In the tar-melting heat of a suburban summer, everyboy Jules, athletic
and handsome Chris, and oddball Corey (he laughs at gravel and
anticipates zombie attacks) have lived side by side for most of their
lives. Behind their backyards is a ravine through which flows a modest
river. This familiar territory is by turns comforting and terrifying.
When a tornado brings down a big maple tree, the boys make a raft of the
branches and set off downstream. After all, at thirteen they are old
enough to take a day trip by themselves. On their way, the boys meet
with a series of adventures that are funny at first glance but resonate
deeply. They rescue a diabolical dog, confront a hydrophobic gang, and
survive a waterfall. They are bombarded by bicycles, hoodwinked by
hobos, and bewitched by bikinis. By accident, they crash a funeral, and,
by design, they crash a pool party -- with tragic results.
Urban blight and rural beauty, Into the Ravine is a journey where
the geography mirrors the contradictions of the human heart. Renowned
author Richard Scrimger draws on his powerful ability to tell a story
that can truly make you laugh until you cry.