to the bottom and into the water. The cave turned out to be an entrance to a labyrinth of mining tunnels.
Luckily, the garage had a lot of supplies to aid them on their journey through the caves, including lamps, ropes, flashlights, and a lot of potatoes. The boys methodically started exploring the different caves and branches, seeking a way out, and even made maps to guide them. They found the main cave, which they used as their home base for a while. One of the boys kept sensing a menacing presence in the dark tunnels with them, and during their explorations, life after life was lost. Would any of them get out of these tunnels? Their food and light were running out, and there were gases in some tunnels that made them hallucinate. Luckily, they found drinkable water, and they kept positive through faith and prayer.
I absolutely love thrillers with a real-life feel to them. It is something that can happen in reality, and that makes the book much more believable. You are able to imagine yourself in the characters’ shoes, emotions, and journeys. This book was very relatable, and I was immersed in the boys’ mission to get out. This book and its descriptions were superbly written by the author. It made it easy for my mind to create the tunnels, the darkness, and the dampness, feeling the tension and fear but also the close-knit boys and the thrill of exploring adventures. The only aspect I disliked was when the parents came together. I felt their emotions were too calm and friendly after believing they had just lost their children. Everything after that was exceptionally well done.
I did find a few errors while reading, but it didn’t take any pleasure out of my reading. I rate In the End by Ken Saik 4 out of 5 stars. I absolutely enjoyed the boys’ bickering and also the stuff they said about their situation. Perry was the boy who kept having the feeling that something was watching them, and when they discovered the gases in some tunnels, his reaction to it was: Page 64: “Gas,” thought Perry. “More like the devil himself waiting for an opportunity to snatch us. I knew these tunnels were dangerous. We’ve got to get out of here.” Although this book described a very serious and life-threatening situation, the humor and loyalty of the boys surprised me. This is what friendship is about: staying together in the toughest situations and believing in each other.
The ending completely blew my mind! It was nothing I had expected, and nowhere during the book was there any indication of the surprising twist I received at the end. It is my first time reading a book like this, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend this book to teen readers and older people who love adventure, suspense, an emotional rollercoaster, and learning how to stick together. This book refers to faith and prayer a lot, but I do think this book is suitable for people of all religions. This book is very relatable and believable, and the journey kept me hooked.
Andrada Madalina –
In the End by Ken Saik is a young-adult adventure novel about sustained effort and loss. It presents the exploration of tunnels of twelve teenagers buried alive. Also, the book highlights themes such as survival, teamwork, death, and friendship.
Briefly, the story focuses on a group of boys’ adventure in a sinkhole. The action escalates from the first pages when Mr. Sanfield’s garage disappears out of nowhere alongside his son and his eleven friends, leaving behind a deep hole. The rescuers try to find them, but a part of the garage seems to be swallowed by the ground. Soon the death of the twelve teenagers is announced and shocks the people of Pine Valley. The parents deal with their losses while the boys try to discover an escape route.
I liked the fast-paced plot and how the author created suspense in the tunnels. I could anticipate the dead ends, but the plot twists shocked me. I felt I was watching a thriller when the boys had to deal with climbing and running water. Also, I loved the character development. Ken Saik did a great job of highlighting different types of teenagers and their behaviors during a crisis. For instance, I admired Calvin’s courage to risk his life for his friends and appreciated Sampson’s leadership skills and judgment in making decisions.
Another positive aspect of this novel was its fluid writing style. I appreciated that the cave’s descriptions did not bore me, the conversations between the boys were prompt, and some dialogues were interspersed with humor and flashbacks despite the tragic context in which they found themselves. The teenagers’ investigation of the tunnels captivated me, and I felt their mixture of hope and paranoia. Also, I empathized with both parents and their children during the whole story. For example, I understood the boys’ anxiety inside the cave and Mr. Sanfield’s guilt and worry when his son disappeared.
There is nothing I disliked about this book because it taught me the importance of mutual support and how much human lives weigh. I enjoyed the suspenseful action and the teenagers’ teamwork in the sinkhole. I empathized with the boys’ progress in the tunnels and their critical decisions and was totally shocked by the ending. I only rate In the End 4 out of 5 stars because it was not professionally edited. I discovered many punctuation errors, but they did not affect my reading experience.
I recommend this book to adventure seekers, especially those who enjoy fast-paced narration sprinkled with mystery and suspense. It is perfect for people interested in stories about secret tunnels but not for those who dislike tragedies and tense situations on the brink of death. Also, In the End is suitable for a large audience because of its light profanity and lack of erotic content.