Survival Scout: Lost in the Mountains

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.