Alabama Moon (published in 2006) by Watt Key follows the ten-year-old Moon Blake as he navigates a unfamiliar and challenging world. Raised in the Alabama wilderness by his father, Moon must learn to adapt to society after his father's untimely death. Determined to evade the authorities who seek to take him away, Moon embarks on a dangerous adventure filled with encounters with both kind-hearted individuals and those who wish to capture him. Through his resilience, resourcefulness, and profound connection to nature, Moon strives to maintain his independence and forge his path in a foreign world.
The novel explores themes such as self-reliance, resilience, and the pursuit of identity in the face of adversity. Moon's journey highlights the strength of the human spirit and underscores the importance of human connection and finding a sense of belonging amidst challenging circumstances.
Alabama Moon has received widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative and well-drawn characters. It has been praised for its poignant portrayal of a young boy's resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.