When an author uses a narrator who cannot be a skilled writer, critics often complain that the narration reads like the author rather than the fictional narrator. For instance, one could suggest that Christopher's descriptions are vivid because Applegate actually writes them. Having mentioned this obvious argument, let me put it away. Applegate is no ordinary writer; even though she has written a huge number of books in a seemingly short time, she is a conscientious writer, and in Land of Loss much of her talent for characterization is put on display. Key to her artistic success in this novel is her ability to let Christopher have his say in his way. Rarely is there even a hint that Christopher is not the person talking to the audience of Land of Loss. He has his limitations and has a tendency to see himself enclosed in a...