Wild Boy — James Lincoln Collier

In this rousing coming-of-age story, readers return to the exciting frontier of an America that is moving west. Twelve-year old Jesse, having struck down his father in a fit of rage, has come to a major crossroads in his young life. No longer able to live with Pa, he runs away to the mountains where every day is a struggle to survive. Having to fend for himself, he hunts wild animals, builds a cabin, takes on a mad mountaineer, and even helps kill a bear. Though stubborn and ornery as ever, Jesse slowly gains confidence as well as much needed insight. I was watching me turn myself into a mountain man. What begins as a tale of self-imposed exile becomes an action-packed voyage of self discovery that will keep readers glued to the pages.