by Will Hobbs
I would like to share one of my favorite books to recommend to Reluctant Readers. The key to finding a book for anyone reluctant to read is it must engage the reader, either with shared interests or similar characters or a dynamic story. I believe "Far North" by Will Hobbs checks most of those categories. This is a fascinating, suspenseful, thrilling and believable adventure / survival novel. Perfect for all kinds of readers - but particularly for those who want a lot of action and like learning details about how to survive in the wilderness.
In the wilds of Canada, an urban boy and a native Dene Indian boy must survive together. This is a very realistic Man vs. Nature - and sometimes man doesn't always win - story with themes of survival, family, friendship, ingenuity and determination when facing adversity. Raymond is a teen belonging to the Dene Indians and he went to boarding school in the big city. He was very pleased to escape the elders of his tribe, who were always teaching him "the old ways" and cultural mythology that he felt had no place in these modern times. Gabe is a teen from Texas who has come to the Northwest Territories of Canada to be closer to his father who works in the interior. Raymond's Great-Uncle Johnny Raven has come to the city to bring him back home. These three meet up with a young and adventurous pilot who will fly them to their respective destinations, but detours to show them Victoria Falls on the Nahanni River. But as the plane lands, the engine stalls and quits. The pilot cannot restart his float plane and it is caught by the current and heading towards the falls. He urges his passengers out of the plane and to make for the bank as he desperately tries to restart his Cessna. Raymond, Gabe and Johnny Raven watch helplessly as the plane goes over the falls, taking the pilot with it. Thus begins the adventure of survival in the wilderness, with no hope of rescue easily finding them. The story truly is epic and our adventurers find themselves in desperate situations. They learn to rely on each other and Raymond learns that many of the old stories told to him throughout his life have merit and are able to help him and his new friend survive.
Heidi Y.