Book details
Summer of the Wolves
Description
* "A little gem of a book for all wild-hearted lovers of the natural world." —Kirkus Reviews, starred reviewJulie of the Wolves meets Hatchet in this middle grade novel that follows twelve-year-old Nika and her seven-year-old brother, Randall, as they leave their California foster home to spend a summer with their long-lost uncle. There she finds an orphaned wolf pup in a cave, whose mother has been shot.This compelling first novel explores themes of searching for family and finding a balance between caring for—and leaving alone—wild animals.
Age
10-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
352 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Adventure: 'Summer of the Wolves' offers readers an exciting and heartfelt adventure as they follow the journey of a young girl and her bond with a pack of wolves. The story is filled with moments of discovery, survival, and personal growth that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
- Connection with Nature: Polly Carlson-Voiles paints a vivid picture of the wilderness and wildlife, particularly the wolves, which encourages a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of conservation. Readers who love animals and the outdoors will find this aspect of the book particularly compelling.
- Emotional Depth: The book explores complex emotions and themes such as loss, belonging, and the search for identity. Readers are invited to empathize with the protagonist as she navigates her new life and forms meaningful relationships, both with humans and animals.
- Educational Value: 'Summer of the Wolves' provides educational content about wolf behavior, ecosystem, and the challenges of wildlife protection. It's a great choice for young readers who are interested in biology, environmental science, or who simply want to learn more about the natural world through a fictional narrative.