My Side of the Mountain

VERDICT: Recommended
 (with caution)

Concern Level: Medium-Low

Book Cover for My Side of the Mountain

Christian Parent Reviews Cross

Christian Parent Review

Concerning & Potentially Concerning Content

The potential concern here is that the story starts out with the young man running away. As Plugged In describes this is not due to 'dislike of his large family, but he dislikes his dependency on them, and he believes he can build a good life for himself'. While the author likely wants us to think this is potentially admirable of him, it is obviously something that some parents will want to avoid and should at the very least be discussed carefully before allowing a child to read. You can consider discussing how God has designed us to be in community (with others and for others). There is also violence towards animals such as skinning that, while probably expected, may upset some children.

Our Thoughts

This is a story that many children, especially adventurous outdoor children, will love. A reviewer on ChristianBook.com mentioned it 'remained one of my favorite books of all time. This book fueled my love of the outdoors and my deep interest in wilderness survival and played a big part in my joining the Boy Scouts and eventually earning the Eagle Scout Award.' As a bonus, the main character shuns off materialism and his nature knowledge is fueled by books from a local library.

Plot SummaryNote: This information is typically from the publisher.Use with caution

Sam Gribley is terribly unhappy living in New York City with his family, so he runs away to the Catskill Mountains to live in the woods--all by himself. With only a penknife, a ball of cord, forty dollars, and some flint and steel, he intends to survive on his own. Sam learns about courage, danger, and independence during his year in the wilderness, a year that changes his life forever.

Purchase LinkAbove Reproach: We intentionally do NOT use referral links on this site. Purchase Book Convenience Link

Other Reviews for this Book

Christian Review
Plugged In
Our Thoughts on this Review

Solid review discussing the plot.

Warnings

Plugged In often 'buries the lead' when it comes to concerning content.

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Christian Review
Squeaky Clean Reviews
Warnings

While this is a Christian review site, it looks like anyone can submit a review. It says they are 'reviewed for quality', but some caution should still be used for this site.

Read Review
Christian Review
ChristianBook.com (reader reviews)
Warnings

While often helpful, always be a bit cautious of using parent reviews that can be posted by anyone.

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Secular Review (use with Caution!)
Common Sense Media
Warnings

CSM at times can provide helpful insight into concerning content, but they often promote a liberal secular worldview that Christians should be very cautious of. Also, while sometimes helpful, always be cautious of putting too much weight on 'parent' reviews

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Scripture Reflection

How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.

— Psalm 119:9-16

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