
By Gary Paulsen
A teen embarks on a journey with sled dogs to discover his true self.
Russel Susskit is restless, yearning for the old ways amidst the modern noise of his village. Guided by Oogruk, the village shaman, and driven by vivid dreams, Russel sets out with a team of dogs on a transformative quest. As he ventures into the wilderness, he seeks answers and a connection to a past that calls to him. Will Russel find the song that defines his identity, or will the journey reveal unexpected truths? This epic adventure promises self-discovery and a profound change in Russel's life.
IN THE OLD DAYS THERE WERE SONGS Something is bothering Russel Susskit. He hates waking up to the sound of his father’s coughing, the smell of diesel oil, the noise of snow machines starting up. Only Oogruk, the shaman who owns the last team of dogs in the village, understands Russel’s longing for the old ways and the songs that celebrated them. But Oogruk cannot give Russel the answers he seeks; the old man can only prepare him for what he must do alone. Driven by a strange, powerful dream of a long-ago self and by a burning desire to find his own song, Russel takes Oogruk’s dogs on an epic journey of self-discovery that will change his life forever. A Newbery Honor Book An ALA Best Book for Young Adults An ALA Notable Book A School Library Journal Best Book
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