On The Far Side Of The Mountain - A Book Review

On The Far Side Of The Mountain
Written by Jean Craighead George
First published in 1990
Recommended ages 8+
A book review by Anna Kay Thomas

This book is the sequel to Newbery Honor book My Side of the Mountain (the review of which can be found here). It was published over thirty years after the first book and expands the next chapter of the original story very well. Captivatingly illustrated by the author, Ms. George created this continuation based on her experiences with her daughter and fellow nature writer, Twig C. George. 

With an established setting, the adventures of Sam Gribley and returning friends have matured. Two years after arriving in the Catskill Mountains to live independently with his wilderness survival skills, Sam Gribley is thriving in his forest home and is increasing its permanence by further developing its amenities. His younger sister, Alice, has joined him for a year and though it seems she may disturb his peace, she is making her own helpful additions to their set-up. 

All is going well until Frightful, the peregrine falcon, is taken by a conservation officer away from Sam, who relies on her for hunting. Not only that, but Alice has disappeared. Sam and his friend Brando set out to find Alice and unravel the mystery of Frightful’s departure.

Through Sam and Alice’s adventures, skills such as map reading, compass building, sundial constructing, tracking, creating electricity, and more are introduced to the reader. Innovation is an important theme in this series and can be found in this book with the new buildings, features, and skills that the Gribley siblings bring into their lifestyle.

This book is for those who can’t get enough of Jean Craighead George’s My Side of the Mountain, who love a good quest, and who are ready for the next chapter of their own adventures in nature. Wishing you the best on your literary trek!

“To walk in nature is always good medicine.” - Jean Craighead George

 

Reflective Question:

Who would you most like to stay with in the middle of nowhere to build your own habitat? 

How would the combination of your individual skills contribute to this?

 

Photography by Anna Kay Thomas