Books Like...

'The Hush' by John Hart is a supernatural thriller that continues the story of Johnny Merrimon from the previous book in the series. Set in the mysterious and foreboding Hush, the novel explores Johnny's life as a recluse and the supernatural elements surrounding the swamp he inhabits. As Johnny faces threats to his land and uncovers dark family secrets, the plot unfolds with a blend of mystery, history, and supernatural occurrences. The writing style combines elements of gothic thriller and literary fiction, reminiscent of authors like Stephen King, as the story builds towards a shattering climax.

'Naya Nuki: Shoshone Girl Who Ran' by Kenneth Thomasma follows the story of a young Shoshoni girl who is kidnapped by the Blackfoot tribe but manages to escape and embarks on a perilous journey back to her own people. The plot revolves around Naya Nuki's bravery and determination as she overcomes various obstacles while traveling over 1,000 miles alone. Readers praise the book for its engaging narrative that captures the essence of Native American culture and history, making it an informative and inspiring read for both children and adults.

Green Mansions by William Henry Hudson is a classic adventure novel set in the Amazon jungle, reminiscent of a Tarzan-like adventure intertwined with a touch of romance. The book beautifully depicts the wild forest and birds, capturing the essence of nature through poetic prose. The story revolves around the mystery of a jungle nymph named Rima, exploring themes of love, nature, and human conflicts.

'Jungle: A Harrowing True Story of Survival in the Amazon' by Yossi Ghinsberg recounts the gripping and harrowing tale of survival in the Amazon rainforest. The narrative follows Yossi and his companions as they embark on a jungle trek that quickly turns into a fight for survival. The plot unfolds with intense and exciting moments that keep readers on the edge of their seats, showcasing the author's strong determination and will to live amidst the unforgiving wilderness. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and immersive, making it a captivating non-fiction read that delves into themes of survival, resilience, and human folly.

'The Last Season' by Eric Blehm is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the life of Randy Morgenson, a legendary backcountry ranger at Sequoia King's Canyon National Parks. The book narrates the story of Randy's disappearance in July 1996 while on patrol, sparking a massive search effort to find him. Through a blend of current investigation and flashbacks, the book not only explores the mystery of his disappearance but also paints a vivid picture of Randy's deep connection to the Sierra wilderness, his love for nature, and his struggles with balancing his desire for solitude in the wilderness with the demands of his personal life.

The writing style of 'The Last Season' is described as engaging and immersive, drawing readers into the world of backcountry rangers and the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The book skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and introspection, offering a poignant reflection on Randy Morgenson's life, his ideals, and the profound impact of his disappearance on those who knew him.

'Two Old Women' by Velma Wallis is a touching story about two elderly women who are abandoned by their tribe in the harsh Alaskan winter. Despite being left behind, the women decide to survive and thrive, showcasing resilience, independence, and the strength of the human spirit. The plot focuses on themes of aging, friendship, survival, and the value society places on older individuals. Written in a simple and direct prose style, the book provides a powerful message about not underestimating the capabilities of older people and the importance of self-reliance.

'Two Old Women' is based on an indigenous legend about the strength and courage of women, set in a tribal society facing challenging circumstances. The story highlights the transformation of the two old women as they learn new survival skills, gain self-esteem, and ultimately earn respect and independence. The author, Velma Wallis, beautifully captures the essence of the human spirit through this tale of survival and empowerment, shedding light on the resilience and wisdom of older generations.

Touching the Void by Joe Simpson is a gripping non-fiction account of a disastrous mountaineering expedition in the Peruvian Andes. The book recounts the harrowing tale of two climbers, Simon Yates and Joe Simpson, who successfully summit Siula Grande but face a life-threatening situation on the descent when Simpson breaks his leg. The narrative is filled with suspense, personal willpower, and the sheer determination to survive against all odds. Simpson's writing style is described as immediate, truthful, and compelling, providing a detailed insight into the physical and emotional challenges faced during the expedition.

"Lost in the Barrens" by Farley Mowat is a timeless adventure story set in the northern barrens of Canada. It follows the journey of two boys who survive a winter in the Canadian wilderness, showcasing themes of coming of age, survival, and friendship. The plot revolves around the boys building a cabin, hunting for food, and facing the challenges of the harsh environment. The writing style is described as engaging, entertaining, and suitable for both young and old readers, with a focus on adventure, danger, and the importance of attitude and skills in difficult conditions.

In this sequel to Hatchet, author Gary Paulsen explores the scenario of what if Brian had not been rescued in the summer and was forced to spend an entire winter alone in the wilderness with only his hatchet. The book delves into Brian's survival journey in the Canadian outdoors, where he is faced with challenges like making objects to aid in survival, hunting for food, and adapting to the harsh winter conditions. Readers appreciated the detailed descriptions of Brian's survival techniques and the immersive storytelling style that keeps them engaged throughout the book.

Brian's Winter is praised for its adventurous plot and vivid portrayal of survival in the wilderness. The book takes readers on a journey filled with graphic and gory details, showcasing Brian's resilience and resourcefulness as he navigates through the challenges of surviving in the Canadian wilderness during winter. The author's ability to capture the beauty of the wilderness and the protagonist's struggle for survival resonates with adventure lovers, making it a compelling read for middle school students and older readers.

'438 Days: An Extraordinary True Story of Survival at Sea' by Jonathan Franklin narrates the incredible real-life survival journey of Jose Salvador Alvarenga, who spent 438 days adrift at sea. captures Alvarenga's physical and mental struggles, his resourcefulness, and his will to survive against all odds. It details the harrowing conditions he faced, his diet of unconventional foods, and the emotional and spiritual journey he underwent during his time at sea. The author's writing style effectively conveys the intensity of the story, keeping readers engaged and immersed in the tale of resilience and endurance.