A boy scout troop is enjoying a multi-day wilderness excursion on a small island when a strange man appears, seemingly afflicted with a parasitic infection that has terrifying symptoms. And it’s spreading.

While this book had an intriguing premise that initially drew me in, it didn’t quite meet my expectations. I anticipated a creature-feature style story, but instead, it focused more on the psychological terror experienced by the kids on the island. The first half felt a bit slow for my taste, while the second half took a darker turn that was quite unsettling.

That said, I appreciated the author’s unique storytelling approach, incorporating interviews and news clippings to break up the narrative. Although the book didn’t resonate with me personally, I can see how it might captivate readers who enjoy a bit more gore and intensity in their horror. It certainly has elements that appeal to those who appreciate a darker, more visceral experience.