My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
by Sam Arnold-Boyd on Aug.17, 2012, under Adventure, Classic, Environment, Newbery, Sam's Reviews
Who would like this book? People interested in wilderness survival would love this book, as would people looking for an adventure classic.
Why? Sam Gribley hates living in his family’s cramped apartment in New York City. He loves his parents and his brothers and sisters, but he longs to live in the wilderness. The book opens with him accomplishing this feat, weathering a winter squall from the safety of his house in a hollowed-out tree. Once the reader knows that Sam will succeed in his plan to run away and live off the land, Sam doubles back in time to New York City and his preparations for running away. The first person narrative from Sam’s point of view is the best part of the book. His voice is curious and honest, effectively carrying Sam’s intelligent and innovative mind. Interspersed with the narrative are Sam’s journal entries, adding a different perspective that deepens our understanding of Sam. Written in 1959 when the pace of life was slower, the book might be a challenge to readers who are used to today’s fast-moving plots. Excitement in Sam’s life might be meeting The Baron, his neighbor weasel, or training Frightful, his pet falcon. For readers looking for a captivating story of living in nature, this book is the one to grab!
The details: 177 pp. 1959 (originally published) Review by Samrarian
