One of my favorite books for young adults - engages with mature themes and characters that capture the imagination. L'Engle almost never fails, and this is one of her best! After I read it as a child, it was on my mind for 10 years before I finally bought my copy. ( )

It centers on a young man who goes to become a research assistant in a small lab studying regeneration of limbs in starfish. The lab is run by Dr. O'Keefe (the same Calvin O'Keefe in the "Time" trilogy - now married to Meg) on a small island off the coast of Portugal. Adam is caught in a moral dilemma concerning the research being conducted there and who has the right (or obligation) to use it - or release it. L'Engle skillfully handles his inner tension and conflict. The family and relationships are well drawn. An enjoyable read. ( )

Good book, just didn't end up the way i though it would. But it still had a good ennding. Very exciting and intresting. Adam-a marine biology student spending his summer working for a renowned scientist Dr.O'Keefe-has to choose which side to be on: Cutter's or O'Keefe's. Caught between Kali Cutter-the bueatiful young blond's-seductive wiles and the trusting adoraion of Dr. O'Keefe's daughter, Poly, Adam has to choose. ( )

a gifted American sixteen year-old named Adam gets the opportunity to work for a prominent scientist whose lab is on a little island south of Portugal. his innocence (along with his ability) is the reason he has been chosen for such an internship, but it's also the reason other forces target him as a way to get to the scientist's secretive work. dangerous and baffling events keep him wondering who is telling him the truth, what is really going on, and what he should do next.

sometimes I found it a little incredible that the adults in charge of him would let him into some of those situations at all, or leave him alone and unattended as often as they did. sure, it is a coming of age story, but he is a sixteen year old boy in their care.

the story is not particularly amazing, and certainly it does not compare very well to the Time Quartet or even And Both Were Young, but the plot is fast-paced and should keep the younger readers surprised and suspenseful until the dramatic conclusion.

Rather boring spy story. Such a disappointment after the Time Quartet. ( )