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31 pages 1 hour read

Deathwatch

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1972

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Book Brief

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Robb White

Deathwatch

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1972
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mojave Desert • Contemporary

Publication Year

1972

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-15 years

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Super Short Summary

In Deathwatch by Robb White, college student and hunting guide Ben is betrayed by his client, Madec, after witnessing Madec accidentally shoot a man. Stripped of his supplies and forced into the desert, Ben struggles to survive against the elements and Madec's pursuit, cleverly evading and eventually overcoming Madec to bring him to justice. The novel includes a character’s death and significant physical harm.

Suspenseful

Dark

Challenging

Gritty

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

3,996 ratings

63%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Robb White's Deathwatch is well-received for its gripping, suspenseful narrative and strong character development. However, some readers find the plot somewhat predictable and the depiction of the desert environment occasionally unrealistic. Overall, it’s praised for its intense survival themes and moral dilemmas, making it a compelling yet straightforward read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Deathwatch?

Readers who enjoy suspenseful survival stories such as Hatchet by Gary Paulsen and The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell will find Deathwatch by Robb White gripping. Ideal for young adults and fans of intense, man-versus-nature tales, this novel delivers relentless tension and a fight for life in a harsh desert setting.

4.1

3,996 ratings

63%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Ben

A young man working as a hunting guide in a desert town, known for his expertise in bighorn sheep, who aims to become a geologist. Raised by his uncle, he is an analytical thinker and helps in search parties for missing tourists.

A businessman from Los Angeles, skilled in shooting and adept at lying, who comes to hunt bighorn sheep. He is manipulative and distrustful, presenting a contrast to Ben's honest nature.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mojave Desert • Contemporary

Publication Year

1972

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

12-15 years

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