Lost in the Mountains
(Survival Scout #1)

Gr 3-5--Scout and her "nearly professional local guide" older brother are on a backpacking trip in the mountains when it becomes apparent that her brother has no idea what he is doing: after reading the map upside down and losing his GPS and cell phone, he abandons Scout, chased off by a bear. Luckily, Scout knows exactly what to do in this graphic novel guide to the wilderness: she takes stock of her supplies, figures out how to find water and food, and creates a shelter, all while also signaling for help. Callout sections on wilderness safety help reinforce safety measures, and Eaton builds lessons into the story, including reading a topographic map, collecting rainwater, and choosing a location and materials for a shelter. Cartoonlike artwork and an amusing narrative keep things light and readable while imparting helpful lessons. VERDICT An enjoyable read for backyard explorers and wilderness fans alike, this is a great first purchase for graphic novel collections.--Rosemary Kiladitis

Scout and her older brother--a self-proclaimed "nearly professional local guide"--are heading to the final campsite of their four-day backpacking trip when Big Brother announces they're lost. After reading the map upside down, leading them down an unmarked trail, losing his GPS and cell phone, and running off, literally pursued by a bear, Big Brother leaves Scout alone in the woods. With only half the duo's supplies and a compass for guidance, coolheaded and methodical Scout must focus on finding water, shelter, and food, all while signaling for help. Scout's situation isn't all doom-and-gloom, however: an irreverent talking skunk offers comic relief, and informative, brightly colored flowcharts break down each of her priorities and how best to approach them, modeling critical problem solving and survival skills. Structuring Scout's adventure as an in-depth wilderness guide, Eaton (the Truth About Your Favorite Animals series) uses crisp-lined, digitally colored pen and ink cartooning to present easily digestible information about venturing into the great outdoors, including how to build a sturdy lean-to shelter, catch and gut a fish, and navigate by compass and topographic map. It's a thoroughly enjoyable wilderness-themed geek-out, even for readers who never explore beyond their backyard. Scout and Big Brother read as white. Ages 8-12. (May)

Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

An enlightening guide for aspiring adventurers.