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43 pages 1 hour read

On the Far Side of the Mountain

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Jean Craighead George

On the Far Side of the Mountain

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Catskills, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

760L

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Super Short Summary

In On the Far Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George, Sam Gribley’s peaceful life in the Catskill Mountains is disrupted when a conservation officer confiscates his peregrine falcon, Frightful, and his sister Alice mysteriously disappears. Sam and his friend Bando follow Alice's trail, discovering she left clues leading to nearby waterfalls, and they uncover a scheme to sell illegal falcons.

Adventurous

Inspirational

Contemplative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

11,188 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jean Craighead George's On the Far Side of the Mountain captivates with its engaging tale and vivid nature descriptions. Readers appreciate the strong sibling relationship and the book's educational value. Some find the plot predictable and slower-paced compared to its predecessor, yet the overall reception is positive due to its environmental themes and character development.

Who should read this

Who Should Read On the Far Side of the Mountain?

Readers who enjoy On the Far Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George are likely fans of nature-centric adventures, as seen in novels like My Side of the Mountain and Hatchet. They appreciate stories of survival, self-discovery, and the strong bond between humans and the wilderness. Suitable for middle-grade to young adult audiences.

4.4

11,188 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Sam Gribley

The narrator and protagonist, Sam is a nature-loving teenager living in the Catskills, who has built a life using his resourcefulness and knowledge of the land. He is close with a peregrine falcon named Frightful and has a community of friends who support him.

Sam's adventurous and inventive younger sister, who shares his love of nature and animals. Her mysterious mission adds intrigue to the story as she leaves clues for Sam.

An English teacher and friend of Sam’s, who helps him with chores and spends holidays with him on the mountain. Bando enjoys nature but also appreciates the comforts of the modern world.

Bando’s wife, who works as a lawyer and balances life between the primitive cabin and modern conveniences. Her perspective encourages the creation of conveniences in their natural setting.

The librarian from the town of Delhi, who influences Sam through her shared knowledge and presence during important projects. Her insights inspire key events in the story.

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Catskills, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

760L

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