This Side of Wild - by Gary Paulsen (Paperback)

About the Book

"Through his interactions with dogs, horses, birds, and more, Gary has been struck with the belief that animals know more than we may fathom. His understanding and admiration of animals is well known, and in [this memoir], which has taken a lifetime to write, he proves the ways in which they have taught him to be a better person"--

Book Synopsis

In the National Book Award longlist book This Side of Wild, Newbery Honor-winning author Gary Paulsen shares surprising true stories about his relationship with animals, highlighting their compassion, intellect, intuition, and sense of adventure.

Gary Paulsen is an adventurer who competed in two Iditarods, survived the Minnesota wilderness, and climbed the Bighorns. None of this would have been possible without his truest companions: his animals. Sled dogs rescued him in Alaska, a sickened poodle guarded his well-being, and a horse led him across a desert. Through his interactions with dogs, horses, birds, and more, Gary has been struck with the belief that animals know more than we may fathom.

His understanding and admiration of animals is well known, and in This Side of Wild, which has taken a lifetime to write, he proves the ways in which they have taught him to be a better person.

Review Quotes

"An absorbing read for animal lovers of any age."-- "Publishers Weekly"

"Older middle graders and younger teens, especially those who love dogs, will come away with a variety of emotions about wildlife--curiosity, respect, and awe--after reading this funny and perceptive work."-- "School Library Journal"

About the Author

Gary Paulsen (1931-2021) was one of the most honored writers of contemporary literature for young readers, author of three Newbery Honor titles, Dogsong, Hatchet, and The Winter Room. He wrote over 100 books for adults and young readers.