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Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod

Nonfiction | Book | YA | Published in 1994

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Book Brief

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Gary Paulsen

Winterdance

Nonfiction | Book | YA | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Northern Minnesota • 1980s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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Super Short Summary

Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen is a first-person narrative chronicling Paulsen’s journey as a novice dog-sled runner tackling Alaska's Iditarod race. With humor and heart, Paulsen shares his trials and triumphs, developing a profound bond with his dogs while facing the challenges of Alaska's unforgiving terrain. The story captures his transformation from a life of routine to a profound connection with nature and his canine companions.

Adventurous

Emotional

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.6

8,907 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gary Paulsen's Winterdance captivates with its vivid narrative and thrilling depiction of the Iditarod race. The book excels in portraying the raw wilderness and Paulsen's gritty resolve. However, some readers find the frequent digressions and lack of detailed character development distracting. Despite this, it remains a gripping, inspirational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Winterdance?

A reader who would enjoy Winterdance by Gary Paulsen is an outdoor enthusiast, dog lover, or adventurer. Fans of Jon Krakauer's Into the Wild and Cheryl Strayed's Wild will appreciate Paulsen's mesmerizing narrative of the Iditarod. With a blend of humor, grit, and determination, it's ideal for those who savor real-life survival stories.

4.6

8,907 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Northern Minnesota • 1980s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1060L

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