On the Far Side of the Mountain

As the novel’s narrator and protagonist, Sam remains passionate about appreciating nature and living off the land. Only 13 or 14, he has lived on “his” mountain in the Catskills for over two years, and in his time there, he’s made a comfortable life that he loves. Sam is characterized as resourceful, smart, and hard-working. Preferring to live in the wilderness rather than in the city, he avoids going to town unless it is absolutely necessary. He especially dislikes how modern conveniences can bring noisiness and separation from nature, so he opposes Alice’s idea of generating electricity. Using his self-reliance and extensive knowledge of edible plants, he easily cooks with foraged foods and even uses a plant as a comb at one point. Despite his independence, however, Sam maintains a strong community of friends who provide help and company when he needs them.

Sam has a special bond with his peregrine falcon, Frightful. He’s taken care of her since she was a baby and can communicate with her. His grief when she is taken demonstrates his close connection to her, yet at the end of the novel, Sam commits to doing what is best for her by allowing her to remain free.