[In Blue Fin the] impact of the fisherman's hazardous occupation on the whole community—its satisfactions, uncertainties, dramas, and tragedies—is strongly presented; and the writing, frequently figurative, gives a sharp sense of camaraderie and sensations at sea. (pp. 381-82)

[Fire in the Stone is a] solid, tense, realistic adventure…. Ernie's relationships and encounters with his father, with Willie, with the motley townsmen and the Aborigines on the Reserve are observed with unsentimental clarity, and the unique, strongly realized locale gives further weight to the breathless moments of danger and impressive feats of endurance. (pp. 1066-67)