Kit's Wilderness (Readers Circle)

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Like David Almond's 1998 Whitbread-winning Skellig, this powerful, eerie, elegantly written novel celebrates the magic that is part of our existence--the magic that occurs when we dream at night, the magic that connects us to family long gone, the magic that connects humans to the land, and us all to each other. As Kit's grandfather puts it, "the tales and memories and dreams that keep the world alive."

It seems fated that 13-year-old Christopher Watson, nicknamed Kit, would move to Stoneygate, an old English coal-mining village where his ancestors lived, worked, and died. Evidence of the ancient coal pit is everywhere--depressions in the gardens, jagged cracks in the roadways, in his grandfather's old mining songs. A monument in the St. Thomas graveyard bears the name of child workers killed in the Stoneygate pit disaster of 1821, including Kit's own name--Christopher Watson, aged 13--the name of a distant uncle. At the top of this high, narrow pyramid-shaped monument is the name John Askew, the same name of Kit's classmate who takes the connection between this monument and life--and death--very seriously.

The drama unfolds as the haunted, hulking, dark-eyed John Askew draws Kit and other classmates into the game of Death, a spin-the-knife, pretend-to-die game that he hosts in a deep hole dug in the earth, with candles, bones, and carved pictures of the children of the old families of Stoneygate. Kit the writer and Askew the artist belong together, Askew keeps telling him. "Your stories is like my drawings, Kit. They take you back deep into the dark and show it lives within us still.... You see it, don't you? You're starting to see that you and me is just the same." Are they, though?

Kit's Wilderness conjures a world where the past is alive in the present and creeps into the future--a world where ancestral ghosts and even the slow-changing geology of the landscape are as tangible as lunch. Powerful images of darkness exploding into "lovely lovely light" filter throughout the story, as Almond boldly explores the dark side and unearths a joyful message of redemption. (Ages 11 and much, much older) --Karin Snelson

Book Description

The Watson family moves to Stoneygate, an old coal-mining town, to care for Kit’s recently widowed grandfather. When Kit meets John Askew, another boy whose family had both worked and died in the mines, Askew invites Kit to join him in playing a game called Death. Kit’s association with Askew takes him into the mines where the boys look to find the childhood ghosts of their long-gone ancestors.

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Thirteen-year-old Kit goes to live with his grandfather in the decaying coal mining town of Stoneygate, England, and finds both the old man and the town haunted by ghosts of the past.

Customer Reviews:

Surprisingly Good Book for both Young Adults and Adults!.......2007-03-16

David Almond's book was assigned to my juniors for their outside reading assignment. At first, it took me a little while to get accustomed to the author's style of writing but once I got into Kit's Wilderness, I got hooked by the story, the creepiness, suspense, and storylines. Kit Watson is a young man who moves to Stoneygate and gets involved with a bunch of his peers and a strange game called death. Of course, it's only a game but is it? Kit and his new friends are involved in this game. Kit's grandfather recalls stories of his youth and the stories of his past as well as the ghosts of Stoneygate. I found it fascinating that Kit and his friends have this morbid curiousity in contacting their dead ancestors or trying to experience death in this bizarre game.

Slow Start.......2007-02-18

Christopher Watson, nicknamed Kit, is thirteen when his grandmother dies and he and his parents go back to the old mining community of Stoneygate to live with his grandfather. There Kit meets Allie Keenan, the girl who protect him and drives him crazy, and John Askew, a loner most other kids avoid. John is drawn to Kit, though, telling him that their lives are connected, that the two of them are alike. He tells Kit to look at the monument to children who died several generations ago in the mines, and Kit finds that the top line of the monument reads "John Askew, aged thirteen." The bottom line reads "Christopher Watson, aged thirteen." At first Kit thinks that this coincidence means nothing, but then he starts to see the ghosts of the dead children. He writes a story with characters who seek him out in his dreams and leave him feeling they are just a little too real. Is Kit communicating with the dead? Or is everything just in his imagination?

There were some great things about this story. I liked the supernatural aspect; it worked really well. I liked the relationships Kit had with his grandfather and with Allie. I also liked the ending of the book. The beginning, though, was very slow. It took me about twenty pages to get into the story, instead of being hooked right from the beginning.

GREAT BOOK!!!.......2006-03-03

This book is great. It is about kids that play a game that no one would ever imagine. It is very interesting and I did not want to stop reading it. I definately recommend it to anyone who dosent enjoy reading or even people that do.

Original and atmospheric plot.......2005-09-12

This is one of the most amazing young adult novels I've ever read, and I sincerely hope that it becomes a classic one day. It's narrated by a very imaginative kid named Kit who recounts his adventures in an old mining town called Stoneygate. After his grandfather tells him stories of the history of the mines, Kit begins to "see" children from the past who died in the pit. Are the ghosts real? It's never really clear, just as the ghosts themselves are not clear, flickering at the edges of Kit's vision. It ultimatley doesn't matter. This is not a ghost story, but a testimonial to how certain places can retain an atomosphere from the past, in this case the old mines. Almond uses magical realism to make this very convincing. The images of the ancient children in the pit are not too detailed, challenging the reader's imagination to supply the details.

The only reason I didn't give it a five star rating is because the writing isn't as accessible as, for example, Harry Potter. This book isn't for everyone. Only kids who can appreciate imagery and subtleness will want to read it. They are the lucky ones.

Kit's Wilderness.......2005-06-10

"What must he give us?"
"Life."
"What do we promise him?"
"Death."

A book about kids from a coal-mining town playing a game called "Death". This mysterious game takes place in a cave, away from adults. A game where the victim "dies", then comes back from with many "exciting stories" from "death". The characters in this story always seem lost. Each and everyone of them have troubles and conflicts to deal with. The history of town is filling Kit, the main character, with questions and curiosity.

Who would enjoy reading this book? I think this book is great for anybody ages 12+. Not that anybody younger can't read this book, but it contains situations that are more mature; situations about growing up that are meant for older readers. Also situations about life and death.

This book was written by David Almond, an excellent author. But I think his book "Skellig" is the best.

Alaska ABC Book (Last Wilderness Adventure)

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A IS FOR ALASKA
My 1-1/2 yr Son cannot put this book down.

Alaska ABC Book (Last Wilderness Adventure)
Charlene Kreeger
Manufacturer: Sasquatch Books/Paws IV Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Baby-3 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0933914016

Customer Reviews:

A IS FOR ALASKA.......2002-12-13

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A BIT OF ALASKA TO BRING HOME TO A TODDLER OR PRESCHOOLER, THIS IS ALL YOU'LL NEED TO BRING. THE ILLUSTRATIONS ARE A WONDERFUL BLEND OF COLOR AND SIMPLE CHARACTER IN THE FACES OF THE ANIMALS. THE TEXT UTILIZES WORDS COMONLY REFERED TO IN ALASKA SUCH AS ULUS AND QIVIUT. THERE IS A SIMPLE GLOSSARY FOR THE ADULT TO REFER TO FOR ANSWERING THOSE "WHY?" QUESTIONS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE COUNTING ALONG WITH THE ABC'S, COUNT ALASKA'S COLORS IS ALSO GOOD FOR THE KINDERGARTENER.

My 1-1/2 yr Son cannot put this book down........1998-12-23

My son was given this book for his first birthday. He has not put it down since. He has learned a lot of animals and is starting on his letter. At night when he picks his goodnight story, he usally picks this one first.

Little Horse on His Own (Early Chapter Books (Henry Holt & Company))

Average customer rating:

Great Book
cute little story
Adorable New Children's Book

Little Horse on His Own (Early Chapter Books (Henry Holt & Company))
Betsy Byars
Manufacturer: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0805073523
Release Date: 2004-08-12

Book Description

Little Horse had never known the sky to be so black, the air so still. He heard the big horses whinny again. Little Horse's fear grew. The adventures of Little Horse continue as he makes his way back to the valley of little horses and his mother The storm sets Little Horse free from the fence holding him captive, free to do what he has wanted to do since the day the river carried him around its bend and away from his home-find his way back to the valley of the little horses and his mother. But where should he turn, and how will he ever return home alive with all of the obstacles facing him? Travel with Little Horse as he struggles against unfriendly horses, a malicious bird, a pouncing cat, a smoky fire, and more to find his way home.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book.......2007-07-28

This is a great book for beginner chapter readers. IT is also good for children with Visual problems for the words are large enough and the Book has enough space between sentences which is a bonus.

cute little story.......2005-02-25

Little Horse is enjoying the day as he grazes in the field near his home. All of a sudden a storm comes up. He is swept down the river and he finds himself all alone. He faces all sorts of obstacles such as a fire and a dangerous bird! Will he ever find his way back home? Read Little Horse on His Own to find out.
I liked this book because it was easy to read. Kids who are just staring to read chapter books will enjoy this horse story.
Yes, I would definitely recommend this book to children of all ages. Especially those who have a great interest in horses. They will enjoy getting to know the main character of Little Horse.

Adorable New Children's Book.......2004-08-25

Little Horse is happily enjoying his time grazing in the field, when a storm, complete with dark black clouds, and torrential rains sets him free from his holding. This, in turn, allows him to do what he was wanted to do since the river carried him away from his true home, find the valley of horses and his beloved Mother. However, Little Horse soon finds that his journey is to be far more dangerous than he could have ever expected, for the outside world holds many new obstacles that he must overcome, in order to find himself safe at home with his family. From smoky fires, to vicious birds, Little Horse must find his way around anything the enters his path.

Betsy Byars has created an enjoyable new book for young readers. Little Horse is a fun character, whom children will easily sympathize with, as his moods change from lonely to happy, and from sad to mad. The obstacles he encounters on his way back to the Valley are enjoyable, and will have readers rooting for Little Horse to complete his journey and be reunited with his Mother in the end. Overall this is a wonderful new read in the world of children's fiction, that will be cherished by all, whether you're a horse lover or not.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

Heart of the Wilderness (Women of the West #8) (Janette Oke Classics for Girls)

Average customer rating:

Romance for 4-8 year olds???
o i wish i could have grown up so knowing
An uplifting story easily read in a couple of hours.
I love this book
Heart of the Wilderness

Heart of the Wilderness (Women of the West #8) (Janette Oke Classics for Girls)
Janette Oke
Manufacturer: Bethany House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0764227106
Release Date: 2002-10-01

Book Description

A Janette Oke Classics for Girls book. Kendra is not yet four when she goes to live with her trapper grandfather after her parents’ tragic death. As Kendra grows into a young teen, life in the wilderness is all she knows. Soon the time comes for her to attend school. Is Kendra ready to leave home and face the unknowns of civilization?

Customer Reviews:

Romance for 4-8 year olds???.......2006-08-30

Janette Oke is a wonderful author and this is a well written series. The reading level is for ages 4-8. My concern is whether it is wise to introduce romance to girls at such a young age? I don't think so and hence my lower rating.
There are plenty other excellent historical fiction series and clsssics for that do not contain romance that I would rather see my daughter reading.

o i wish i could have grown up so knowing.......2006-06-10

Kendra as a young girl is so little so unknowing. About the world and how cruel it can be. Until her parents die and she goes to an orphanage and meets her grandfather who comes to take her to his home far away in the woods. In the wilderness where other people are far away. Kendra begins to become accustomed to the life of living with just her and her grandfather. Though a very good friend of hers is an Indian and teaches Kendra about the wilderness, such as the plants, the bird calls, how to survive in it. As Kendra grows she longs to learn about everything her education is minimal. She devours books so fast it's hard to get others. Kendra receives more responsibilities, as she gets older. Such as having her own trap line, to catch more food and to get the animal skins to sell. Soon Kendra realizes that she has questions that cant be answered with out schooling of some sort. Kendra decides to go to the town where her grandfather's dear friend lives so that Kendra can go to college and find the answers she is looking for. Maggie welcomes her with open arms. Maggie takes Kendra shopping, she has no clue what girls her age are wearing, her hair is cut and her outfits match. Now she attends school. As she is there she goes through experiences that she wished she hadn't. Soon she makes a new friend, her name is Amy. Soon Amy invites Kendra to go to church with her. After a wile Kendra actually goes. She finds all the answers to her questions. Amy invites Kendra over to her parent's house for a wile, while they are on break from school. Once there she meets Amy's brother... well she meets all of Amy's family. Reynard and Kendra over time fall in love. The rest you will have to read for yourself...

An uplifting story easily read in a couple of hours........2005-11-25

This is my first experience with Janette Oke's books, and it certainly won't be my last! I had heard a lot of wonderful things about the author and was very excited about reading this book. It didn't disappoint. Beautiful in its simplicity, this moving story is full of pioneer culture and Native American folklore. The characters are well-presented and the attention to detail makes the setting and adventures come alive to the reader.

When Kendra is exposed to influences outside of her secluded world, she becomes a Christian. At this point, the story becomes quite heavy-handed in its preachiness. This is the reason I deducted rating points - I don't buy into the concept that it is the mission of all Christians to impose their beliefs on others. I prefer stories that deliver the Christian message more subtly.

I love this book.......2005-10-29

Heart of the Wilderness is a great book. It was one of the first books that I read by Janette Oke. I really enjoyed it. I think that you should deffently read it.

Heart of the Wilderness.......2000-05-01

Kendra was not yet four when her parent's died in a river accident. She had to live with her grandfather George MacMannus who was a trapper in the wilderness. Every time that George would go out, he would summon an old Indian woman named Noni to come to stay with Kendra. Although Noni didn't say much, she tought Kendra all about the wilderness. She tought her what kinds of plants to eat, which one's were poisonous, and which one's to use for medicines. Also, she tought her about how to respect the earth and animals, and that they were all her relatives. Papa Mac, what Kendra called her Grandfather, didn't want Kendra to believe in Noni's fables, which led Kendra searching for something more. Kendra's desire for knowledge leads her from her wilderness home to the home of her Papa Mac's trusted friend Maggie where she attends school. Will she find the answers that she is looking for? This is a an exciting book to read, and one of Janette's better books.

True Adventure Stories: Daring Exploits of the World's Greatest Adventurers (True Adventure Stories)

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True Adventure Stories: Daring Exploits of the World's Greatest Adventurers (True Adventure Stories)
Paul Dowswell , and Gill Harvey
Manufacturer: Usborne Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0794506127

Gary Paulsen: A Real-Life Reader Biography

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Gary Paulsen: A Real-Life Reader Biography
Ann Gaines
Manufacturer: Mitchell Lane Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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Book Description

Gary Paulsen loved adventures. He loved the outdoors and he loved the wild. One of his greatest thrills in life was running in the Iditarod dogsled race in Alaska. In 1983, Gary spent 17 days on the Alaskan trail. He kept a journal and took photos. Later on, he based many books on his experiences. Though today, Gary is a very successful writer, he was not always able to make a living this way. For many years he struggled to get by on very little money. One time, a publisher failed to pay him for his work. After the publication of his book Winterkill, Gary was sued for libel by a man who claimed that Gary's book was about him. Even though a judge later dismissed the case against him, Gary spent all he had on attorney's fees. Finally, in 1988, the publication of his book Hatchet made Gary Paulsen famous. It was named a Newbery Honor Book. A prolific writer, Gary continues even into his sixties to thrill children with his adventure stories.

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A Potpourri of Styles

The Wilderness Reader

Manufacturer: University of Nevada Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Nature Writing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0874172500

Customer Reviews:

A Potpourri of Styles.......2000-06-20

I used The Wilderness Reader in teaching a course in stewardship and field ecology for teachers. I found that the book contained a wide variety of different types of environmental writing and that all of the selected pieces were excellent examples of the genre. Several of my elementary school teachers even read parts of the reader to their students.

Average customer rating:

An excellent introduction to Edward Abbey's work

The Serpents of Paradise: A Reader
Edward Abbey , and John Macrae
Manufacturer: Henry Holt & Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Nature Writing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0805031324

Book Description

This book is different from any other Edward Abbey book. It includes essays, travel pieces and fictions to reveal Ed's life directly, in his own words.The selections gathered here are arranged chronologically by incident, not by date of publication, to offer Edward Abbey's life from the time he was the boy called Ned in Home, Pennsylvania, until his death in Tucson at age 62. A short note introduces each of the four parts of the book and attempts to identify what's happening in the author's life at the time. When relevant, some details of publishing history are provided.

Customer Reviews:

An excellent introduction to Edward Abbey's work.......1998-05-23

After reading this collection, which serves as a retrospective of the writin career of one of the better SW writers, I was left with a feeling that the selection could have been better, but this probably reflects my own eclectic readings of his work. Abbey's writings always seemed uneven, particularly in his fiction. His comments about the role of the independent writer versus that of the commercial hired of the establishment press seems right on. In spite of his many years of part-time non-writing service to various agencies he still managed to maintain his freedom to say what he wished about the rot he saw in the management of public lands. I suspect that he was always a bit shocked about how cheaply managers of public linds could be bought off. As a review of his lifetime of writing the book is excellent. McCrae includes some of his fiction, both the excellent ("The Brave Cowboy") and only fair (The Monkey Wrench Gang"). The sampling from his writings might be occasionally dated, but are still mostly relevant to the problems of the SW. His polemic about the cowboy ("Free Speech - The cowboy ans his cow") clearly points to the problems of allowing anything like an unrestricted use of and romanticism about what can easily become an extractive industry. At the same time Abbey's followers should have a difficult time justapositionng his sense of anarchy with this complaints about the institutional anarchy of commercial capitalism. To finish. A good read and certainly worthwhile for someone new to Abbey's work while being a fair sample of his writings for a person with only a passing acquaintance with the writings of one of the West's best essayist. The closing comments in Wendell Berry's poem about his friend are most appropriate.

Jim Forest and Dead Man's Peak (The Jim Forest readers)

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Jim Forest and Dead Man's Peak (The Jim Forest readers)
John Rambeau
Manufacturer: Field Educational Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

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ASIN: 051400309X

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G.i. Joe (G.I. Joe)
T. Hamilton
Manufacturer: Scholastic
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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Survival Skills | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0439551404

Book Description

This very necessary digest junior chapter book is set up as a kids' survival guide for extreme situations like house fires, earthquakes, being lost in the woods, or snake bites -- all explained by the highly-trained G.I. JOE characters. It comes blistered with an incredible compass!

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