Laurel-leaf books

Gary Paulsen

Two years after surviving a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness, sixteen-year-old Brian is drawn back to the wild, where survival is no longer just a test of endurance—it’s a way of life. When he encounters a wounded dog and learns of a rogue bear roaming the area, Brian must rely on hard-earned skills, careful judgment, and the quiet discipline of the outdoors to protect both himself and the animals in his care. Blending suspenseful hunting adventure with moments of empathy and resilience, the story explores what it means to heal, to choose responsibility, and to find purpose beyond fear. In Gary Paulsen’s direct, immersive style, the wilderness becomes both adversary and teacher, turning every decision into a step toward self-reliance and hope.