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About The Book

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.

About The Author

Photo by Ruth Wright Paulsen

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. 

About The Illustrator

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (September 29, 2015)
  • Length: 144 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781481451529
  • Grades: 5 and up
  • Ages: 10 - 99
  • Lexile ® 1150L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®

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Raves and Reviews

"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

Awards and Honors

  • NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
  • MSTA Reading Circle List
  • Spirit of Texas Reading Program
  • National Book Award Longlist

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More books from this author: Gary Paulsen