Navigating Early

By Clare Vanderpool

Two boys embark on a perilous quest through the Appalachian Trail, facing mysteries and testing their friendship.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 16,062 ratings

336 pages· 72,191 words· Est. 8 hour read

$8.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Jack Baker, sent to a Maine boarding school, befriends the enigmatic Early Auden. Together, they embark on a daring journey along the Appalachian Trail, seeking a legendary black bear. As they delve deeper into the wilderness, they encounter strange and dangerous figures, uncovering secrets that challenge their bond. Will their friendship endure the trials of the trail, and can they find their way back home? This adventure tests courage and camaraderie in a world where nothing is as it seems.

From the publisher

“Just the sort of book that saves lives by igniting a passion for reading.” –James Patterson “Reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn.” –The Wall Street Journal A Michael L. Printz Honor Winner From the author of Newbery Medal winner Moon Over Manifest comes the odyssey-like adventure of two boys’ incredible quest on the Appalachian Trail. When Jack Baker’s father sends him from his home in Kansas to attend a boys’ boarding school in Maine, Jack doesn’t know what to expect. Certainly not Early Auden, the strangest of boys. Early keeps to himself, reads the number pi as a story, and refuses to accept truths others take for granted. Jack, feeling lonely and out of place, connects with Early, and the two become friends. During a break from school, the boys set out for the Appalachian Trail on a quest for a great black bear. As Jack and Early travel deeper into the mountains, they meet peculiar and dangerous characters, and they make some shocking discoveries. But their adventure is only just beginning. Will Jack’s and Early’s friendship last the journey? Can the boys make it home alive? An ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults Selection An ALA-ALSC Notable Children’s Book A New York Times Editor’s Choice A New York Times Bestseller An Indie Pick A Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year A Booklist Books for Youth Editors’ Choice Selection A BookPage Best Children’s Book A Texas Lone Star Reading List SelectionA Notable Children’s Book in Language Arts BookA Down East Magazine Best of Maine BookA North Carolina Young Adult Book Award Master List SelectionAn Iowa Children’s Choice Award Finalist