Gr 5-8 This survival guide is the book to read before a wilderness adventure. In short, clearly written chapters, it provides practical tips about ways to enjoy nature and includes information about building shelters, starting fires, making a fishing line and cleaning a fish, outdoor cooking, identifying animal tracks and edible and poisonous plants, and the basics of orienteering. Safety is always considered. Drawings and clearly labeled sketches help with identification. A companion to Jean George's My Side of the Mountain (Dutton, 1988), the book includes excerpts from the novel. Christine Markley, Washington Elementary School, Barto, PA

With Twig C. George, John C. George, and T. Luke George. Based on George's classic novel My Side of the Mountain, this nonfiction paperback guide includes sections on camping, animal tracks, edible plants, and birdsongs. Sketches and quotes from the novel are sprinkled throughout, but the bulk of the guide consists of clear, simple information that forms a thorough introduction to life in the outdoors. Perfect for intrepid explorers, from backyard to backwoods. Bib., ind.