Frightful’s Mountain - A Book Review
Frightful’s Mountain
Written by Jean Craighead George
First published in 1999
Recommended ages 8+
A book review by Anna Kay Thomas
This third and final novel in the My Side of the Mountain series, written and illustrated by Jean Craighead George, includes a foreword by renowned environmental lawyer Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Dedicated to her brothers, Frank and John Craighead, who were pioneers in modern American falconry, Ms. George brings the things they taught her growing up to life with a fresh approach to her classic series.
While the reader has spent two books looking through the eyes of the young wilderness survivalist Sam Gribley, this book has a pleasantly surprising change in perspective to that of Frightful, the peregrine falcon that he trained. After being released by the boy that she had imprinted on and was raised by, Frightful is now on her own journey of learning how to be a free bird. As she learns, so does the reader, who receives a revealing insight into what it takes to be a peregrine falcon in the wild. The complex life cycle of the species, from incubation and hatching to flying and navigation to migration and mating, is fascinating to perceive.
During the time spent with Frightful, discovering the many skills a peregrine falcon possesses, including their instincts, calculation, and survival, the reader also witnesses the skills that it takes to be a good steward of our birds of prey. The examples of a letter campaign and the practical solutions of falconers and environmentalists teach how to easily play a part in taking care of the creatures around us.
While the reader will wish that Ms. George had written one hundred My Side of the Mountain novels (though two picture books extend the story), her timeless series will continue to inspire the rising generations.
This book is for those who have a keen interest in falconry, who are animal lovers, who want positive solutions to the environmental issues in their community, and who are open to being a good steward of the world around them. Wishing you the best on your literary trek!
“Ask nature questions, and you will get answers.” - Jean Craighead George
Reflective Questions:
If you could choose to live the life of any animal, which animal’s lifestyle, habitat, and skills would you pick?
What potential obstacles would you have to face in your life as this animal and how could humans make it easier?