Title: The Voyage of the Frog

Author: Gary Paulsen

Survival seems to be a common theme these days. Author Gary Paulsen has made a career of entertaining and enlightening young people with stories that often revolve around the same theme. Did you read Hatchet in fifth grade?

The Voyage of the Frog is about a cherished uncle’s last trip out to sea. The sailboat’s “captain”, David, is a 14-year old nephew with the same passion and acumen for a fiberglass twenty-two footer who intended to fulfill his uncle’s last wish. All of his survival skills will be tested after a savage storm, a lack of resources including wind, and some seafaring company that doesn’t turn very quickly. Did I mention sharks and whales?

The young man I am sharing this book with is also fourteen. He is dealing with a different type of isolation, loss, and challenges. He and David do have some things in common. They share grit and a zest for living that are hard to find these days. My hope is that other young people will benefit from the adversity that has been thrust into their lives in varying degrees. Will the ones with fewer resources, who may truly be in survival mode, stay the course and navigate their way to success or will they be lost at sea? (Sorry, too easy).

The Voyage of the Frog will give readers of all ages a real sense of participation and plenty of excitement. It is a quick read that is well worth the time to be inspired to embrace the new normal and even thrive while pursuing a passion.

by: Tim Weber