Book Title: Sammy Keyes and the Wild Things
Author Name: Wendelin Van Draanen
Reviewed by TFK Kid Reporter: Madison Chapman
Genre: Mystery
Number of pages: 293
What's the basic storyline?
Thirteen-year-old Sammy Keyes expects a quiet, dull summer since her friends have all gone away on vacation. But when a classmate named Cricket invites her on a canyon camping trip to look for rare condors, Sammy takes a chance and goes along.
Mishaps arise from the beginning, but the real trouble starts when Cricket’s friend disappears into the canyon and Cricket and Sammy go after her. They encounter a world of problems, including an injured baby condor, a dangerous condor poacher and, of course, an abundance of sore, oozing blisters. To complicate matters, Sammy and Cricket come across two boys from school. One of the boys is Sammy’s sort-of-kind-of crush, Casey. Once they are rescued, Sammy, Cricket and Casey can’t get the thought of the poacher out of their minds and they go on a reckless search for the perpetrator. Along the way, Sammy learns to appreciate the beauty of the endangered condors and becomes closer to both Cricket and Casey.
Were the characters believable? What made them believable or unbelievable?
Each character had a unique personality; from the energetic and passionate Cricket, to the curious and good-hearted Casey, and the determined, courageous Sammy. They each dealt with situations in a very human way.
Would you recommend this book to kids? Why or why not?
This book appeals to middle school boys and girls. The story is engaging; readers can relate to the traits of the characters. And you learn what NOT to do on a camping trip.
What's not-so-great about the book?
For those who have not read the entire Sammy Keyes series, the book may seem mildly confusing at times. Though the reader is able to follow the story fairly well, the brief references to Sammy’s past might be a drawback for kids not familiar with the series.
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being best), how would you rate this book? Explain.
I would rate it a 10. Sammy Keyes and the Wild Things combines a great mystery, some suspense, humor and a pinch of romance to make a great book all around.
