The Cookcamp by Gary Paulsen

A short quick read, memories of a 5 year old who spent some time, maybe several months with his grandmother. She was a cook for a road crew building a road in rural Minnesota during WWII. Before and after this visit he lived with his mother while his father was away in the war.

From the road crew he learns to enjoy being a boy who will become a man. He is befriended by the 9 man crew and warmly looked after by his grandmother.
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Season of Gifts by Richard Peck

Fun read with the continuing story of Grandma Dowdel. We learn more about her through her new neighbors, the preacher's family. She is up to the task of helping a neighbor and helping the town deal with the area bullies and their families.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

I just finished Hatchet a book I should have read ages ago.
It lived up to its reputation as a good read and a good adventure. It seemed as though Brian, the main character figured out more that could be expected to survive in the wilderness. However, the themes of patience, listening, awareness and appreciation were well represented and good ones for any coming of age story. I especially identified with his appreciation of the openness and quiet of the setting when looking toward the western sky and the setting sun.

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