Reviews for Bones on Black Spruce Mountain

The average rating for Bones on Black Spruce Mountain based on 2 reviews is 4.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2017-08-21 00:00:00 Molly Reed I have never heard of David Budbill but �Bones On Black Spruce Mountain� has been loved since 1978, which seems to be in New York. Daniel and Seth mention Canada is east. It doesn't culminate in a big scene that is the point of an adventure, while highlights of reaching its apex are skimmed. To the contrary, camping and growth are the focus. Cave treks are secondary and brief. It is their trip that is detailed. Normally I would balk at this but the result is a highly enjoyable story! It is a segment rather than a novel but a personal enough sojourn to ripple our emotions. There is a legend few believe except their elderly neighbour, Mr. Bateau; who recalls that a boy who escaped to the mountains took a few goods from his parents. We learn that Daniel was adopted at age 8, old enough to remember a foster system and the uncertainty of keeping each home; the hesitancy to allow himself to hope he belongs and to reach out. It takes a while for him to confide in Seth, who wonders why his friend can be surly. They figure out he empathizes with the mountain boy and hope to prove the legend wrong. Instead of becoming the bones of someone who gave up on reaching out; it would be nicer to find out he survived and found his way to family. This atypical structure works because the goal is to bring relief by clarifying seventy year-old history. Readers attune to that and don't mind that action and mystery aren't what drive the novel; even if its title and cover give that impression. Except fishing and a hunting memory, which I oppose; learning how camping implements and a lean-to shelter are made by hand were of especial interest.

Review # 2 was written on 2021-05-26 00:00:00 Joshua King A perfect book for upper elementary to early high school readers who love to go camping. They might even want to try some of the wilderness survival skills mentioned.