Wild Ride

July 1, 2008
Gr 3-6-Three kids rely on wilderness survival skills after their plane crashes en route to Devon and Nadias mothers environmental assessment site. When the trio discovers that the man accompanying them, a seemingly harmless government pencil pusher dispatched to oversee the project, is in fact in cahoots with a major logging company, they suddenly find their lives in even greater danger. The once-friendly bureaucrat, full of helpful tidbits on building a cozy campsite and the essentials of a trusty first-aid kit, turns into a menacing, greedy criminal capable of murder. Although the improbability of this sudden and extreme change weakens the plot, the book distinguishes itself by interweaving interesting step-by-step instructions for surviving, such as how to tend to a broken arm, cross a strong current, and signal a plane. These tips are delivered with minimal clunkiness. The crisp art creates distinct, full-bodied characters. This title is perfect for reluctant readers and adventure aficionados."Lauren Anduri, Brooklyn Public Library, NY"

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2008
In this graphic novel adventure, three young people, on their wayto join their environmentalist parents in a battleagainst aCanadian logging company, and a seemingly harmless bureaucrat named Wiley are involved in a plane crash.Fortunately, theyhavestrong survival skills, which help them when they needtoset a broken bone, build a shelter, start a fire, traverse a river, scare a bear, and signal a rescue plane! When Devin, the youngest kid, discovers that Wiley is working for the logging company, thechildren face a larger threat. Though a little tame forreaders of Gary Paulsens Hatchet books, the easy-to-follow survival adventurewillengage reluctant readers, especiallyones curious about survival skills. Deasfull-color art is packed with action, andhis detailed diagrams clearlyenvision the survival skills ODonnell introduces in the story.This is the first volume inthe Graphic Guide Adventure series.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)