The Skeleton Tree

Review

Selection – OLA Forest Teen Committee’s 2018 Summer Reading List

"Fans of Hatchet and Lord of the Flies will be drawn to this harrowing survival story from Lawrence . . . which offers psychological suspense and action in equal measure." --Publishers Weekly

"Unsettling and compelling, a gripping, evocative read." --Kirkus Reviews

"The novel won’t disappoint thrill seekers, but in between the action sequences, there are quieter moments of compassion and insight, which Lawrence delivers equally well." --Quill & Quire

"I started the book as a Lawrence fan and turned the final page even more impressed by Lawrence's well-refined skill as one of Canada's premier authors for young readers. . . . Recommended." --CM Magazine

PRAISE FOR The Wreckers:
"A fast-paced, atmospheric yarn that will have adventure buffs glued to their seats." - Starred Review, Publishers Weekly

PRAISE FOR Gemini Summer:
"This robust novel offers an affirming and hopeful look at a difficult subject." - School Library Journal

PRAISE FOR The Giant-Slayer:
"Distinctive, emotionally honest characters and consistently engrossing prose make this book a standout." - Starred Review, Publishers Weekly

PRAISE FOR The Winter Pony:
"Lawrence tells a most compelling tale." - Booklist

Product Description

Less than 48 hours after twelve-year-old Chris casts off on a trip to sail down the Alaskan coast with his uncle, their boat sinks. The only survivors are Chris and a boy named Frank, who hates Chris immediately. Chris and Frank have no radio, no flares, no food. Suddenly, they've got to find a way to forage, fish and scavenge supplies from the shore. Chris likes the company of a curious friendly raven more than he likes the prickly Frank. But the boys have to get along if they want to survive.

Because as the days get colder, and the salmon migration ends, survival will take more than sheer force of will. There in the wilderness of Kodiak, they discover a bond they didn't expect, and through it, the compassion and teamwork that might truly be the path to rescue.

About the Author

Iain Lawrence grew up moving all over Canada with his family. He's worked in logging, fishing, and even as a forest fire fighter, before studying journalism in Vancouver and working at newspapers for ten years. Today, he lives in the Gulf Islands with his companion, Kristin, and their dog and cat. He is the author of fifteen books for young readers, including this one, and has received many accolades, including the Governor General's Award and the California Young Reader Medal. He invites you to visit him online at www.iainlawrence.com. The author lives in Gabriola Island, British Columbia.