Question

book title: cuz
author: liz van der laarse
genre: adventure fiction
date finished: 23rd june, 2026

plot summary:

literary analysis & elements
setting the scene:

character development:

key theme:

personal evaluation & recommendation
what i loved:

what i disliked:

rating: ___ / 5 stars

Explanation:

Identify the book details

The image shows a book report template for the novel Cuz by Liz van der Laarse. It is categorized as Adventure Fiction.

Analyze setting the scene

The novel is set in the rugged, remote wilderness of Fiordland, New Zealand. The setting is crucial as a hostile, isolated environment that drives the survival plot.

Analyze character development

The story follows two cousins, River and Huia, who must survive after a helicopter crash. River transitions from a disengaged, technology-reliant teenager to a resilient, capable survivor.

Identify the key theme

The central themes are survival, resilience, and the strength of family bonds under extreme pressure.

Formulate personal evaluation

An evaluation of this novel highlights its fast-paced survival narrative and realistic portrayal of New Zealand's wilderness, while noting that some character interactions can feel brief.

Answer:

Based on the book report template shown in the image for Cuz by Liz van der Laarse, here is a completed literary analysis and evaluation to help you fill out your worksheet:

• Plot Summary:

After a devastating helicopter crash in the remote wilderness of Fiordland, New Zealand, two estranged teenage cousins, River and Huia, are left stranded. With no communication and limited supplies, they must overcome their personal differences and work together to navigate the harsh, unforgiving terrain to survive and find rescue.

• Setting the Scene:

The story is set in the dense, wet, and mountainous bush of Fiordland, New Zealand. This isolated and treacherous environment acts almost as a character itself, constantly challenging the protagonists with freezing temperatures, steep cliffs, and dense vegetation.

• Character Development:

River begins the novel as a typical, somewhat disengaged teenager heavily reliant on modern conveniences. Through the ordeal, he is forced to step up, learn practical survival skills, and develop emotional maturity, transforming into a resilient and responsible young adult.

• Key Theme:

The central theme is survival through cooperation and family connection. The novel highlights how shared adversity can bridge personal divides and build unbreakable bonds.

• What I loved:

The realistic and vivid descriptions of the New Zealand wilderness, along with the tense, fast-paced survival elements that keep the reader engaged.

• What I disliked:

Some of the dialogue and transitions between survival obstacles felt slightly rushed, leaving less room for deeper emotional exploration.

• Rating: 4 / 5 Stars