Books Like...

This book, 'Puppies, Dogs, and Blue Northers' by Gary Paulsen, is a heartwarming story about the bond between a man and his dogs, particularly focusing on Cookie, the lead dog. The book is described as funny, sad, and exciting, showcasing the adventures and wilderness experiences shared between the author and his beloved canine companions. Readers appreciate the informative and entertaining aspects of the book, as well as the insights it provides into the life of a musher and the deep love and concern Gary Paulsen had for his dogs.

Woodsong by Gary Paulsen is an autobiographical account that delves into the author's experiences living in poverty, raising a dog sled team, and embarking on adventures in the wild, including his first Iditarod Race in Alaska. The book is filled with vivid descriptions of wilderness, endurance, and dogs, showcasing the author's journey of learning to run dogs and training pups for the harness. The narrative is a blend of humor, pathos, and bittersweet moments, providing insights into the author's respect for animal nature and his interactions with the wild Minnesota setting.

'Coming Into the Country' by John McPhee is a captivating exploration of Alaska through the eyes of diverse individuals living in the region. McPhee intricately weaves together stories of gold miners, fishermen, and residents of small villages, shedding light on the unique challenges and adventures faced in the Last Frontier. The book delves into Alaskan history, including the era of the pipeline construction in the 1970s, while also highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. McPhee's writing style is described as conversational, engaging, and informative, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of life in Alaska.

"The Emerald Mile" by Kevin Fedarko is an epic tale that dives deep into the heart of the Grand Canyon, focusing on the incredible speed run that took place through its treacherous waters. Fedarko weaves together the stories of the Grand Canyon, rafting culture, environmental movements, dam technology, and the history of exploration of the Colorado River. The narrative follows the lives of characters who are deeply connected to the river's current, painting a vivid picture of the love and reverence they hold for the Colorado itself.

Through a meticulous blend of history, adventure, passion, and heartbreak, Fedarko creates a compelling narrative that explores the clash between wood boats and rubber boats, oar power and motors, against the backdrop of the majestic Grand Canyon. delves into the lives of river guides, the history of river running through the Canyon, and the pivotal events that shaped the relationship between man and nature in this awe-inspiring landscape.

Brian's Hunt follows the protagonist, Brian, as he returns to the North Woods and encounters a wounded dog that leads him to a mystery involving a bear attack on a Cree family. As Brian sets out to hunt the killer bear, he showcases his survival skills and deep connection to the wilderness. The book delves into themes of perseverance, courage, and the harsh realities of nature, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its suspenseful and action-packed storyline.

In Brian's Hunt, Gary Paulsen skillfully weaves a tale that not only entertains but also educates readers on wilderness lore and the challenges of survival. The writing style is engaging and age-appropriate, making it a compelling read for young adults and middle-grade readers. The book is a continuation of the Brian's Saga series, portraying Brian's growth from a boy stranded in the wilderness to a skilled and resilient young man who navigates through life's adversities with determination and grit.

'Arctic Dreams' by Barry Lopez is a captivating exploration of the Arctic region, blending nature writing with philosophical reflections and historical accounts. Lopez delves into the unique landscape of the Arctic, discussing its wildlife, indigenous people, and the impact of human exploration and exploitation on the environment. The book is structured thematically, with chapters focusing on species like polar bears and narwhals, as well as historical narratives of Arctic exploration. Lopez's writing style is described as evocative, sensitive, and detailed, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the Arctic's beauty and challenges.

'The Climb: Tragic Ambitions on Everest' by Anatoli Boukreev, co-authored with G. Weston DeWalt, provides a different perspective on the 1996 Everest tragedy, offering an alternate telling of the events and shedding light on the drama between Boukreev and John Krakauer. Boukreev's account details his expeditions on Everest, including the makeshift graves he made for fellow climbers and the group discussions that followed the tragic events. is praised for humanizing the climbers, highlighting their bravery and tenacity in the face of extreme conditions.

Boukreev's writing style, although not as breezy as Krakauer's, is appreciated for providing a more rounded understanding of the tragic event. is regarded as a must-read for those interested in climbing works, especially for readers who have already explored Krakauer's perspective in 'Into Thin Air.' Boukreev's account is seen as a valuable addition to the narrative, offering a different viewpoint and showcasing his bravery and dedication to climbing.

'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.

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.

"Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen follows the story of Cole Mathews, a teenager with anger issues who is sent to a remote Alaskan island as part of a Circle Justice program after committing multiple crimes. The plot delves into Cole's journey of healing and redemption as he faces the consequences of his actions, confronts his inner demons, and learns valuable life lessons through his interactions with nature and the Spirit Bear.

The writing style of the book is praised for its rich characterization, deep life lessons, and powerful dialogue. The narrative is filled with imagery, flashbacks that provide insight into the characters, and moments that evoke introspection and self-reflection. Through the use of personification on animals and environments, the author creates an engaging and thought-provoking reading experience that explores themes of forgiveness, healing, and personal transformation.